If you're as strict about your skin care as we are, you dutifully cleanse, tone, treat, and moisturize your skin every day and night. Not to mention the weekly masking and/or peeling. You do everything you can to keep your skin clear, even, smooth, and sparkling — but all that product might actually be doing more harm than good. Wait, what?
We're talking about hygiene, people, and no, not the wash-your-bod and brush-your-teeth variety. Your products, just like you, need to follow certain hygienic practices to keep up that beautifying mojo.
Some of them are kind of obvious, yet we all still do them. Some you might not even realize are causing issues. Product fouls can be as simple as opting for serums in clear glass jars or pumping your mascara — two choices that can lead to product breakdown or worse, bacteria growth. We don't have to tell you that beauty products are damn expensive, which is why it's in our best interests to take care of them.
To educate us on the proper way to keep our products clean, effective, and bacteria-free, we tapped Mary Schook, certified aesthetician and product formulator; and Ni'Kita Wilson, certified cosmetic chemist and founder of Skinects. Ahead, they share the most common ways consumers are sabotaging their products. Read on to learn what's wrong and how to make it right.
You Leave Your Products Open Or Uncovered
Sure, this one might seem like a no-brainer, but according to Schook, this is the most common mistake she sees consumers do. "Leaving products open in the bathroom is just asking for bacteria to grow," she says. The bathroom is generally a damp, humid place — two qualities that are not ideal for [storing] your beauty products." Keep your products cool and dry (like on your vanity) — and at the very least, keep them tightly closed.
Skinfix Ultra Rich Body Butter for Dry Skin, $14.99, available at Ulta Beauty.
You Expose Your Products To Sunlight
Just like the sun can wreak havoc on your skin, it can do the same to your beauty products. "No product should be stored [in sunlight], because it could cause separation," says Wilson. Tinted products and products containing active ingredients like retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and reservatrol will break down most easily in direct sunlight, causing them to have decreased performance, she adds.
Garrett Markenson Reverie Milk Leave-In Nourishing Treatment, $42, available at Beautyhabit.
You Buy Products In Clear Bottles
"As a general rule, opaque glass is usually [the best]," says Schook. "The more opaque a product is, the safer it is from light." Clear glass or plastic packaging could expose your products to light even when not placed in direct sunlight.
Although most mass-produced beauty products contain preservatives to help prevent the spread and growth of bacteria, double-dipping into your products with fingers can introduce unwanted germs into the formula, says Schook, and preservatives can only do so much. Opt for products that have pumps or use spatulas or skin-care spoons when using products that come in jars. (This mask from Farmacy has a magnetic spatula that sticks to the cap, making it much harder to misplace.)
"Any package that keeps consumers' fingers away from the bulk of the product is a win for hygienic purposes," says Wilson. And we hope it goes without saying, but wash the spatula after each use — otherwise, you're kind of defeating the purpose of it in the first place.
Farmacy Honey Potion Renewing Antioxidant Hydration Mask, $56, available at Sephora.
Your Products Are Exposed To Oxygen
"Many really effective ingredients, like green tea, ascorbic acid, retinol, and reservatrol, oxidize when exposed to air," says Wilson. "You'll see a product shift to a brown color and this can impact performance." That's why we recommend purchasing products with pumps when you can — better yet, airless pumps.
According to both Wilson and Schook, airless pumps are great packaging tools because they prevent excessive exposure to that formula-funkifying oxygen.
Unlike traditional cosmetic bottles, airless packaging doesn't contain a straw that pumps out product — instead, when a consumer presses on the pump, it creates a vacuum effect, which draws the product upwards. Ain't technology grand?
100% Pure Fruit Pigmented Tinted Moisturizer, $45, available at 100% Pure.
You Pump Your Mascara
Mascaras are already a high-risk category that needs to be replaced more frequently than others, due to the fact that they can be breeding grounds for bacteria. And something this is constantly on your eye area is probably not the best place to play chicken with a product's expiration date.
"I cringe when people pump their mascara," says Schook. "That is pumping air into the tube, causing bacteria to grow and thrive. It's just begging for a stye!"
Catrice Glamour Doll Volume Mascara Waterproof, $6.99, available at Ulta Beauty.
You Share Makeup
We really shouldn't have to tell you that sharing eyeshadow with your bestie is not the most genius of ideas. That being said, we can't deny that it happens, so Schook recommends investing in a cosmetic sanitizing spray, like Beauty So Clean.
"It will help with bacteria on your own cosmetics without altering the formula," she says. This spray from Pro Hygiene Collection is another great option that works on lipsticks, creams, pencils, powders, and palettes.
The Pro Hygiene Collection Antibacterial Makeup Spray, $20.70, available at Feel Unique.
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Drake has thrown his hat into the Houston nightlife ring with the announcement that he'll be opening a nightclub in the Texas city next year. The club, dubbed "The Ballet," kicked off with a pop-up event last night.
"Tonight is a different take on how it should be done in Houston," the rapper posted on Instagram. "Treat yourself don't cheat yourself. Where the women are on a pedestal and the surroundings are unforgettable. The Ballet pop-up tonight for HAW. Grand opening early 2017. 😇 #HelloWorld"
"There's a culture out there of dancing and it's not about no strip club shit," he explained in footage below. "It's about these amazing women that we've got in one spot, the music that we've got, and the Houston culture that we got. I just wanna let you know that I'm going to bring it to you in the most honest and genuine way possible."
Finding a job after college can be daunting. Thankfully, RIOT 's newest show, How to Get a Job, is here to help. And by “help,” we really mean “help you laugh to keep from crying.” Whether you're a newly minted grad or not, you'll probably relate to the all-too-common realization that it's going to be a long, hard road to a 401(k) and health care.
Join host Mitra Jouhari as she guides you through the confusing world of the post-college job hunt. First stop: what to do after graduation. If you’re $50,000 in debt with no marketable skills (save for a “loose collection of unpaid internships"), you may already be familiar with these steps: move home, find a low-paying job, and feel “body-rocking, soul-quaking” jealousy of your peers.
Of course, these steps are just the beginning of your journey. After you’ve come to terms with your new life, it’s time to move on to updating your résumé. After just one more screaming session in the shower, of course.
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Children, we've found ourselves in a strange time. It's the summer of Hiddleswift, Lemonade, and Kylie, Tyga, Blac Chyna, and Rob. Kanye West just featured the mother of his children lying naked next to the guy she made a sex tape with. Demi and Wilmer have split up, Gwake is still a thing, and John Mayer is looking for love. Where do we go from here?
We got you. There are still plenty of celebrity couples to stalk on social media for some genuine #RelationshipGoals. The powerful pairs featured within just seem to have a knack for keeping it real, sans drama and constant paparazzi feeding-frenzies. How refreshing!
Let's celebrate these lovebirds — and, you know, cross our fingers that we didn't just totally jinx their relationships.
Page stepped out with artist/surfer Thomas (yes, she has the raddest job title of all time) not long after publicly coming out. The couple frequently share loved-up photos on social media, typically seen hanging 10 or hanging with their pups.
Photo: Carly Erickson/BFA/REX/Shutterstock.
Tom Hanks & Rita Wilson
These lovebirds are still going strong after 28 years of marriage. For proof, see Wilson's recent selfie of her and her Oscar-winning husband in the pool. The caption: "I love him."
Photo: Willi Schneider/REX/Shutterstock.
Cara Delevingne & Annie Clark (St. Vincent)
The British model/actress continues to gush about her love for the Texan singer-songwriter in interviews. The couple of more than a year have also sparked engagement rumors recently.
Photo: Andreas Hillergen/REX/Shutterstock.
Melissa McCarthy & Ben Falcone
Because they got through those Bridesmaids scenes with a straight face. Because she'll always be his leading lady. Because they've been married nearly 11 years, have two kids, and seem to be so far away from the Hollywood game.
Photo: Broadimage/Rex/Shutterstock.
Blake Lively & Ryan Reynolds
The way Ryan looks at Blake is so, so much greater than the way he looks at Hiddleswift. Married since 2012, this charming pair and parents to daughter James are currently expecting their second child. Even Ryan's fish-out-of-water face didn't stop them from packing on the PDA at Taylor Swift's 4th of July beach bash.
Photo: Matt Baron/BEI/REX/Shutterstock.
Chrissy Teigen & John Legend
Whether they're fawning over baby Luna or napping together on a pool float, Teigen and Legend continue to take love to the next level. But can you really top writing "All of Me" for your wife?
Photo: Broadimage/REX/Shutterstock.
Anna Faris & Chris Pratt
Faris was the first to tap into Pratt's leading man potential, and the rest of us are just trying to keep up. Funny equals sexy when it comes to this playful pair, who married in 2009 and welcomed son Jack in 2012.
Photo: Broadimage/REX/Shutterstock.
Channing Tatum & Jenna Dewan Tatum
See? Step Up wasn't a total wash. The former co-stars just celebrated their seventh wedding anniversary, and continue to share the most loved-up Instagrams of themselves and daughter Everly.
Photo: Jim Smeal/REX/Shutterstock.
Ellen DeGeneres & Portia de Rossi
Despite the talk-show host's pranks on her actress wife, this couple is still going strong after eight years of marriage. Side note: How did these two manage to dodge the couple nickname Dede? Too late to make that a thing?
Photo: Can Nguyen/REX/Shutterstock.
Emily Blunt & John Krasinski
Married since 2010, the actors just welcomed daughter Violet, who joins big sister Hazel. They pull pranks on Jimmy Kimmel, they get invited to every A-list wedding, and yet they still seem low-key.
Photo: Michael Buckner/Variety/REX/Shutterstock.
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Russell Wilson & Ciara
The newlyweds tied the knot this month, capping a long, celibate courtship. Here's to indulging in some old-fashioned romance.
Photo: Jim Smeal/Rex/Shutterstock.
Adam Levine & Behati Prinsloo
Baby will soon make three for this fun-loving pair, who are expecting a daughter. Hopefully that won't put a kibosh on their double dates with Gwen and Blake.
Photo: David Fisher/REX/Shutterstock.
Liev Schreiber & Naomi Watts
Are they married? Does it matter? These longtime lovers keep it real, taking bike rides with their two boys and living a refreshingly anti-Hollywood lifestyle. Do yourself a favor and Google their Sesame Street cameo.
Photo: Matt Baron/REX/Shutterstock.
Rose Leslie & Kit Harington
Ygritte and Jon Snow are in love in real life, and we can't deal. May they stay together longer than their Game of Thrones characters do.
Photo: Dan Wooller/Rex/Shutterstock.
Leslie Mann & Judd Apatow
As far as Hollywood relationships go, this hilarious couple has pretty much been together for a millennium (or, say, 19 years). If Knocked Up and This Is 40, which co-starred their two daughters, are anything to go by, their household is the right mix of crazy, smart, and cool.
Photo: Erik Pendzich/REX/Shutterstock.
Jason Momoa & Lisa Bonet
As much as we still 'ship Khal Drogo and Daenerys, it doesn't get much hotter than Momoa and his real-life leading lady, Lisa Bonet. Married since 2007, the couple have two children in addition to Bonet's older daughter, Zoë Kravitz.
Photo: Matt Baron/Rex/Shutterstock.
Dax Shepard & Kristen Bell
They're goofy, they're hilarious, they're honest, and they seem to have a blast. Whether they're joking about vasectomies or fighting the paparazzi, these two make a killer team.
Photo: Rob Latour/REX/Shutterstock.
Harrison Ford & Calista Flockhart
Have you seen their Halloween costumes? Credit Ally McBeal with getting Han Solo to let his secret freak flag fly.
Photo: David Fisher/REX/Shutterstock.
Chris Hemsworth & Elsa Pataky
If you don't gush over this gorgeous pair's respective Instagrams, you're dead inside. The only thing sexier than Thor is Thor with three kids.
Photo: Broadimage/REX/Shutterstock.
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The next generation of highly fashion-literate celebrity offspring, still in their toddler years, is already playing favorites when it comes to designers. We've seen Blue Ivy Carter and Beyoncé pledge allegiance to Alessandro Michele'sGucci in some seriously envy-inducing mommy-and-me outfits. North West has given Balenciaga's new direction an adorable stamp of approval by digging through Kim Kardashian's closet. (You gotta start 'em young, after all.) She doesn't need to "borrow" from her mom all the time, though: Last night, Kim and North solidified their support for Demna Gvasalia by wearing (most likely one-of-a-kind) matching Vetements dresses.
Photo: Robert Kamau/GC Images.
Of course, if anyone could get ahold of bespoke kids' Vetements, it would be budding fashion icon North. (Although you, too, can join the motley, sequined Kardashian-West crew — with the adult-sized version, which will run you $12,950.) The duo was off to watch Kanye West in concert at Madison Square Garden alongside Naomi Campbell and Carine Roitfeld. North, ever the cool girl, paired her custom dress with Vans Sk8-Hi's for the occasion. (Kim opted for Yeezy heels.)
North has been the subject of fashion fascination long before she could even walk: She's sat front-row at Fashion Week, tried her hand at modeling, and served as a designer's muse. Mind you, this was all before her 3rd birthday this past June. So, here's another style milestone to add to the list (and yet another instance in which we somehow find ourselves envying a toddler's wardrobe).
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Update: Gretchen Carlson has settled the lawsuit against Roger Ailes, according to a breaking report from the AP. In statement, Fox parent company 21st Century said, "we regret and apologize for the fact that Gretchen was not treated with the respect and dignity that she and all of our colleagues deserve." A source familiar with the confidential lawsuit revealed to the AP that Carlson received a $20 million settlement.
This article was originally published on July 6, 2016.
Update: Another former Fox News employee has come forward with a series of harrowing allegations against former CEO Roger Ailes, telling New York Magazine that he sexually harassed and psychologically manipulated her for more than two decades.
Laurie Luhn, a former Fox News booker, told the magazine that she had met Ailes early in her career and he had helped her professionally in exchange for sexual favors. Luhn called her experiences with Ailes “psychological torture” which contributed to several mental breakdowns, including a hospitalization and suicide attempt. She alleges that she was not only coerced into a sexual relationship with Ailes, she was later instructed to send other young staffers at the news organization into one-on-one meetings where she knew Ailes was likely to harass them.
Luhn is only the latest in a string of women to accuse the former executive of harassment. More than a dozen women, including anchor Gretchen Carlson, had previously accused Ailes of inappropriate sexual advances, leading to his resignation earlier this month.
Update July 21, 2016: Today, 21st Century Fox released a press release stating that Roger Ailes has officially resigned as chairman and CEO of Fox News Channel and Fox Business Network and as chairman of Fox Television Stations. Rupert Murdoch will now take on the role of chairman and acting CEO.
About Ailes' resignation, Murdoch said, “Roger Ailes has made a remarkable contribution to our company and our country. Roger shared my vision of a great and independent television organization and executed it brilliantly over 20 great years.”
This article was originally published on July 6, 2016.
Update July 19, 2016: Roger Ailes appears to be on the way out at Fox News, according to a report in The New York Times. 21st Century Fox, Fox News' parent company, and Ailes "are in the advanced stages of discussions that would lead to his departure as chairman," according to Ailes attorney Susan Estrich.
The negotiations reportedly include a possible continued role for Ailes at the network, though it could be purely advisory. Estrich tells the Times that nothing has been finalized, including any title change or possible buyout.
“Roger is at work,” 21st Century Fox said in a statement to the Times. “The review is ongoing. And the only agreement that is in place is his existing employment agreement.”
Update July 10, 2016:New York Magazine reports that more than a dozen women have come forward to accuse Fox News CEO Roger Ailes of sexual harassment, following allegations by former anchor Gretchen Carlson.
The women contacted Carlson’s New Jersey-based attorney, Nancy Erika Smith, and made detailed allegations of sexual harassment by Ailes dating all the way back to the 1960s.
New YorkMagzinepublished interviews with six of the women accusing Ailes of harassment over the decades, including two women who gave their full names and four who requested anonymity.
Marsha Callahan, a 73-year-old former model, told the magazine that she met Ailes in the late 1960s, when he was the producer for The Mike Douglas Show. She said, "I recall very clearly, he said he’d put me on the show, but I needed to go to bed with him.”
Ailes' outside counsel, Barry Asen of Epstein Becker & Green, responded to the new allegations, saying in a statement: “It has become obvious that Ms. Carlson and her lawyer are desperately attempting to litigate this in the press, because they have no legal case to argue. The latest allegations, all 30 to 50 years old, are false."
Update July 6, 2016: Fox News has returned Refinery29’s request for comment with the following statement from Chairman and CEO Roger Ailes:
“Gretchen Carlson’s allegations are false. This is a retaliatory suit for the network’s decision not to renew her contract, which was due to the fact that her disappointingly low ratings were dragging down the afternoon lineup. When Fox News did not commence any negotiations to renew her contract, Ms. Carlson became aware that her career with the network was likely over and conveniently began to pursue a lawsuit. Ironically, FOX News provided her with more on-air opportunities over her 11 year tenure than any other employer in the industry, for which she thanked me in her recent book. This defamatory lawsuit is not only offensive, it is wholly without merit and will be defended vigorously.”
Gretchen Carlson, a popular Fox News anchor known for her shows The Real Story With Gretchen Carlson and Fox & Friends, has filed a lawsuit against Fox News CEO, Roger Ailes, alleging that she was sexually harassed by the executive and ultimately fired because she refused his advances, The New York Timesreports. According to her lawyers from Smith Mullin P.C., Carlson was terminated from her job at the network on June 23.
"We believe that the evidence will confirm that Gretchen was fired from Fox & Friends for speaking up about demeaning and discriminatory behavior on and off the set,” said Carlson's lawyer Nancy Erika Smith in a statement. According to the official complaint, in 2013, Carlson spoke to Ailes about problems she was having with Fox & Friends co-host Steve Doocy. Ailes allegedly responded by telling her to stop being so easily offended, and that she needed to learn to "get along with the boys." Carson was removed as a Fox & Friends co-host briefly after the exchange.
In her suit, Carlson also cited multiple alleged incidences of sexual harassment, including Roger Ailes making comments about her legs, saying she was sexy but "too much hard work," and suggesting they begin a sexual relationship that would be beneficial to her career.
After the news of her termination and the lawsuit were released, Carlson issued a statement: "I have strived to empower women and girls throughout my entire career. Although this was a difficult step to take, I had to stand up for myself and speak out for all women and the next generation of women in the workplace. I am extremely proud of my accomplishments at Fox News and for keeping our loyal viewers engaged and informed on events and news topics of the day.”
Fox News did not immediately respond to Refinery29's request for comment. We will update this story when we get more information.
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Lady Gaga has new music coming out on Friday, September 9, and her little monsters are more than ready. The single, "Perfect Illusion," is the first solo project from Gaga since the release of Artpop in November 2013. Since then, she also collaborated on an album with Tony Bennet, Cheek to Cheek.
Gaga revealed on Twitter that the new song features Mark Ronson, Tame Impala, and Blood Pop. In preparation for the song's debut, Gaga fans have decided to start priming local radio stations to play her song the moment it comes out by tweeting at them incessantly. But these zealous fans are aren't targeting the stations' Twitter accounts as themselves — they're pretending to be soccer moms, in the hopes of being taken more seriously. And it's hilarious.
The false identities, many of which feature stock photos of middle-aged white women as their profile image, are basically caricatures of stay-at-home Midwestern moms who love cooking, cleaning, and Lady Gaga on behalf of their nephews and sons.
@mix961sa my homosexual nephew loves your station! He's been gabbing about some new Lady GaGa song for weeks! Y'all know anything about it??
Thanks to an article written by BuzzFeed exposing the scam, stations are saying that fans don't need to pretend to be housewives and soccers moms — the DJs promise to play Gaga regardless. She is, after all, one of the most popular artists working today.
Chad Johnson may no longer be on Bachelor in Paradise, but of course that hasn't stopped him from gabbing about his former cast members. In an interview with InTouch, he gave his opinion on soon-to-be Bachelor Nick Viall, and he didn't hold back.
As you might guess, Chad's view on Nick, like his view on most people, isn't positive, to put it mildly. To be specific, he's dubbed him "a total fake."
"He’s already been on three shows," he said, referring to Nick's stints on Bachelor in Paradise and two seasons of The Bachelorette. "It’s not about him wanting a wife; it’s about fame."
Then, he made this bold claim: "He knows what Bachelor nation wants, so I think his season will be the most inoffensive, uneventful Bachelor ever."
The jury is still out about Nick's intentions, but that last statement seems wrong. The show hasn't even started, and Nick has already managed to offend quite a few people. He's been accused of agreeing to go on the show while still dating (or at least very recently ending a relationship with) former Bachelor in Paradise cast member Jen Saviano, and he's garnered criticism from former Bachelorette contestant Robby Hayes along with Chad himself.
Chad's reasoning is interesting, though: He thinks that since Nick has done this so many times, his moves will be too calculated to create any exciting drama. "Nick’s been playing his cards right and knows what to do and what not to do. He knows what looks good on TV — and he knows what doesn’t," he said.
So, is Nick #hereforthewrongreasons, as Bachelor cast members are so often accused of? We're still not quite sure what the right reasons to go on a dating show are, and honestly, we're more concerned with whether he'll make for entertaining television. As of now, it seems like he most definitely will.
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The end of the world is nigh. Or so we've been told approximately 300 times, until Armageddon was narrowly avoided thanks to a rogue scientist/ unlikely hero/ band of rebels dreamed up by the incredibly paranoid/ relentlessly hopeful people who make movies.
We're about to see one more group of rebel heroes attempt to save us from robot-fueled doom in Terminator Genisys, which stomps into theaters July 1. In this new encounter with Sarah Connor (Emilia Clarke), John Connor (Jason Clarke), Kyle Reese (Jai Courtney), and the Terminator himself (Arnold Schwarzenegger), the challenge they face is the some one we've been grappling with on-screen since long before the Governator first intoned "I'll be back." That is: We're all doomed!
And yet, every fictional depiction of our demise serves a different purpose, from warning us of the idiocy of nuclear warfare ( Dr. Strangelove) and scaring the crap out of us about the consequences of genetic engineering (every modern zombie movie), to cautioning us against environmental disasters and spinning any number of silly allegories in between.
Here, we gather up the best end-of-the-world stories to hit the screen, and take a shot at analyzing what the point of it all is. You know, other than showing us wicked explosions, fire-breathing demons, and zombie swarms.
The Day After Tomorrow(2004)
How the world ends:
Global warming, unpredictable weather events and the willful ignorance of politicians.
What's the point?
Climate change is real, people! Yes, Jake Gyllenhaal and Emmy Rossum manage to get all cozy while hunkering down in the middle of a mega ice-storm engulfing New York City. But their love story is matched by the more universal and realistic story of people refusing to listen to the dire predictions of climate scientists about the future of planet Earth.
Photo: Courtesy of 20th Century Fox.
War of theWorlds(2005)
How the world ends:
Giant tripod war machines emerge from underground, having been stored under the Earth's surface for some time. Aliens enter the tripods via lightning bolts and use them to stomp all over cities (and shoot people with laser beams, of course).
What's the point?
Family is everything. Ray (Tom Cruise) is not too popular with his kids (Dakota Fanning and Justin Chatwin), but they have to band together to survive. Also, war creates fear — and fear creates chaos. When everybody chooses flight over fight, who will save us?
Photo: Courtesy of Paramount Pictures.
Planet of the Apes(1968)
How the world ends:
Perhaps the best part about the original Apes movie — co-penned by Rod Serling, of Twilight Zone fame — is the final twist. For the whole movie, all we know is that the human astronauts crash-landed on a strange alien planet ruled by apes. It isn't until the final scene when Taylor (Charlton Heston) discovers the ruins of the Statue of Liberty that it's revealed they've been on Earth the whole time — and that humanity destroyed itself in a nuclear warfare.
What's the point?
What seems like a far-off, foreign future could actually be right around the corner for humanity. At the time, the film was hitting on Cold War fears of the worst-case scenario: a nuclear apocalypse. But the lesson holds true today, too. We could destroy our civilization — and lose it all to the apes — if we can't get along.
Photo: Courtesy of 20th Century Fox.
Young Ones (2014)
How the world ends:
Drought is the culprit in this sci-fi Western. Water and food are scarce for all but a lucky few, the "water men." People fled the farmlands after it became a desert, but Ernest Holm (the riveting Michael Shannon) stubbornly keeps his family (including a daughter played by Elle Fanning) on the farm in hopes of securing irrigation.
What's the point?
It's optimal to sell your farm before the drought hits; those who control the water have all the power; dehydration will drive you mad; and seemingly reasonable men (including a seedy fellow played by Nicholas Hoult) can become shockingly violent when it comes to defending themselves and their families.
Photo: Courtesy of Screen Media Films.
Z For Zachariah(2015)
How the world ends:
Nuclear war, of course. Those not killed on impact died from radioactivity. Lone survivor Ann (Margot Robbie) is making do on a farm in a valley shielded by hills, weather patterns, and ground water.
What's the point?
To show us that in the event of an apocalypse, testosterone is a liability. Ann is doing just fine until scientific engineer Loomis (Chiwetel Ejiofor) comes along. And all is well until the arrival of Caleb (Chris Pine). The men pound their chests and act like jealous assholes in competition for the last woman alive. Long story short: Ladies, we need to stick together.
Photo: Courtesy of Lionsgate Films.
The TerminatorFranchise (1984, 1991, 2003, 2009, 2015)
How the world ends:
The U.S. makes a big boo-boo in creating an artificially intelligent defense system (Skynet) that is so advanced, it becomes self-aware and decides to decimate all of mankind — initially by dropping nuclear bombs on Russia to provoke a counterattack.
What's the point?
To show how much one individual and her son can impact the future of the world. Also, to make us terrified of robots.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF PARAMOUNT PICTURES.
Children of Men (2006)
How the world ends:
Infertility in women, though the cause is never explained. With no children in the world, and thus no future, society deteriorates.
What's the point?
One poor, pregnant woman (Clare-Hope Ashitey) is discovered and becomes a symbol of hope for all mankind. It's one big "I believe the children are our future" message wrapped in an awesome action movie.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF UNIVERSAL PICTURES.
Snowpiercer (2013)
How the world ends:
A chemical released into the atmosphere to reverse global warming backfires and freezes the planet. All that's left of humanity lives on a train that perpetually circles the globe.
What's the point?
It's a harsh allegorical take on class warfare, and the bureaucrats and scientists who think the poor aren't their problem.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF SNOWPIERCER.
Akira (1988)
How the world ends:
First, Tokyo is destroyed by a psychic teenager named Akira, setting off World War III. Then, 31 years later, a psychic biker gang member named Tetsuo manifests similar powers, and the government awakens Akira again to fight him.
What's the point?
Governments that try to mess with teenagers are more evil than the teenagers themselves, even ones with explosive telekinetic powers.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF TMS ENTERTAINMENT.
Interstellar (2014)
How the world ends:
Nitrogen-breathing microorganisms gradually kill off the world's crops, slowly starving and choking every other living thing on Earth.
What's the point?
The world's end is a convoluted excuse to get to the fun stuff: time travel and space exploration through wormholes, and the importance of love, even to fancy NASA scientists.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF PARAMOUNT PICTURES.
Invasion of the Body Snatchers(1956)
How the world ends:
An alien life form plants pods that absorb each person's appearance and memories in their sleep, replacing them with a calm, emotionless version of their normal human selves.
What's the point?
Don't let outside forces (i.e. The Man!) turn you into a conforming "pod person" — fight to stay yourself at all costs.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF WALTER WANGER PRODUCTIONS.
This Is the End(2013)
How the world ends:
Massive earthquakes, fires, and giant beasts from hell, straight out of the Bible. Meanwhile, all the good guys get beamed up to heaven.
What's the point?
This all goes down during a crazy bender at James Franco's house, offering a winking glimpse into how these comedians cope — cooperate, turn on each other, cower like children, and, yeah, do all the drugs — when the shit hits the fan.
Photo: Courtesy of Columbia Pictures.
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Dr. Strangeloveor: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb (1964)
How the world ends:
Air Force General Jack D. Ripper (Sterling Hayden) goes nuts and thinks the Soviets are poisoning us via fluoridated water, and it just so happens he has the power to order a nuclear attack without the president's authorization. The U.S. and USSR figure out the error, but it's too late to reverse the process because the Russians have installed a doomsday device that automatically destroys all life on the surface of the Earth if their country is attacked.
What's the point?
To underscore that the concept of mutually assured destruction (if both countries could wipe each other out, no one will strike first), is so dangerous and absurd, all we can do is laugh about it.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF COLUMBIA PICTURES.
Warm Bodies (2013)
How the world ends:
The cause of the zombie virus outbreak is never really explored, though the important thing to know here is that zombies aren't entirely without human feeling. Surviving people have been forced to carve out their existence in a fortified stadium.
What's the point?
True love — and eating the brains of a true love — can conquer almost anything, even a zombie virus. And it's important to look past the color of others' skin, even if it's gray and rotting.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF SUMMIT ENTERTAINMENT.
Seeking a Friend for the End of the World(2012)
How the world ends:
An asteroid is headed straight for us, and all efforts to divert it have already failed.
What's the point?
It's actually quite fun to imagine what you'd do — and what you would stop doing — if you knew with absolute certainty that the world would end in three weeks.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF FOCUS FEATURES.
The Day After (1983)
How the world ends:
The Cold War heats up when the Soviets threaten to invade West Germany and peace talks fail. The USSR and the U.S. bomb each other almost simultaneously. In the aftermath, many survivors of the blasts suffer from radiation poisoning.
What's the point?
This massively popular TV movie succeeded in scaring the whole country anew about how rapidly war could escalate — even President Reagan and the Joint Chiefs of Staff were moved by the film.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF ABC CIRCLE FILMS.
Melancholia(2011)
How the world ends:
A rogue planet enters our solar system and collides with Earth.
What's the point?
As director Lars von Trier sees it, depressed people like Justine (Kirsten Dunst) actually rejoice in the end of the world; it's confirmation of all their melancholic thoughts. Happy people like Justine's sister Claire (Charlotte Gainsbourg), on the other hand, are the ones with too much to lose.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF ZENTROPA ENTERTAINMENTS.
The Mad Max Franchise (1979, 1981, 1985, 2015)
How the world ends:
Scarce resources lead to oil wars and the collapse of civilized society. There's some nuclear warfare thrown in the mix, too.
What's the point?
Well, besides showing us a lot of car chases through deserts and a bunch of cool costumes, these movies ponder what might happen to mankind if we were reduced to our primitive nature. Would only the toughest survive?
PHOTO: COURTESY OF KENNEDY MILLER PRODUCTIONS.
Zombieland (2009)
How the world ends:
Mad cow disease mutates into a human zombie virus and wipes out most of the population within two months.
What's the point?
To show how a regular guy like Jesse Eisenberg's Columbus can survive by laying low and not being a hero. But when he does decide to rise to the occasion and actually care about others, survival actually has more appeal.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF COLUMBIA PICTURES.
The Road (2009)
How the world ends:
We have no idea what causes it, but everything's cold, the sun doesn't come out, and all plant and animal life has died. At this point, everyone's just roaming the earth in search of old canned food, or other people to eat.
What's the point?
The unnamed man (Viggo Mortensen) lives only to keep his son (Kodi Smit-McPhee) alive. He tries to teach the boy how to remain good and human without descending into savage instincts like others they encounter, because survival is about more than just the body.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF DIMENSION FILMS.
The MatrixTrilogy(1999, 2003)
How the world ends:
The seemingly inevitable conflict between sentient machines and humans escalates so far that humans first decide to block out the sun (eliminating the machines' access to solar power), then to deploy nuclear missiles. The machines retaliate with a flesh-eating plague and more bombs. Finally, they enslave the surviving humans as their new power source.
What's the point?
To give us the creeps about virtual reality and our reliance on technology, and to burst open our minds about different levels of perception.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF WARNER BROS.
12 Monkeys (1995)
How the world ends:
A deadly virus that may or may not have been unleashed by an animal rights group has wiped out most of mankind. The survivors live underground and have figured out time travel in the meantime.
What's the point?
Traveling back in time to stop this cataclysm from happening is actually much harder than you think, especially if you don't have all your facts straight. Oops.
Photo: Courtesy of Universal Pictures.
28 Days Later(2003)
How the world ends:
Animal rights activists (again!) raid a lab to free chimpanzees, which happen to be infected with a virus called "Rage" that spreads from the activists to most of Great Britain. The infected become rabid zombies. As you might guess from the presence of a sequel (2007's 28 Weeks Later), it doesn't stop there.
What's the point?
To reveal that zombies aren't the only monsters around, as exhibited by the military's "solution," which involves using women as sex slaves.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF DNA FILMS.
On the Beach (1959)
How the world ends:
Nuclear bombing during World War III has wiped out the Northern Hemisphere, and the fallout is now traveling south, killing everyone with radiation sickness. In Australia, people are given suicide pills to take when they choose.
What's the point?
This plea to prevent nuclear warfare (based on a 1957 novel) was even screened in Moscow at the time of its release, and it ends with the message "There is still time... Brother." So that's kind of straightforward.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF STANLEY KRAMER PRODUCTIONS.
WALL-E(2008)
How the world ends:
Thanks to efficient mega-corporations, humans finally buy so much useless stuff that the whole world becomes an uninhabitable trash heap. Humans take off into space stations leaving behind robots to clean up their mess, but the mechanical creatures decide that's not worth the bother, either.
What's the point?
To cast a critical eye on excessive consumerism, and to show that love can grow in even the bleakest of conditions.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF PIXAR.
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Refinery29's Live Rainbow Ticket Scavenger Hunt begins at 12 p.m. EST. The potential winner is required to find Michael Brown and Lucie Fink first, using clues from within the broadcast, in order to win the Rainbow Ticket prize and a T-shirt.
The user who arrives first and says our password "Pure Imagination" wins the prize.
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Contest may only be entered in New York, New York.This Contest is governed exclusively by the laws of the United States.You are not authorized to participate in the Contest if you are not able to enter in New York, New York.
1.CONTESTENTRY START/END DATES. Contest begins at 12:00:00 pm Eastern Time on September 7, 2016 and ends at 12:44:59 pm Eastern Time on September 7, 2016 (“Contest Period”).
2.ELIGIBILITY: The Contest is open solely to legal residents of the forty-eight (48) contiguous states of the United States (excluding Rhode Island), who are able to enter the contest in New York, New York at least eighteen (18) years of age and over the age of majority in their jurisdiction of residence at the time of entry. Employees, officers and directors of Refinery 29 Inc. (“Sponsor”), its parent companies, subsidiaries, affiliates, partners, advertising and promotion agencies, manufacturers or distributors of promotion materials, and their immediate families (parents, children, siblings, spouse) or members of the same household (whether related or not) of such employees, officers and directors are not eligible to enter. Contest is subject to all applicable federal, state and local laws.
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Limit one (1) Entry per person. Multiple entrants are not permitted to share the same Facebook account. Any attempt by any entrant to obtain more than the stated number of entries by using multiple/different Facebook accounts, identities, registrations, or any other methods will void that entrant's Entries and that entrant may be disqualified. Use of any automated system to participate is prohibited and will result in disqualification. In the event of a dispute as to any Facebook account, the authorized account holder of the email address used to register on Facebook will be deemed to be the entrant. The “authorized account holder” is the natural person assigned an email address by an Internet access provider, online service provider or other organization responsible for assigning email addresses for the domain associated with the submitted address. Any potential winner may be required to show proof of being the authorized account holder.
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By entering the Contest, entrants fully and unconditionally agree to be bound by these rules and the decisions of the judges and Sponsor, including, but not limited to, interpretation and application of these Official Rules, which will be final and binding in all matters relating to the Contest.
JUDGING: Eligible entries received during the Contest Period, and which comply with these Official Rules, will be judged by Sponsor’s judges, in their sole discretion, based on the following criteria: a) ability to determine the New York City location of the Refinery29 staffers based on the clues provided (60%), b) ability to travel to the New York City location before any other entrants (20%), and c) the naming of the Secret Password (20%), and adherence to any posted contest guidelines. One (1) winner will be selected on or about the following date September 7, 2016. In the event of a tie, the potential winners will compete to answer a trivia question posed by Refinery29. The decisions of the judges are final.
5.WINNER NOTIFICATION: On or about September 7, 2016 the first potential Contest winner(s) will be notified on-site at the New York City location. If an entrant is found to be ineligible, an alternate winner may also be selected by Sponsor’s judges. After initial contact has been made, subsequent communication may take place via e-mail or telephone. Potential winner(s) may be required to sign and return, where legal, an Affidavit of Eligibility, Liability/Publicity Release or rights transfer document prior to the Event. Additionally, potential winner(s) may be required to provide to Sponsor all obtained releases from any and all third parties appearing at the New York City location or the Event. If such documents are not returned within the specified time period, a prize or prize notification is returned as undeliverable, or a potential winner is not in compliance with these Official Rules, that potential winner’s prize will be forfeited and an alternate winner will be selected. Upon prize forfeiture, no compensation will be given. In the event of a dispute as to the identity of any potential winner, Sponsor reserves the right in its sole discretion to select another winner and the unidentifiable potential winner will forfeit all rights to a prize.
6.PRIZE(S): One (1) winner will receive: advance admission ahead of the general public queue to Refinery29’s 29Rooms 2016 Event (“the Event”) on one (1) of the following dates: September 9, 10, or 11, 2016 from 12:00pm to 8:00pm EST in Brooklyn, NY (ARV: $0.00); and one (1) t-shirt provided by Refinery29 (ARV: $25.00);
The total approximate retail value of the Prize is $25.00. The Prize is non-transferable. No substitutions or cash redemptions. In the case of unavailability of the Prize, Sponsor reserves the right to substitute the Prize with a prize of equal or greater value. Unclaimed prizes will not be awarded. All unspecified expenses including any travel or accommodations are the responsibility of winner. Limit one (1) prize per person or household.
Travel and accommodations related to Entry and to the Prize are the sole responsibility of Prize winner. If Prize winner is unable to attend the Event, the Prize will be forfeited and may be awarded to an alternate. Sponsor is not liable for delays, cancellation or unforeseen events related to travel.
All entrants to the Refinery29 29Rooms 2016 Event will be required to sign a release, and Sponsor reserves the right to refuse entry to anyone who does not sign such release. Sponsor reserves the right to refuse access to any potential entrant in its sole discretion.
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14.REQUEST FOR WINNER: For the name of the winner, available after September 8, 2016, send a self-addressed, stamped, envelope to: Refinery29 29Rooms 2016 Scavenger Hunt Contest, Refinery 29 Inc. 225 Broadway, 23rd Floor, New York, NY 10007.
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Lots of nostalgic adults like to look back at college as the best four years of their lives. While that may or may not be the case for everyone, one thing is true: it's the best four years for discount shopping. Sure, you can bargain shop the rest of your life, but, no other time in your life will you get quite so many discounts simply by flashing your ID.
Sure, the purpose of the student ID might be to get access a meal plan or the library. The true magic happens off campus. With your card in hand (or, sometimes just an email ending in .edu), you can score deals on everything from laptops to clothes.
We've rounded up our favorite retailers that offer discounts for students (and educators!) for up to 50% off the listed price. Click through to see — you could be saving big at places you already love.
Apple offers education pricing on a number of their products, from MacBooks to iPhones, as well as back-to-school deals like free headphones with purchase. Students also qualify for a discount on their Apple Music membership.
Amazon is pretty much a one-stop-shop on college essentials from textbooks to red solo cups. Get free two-day shipping on all your must-haves with a six-month trial, followed by 50% off the yearly Prime membership fee. Membership also gets you access to Prime Video, where you can stream all the movies and TV you want, as well as Amazon-exclusive programs like Transparent.
Get 15% off year-round on Amtrak on all trains, with the exception of non-holiday, weekday Acela trains. You can book online and just have to show valid ID when boarding.
Student shoppers receive 20% off all purchases — even sale — both online and in person. Simply enter a valid .edu address to get an online code, or show a valid ID in stores.
If you're living with a crowd (and have the space), save you and your roommates some major cash by stocking up on essentials at Sam's Club. Student membership is $40/year, and includes a $15 gift card when you sign up in stores.
When Kylie Jenner spent a whopping $1,200 at Sephora in June, the reactions were mixed. Some viewed it as the ultimate 1% indulgence, while others could relate, saying they've dropped similar amounts in massive makeup hauls. But, big spending aside, everyone shops the store differently, and being a fly on the wall for the experience is a beauty voyeur's dream.
So, when we heard model Hailey Baldwin would be shopping at the new Michigan Avenue Sephora store in Chicago, we jumped at the opportunity to tag along. She walked us through the aisles, opening jars and swiping on different formulas. When it was all over, she rang up a very similar charge to her Snapchat buddy Jenner. (Including over $300 in lip products alone.) “I don’t know what girl or guy doesn’t love Sephora!” Baldwin exclaimed as she teetered through the store in knee-high yellow heels. We don't either, Hailey.
For Baldwin's full shopping list, as well as her thoughts on some standout products, check out the slides ahead.
Baldwin started with skin care, explaining that she's always aiming for a "glowy, fresh, and dewy" look that begins with the right foundation.
“I like that this [cream] is exfoliating, but also gentle," she says. "It feels really lightweight, too. I’m always on the market for good moisturizers, so I’m excited to try this one.”
Sunday Riley Tidal Brightening Enzyme Water Cream, $65, available at Sephora.
“I’m really big on skin care and masks. This is a two-in-one mask and cleanser that even removes makeup. I like anything with a foaming formula because it makes my skin feel really soft," Baldwin says.
Origins By All Greens Foaming Deep Cleansing Mask, $36, available at Sephora.
A deep-cleansing mask is also essential for Baldwin. “Part of our work is constantly having your face touched and [putting] makeup on, and it’s kind of nice to be bare when you have a day off," she says.
Origins GinZing Peel-Off Mask to Refine and Refresh, $26, available at Sephora.
Tarte Tarteguard 30 Sunscreen Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 30, $32, available at Sephora.
She finished her skin-care spree with this hydrating oil from Ren.
Ren Vita Mineral Omega 3 Optimum Skin Oil, $45, available at Sephora.
Baldwin then moved on to tools, which are essential to her makeup routine. “I’m going to use this brush for highlighting," she says. "It blends really well and isn’t streaky. It’s super-soft, too.”
Sephora Collection Pro Featherweight Fan Brush #92, $36, available at Sephora.
She picked up a few more items to round out her tool collection.
Sephora Collection Pro Featherweight Blending Brush #93, $30, available at Sephora.
Sephora Collection Pro Precision Concealer Brush #45, $21, available at Sephora.
Sephora Collection Pro Precision Blush Brush #73, $32, available at Sephora.
Sephora Collection Show Curl XL Lash Curler for Round Eyes in Onyx, $17, available at Sephora.
Sephora Collection Ultimate 5-in-1 Sharpener, $14, available at Sephora.
Finally, time for makeup. Baldwin began with the basics, picking up this coconut primer. “I personally like coconut oil a lot. I think it’s very multipurpose; anything that’s multipurpose, I like," she says.
Marc Jacobs Beauty Under(cover) Perfecting Coconut Face Primer, $44, available at Sephora.
She opted for a sheer powder foundation as her base.
Sephora Collection Matte Perfection Powder Foundation in 26 Neutral Sand, $20, available at Sephora.
She picked up this concealer for more targeted correcting.
Becca Ultimate Coverage Concealing Crème in Tahini, $32, available at Sephora.
“I am ALL about highlighters!" Baldwin exclaims. "This [kit] has four different powder highlighters — and you can either layer them together or wear [them] alone. The Sun Dipped palette has some good pinks mixed in that really make your cheekbones pop.”
Anastasia Beverly Hills Glow Kit in Sun Dipped, $40, available at Sephora.
She also grabbed this cult-favorite glow-getter, which happens to also be a favorite of Kylie Jenner's (and just about everyone else).
Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector in Champagne Pop, $41, available at Sephora.
A model can never have too many highlighters, right? This tawny shade rounds out her collection.
Sephora Collection Colorful Face Powders (Blush, Bronze, Highlight, & Contour) in So Euphoric, $14, available at Sephora.
Baldwin loves this flushed cheek stain, saying that she also taps some on her eyelids for a subtle glow.
Tarte Cheek Stain in Glisten, $30, available at Sephora.
She grabbed two other creamy cheek formulas, including this golden nude...
Becca Beach Tint Summer Soufflé in Fig/Opal, $27, available at Sephora.
...and this bright coral.
Becca Beach Tint Summer Soufflé in Guava/Moonstone, $27, available at Sephora.
Baldwin is known for her full, luscious lips — and now we know just how much she invests in them. During this spree, she dropped over $300 on lip products alone, including this popular nude from Kat Von D.
"This is the perfect nude shade, and I know it’s always sold out at Sephora. Luckily, I’m the first shopper at Sephora Michigan Avenue, so I am definitely adding this to my bag!" she says.
Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick in Bow N Arrow, $20, available at Sephora.
“Most of the time, [my lip color] is based on my outfit and what I’m feeling that day," says Baldwin.
Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick in Exorcism, $20, available at Sephora.
Baldwin says that she tends to opt for more neutral colors, like this one.
NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Bahama, $26, available at Sephora.
But she also likes to keep a bolder color in her bag for when she goes out.
NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Red Square, $26, available at Sephora.
“I definitely move into darker lips [for fall], and a nude face," she says as she picks up this rich burgundy. "Maybe no makeup, but with just a lip."
NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Damned, $26, available at Sephora.
This soft red falls somewhere in-between.
NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Dolce Vita, $26, available at Sephora.
"I always have a lip balm of some sort with me," says Baldwin. And judging by her cart, it's almost always Dior. She picked up almost every iteration on this trip...
Dior Addict Lip Glow Pomade, $33, available at Sephora.
She also grabbed the accompanying liner to layer under it.
Dior Addict Lip Glow Liner, $32, available at Sephora.
She tossed in this classic cream...
Dior Crème de Rose Smoothing Plumping Lip Balm, $30, available at Sephora.
...and rounded out the collection with this pinkish-nude plumping gloss.
Dior Addict Lip Maximizer High Volume Lip Plumper, $33, available at Sephora.
Baldwin likes coconut on her face and body. (And yes, this is a cream specifically for your behind.)
"I love this packaging, and it smells amazing. It’s like I’m on the beach. Plus, I’m obsessed with anything that has coconut oil," she says.
Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream, $45, available at Sephora.
She chose a similarly beachy hair product. “This spray is great — it’s weightless and gives you that chic, beachy-waves look. It doesn’t leave your hair dry or crunchy, and also smells amazing," she says.
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Thanks to Instagram, we know all about the vacation habits of our favorite girl gangs, from the Kardashian-Jenner clan to Taylor Swift's posse of models, musicians, and actors. And while they can let loose with multi-million dollar beach rentals and private air fare, we mortals have to do something a bit more low-key.
Here, we’ve rounded up 12 awesome trip ideas for you and your crew that are both amazing and affordable. Head to wine country in Argentina, kick back in the Catskills, or hang ten in Morocco. Whatever you're into, we've got you covered, with a hotel idea for each place. The best part: Not one trip on our list costs anywhere near $17 million.
Lake Placid, New York
This rustic upstate ski town casts a vintage vibe, thanks to Olympic facilities from years past (Lake Placid hosted the winter games in 1932 and 1980.) Trails abound for cross-country skiing or scenic hikes in the warmer months, perfect for an outdoorsy girl gang. The interlocking network of picturesque lakes also provides opportunities to explore the area by boat, either on a tour or in your own canoe.
Beginning at $115 a night, the rooms at the South Meadow Farm lodge are cozy, quilt-covered dreams. The stay also includes a complimentary country breakfast and a ski pass to the Olympic Trails.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Meeting your friends for a farm-to-table brunch is one thing, but staying on a working farm with lavender fields and crafty workshops is the ultimate. At Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm, which sits on 25 acres just outside of Albuquerque, you can fulfill all your childhood Laura Ingalls Wilder fantasies. Lend a hand in the vegetable fields, take a class on baking bread, and learn the art of aromatherapy. There’s also a farm shop where you can stock up on lavender salve, Navajo blankets, and hangover tonic (hey, you never know). As for that farm-to-table meal, eat up on-site at La Merienda restaurant.
Photo: Sergio Salvador Photography / Courtesy of Los Poblanos Historic Inn.
Take your pick between rooms in the original ranch house (with kiva fireplaces and beamed ceilings) and farm suites (with private patios). There are also bikes to borrow and a saltwater pool.
Photo: Mike Crane Photo / Courtesy of Los Poblanos Historic Inn.
Mendoza, Argentina
If you’ve already done Napa, Sonoma, or Long Island’s North Fork, it’s time to direct your vino-loving pals south — to South America. For a souped-up wine-country getaway, head to Mendoza, which is less than a two-hour flight from Buenos Aires. There, you’ll find some 1,200 wineries (Malbec is king in these parts), a love of barbecued meats and oven-baked empanadas, plus plenty of boutiques where you can shop for Argentina’s covetable leather (check out Prune). And, because Mendoza is at the base of the Andes, there’s plenty of outdoor action to be had. Hire a local gaucho to take you horseback-riding through the hills and vineyards, or go rafting on the Mendoza River.
This winery, restaurant, and hotel is about 20 minutes outside the city of Mendoza in the village of Chacras de Coria. You’ll never go thirsty at Finca, as the property produces 5,000 bottles of Malbec on-site. Each of the 11 rooms is unique, and the hotel offers cooking classes, bikes to borrow, and a vineyard-side swimming pool.
Photo: Courtesy of Finca Adalgisa.
The Catskills, New York
Two words: Dirty Dancing. Yes, upstate New York was the backdrop for Penny’s problems, Baby and Johnny’s love, and that epic lift. But aside from being a destination for Jennifer Grey fans, the Catskills make for a laid-back weekend just a couple hours from New York City. During warmer months, head for a hike at Kaaterskill Falls, where the main event is a waterfall that drops 260 feet. In the winter, Hunter Mountain is where it’s at for skiing, snow tubing, and hot toddy-drinking. A stop at Mama’s Boy Burgers in Tannersville is practically mandatory, for beef patties smothered in a secret house sauce, as well as frozen custard and fries. There’s also Phoenicia Diner, where the waffles will make you consider moving to the Catskills permanently.
The motto at Hotel Dylan is “Peace. Love. Stay,” which makes sense because it’s located in the hippie haven of Woodstock, NY. Each of the colorfully quirky rooms features a photo by Elliott Landy, the rock 'n’ roll photographer who shot the Woodstock Festival back in 1969.
Photo: Courtesy of Hotel Dylan.
Taghazout, Morocco
Here’s a trip where you can make new friends and hang with the ones you already have. On the west coast of Morocco, there’s a small fishing village named Taghazout that’s gained a rep for surfing. There, Surf Maroc — a hub for rentals, lessons, and full-fledged surfing vacations — hosts all-women retreats. Sign up for a week and you’ll learn to work the waves, plus meet women from all over the world (though the groups tend to skew British). In addition to surfing, the camp includes yoga, shopping at a local souk, and a trip to Paradise Valley — a lush spot 45 minutes away, with natural pools and rock-carved waterslides.
Your week-long foray includes a stay at Surf Maroc’s original villa, which overlooks the Atlantic. Yoga classes happen on the top-tier balcony, and dinners — which consist of Moroccan tagines, kebabs, and fresh fish — are served family-style on the lower, beachfront terrace.
Photo: Courtesy of Surf Maroc.
Chicago, Illinois
Feasting on deep-dish pizza at legendary joints like Lou Malnoti’s or Pequod’s is always a good idea, but the city has more foodie tricks up its sleeve. This fall, chef Richard Sandoval will open Latinicity, a 20,000-square-foot Latin-American food hall (think Eataly with tortas, ceviche, and tacos). Enchilada enthusiasts should also head to the Pilsen neighborhood for some of the best Mexican food in the Midwest, plus plenty of top-notch vintage shopping. Another hip ‘hood is Logan Square. Hit up Sink | Swim for oysters, and then boogie the night away at Slippery Slope, a dance-centric bar with Skee-Ball.
A boutique hotel built in a historic 1890s building, the Chicago Athletic Association has personality in spades. It also has a game room with a bocce ball court, a rooftop restaurant, and a prime location near Millennium Park and the Art Institute of Chicago.
Photo: Courtesy of Chicago Athletic Association.
Sayulita, Mexico
If Tulum is the bohemian epicenter of Mexico’s Caribbean coast, then Sayulita takes the flower-covered crown on the Pacific side. But while some complain that Tulum has become an outpost for Williamsburg scenesters, Sayulita, a surf town that’s about 25 miles northwest of Puerto Vallarta, isn’t quite trending on Instagram yet. Spend your days lazing away at beaches like Playa Centro and Playa de Los Muertos, then grab fresh fish for dinner at waterside Don Pedro’s. Another mainstay is ChocoBanana, a café where the main event is chocolate-dipped, sprinkle-covered bananas. And for all your fringed and feathered needs, there’s Pacha Mama, a boutique geared toward the caftan-wearing crowd.
Book your crew into this cobalt-blue casita and have the run of the place. There are two bedrooms, an infinity pool, and a rooftop terrace with views of both the jungle and the beach. You can even have a chef drop in to make a pie in the villa’s pizza oven.
Photo: Courtesy of Casa Ninamu.
Palm Springs, California
When you need a quality catch-up, the ideal destination is one where there’s a pool — and where it never rains. Palm Springs, which is a quick two-hour trip for Angelenos, is that place. On average, the area gets 350 days of sunshine a year. Should you and your group emerge from your poolside cocoon, there’s hiking at the Coachella Valley Preserve, Wild West-style trips through the desert with Covered Wagon Tours, and high-flying excursions on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. As for where to eat, Chi Chi at the Avalon Hotel serves up Central and South American favorites with modern flair. You can even get a mini “Latin fruit cart” delivered to your table, complete with lime wedges and chili salt.
Photo: D. L. Thompson & Jon Johnson / courtesy of the Ace Hotel & Swim Club.
Here’s your pool, plus a bonus: On weekends, there’s a DJ to provide the soundtrack to your getaway. Some rooms have private patios and fireplaces, plus the hotel’s Amigo Room bar has a full calendar of music and comedians.
Photo: D. L. Thompson & Jon Johnson / courtesy of the Ace Hotel & Swim Club.
Tokyo, Japan
If you followed Lena Dunham’s recent trip to Tokyo with pal Aidy Bryant (of SNL fame) and suffered a healthy dose of FOMO, you are not alone. There, Dunham dabbled in nail art, “giant baby fashion,” and BFF septum piercings — and it all looked delightful. If you want to shop in Dunham’s footsteps, check out clothing stores Titty&Co. (which is quite demure, despite its name) and One Spo (which stocks furry sweaters and bralettes with blinking eyes on the chests). For nail art, make a pilgrimage to Nail Room Poche, which is basically the birthplace of 3D finger-bling. For ramen, there’s Ichiran; for tempura, there’s Tsunahachi (it’s been around for over 50 years). And for a shrine to Totoro, there’s Hayao Miyazaki’s Ghibli Museum in the western suburb of Mitaka.
Part hotel, part gallery, part event space, and part boutique, Claska is in Tokyo’s shop-filled Meguro district. Of the five room categories, the Tatami abodes — with their tatami mats and paper lanterns — might be the coolest.
Photo: Courtesy of Claska.
Cartagena, Colombia
If you’re pressed for vacation days but really want an adventure, Colombia is the gateway destination for a South American jaunt. Direct flights from NYC to Cartagena are just five hours (that’s shorter than a trip to L.A.), so you can make it happen over a long weekend. Once you’re in the colonial walled city, fill up on citrus-cured seafood at La Cevichería, frozen fruit pops at La Palettería, and arepas from the street. Shop for mochilas (colorful woven bags) on the sidewalks and gold-dipped jewelry at Galeria Cano. Late at night, head to Café Havana for salsa tunes. Also, save one day for the beach; ride by boat for about an hour to Islas del Rosario, for clear waters and coral reefs.
Don’t think doilies — this restored colonial house is a B&B with style. There are whitewashed walls, a courtyard with palm trees, and two pools: one on the first floor, and the other on the rooftop terrace.
Photo: Courtesy of Casablanca B&B.
Park City, Utah
Make it a slope-side retreat for hot toddies, white Russians, and Irish coffee by the fire. Oh, and there’s skiing, too. Park City Mountain has 7,300 acres of powder-covered terrain. But for the non-skiers / non-boarders in the bunch, there’s shopping on Main Street (Crosby Collection has vintage jewelry, and Atticus has used books), as well as distillery tours at High West. There’s also ice skating, sleigh rides, and snowshoeing in the great outdoors. But, of course, you can always just laze away the afternoon soaking in a hot tub.
Here’s a dreamy ski chalet that was once a 19th-century school. Washington School House has 12 rooms filled with crystal chandeliers and white marble, plus a fireside lounge and an outdoor heated pool that’s open all year.
Photo: Courtesy of Washington School House.
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Snap, filter, post, repeat. In today's social-media-saturated landscape, sharing photos online is as ubiquitous as brushing one's teeth or eating lunch. With cameras in our pockets and Instagrammable moments at every turn, it's easy to liken ourselves to bona fide photographers. But for those who've actually made the switch from amateur creative to straight-up professional, "the perfect post" takes on a whole new meaning.
To demystify this transition, we spoke to three successful women who've cashed in on their ability to capture and create beautiful images. Together with AG, we tapped into their routines as well as their varying approaches. From a self-taught camera handler who boasts almost a million Instagram followers to a model turned photog who dabbles in collage art on the side, these creators have transcended the overpopulated photo space. Whether they're fighting through creative fatigue or persevering through the constant demand for new material, their aesthetic and talent set them miles apart from the crowd. Get to know the tricks of their trade below, and dust off your camera — we have a feeling it might come in handy.
AG Sophia Jeans, $235, available at AG.Photographed by Nikki Krecicki.
If you're not one of her 990,000 Instagram followers, maybe you've come across Alice Gao's signature photo style in publications like TheNew York Times' T Magazine or Kinfolk. With a sharp focus on dynamic travel shots, well-lit food snaps, and unique still-life photos, we can see how she's accrued so many fans.
Your photographs are highly recognizable because they're bright, refined, and really play with light and contrast. What's the first step in zeroing in on a single, defined aesthetic?
"I think a lot of it is knowing what you like and ignoring what other people are doing. You have to expose yourself to different things and experiences to figure out what you're drawn to."
How did some of your first paid photography projects come about?
"When I started out, I didn't have a social media following, so I had to go about monetizing in traditional ways. I shot a ton of personal work and worked for free, because I just wanted to be shooting all the time. I'm not suggesting you should be giving away free photos all the time, but it's that inherent passion to shoot regardless of a paycheck that should be at the root of your pursuits."
One of your favorite photo subjects is travel. What are some tips for making those types of shots less touristy and more intentional?
"It's a lot of patience: waiting for the right moment, the right light, or the right subject to walk through the frame to help tell a better story."
Photographed by Nikki Krecicki.AG Sophia Jeans, $235, available at AG.Photographed by Nikki Krecicki.
With a continuous flow of new clients, you're under constant pressure to create new content. How do you keep yourself from tapping out creatively?
"I really love going to museums, like the Leeum Museum in Seoul. The space is really beautiful. Working on projects for myself is also key; I try to take photos every day. Being a photographer isn't something I can turn off. Even if I'm trying not to take photos, and there's a light that I like, I can't help it. My eyes will take the picture."
How about your space at home. What about it brings out your creative side?
"I like to surround myself with objects that put me in a nice place, like ceramics, books, and other items I picked up while traveling. I also have an art-book addiction and flip through those all the time. Right now it's the Blinky Palermo retrospective; I'm really drawn to the minimal forms in his work. Plus, my space has really good light, which I'm very fortunate to have in New York. Even on cloudy days, I get nice super-moody, gray light."
Does your style interact with your art at all?
"I keep my clothes very neutral and uniform-like: jeans and a tee tucked in. It's not something I overtly think about, but I imagine one influences the other."
Do you have any advice forpeople with long work hours and repetitive routines? How can they flex their photography muscles and take photos more often?
"A great example is Kathy Ryan, the photo editor at The New York Times Magazine. She published a book called Office Romance. It was just photos she took around the office. I think it's really about challenging yourself to see things differently. Set photo challenges for yourself or follow prompts that'll help you take photos every day."
What's been your most useful piece of professional advice?
"If a job scares you, then it's probably worth doing. That's the only way to grow."
And lastly, what’s your most surprising Instagram habit?
"In my explore page, I always find cat videos or something cat related and go down a rabbit hole."
AG Shearling Mya Jacket, $328, available at AG; AG Rib Fallon Sweater Tee, $248, available at AG.Photographed by Nikki Krecicki.AG Hepta Overalls, $288, available at AG.Photographed by Nikki Krecicki.
Long before Carly Foulkes became the motorcycle-riding T-Mobile girl, she was tinkering with her first camera in middle school, taking photos of self-proclaimed "silly things" like detail shots of her home or the family dog. Now, Foulkes — who first developed a career as a model and actress — is making a name for herself on the other side of the lens through her cheeky portraiture style and high-fashion and editorial bookings. Oh, and she's also an impressive collage artist.
What's the most important thing someone should know if they're just getting started with photography?
"It's not about the camera, it's about what you shoot. You don't have to spend a bunch of money on a great camera to take a great photo. Shoot what you want to shoot, what your heart and your mind are telling you to shoot. And don't worry about what other people think."
What themes have you been focusing on in your work lately?
"I've been shooting a lot of street photography in a photojournalist style. Unfortunately there have been a lot of things happening in the world; it's hit me recently as I've been going to protests and marches. I've met a lot of amazing people and I enjoy shooting real moments, capturing real people with real emotions. That's what's most important to me right now."
Photographed by Nikki Krecicki.AG Hepta Overalls, $288, available at AG.Photographed by Nikki Krecicki.
What distracts you most from your work?
"My dog and my two cats distract me all the time because they're so adorable. I force them to let me take photos of them. Like, Alright, if we're gonna waste 30 minutes of me just staring at you, might as well take a photo. "
What are some of your unexpected hobbies outside of photography?
"I love comedy and used to do improv, as well as shooting, directing, and editing video. I also love to paint and draw. I play the ukulele by myself — I can’t really do it in front of a lot of people — and I like to sing in my spare time when nobody’s around. I’ve always loved the arts."
Yeah, I'll say. What about collage art? You have a whole section of your portfolio dedicated to that. What does collage art offer you that photography doesn't?
"Since I was a kid, I've always been obsessed with the magical and fantastical — things that put you in awe when you read or watch them. Collage art allows me to create my own world, which is something you can't really do with photography. Photography is [about] real moments, and real moments are insane and amazing and beautiful in their own right, but if I'm having a bad day I can collage something that makes me happy."
Have you ever taken a photo detox?
"Those happen organically every six months or so. I love what I do so much that sometimes I get really obsessed, so I have to take a step back and realize there's so much more going on. I put the camera down, go to yoga, or go for a swim or hike."
Who's someone you follow on Instagram that we'd least expect?
"NASA. I love me some space!"
AG Jodi Crop Side Slit Jeans, $188, available at AG.Photographed by Nikki Krecicki.AG Ashton Muscle Tee, $64, available at AG; AG Bis Sweatpant, $258, available at AG.Photographed by Nikki Krecicki.
When Adrienne Raquel isn't working as a photo producer (her full-time gig), she's squeezing as many freelance photo projects into her nights and weekends as possible, with brands such as Revlon, CB2, Urban Outfitters, and New York Magazine. This avid color hunter takes us to a lush tropical world through palm-tree-heavy travel photos, bold still lifes, and super-saturated minimal photography. One scroll through Raquel's pleasing Insta feed or portfolio will make you an instant follower.
Tell us about what inspired your bright aesthetic.
"Color has so much influence on how we feel, our moods, our emotions, how we perceive things, how we don’t perceive things. I think people tend to forget about the importance of color, but I try to really incorporate that into my photography. I want it to be warm and inviting. Lately I’ve been focusing on pink because it’s a great color and it makes me feel good when I see it. I want my work to make people feel good vibes."
What's the best career advice you've received?
"Always be kind, and stay true to yourself. Once when I was working with a brand, I tried to conform to what they do. I had to remember, Hey, they want me to do this because they like me and what I do. I need to stick to what I’m doing and my own vision. "
Do you prefer shooting with a digital camera or your phone?
"I like the flexibility of shooting digital. I can edit instantly on the computer or my phone. While I try to keep it true to the original, I manipulate photos to make them more vibrant. I usually shoot with a Canon, but I also try to take a lot of images on my phone. I have 25,000 photos on my iPhone."
Wow, I hope that's backed up somewhere! So how do you juggle your full-time job and your freelance photo gigs?
"During the day, I'm a photo producer at a production studio, helping produce advertising imagery. I also have a partnership with CB2 as its resident color expert for the duration of this year and next. And at the moment, I'm doing about three to four freelance shoots a week after work. I'm excited and lucky but also tired!"
Photographed by Nikki Krecicki.
That's really impressive, it must feel great to come home at the end of the day!
"Yes, I love my space at home. My apartment is very small, but I've tried to make it cozy and colorful like my photography."
Does your style play off your photography, as well?
"Well, my style is very minimal. Since I have a bald head I like to keep it simple and sleek with bodysuits and pieces that create a cool silhouette. I like things that are edgier to my form; I imagine I'm a piece of art [laughs]."
How can others narrow their focus so theiraestheticisn't all over the place?
"It's important to decipher what you want your work to represent to yourself and others. It's also about experimenting and looking to artists whose work you admire."
What artists are on your radar right now?
"Guy Bourdin — his color schemes are crazy. Nan Goldin is great — she did a lot of self-portraiture. And Julia Noni is amazing, too."
In your experience, what's the No. 1 key to taking a good photo?
"Good lighting. No matter what your subject is, lighting determines not only the aesthetic of your photo but also the mood. And always keep your eyes open."
AG Cylin Dress, $198, available at AG.Photographed by Nikki Krecicki.
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This story was originally published on Jul. 8, 2016.
Who's your beauty icon? It's a common question with a few all-too-common answers. You know who we're talking about: There are the throwback ladies (Audrey Hepburn, Brigitte Bardot, Jane Birkin), the modern women (Beyoncé, Gwen Stefani, Eva Mendes), and dozens more, and yet the answers we all rattle off still tend to feel...expected.
We're not saying these women aren't icons. But gathering beauty inspiration from the same people time after time leaves something to be desired. Our solution? Query our own beauty team. Who are the women we look to as even more than icons? We're talking beauty renegades.
A renegade is defined as "a person who deserts and betrays an organization, country, or set of principles," which, in our opinion, is the perfect trait to look for in your next source of beauty inspiration. That is, badass trailblazers who don't play by the beauty rules — they make their own.
Ahead, the beauty renegades we look to for fresh perspectives. Of course, there are many more. Tell us in the comments who you want to see added to this slideshow!
29Rooms — Refinery29’s magical art and fashion funhouse – is back for its second year, kicking off during NYFW, from September 9 to 11. We’re bringing our commitment to women claiming their power to life, through the event’s theme, “Powered by People.” To celebrate this sense of possibility, we’ve curated content that embodies our theme and pushes you to do more — start the conversations you want to hear, make change. We built our dream world and want to inspire you to power your own. For more information on the 29Rooms event and our initiative, click here.
Cher
Long before Miley and Zendaya walked the red carpet, there was another beauty chameleon to admire: Cher. Arriving at the 1986 Academy Awards in a smoky eye and black headdress was just one ballsy move in an inspiring evolution that included waist-length locks, a bleached mohawk, and plenty of bold, sooty eye looks. You don't have to turn back time to call her your renegade.
Photo: Julian Wasser/Liaison/Getty Images.
Solange Knowles
Solange may be the baby sister of Queen B herself, but she never fades into the background. In fact, it could be argued that she's one of the key faces of the movement to transition to natural hair for many women of color — and for good reason. She delivers constant mane inspiration, rocking brushed-out curls, full-on Afros, a variety of braids, and everything in-between.
Photo: Mark Sullivan/WireImage.
Debbie Harry
Feeling rebellious? Set your Spotify to Blondie and stream one of rock's original female badasses for your inspiration. In fact, there's no better time to channel Debbie Harry's platinum locks, shag haircut, and colorful smoky eyes — her entire look is en vogue right now.
Photo: Ron Galella/WireImage.
Lupita Nyong'o
Since hitting the scene just a few short years ago, actress Lupita Nyong'o has quickly become the patron saint of bright, vibrant makeup. She never plays it safe, and her beauty résumé includes unexpected color combinations and look-at-me lip, cheek, and eye pairings that make no-makeup makeup look like no fun. The industry took notice, too: In 2014, she nabbed a coveted Lancôme contract.
Photo: Chris Jackson/Getty Images.
Selena
The late Selena Quintanilla-Pérez is, undoubtedly, the queen of Tejano music, with her impact still felt today. (Fun fact: She's the icon who inspired another great singer's name.) Copying her classic, signature beauty look is just one way to pay homage — and it just got easier. MAC will be releasing a collection inspired by the singer's look this year. Until then, you can watch J.Lo portray her on-screen, stock up on brick-red lipstick, and sing your heart out to her greatest hits.
Photo: Vinnie Zuffante/Getty Images.
Ruby Rose
Rose is another new-on-the-scene icon — and we can't stop watching hereverymove. The gender-fluid actress and LGBTQ advocate has a deep love for experimenting with her hair. This means you're going to be seeing her impact in the industry more and more, from her trendsetting undercut to her latest contract with Urban Decay.
Photo: Dave Hogan/Getty Images.
Diana Ross
There's a lot to idolize about Diana Ross: She's a style icon through and through and a longtime girl-power inspiration. To wit: The Supremes are still one of the best-selling all-female groups of all time. And her beauty look? Start with her doll lashes from the '60s, move on to her disco-inspired '70s makeup, or settle on her ever-present curly mane. Her beauty-renegade status runs that deep.
Photo: ShowBizIreland/Getty Images.
Alison Mosshart
American singer-songwriter Alison Mosshart is one half of The Kills (alongside Kate Moss' estranged husband Jamie Hince) and a member of The Dead Weather (with Jack White). Yes, her tunes are on repeat (at least in our Spotify), but her hair never is. Think: rotating black and platinum, sometimes dip-dyed, often with dark roots, and always wonderfully messy. She's the perfect icon for anyone with an IDGAF beauty 'tude. (Raises hand.)
Photo: John Phillips/Getty Images.
Karen O
Another icon in the rock space, Karen O has been turning out rad music and equally inspired beauty looks long before Bey sampled the Yeah Yeah Yeahs in "Hold Up." She makes rockstar beauty feel damn fresh, from platinum chops to blunt bowl cuts. Oh, and did we mention her on-stage beauty is just as killer? We're thinking artsy face paint that looks even cooler when it starts running down her face mid-show.
Photo: Charles Eshelman/FilmMagic.
Tilda Swinton
We'd like to preface this by saying we don't know actress Tilda Swinton personally — but we assume she is completely unaffected by any opinion other than her own. From the interesting and varied roles she chooses to her stark and stunning beauty look, she is as unique as she is talented. That means she rocks blond eyelashes without a touch of mascara, bright lipstick and nothing else on her face, and avant-garde haircuts to inspire anyone looking to go short and stand out. Swinton is on another level, and we'd like to know her secrets...or at least emulate her until we do.
Photo: Venturelli/WireImage.
Grace Jones
The flat-top! The disco eye makeup! The feel-good new-wave jams! Jones was, is, and will forever be a true renegade. Her larger-than-life persona and aesthetic helped her to move seamlessly from modeling to music, cranking out hit after hit (on Spotify now, BTW!) — and inspiring look after look. Further proof: Jones is 68 years old and on tour this summer!
Photo: Keith Hamshere/Getty Images.
Lucile Ball
I love Lucy, you love Lucy, we all love Lucy — and not just for laying the groundwork for comedic actresses over 40 in Hollywood. (Believe it or not, but she didn't reach mass appeal until her 40s.) Would it have been easier if she had selected blond instead of red at that salon? Maybe, but then who would have been the generation's redhead icon? All hail Lucy with the red hair, red lips, pale skin, and killer knack for comedy.
We already know you love Zendaya — and we do, too. At only 19, she is, by far, the youngest person to be dubbed a beauty renegade in this story. Between defending her dreadlocks from the haters, doing her own makeup for the fanciest of occasions, and sharing her love for all things niche beauty (read: wigs!), she's a beauty lover with a fresh perspective, which makes her a true renegade.
Photo: Jason Merritt/Getty Images.
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Update: Kylie Jenner may have received all the applause for her recent platinum dye job — but Miles Teller had a different experience. The actor, who sent Twitter into a frenzy over his blond transformation last month, uploaded a photo of himself back in the salon chair returning to his dark roots. He captioned it: "Dear internet, I'm sorry I dyed my hair blond. I never meant to hurt you. Please accept this apology."
It's good to have you back, Teller.
Dear Internet, I'm sorry I dyed my hair blonde. I never meant to hurt you. Please accept this apology pic.twitter.com/egQ552HjR1
This story was originally published on July 15, 2016.
Miles Teller is the latest celeb to hop on the hair-color-transformation wagon — and the reactions have not been entirely positive. The Divergent actor was practically unrecognizable at the ESPYs last night with his new, yellow-blond hair. It's certainly a dramatic change from his natural brown color, and it looks like it could be a Sun-In experiment, or stop on the way to platinum.
And yet this major change happened weeks ago, according to his girlfriend's Instagram. Why hasn't he been keeping us all in the loop?!
Wait. Miles Teller, why is your hair blonde?? 💔 #ESPYS
Many fans took to Twitter to share their reactions to his look. There's love, there's hate, there's confusion. Who knows? Maybe it's for a movie role. Also, no need for name-calling, people. Sometimes, a guy's gotta switch things up. Miles, you do you.
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(Un)Cover is Refinery29's interactive feature highlighting iconic women in entertainment through video, interviews, fashion, and photography.
Many words come to mind when you think of Demi Lovato. She's a singer. She's an actress. She's an advocate. She's a rebel. Like a lot of people who have overcome life's hardest challenges, Demi is a true advocate for loving yourself for who you are and doing what is best for you.
In this edition of (Un)Cover, we play Word for Word with Demi, to find out the associations she makes with powerful phrases, and how her beliefs have shaped the way she has grown. This is how to be a boss.
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Let’s break down breakfast, shall we? Definitively, it’s “the first meal of the day.” Arguably, it’s the most important. Statistically, it’s what 44% of Americans do every morning. And personally, it’s not on my radar unless it’s after noon and/or covered in hollandaise.
My point: Whether it’s coffee or Cap’n Crunch, we’re all doing it. Even when we’re not calling it breakfast, we all start our day somehow. It’s a routine, more than anything: wake up, get out of bed, and eventually consume something. It’s actually kind of unifying, if you think about it — unless, of course, you choose not to.
So how do the most accomplished women of our generation start their days? From a congresswoman to an Olympic fencer to a financial expert at Google, we asked some extremely successful (and super-cool) young women to share their breakfast routines. Find out how they get going each morning, ahead.
"My favorite breakfast has certainly changed since I have become a mama! Now breakfast is a luxury (ha!), and my morning routine is more like a strong cup of coffee. But on days that I get to slow down a bit, I have always loved a big bowl of crisp baby arugula, drizzled with a good-quality olive oil, chunky sea salt, a squeeze of lemon, and an egg over-easy. Fresh, healthy, and so delicious.”
“I enjoy one of two breakfasts, depending on how much time I have. A leisurely breakfast: one brown egg scrambled well with fresh basil leaves (from Atlanta’s Capitol View community garden), plus plain Greek yogurt with cinnamon sprinkles and seasonal fruit on top, and maybe some turkey bacon and slow-cooked grits (I was born and raised in the South, after all). If I’m in a hurry, it’s a kale smoothie made from raw green kale, vanilla soy milk, fresh cucumbers, and any berries I can find to energize me.”
"My favorite breakfast is a homemade egg muffin! I make them once or twice a week ahead of time, and the ingredients are simple: eggs, vegetables, and a tiny bit of turkey bacon. They’re delicious, high in protein, and travel really well.”
“I have two versions: quick and easy spinach, mango, banana, strawberry, peanut butter chocolate protein shake, or scrambled eggs with spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, and goat cheese. Protein, vegetables have to be in all of my options so that I have enough fuel to last me through my workout.”
"When I wake up, I pour a cup full of oats in a pan and mix them with some milk, water, and a bit of salt. I take a shower and let it simmer, and when I come back 10 minutes later, the oats are fluffy and thick. I add honey and sometimes more milk, depending on how I'm feeling. It's an easy and energizing breakfast option, and I love starting my day with something delicious!"
"At home, I like to have Special K Red Berries for breakfast because it is just a good start to the morning."
[Ed. Note: Biles and the rest of the Final Five of the U.S. Women's Olympic Gymnastics Team have appeared on special-edition boxes of Special K Red Berries.]
"I'm a creature of habit, and I eat the same thing just about every single day — big cup of coffee, Greek yogurt, fruit, and granola. I usually exercise before breakfast, and I'm starving by the time I get to eat. I am obsessed with Purely Elizabeth granola."
Photo: Courtesy of Katie Lee.
Sara Sherlock, Equity Accounting Analyst, Google
“I start every morning off with either a cold-brewed coffee or Americano, black. It’s the very first thing I grab in the morning, and it’s become like an accessory I wear around the office! Also, if there’s time, I really enjoy fresh fruit and yogurt — they’re great for getting me pumped for the day.”
“Generally, I wake up and start the day by meditating to clear my mind and then make a French press. Except lately, I’ve been making a concoction with turmeric. I take powdered turmeric and turn it into a paste with black pepper. Then I add a touch of cinnamon, coconut oil, paprika, ginger, and honey and then warm up a nut milk or coconut milk and mix in a teaspoon of the paste. It’s super warming, clarifying, and revitalizing — a great substitute for coffee.”
Photo: Via @camillebecerra.
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There's something about the new styles of high-waisted pants that are too good to pass up. They're not quite a mom jean (unless that's the look you're going for), for starters. The fit flatters so many different shapes that it has completely infiltrated our social media feeds (cough, Kylie Jenner). With Levi's releasing a revamped line of the hiked-up mom jean, aptly named the Wedgie, it seems like this trend isn't going anywhere any time soon (and we couldn't be happier — its ability to create an instant butt-lift is unrivaled).
Whether you're looking for a new pair, or are finally ready to give this style a chance, you can find our definitive guide to finding the perfect high-waist here — but, for some new, must-have-now picks to snatch up, click through the slideshow ahead.
Straight
This pair is the definition of classic.
Zara Straight Cut High-Waist Jeans, $49.90, available Zara.
A medium wash gives off a more laid-back look.
Frame 'Le High Straight' High Rise Staggered Hem Jeans, $245, available at Nordstrom.
A little stretch goes a long way when your pants button up this high.
For most of my adult life, I’ve been what’s commonly known as “precariously employed.” Whether it was working in a bar where the clients pinched me while I cleared glasses, trying my hand at being a personal assistant (which barely covered my rent while I pulled 12-hour shifts with no paid overtime), or doing administrative work in an office where the staff called me “the temp” to my face, I’ve managed to skate by, supporting myself with poorly paid, insecure jobs.
When I first discovered sex work, I was sure that it was going to be my ticket to riches — after all, I’d seen enough movies to assume that, as an overly educated woman who could code-switch into a posh accent (I’m British), I was going to become an overnight success, a courtesan to the rich and famous. But while my career as a sex worker hasn’t turned me into a multimillionaire, I’ve finally found financial security — without having to work a 90-hour week.
In the past five years, I’ve worked as everything from a cam girl to a full-service escort to a pro domme. While I’m aware of how relatively privileged my position is — and how lucky I am, given that the worst thing I’ve come across has been annoying clients — I can honestly say that sex work hasn’t been traumatic in the slightest. In fact, I felt worse about accepting money from an unethical company for some freelance non -sex work I did recently than I ever did taking money from a client after a blow job.
It was only when I began to tell people what I was doing for a living that I encountered the biggest hardship: the unwarranted judgement and prejudice. Turns out, many people have negative assumptions about sex workers (shocker). So in order to help clear things up, I’ve rounded up 10 common myths about sex work and explained just how misguided these sentiments are.
(Just to be clear: I’m talking about voluntary sex work, not sex trafficking, which is absolutely horrible and “a grave violation of human rights,” according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. Maybe that should be a myth on this list all its own: That sex work automatically means trafficking. It doesn't.)
People who identify as sex workers can be doing anything from soliciting people for sex on the street to stripping in online chatrooms as cam girls to working as financial dominatrixes (sex workers who control clients’ finances and rarely, if ever, have any sexual contact with clients). Don’t assume that the term “sex worker” always means someone who has sex for money. The reason we use the blanket term is to show solidarity across all areas of the industry and let others know that we’re all in it together.
Related: Saying you’re a sex worker isn’t a cue for people to say, “Wow, that’s hot.” And it’s definitely not an invitation to turn up at someone’s place of work unannounced to “catch the show.” And it’s 100% not meant to provoke a despondent-sounding “ Oh.” It’s a job, so treat it with the same respect you would any other career choice.
My wardrobe contains short skirts, cropped tops, see-through lace leotards, and skintight dresses, yet the dress I wear most often for work is one my mom gave me to wear to an interview for a desk job. It’s a knee-length, long-sleeved, gray shift dress, and it’s served me well during the times I wanted to slink out through a hotel lobby and go home without being noticed. In my boring, black heels and tidy, blowdried hair, I feel like I’m role-playing some sort of bored office drone. And when I’m sitting in a hotel bar with a client making boring small talk, people read me either as a colleague or, if they’re particularly judgmental, a gold digger.
Of course, strippers wouldn’t make much money if they walked on stage dressed up the way I do for work, but there’s no one way to be a sex worker. Every area of sex work has a different “uniform,” so to speak, along with each worker’s personal style preferences.
The word “pimp” often conjures images of a shadowy figure in a dark alley with brass knuckles, or a man with a jaunty suit and a feather in his hat. I’m sure both of these types of people exist, and I am sure both of them are absolutely terrifying. But is there a clear definition of a pimp? And do most, if not all, sex workers have them? Not exactly.
Many of us do have someone in our lives who supports our work, though they may or may not take a cut of our earnings. A sex worker’s “pimp” might just be a manager at a brothel who makes schedules, screens clients, and ensures everyone turns up for their shift; it could be a sex worker’s partner who’s unemployed and encourages her/him to go to work when she/he isn’t feeling well or isn’t in the mood. Or, it could be a friend who lets a sex worker use their apartment to work from, since it’s safer than being alone. Bottom line: There’s no singular definition of “pimp,” and plenty of sex workers don’t have anyone who even resembles a stereotypical pimp in their lives.
If hating customers and finding the drudgery of work unbearable were a reason to criminalize an industry, then I don’t know what type of service work would still be legal. Whether I’ve worked in a shop or a design studio, I’ve enjoyed mocking annoying clients and complaining about boredom. We all work to earn money, which helps us pay our bills, put a roof over our heads, and buy fancy things (if we’re lucky). I’d venture to say that most people look forward to the weekend and being free of work and responsibilities for a few days. Sex workers are no different, except sometimes our weekends last all week and sometimes they don’t happen at all.
For some reason, there are a lot of movies, books, songs, and plays about the trope of the poor prostitute with a heart of gold who just didn’t know what she was getting into and ends up worse off than when she started (if not dead). Unfortunately, while it’s easy for pop culture to re-tread these familiar waters, they don’t always reflect reality. Plenty of women go on to use their experience as sex workers to jump-start new careers. (Journalist Gira Grant and Brazilian activist and political candidate Gabriela Leite come to mind.) Then there are others for whom sex work remains simply one job of many past gigs. (Maya Angelou, Rupert Everett, and Riot Grrrl Kathleen Hanna are some of the most famous people who fit this profile.) For most of us, sex work is just a job, and we carry on living our lives, paying our bills, and trying to find that ever-elusive work-life balance — just like everyone else.
This one’s particularly harsh, and thankfully, not true at all. My partner knew what my job was before I met him; in fact, I think I told him myself while I was tipsy on our first date. He knows that I have sex for money, and that sometimes it’s fun, even funny, and sometimes it’s gross and depressing. He’s neither a benevolent angel who believes he’s saved me from a lifetime of sin nor a desperate loner who couldn’t date anyone else if he tried. He’s simply a reasonable person and treats my sex work history like any other of the dozen or so low-paying jobs I’ve held.
My life before and after starting sex work has been normal: I went to university, got a degree, realized the job market was dire, hung out with my family, went on vacation sometimes, spent too much money on hair products, and hemorrhaged money on rent. When I reflect on my sex work, I don’t feel dirty or ashamed, I don’t feel like it makes me less worthy of love, and I don’t recoil when someone touches me. Luckily, the only long-lasting effect — for me, at least — has been acquiring a hatred of making small talk with middle-aged men, and an appreciation that my time is worth money. Never again will I do an internship for free.
Just as pop culture dictates that sex work often ends tragically, it also reinforces the trope of the high-flying courtesan who wears only Agent Provocateur lingerie and won’t get out of bed for more than $1,000 an hour. That’s certainly not true for most sex workers, either.
When I started stripping on camera, I definitely believed in the stereotype of the giggling cam girl who just twirled around and flashed her nipples sometimes and made bank. It didn’t take long to realize that those girls are one in a million, and everyone else is pasting on a smile and luring people to the pay-per-minute areas of chat rooms, where they strip, use sex toys, and hope that the client doesn’t log off before they hit their daily earnings target.
Like in any industry, there are ranges in sex workers’ income levels. Think about it like this: The catering industry contains everyone from Gordon Ramsey to your local sandwich artist. So, the next time you’re at dinner with your stripper pal, don’t push her/him the check, since she/he might not have picked up any shifts in a while. (Or your friend might just not want to pay for your freeloading butt.)
Yes, I am a survivor of sexual abuse. If I had a penny for everyone who’s ever implied this is the reason I did sex work, I could retire tomorrow. This presumption is both insulting and patronizing, since it not only assumes that I couldn’t overcome my abuse, but also that my decision-making is so impaired by it that I have no free will of my own.
The UN Women’s council estimates that one in three women has experienced physical or sexual violence; RAINN estimates that one in six women have been the victim of attempted or completed rape. These women don’t all become sex workers. When you start to talk to the women around you, you’ll see that violence against women is endemic in every society and walk of life. Sex workers are as likely to be survivors of sexual abuse as the woman who works at your local supermarket — or your mother, or your best friend. As Rebecca Solnit wrote, “Violence doesn’t have a race, a class, a religion, or a nationality, but it does have a gender.”
Any physically demanding job is going to be easier for young people, since they are generally fitter, more flexible, and more energetic. As for attractiveness, even outside of the sex industry, pop culture dictates that once you reach a certain age, your sexual mystique diminishes. Again, these are unfortunate barriers that affect people in a vast range of industries.
Sure, when we see media scandals involving sex workers, they’re generally the young, photogenic ones. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll see that sex work is open to people of all ages. Legendary madame Cynthia Payne was 48 when she was raided by the police and made headlines; Angela Villon is a sex worker and political candidate in Peru, as well as a 51-year-old mother of four. And if nothing else, the proliferation of “MILF” videos on every porn site should tell you that a sex worker’s career can carry on a lot longer than people often imagine.
Depending on where a sex worker lives and what her/his particular circumstances are, it might be. Lying to your friends and family is tiring and can be a drain on your mental health. Carrying around a secret that you worry will ruin your life if it’s exposed is certainly isolating. But it doesn’t have to be so lonely. If you’re lucky enough to have the internet at your disposal and the time to think up a fun fake name (you may not believe this, but Mitzi is not the name on my passport), then you have the possibility of connecting with thousands of sex workers all across the world.
Through the internet, I’ve been able to make friends, learn how to work safely while earning as much money as possible, talk through bad situations, and laugh until I cried discussing the time I wet my pants for a client, then slipped in the pool of pee and completely wiped out. Not every sex worker you meet online or at sex worker-only spaces will want to be your best friend (there are good and bad people in every line of work), but those who do will understand that we need to bond together and create a community where we have each other’s backs — no matter what happens.
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