22 Workout Essentials That Slay for Less Than $75

Once summer has come and gone, getting your fitness on erryday can be a bit of a challenge, especially if you’re the type that likes to get active outdoors. Cooler temps and dwindling daylight can totally throw a wrench in your workout routine — getting up when it’s dark or heading outdoors when you’re warm and cozy inside (with a Netflix marathon on, no less) is a trying task. To break down those lazy girl barriers and get your butt back in top gear, a little extra motivation is definitely in order — and we’ll take ours in the form of stylish fitness duds — high-octane pullovers, strappy sports bras and chic sneakers. If the bright hues and It-girl details don’t inspire you to get your sweat on, we don’t know what will.

1. Zara Hooded Mesh Jacket ($60): Don’t even try to deny the appeal of this sunny yellow stunner. Whether you’re headed to the studio or busting out your morning run, the bold color and modern styling delivers the punch of energy your tired routine needs.

2. Free People Solid Chic Bra ($48): When the excuses start to roll off your tongue, allow this sassy, berry-hued bra to give you the boost you need. You’ve got this, girl. The Insta-worthy back and swoon-inducing hue make it the perfect piece for fitness and fashion enthusiasts alike.

3. Victoria Sport The Everywhere Capri ($50): Minimalists, rejoice! Scene-stealing workout duds don’t have to involve neon or too-sassy graphics. These color-block bottoms feel right in line with your pared-down sensibilities, with muted asymmetric panels delivering just the right amount of visual intrigue.

4. Free People Time Out Crop ($58): “It’s too cold” is no longer a valid excuse with this cool-girl crop on standby. Layer it over a tank and high-waisted leggings for an early morning sweat sesh or afternoon of hiking.

5. Athleta All Nylon Bag ($72): Tote or trusty backpack? You get to decide. With its clean lines and convertible shape, this wear-any-which-way sack will win you major style points at your next boot camp class. Fill it up with all your workout beauty essentials and proceed to hit the gym in style.

6. Outdoor Voices Colorblock Athena Crop ($50): Where you lead, this modern color-block bra will follow. On the field or on the mat, its flexible compression fabric and impeccable good looks will help you hustle on through.

7. Old Navy Go-Dry High-Rise Printed Compression Crops ($30): A killer workout starts with a great pair of leggings, and these jewel-toned bottoms are guaranteed to get you up and running (or dancing, or namaste-ing).

8. Free People Training Tank ($48): That back though. Criss-cross detailing and natural sweat-wicking performance material will keep you cool and looking fly during your toughest workouts — something we can totally get behind.

9. Zara Silver Shorts ($23): Minimalist, modern and downright DDG all rolled into one — that’s what these quicksilver shorts bring to the table. They’re the perfect match for a tough HIIT session or a tennis match with your best mate.

10. Victoria Sport High Neck Mesh Sport Bra ($20): Let your on-point style rule supreme as you crush those jump squats and pike-up planks. The semi-sheer style is just as practical as it is chic, making the transition from studio to street totally flawless.

11. FP Movement x Onzie Mantra Legging ($70): These printed mesh panel leggings are too good to keep stashed in your gym bag. Bust ‘em out with an oversized shirt dress, leather jacket and menswear-inspired kicks for an elevated athleisure look.

12. Vero Moda Color Block Sweatshirt ($36): Don’t let your style sensibilities down when pumping out that warmup. This color-block beauty wards off too-cool temps and will motivate you to get moving. For an extra punch of panache, team with ultra bright sneakers and a metallic gym bag.

13. Alo Yoga Vixen Fitted Muscle Tank ($62): As a bonafide girlboss, you don’t mess around — and that’s whether you’re crunching numbers or killin’ it in spin class. This laser-cut tank totally gets you, girl, with its don’t-mess aesthetic and ready-for-anything vibe.

14. Silence + Noise Adeline Satin Track Pant ($69): These cropped bottoms pull serious double duty, doing your style proud both in and outside the studio. When you’re not dominating a squat challenge, slip them on with a rib knit turtleneck, statement ankle boots and an of-the-moment cross-body bag for an off-duty look that’s equal parts lazy-girl effortless and It-girl cool.

15. Oiselle Tripoli Seamless Long Sleeve ($66): Stand out from the crowd come race day with a vibrant coral compression top that fuses form and function for an all-around fierce look. Matching kicks are obligatory.

16. Zara Semi-Transparent Sports Top ($16): So much sass. To say we’re swooning hard for this semi-sheer crop would be an understatement. The breezy mesh panel will keep you cool at the height of your workout, and just might inspire you to hold that plank a little bit longer.

17. Free People Movement Dharma Tank ($28): If you thought nailing that 5K was goals, you haven’t seen this OMG-worthy tank yet. Tossed over a bright crop top or sports bra, the perfectly knotted topper is a serious stunner.

18. H&M Windproof Running Jacket ($50): This high-shine jacket practically defines fitspiration. Be a boss by rocking it on your morning run while turning heads in the process.

19. Free People Ballet Bra ($58): Whether you’re mastering dhanurasana or going hard in booty bootcamp, this perfectly poised bra will keep you looking calm, cool and collected. Style it alongside high-waisted leggings and metallic sneakers for a fit-for-the-runway ensemble.

20. Without Walls Crisscross Legging ($69): Hustle and flow takes on a whole new meaning with these bad boys in tow. Featuring strappy cut outs and moisture-wicking fabric, they practically scream “I’ve got this.” After working on your fitness, toss on a sleek metallic jacket or statement sweater for brunch with the besties.

21. Topshop Satin Quilt Gym Bag ($55): Luxe satin lifts this classic gym duffle higher, taking your in-transit style straight into Insta-worthy territory. Consider it the athleisure answer to your everyday It bag — sling it over your shoulder pre and post workout, then watch as the compliments come rolling in.

22. Free People Kristin Sports Bra ($68): The edgy design of this not-your-average sports bra has us wishing we had a celeb-studded workout class on the agenda. The unexpected style feels right on cue for a hip hop class or vigorous vinyasa flow, but we’re loving the idea of rocking this scene-stealing topper for our next GNO.

Follow us on Pinterest for more style inspo!

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

The new year is coming, so it's time to start making your 2024 vision board! If you're like us, it's likely you're thinking about developing healthy habits and workout goals that you'll actually want to commit to — no judgement. Since we're all in the same boat, we've got just the thing to motivate you — new workout leggings!

From high-waisted to seamless designs, these leggings are going to help you achieve your health goals and then some. Read on to discover the most innovative, edgy, and eye-catching ones we’ve found!

High-Waist Workout Leggings

Fabletics Cold Weather High-Waisted Pocket Leggings

The most impressive detail of this simple, cold-weather design from Kate Hudson’s Fabletics line comes with a cute pocket detail on the side. This means you get to work out without losing sight of your phone.

Nike Zenvy (M) Gentle-Support High-Waisted Leggings

After getting the okay from your OBGYN to work out, head over to Nike to pick up these cute gentle-support workout leggings. The soft fabric will conform to your body and growing baby bump!

Nike Universa Medium-Support High-Waisted Leggings

These squat-proof workout leggings are guaranteed to provide the support you're looking for. Plus, you get to look cute.

Forever21 Active High-Rise Zippered Leggings

These $20 millennial pink workout pants are every bit as cute and trendy as any $100 counterpart. Plus, they have some serious performance elements — like moisture-wicking-fabric — to boot.

Reebok Classics High-Rise Leggings

These premium workout leggings are designed to offer you a flared leg and elastic waist to ensure you're comfortable while going on your morning run.

Athleta Ultra High Rise Elation Tight

These magenta body-hugging leggings should give you a boost of energy when you're working out.

Bootcut & Flared Leggings

Alo Yoga Super Shine Low-Rise Bootcut Legging

High-rise workout leggings aren't for everyone, so we suggest wearing this low-rise bootcut version.

Athleta Salutation Stash Flare Pant

Our Content Editor agrees that flare pants definitely count as workout leggings.

Free People Let's Bounce Pants in Jam Jewel

Free yourself from feeling restricted by a seamless design with these four-way stretch pants. You'll be able to enjoy medium-impact workouts without feeling icky.

Colorful & Patterned Leggings

Lululemon Fast and Free High-Rise Tight 25" Pockets Leggings

You can’t go wrong with a printed pair of leggings, and that’s just what this Lululemon style serves up. This option comes complete with all the amenities you want, including five hidden waistband pockets, and moisture-wicking fabric.

Sweaty Betty Power Workout Leggings

Beloved by the likes of Reese Witherspoon and Jessica Alba, this brand boasts “ultra-lightweight Italian fabric” and plenty of style. Our pick? This black gradient dot print.

Halara Seamless Flow High Waisted Butt Lifting Leggings

Looking for a pair of seamless workout leggings that make your butt look good? We think you've met your match.

adidas by Stella McCartney True Pace Running Leggings

Stella McCartney and Adidas teamed up to bring you the best performance running leggings on the market. Okay, we're being biased. But, they're still a great option for our girls who love to run.

Seamless Leggings

Buff Bunny BBL Seamless Leggings

These workout leggings will give you an illusion of having a BBL — if that's your thing — thanks to the under glute contour.

Victoria's Secret Seamless Workout Tight

Amp yourself up with Victoria's Secret seamless workout tights, which are sure to set you apart from the rest of the gym crowd.

Gymshark Sweat Seamless Leggings

You don't just need another pair of cute workout leggings. You need something that's going to perform well while being sweat-resistant.

Outdoor Voices SoftRib Stirrup Leggings

These leggings are for the girlies who can't get enough of stirrup pants.

OQQ 2 Piece Yoga Leggings

Affordable? Check. Cute? Check. Performing? Check — these OQQ leggings are form fitting, breathable, and practical.

Which pair of workout leggings look the most appealing to you? Let us know and don't forget to add them to your cart!

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 Free People

I haven't even seen season 3 of Bridgertonin all its friends-to-lovers, springtime, romantic glory, and I'm already thinking about Bridgerton season 4. I'm a sucker for any storyline about siblings, and while we're still waiting on official confirmation, it looks like season 4 of Bridgerton will follow Benedict and his love interest Sophie — who may have already been cast 👀. Here's everything you need to know about season 4 of the hit TV show. And check out everything you need to know about The Bridgerton World Tour!

Will there be season 4 of Bridgerton?

Image via Liam Daniel/Netflix

Yes, we're getting a Bridgerton season 4! After the popularity of the first season, Netflix renewed the series for another two seasons in 2021. I'm expecting the senior season of the Shondaland show to follow An Offer from a Gentleman, which revolves around second-eldest son Benedict. The novel has major Cinderella vibes, and follows servant Sophie, who falls in love with Benedict at a masquerade ball. Dreamy!

Bridgerton showrunner Jess Bronwell confirmed that the end of Bridgerton season 3 (which hits Netflix June 13) will have some major clues as to next season's couple. “I do think that there are some clues at the end of season 3 of where we’re headed,” she tells TV Insider. “So yeah, I leave that to fans to pick apart, but I think we’re tipping our hand just a little bit."

Who's in the Bridgerton season 4 cast?

Image via Jeff Spicer/Getty Images

We're sure to see Luke Thompson as Benedict Bridgerton, as well as Luke Newton, Nicola Coughlan, Jonathan Bailey, Simone Ashley, Claudia Jessie, Hannah Dodd, Will Tilston, and Florence Hunt as the rest of the Bridgertons + their spouses.

As for the role of Sophie, rumor has it we might see Masali Baduza join the Netflix show. You might recognize the actress from movies like The Woman King and Slumber Party Massacre. "They never disappoint, casting geniuses," one Reddit user says. "If this is true, I love it!"

While the absolutely *radiant* Masali would do a wonderful job as Sophie, some fans of the series have hesitations over a Black woman playing the role of a servant — especially if the theory the show will place her in the white Cowper family is true. "As a Black woman, just no," another user says. "Sophie is the love interest who in my opinion is the most sh*tted on by her Bridgerton and the story of a white person trying to hide their association with a Black person is a little too real."

"It makes me uncomfortable too," another adds. "Actually the entire Benophie plot sounds awful if I’m honest but to then put it on a Black woman on top of that makes it even worse."

When is Bridgerton season 4 coming out?

Image via Liam Daniel/Netflix

Considering part one of Bridgerton season 3 is hitting Netflix May 16, 2024, we definitely won't see season 4 of Bridgerton for awhile. So far, there have been two years in between each season, so I'm expecting season 4 to start streaming in 2026.

How many episodes will season 4 of Bridgerton have?

Image via Liam Daniel/Netflix

Considering all three seasons of Bridgerton so far have eight episodes each, we can expect Netflix to keep up that pattern. Having the same number of episodes each season means the pace and arc for each Bridgerton sibling will be equal, making it a much more balanced watching experience!

Will Bridgerton have all 8 seasons?

Image via Liam Daniel/Netflix

Yes, Bridgerton will have all 8 seasons, one for each Bridgerton sibling — at least, that's the plan. "This being a family of eight children and there being eight books, I would love to be able to focus and really tell stories and love stories for all the Bridgerton siblings. For each character, for sure," showrunner Chris Van Dusen tells Collider.

After Bridgerton season 4, I'm most interested to see youngest sibling Hyacinth's love story play out! Seeing her arc throughout all eight seasons, especially mirrored with the way her brothers and sisters evolve over the course of the show, is going to be the perfect way to wrap this series up.

What are you looking forward to the most for Bridgerton season 4? Follow us on Facebook for more TV show news!

Lead image via Jeff Spicer/Getty Images

Get ready to break a sweat (and feel fabulous while doing it) with our ultimate guide to plus-size sports bras! No matter your workout routine, these plus-size sports bras are designed to provide the perfect blend of comfort, support, and style. High-impact activities and slow yoga sessions are meant to make you feel good, so find a sports bra that does, too. Here are the top 10 plus-size sports bras that empower you to move with confidence and embrace your fitness journey – stylishly.

SheFit Flex Sports Bra

This sports bra is fitted with a four-way stretch fabric that is designed to move with you, no matter what workout you're doing. It's made for medium support, so it won't feel too restrictive. The seamless cups and band are chafe-free, eliminating annoying distractions when you're on the move.

Under Outfit Active Shaping Sports Bra

You can wear this sports bra for anything, really. Work out, hang out, and go "lights out" in it. The soft, seamless fabric won't tug at or dig into your skin, plus it keeps things fairly breathable for the utmost all-day comfort.

Under Armour Women's UA Infinity High Heather Sports Bra

This plus-size style is cute enough to wear on its own! It's not padded, yet still provides a ton of support for the girls. The criss-cross back straps and the hook closure on the band will leave you feeling sexy *and* secure.

Knix Catalyst Sports Bra

Available in a handful of playful colors, this high-impact sports bra boasts adjustable straps so you can find your perfect fit depending on the day. It's meant to really hug your figure in a flattering way, and reduce movement for those intense running and jumping exercises, if that's your thing.

Lululemon Run Times Bra High Support for B–G Cups

We *love* that this Lululemon sports bra is generously size-inclusive. Its sleek design is meant to keep the air flowing through the fabric, so you're not left with crazy sweat stains after your workout is done. The bra cups are flexible, too, allowing some room for your unique cup size.

Superfit Hero Racerback Sports Bra

This has got to be the comfiest sports bra of all the sports bras. It's crafted from a signature SuperHold™ compression fabric that still has enough softness to swath your bod in. It's always full coverage even when stretched, so you can feel secure in and out of the gym.

Athleta Elation V-Neck Longline Bra D-DD

Wear this longline plus-size sports bra on its own to impress your gym crush! The longer cut will hug your curves while staying put through every movement you make. The v-neck and crossed back strap designs are the cherry on top, taking an average gym 'fit to the next level.

Third Love Kinetic Adjustable Sports Bra

Adjustable sports bras FTW! This one comes in cup sizes all the way up to H, so you're sure to find the perfect fit. The wireless cups provide stability and structure, so there's no sag in sight! If there's one sports bra to truly empower you, this is the one.

All in Motion High Support Zip-Front Sports Bra

The zip closure on this plus-size design makes getting dressed for the gym a total breeze. The adjustable straps help deliver a dependable fit, plus the breathable mesh fabric throughout the bra will help you cool down when you're in the zone.

Yvette High Impact Zip Front Sports Bra

Every detail on this sports bra goes into supporting your movement. It's made of a flexible fabric that also breathes well, plus the high-coverage front closure keeps you in check.

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

Lead image via Target.

I never thought we'd get a Taylor Swift album with multiple songs referencing Matty Healy, but after multiple listens, the internet is convinced The Tortured Poets Department(the first edition, at least) has a ton of references to The 1975 frontman. (Only time will tell if TS12 references Matty too!) One song in particular has sent everyone into a tizzy: "The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived." Here's why fans think the song is about Taylor Swift & Matty Healy.

What has Matty Healy said about "The Tortured Poets Department"?

Image via Mauricio Santana/Getty Images

When asked what he'd rate his "diss track" from The Tortured Poets Department, Matty admits he hasn't actually listened to that much of the album yet (if he ever will). "My diss track? Oh!" he laughs. "I haven't really listened to that much of it, but I'm sure it's good."

Debbie Dedes, Matty's aunt, speculated right after the album drop that he wouldn't be affected too much by the music. “She writes about all her relationships, doesn't she? I don't think it will come as a shock to him at all,” she tells The Daily Mail. “He's very happy in his new relationship [with Gabbriette Bechtel] so I'm sure he will be focusing on that.”

Is "The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived" about Taylor Swift & Matty Healy?

Image via Francois Durand/Getty Images For Christian Dior

While Taylor Swift & Matty Healy never publicly dated until 2023, they were friends for years before that. In 2014, Taylor Swift went to her first The 1975 concert with Selena Gomez and Ellie Goulding. Then, Taylor was seen wearing one of their band shirts while Matty was spotted in a 1989 shirt. "I met Taylor Swift," Matty told Shazam Top 20 in November (via E! News). "That was really nice. We exchanged numbers. Let's see what happens."

Matty Healy & Taylor Swift continued referencing each other over the next couple years, and fans lost their minds when Matty revealed he'd collaborated on a Midnights song — even if he went on to say it was cut. After Taylor Swift performed "Anti-Hero" during a 1975 concert, and then split from boyfriend Joe Alwyn split in the spring of 2023, Taylor & Matty quickly connected. They went on to date from May to June. That brings us to "The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived."

In the song, Taylor wonders if "rusting my sparkling summer was the goal" and talks about "your Jehovah's Witness suit" (Matty is famous for wearing suits during his concerts). She also mentions how the relationship "wasn't sexy once it wasn't forbidden" — which totally ties into the themes within "Guilty As Sin?" (about imaginary trysts she thought about while dating someone else).

"[These Matty Healy-focused songs] started out being like 'f*ck all of you, I love him, I’ll fix him, I don’t care what you say' to ending here basically saying 'alright yeah this guy sucks,'" one Reddit user says. "I think the order of these songs plays a huge role in this throughline of that relationship."

"Heavyweight rappers J. Cole, Drake, and Rick Ross all released diss tracks over the last couple of weeks, and none of them were as scathing as this one," another says.

How long did Taylor Swift and Matty Healy date?

Image via Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

While Taylor Swift & Matty Healy officially dated during the summer of 2023, another song on TTPD, "Fresh Out The Slammer" makes me think they connected before then. Referring to her relationship as a jail, she sings about how she's connected with this person before she started dating her ex. "I'm runnin' back home to you // Frеsh out the slammer // I know who my first call will be to." (Does this mean "Illicit Affairs" from Folklore is actually about Matty Healy too?)

What other The Tortured Poets Department songs are about Matty Healy?

Image via Francois Durand/Getty Images For Christian Dior

It looks like "Fortnight," "The Tortured Poets Department," "I Can Fix Him (No Really I Can)," and "loml" are just a few of the songs that could be about Taylor Swift & Matty Healy's relationship.

The "The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived" Lyrics

Image via Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

Verse 1: Was any of it true? // Gazing at me starry-eyed // In your Jehovah's Witness suit // Who the f-ck was that guy? // You tried to buy some pills // From a friend of friends of mine // They just ghosted you // Now you know what it feels like

Chorus: And I don't even want you back, I just want to know // If rusting my sparkling summer was the goal // And I don't miss what we had, but could someone give // A message to the smallest man who ever lived?

Verse 2: You hung me on your wall // Stabbed me with your push pins // In public, showed me off // Then sank in stoned oblivion // 'Cause once your queen had come // You'd treat her likе an also-ran // You didn't measure up // In any measurе of a man

Chorus: And I don't even want you back, I just want to know // If rusting my sparkling summer was the goal // And I don't miss what we had, but could someone give // A message to the smallest man who ever lived?

Image via Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

Bridge: Were you sent by someone who wanted me dead? // Did you sleep with a gun underneath our bed? // Were you writin' a book? Were you a sleeper cell spy? // In fifty years, will all this be declassified? // And you'll confess why you did it and I'll say, "Good riddance" // 'Cause it wasn't sexy once it wasn't forbidden // I would've died for your sins, instead, I just died inside // And you deserve prison, but you won't get time // You'll slide into inboxes and slip through the bars // You crashed my party and your rental car // You said normal girls were boring // But you were gone by the morning // You kicked out the stage lights, but you're still performing

Outro: And in plain sight you hid // But you are what you did // And I'll forget you, but I'll never forgive // The smallest man who ever lived

Tell us your hottest Taylor Swift & Matty Healy take on Facebook, then read up on The Taylor Swift Boyfriends You Love, And The Ones You Didn't Know She Dated.

Lead images via Francois Durand/Getty Images For Christian Dior/Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

This post has been updated.

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

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

Step 1: Gather Your DIY Birthday Card Supplies

Image via Karolina Grabowska/Pexels

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

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

Step 2: Choose Your Card Design

Image via George Dolgikh/Pexels

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

Handmade Watercolor Design:

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

Pop-Up Surprise:

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

Quilled Creations:

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

Hand-Stitched Greeting:

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

Interactive Slider Card:

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

Step 3: Write A Clever Message

Image via June/Pexels

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

Step 4: Add The Perfect Finishing Touch

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

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

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