Like any young woman, Meghan Markle celebrated receiving her religious sacraments with a gift. Hers just happened to be a whole lot more blinged out than most. Last week, while in Birmingham, England with Prince Harry, Markle showed off a diamond cross bracelet. It was made especially for her in celebration of her recent baptism and confirmation, Glamour reported.
Markle was reportedly baptized and confirmed last Tuesday in a secret ceremony at the Church of England with her fiancé by her side and her new bling is actually pretty customary. While a bride-to-be gets an engagement ring — and Markle’s engagement ring is certainly something to behold — baptism bracelets are also a common keepsake. Like Markle’s delicate bracelet, they often feature crosses, sometimes with the person’s name or a biblical scripture engraved on it, too.
Markle, who grew up Episcopalian, didn’t have to convert to her future husband’s religion before their wedding. But, her decision isn’t a bad way to get in good with her future in-laws, since Queen Elizabeth is technically the head of the Church of England.
Prince Harry and Markle have reportedly been following his brother’s lead, following many of the same steps they took before their 2011 wedding, including this low-key religious ceremony. Kate Middleton was also confirmed in private in the months leading up to her wedding. No word if Middleton, who was baptized as a child, also received a bracelet after receiving the sacrament.
Democratic representative Maxine Waters spoke at the Human Rights Campaign’s annual Los Angeles Dinner Saturday night, giving a speech that was pure fire. True to form, Waters did not mince words about Donald Trump, going as far as calling him “one of the most dishonorable, deceitful, and despicable people ever to hold public office.”
While addressing the LGBTQ community, Waters explained how the Trump administration has made a series of “hostile overtures” against LGBTQ people. Included in her list were Trump’s attempt to reinstate a ban on transgender service members, proposing budget cuts to programs assisting people living with HIV, and the Justice Department asserting that Title VII does not include the LGBTQ community. “Well, what do I think about all of this?” she said to roaring applause as she removed her glasses and made a face that let the audience know she was not in favor of any of this nonsense. As R. Eric Thomas so aptly wrote in Elle, Maxine Waters “did not come to play, is not here to play, and does not foresee playtime included on any future agendas.”
In addition to Trump’s lack of support for LGBTQ people, Waters reminded the audience of his many missteps when it comes to expressing empathy. His response to disaster relief in Puerto Rico, endorsing Roy Moore even after he was accused of pursuing sexual relationships with underage girls, and continuing to support Rob Porter even after knowing he had allegedly abused his two ex-wives. Even though Waters’ main themes were addressing the LGBTQ community specifically, her list underscores one of the biggest recurring problems with Trump being president: his lack of compassion for those in vulnerable positions.
People everywhere have embraced Waters as “Auntie Maxine” for her unfiltered opinions about a wide range of policies. If she believes in something, you know it. If she is against something, you definitely know it. In a time when politicians are trying so hard to avoid directly answering questions, Waters’ approach is desperately needed. Her voice cuts through the incessant chatter because she reminds us that we deserve better than the current political climate we’re in. When an unending news cycle leaves us feeling hopeless, she insists with a strong and assured voice that people matter and things can change.
Waters, who is once again “reclaiming her time, in this speech” left the audience with a sense of hope. She encouraged members of the LGBTQ community to start describing themselves as patriotic. “You have taken the abuse, you have loved your country, you have worked with your country, you have done everything to strengthen this democracy. That is what true patriotism is about,” said Waters, before ending on a note of optimism: “All is not lost. I feel very confident and hopeful about the future.”
By the end of her speech, you can almost hear a collective “Yes Auntie!” from the crowd. Because while there are many people thinking it, she is the one standing up and saying it.
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This weekend, Lena Dunham was a panelist at South by Southwest in Austin, TX. The panel, titled “Authenticity and Media in 2018,” gave Dunham an opportunity to discuss her perspective on those issues, sharing that she is “moving away from this sense that I need to have an opinion about everything.”
As she discussed the idea of being authentic and what that means with Glamour’s new editor-in-chief Samantha Barry, Dunham admitted that she believes it varies depending on the person. “I think authenticity comes in many forms, and it doesn’t just have to be that you didn’t just do your hair right,” she said, referring to her disheveled topknot. “People confuse authentic with the idea of messy or broken, and I think Anna Wintour is authentic and she’s had that hair for a fucking long time.”
Dunham brings up a compelling point. We often ascribe authenticity to people who go out in public without makeup or who are outspoken about their opinions. While those can be versions of an authentic person, Dunham suggests that the word is more far-reaching. People can behave and present themselves in a variety of ways while being their authentic selves. Creating a narrow definition of what authenticity means defeats the very purpose of the word.
During the panel, Dunham acknowledged her history of creating a controversy for which she later issues an apology. Rather than focus on the negative, she viewed it as a learning experience. “We try and we fail and we try again. We think the problem from another angle and we grow,” Dunham said, before poking fun at herself by saying that she now has “19 people ready to stop me from tweeting.”
The Girls creator also shared that she often oscillates between two responses to criticism. One is having “two full days of shame,” where Dunham questions whether she should’ve ever left her house in the first place. The other is a sense of frustration where she thinks, “Nobody even deserves me. They don’t deserve my truth.” One thing’s for sure: Whether it was for her wildly popular HBO series or for her opinions online, she has dealt with a wide range of criticisms.
Dunham also mentioned that her focus has shifted. “Now I find myself wanting to slow down and think about how I can give other women the platform that was given to me. How I can speak through my work,” she told Barry. “And I hope that this is maturing. I think it is. I can’t be sure. I still wear my hair like this,” she joked.
In a speech to supporters in Pennsylvania on Saturday, Donald Trump once more brought up a policy idea he's picked up from the leaders of the Philippines, China, and Singapore. Echoing a statement he made last week, Trump suggested that the solution to the United States' worsening opioid crisis is allowing federal prosecutors to seek the death penalty for drug traffickers.
"The only way to solve the drug problem is through toughness," Trump said, according to the Washington Post. "When you catch a drug dealer, you’ve got to put him away for a long time.”
There may be room in federal law to allow for trafficking to be a capital offense, George Washington University School of Law's Peter H. Meyers told the Post. Current law already applies the death penalty to some types of drug-related murder. But aside from the many legal hurdles of executing criminals, not to mention the high cost of trials and appeals, or even the moral dilemma of capital punishment, most experts agree that this policy wouldn’t alleviate the country's drug use problems in any way.
Instead, this kind of policy may actually give drug dealers a boost.
"It enables the drug traffickers to charge a higher-risk premium," Sanho Tree, program director of the Drug Policy Project at the Institute for Policy Studies, tells Refinery29. "This is what makes relatively worthless agricultural and chemical commodities that are minimally processed worth more than their weight in gold."
In other words, because they risk long sentences or even death, dealers of illegal drugs are able to charge more than, say, your corner pharmacist. Tree points to the price of marijuana, which had been dropping steadily with legalization until Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced he would let prosecutors go after pot users, even in states where it was allowed.
This kind of harsh penalty would be beneficial for dealers because it helps them weed out the weak competition, Tree explains.
The types of people we typically capture when we keep escalating the drug war this way are the people who are dumb enough to get caught. We've had a Darwinian evolution of the drug trade at a spectacular velocity because we keep thinning out the herd.
"The types of people we typically capture when we keep escalating the drug war this way are the people who are dumb enough to get caught," Tree says. "We've had a Darwinian evolution of the drug trade at a spectacular velocity because we keep thinning out the herd. They thrive because we've done two things to help them: number one, we've picked off their competition for them, thereby opening up that economic space. Number two, by trying to restrict the supply of drugs on the street, the demand remains constant, thereby driving up their prices and profits."
In the decades since the United States first declared a war on drugs, there have been high penalties for dealers and users. Still, most of the higher level traffickers elude capture, while prisons fill with low-level offenders. Opioid use, meanwhile, continues to rise.
"Most people enter this economy because they think they'll get away with it," Tree says. "By and large, they do."
While helping the drug lords, these stricter penalties may also have the effect of harming the very citizens the laws supposedly to want to help.
"People will become afraid and hide," Daniel Ciccarone, a professor of family and community development at UC San Francisco told the Post.
"They won’t trust the police, and they won’t trust the doctor either.”
In the Philippines, where President Rodrigo Duterte's war on drugs has killed between 5,000 and 20,000 people, there’s no proof that usage has actually decreased.
"The number of drug so-called addicts — originally, they said it was 1.8 million, then President Duterte came up with the number of 3 million, then 4 million," Tree says. "Now his foreign secretary has said 7 million users. The more people they've killed, the number of users keeps going up."
Instead of the Philippines, there are other countries the U.S. might turn to for direction. Later this month, for example, representatives of the Drug Policy Alliance are visiting Portugal, which has had enormous success with reducing heroin addiction since decriminalizing all drugs in 2001. By instead increasing the availability of treatment and harm reduction services (sterile needles, methadone, etc.), the country has drastically reduced its number of heroin users (from 100,000 to 25,000) and overdose fatalities (from 80 in 2001 to 16 in 2012).
Can such a small country's experiment be applied to the U.S.?
"It's worth looking at [Portugal]," Tree says. "The numbers are exceedingly good, and they have had more success than the tough drug-war countries in the EU."
With an estimated 63,000 Americans lost to drug overdoses in 2016, it's not surprising that politicians want to find a strong and clear solution for this tragic problem. Unfortunately, the real solutions are complex and may even sound counterintuitive. Who's going to win by saying they will go easy on El Chapo?
But if lawmakers go back to thinking about drug addiction as a health problem, instead of a criminal one, they might finally get somewhere. The organizations dedicated to ending drug addiction emphasize prevention and treatment, making no mention of punitive consequences.
"It doesn't make sense to punish people if you believe they're primarily hurting themselves," Tree says.
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Update: A representative for Harvey Weinstein says he is working on a documentary not about himself, but about the "opioid crisis." Furthermore, they assert that he is in 12-step treatments in addition to sex addiction rehab.
This story was originally published on March 10, 2018.
He has been constant in his denial of any criminal acts. “Any allegations of non-consensual sex are unequivocally denied by Mr. Weinstein,” said a statement issued in the wake of the mounting allegations. “Mr. Weinstein has further confirmed that there were never any acts of retaliation against any women for refusing his advances.”
What else is Weinstein doing out West? Well, he’s ironing out a settlement with his wife Georgina Chapman, the designer behind the Marchesa fashion label who is seeking a divorce. He has also been unloading millions of dollars in property, even taking a $2 million loss on his Hamptons estate. And he’s apparently been frequenting a local juice bar where, the NY Times says, “he orders coffee and a green detox mix with kale and cucumber.”
But don’t let the big man sipping a dainty elixir fool you. Some things never change. Weinstein is reportedly still working that Hollywood network, pitching a documentary about the most explosive topic imaginable: himself.
From the NY Times: “The man behind Pulp Fiction and Shakespeare in Love has already made some efforts to produce his most challenging film yet, these people say: a documentary designed to pave the way for a comeback.”
So far, no one is attached to the project, but a representative for Weinstein tells the NY Times that a “long list” of producers has reached out to discuss how he might best tell his side of the story.
Taylor Swift dropped a new video on Sunday night after winning female artist of the year at the 2018 iHeartRadio Music Awards, but in typical Taylor Swift fashion, the release has already sparked controversy.
The video for "Delicate", the fourth release from her album Reputation, sees Swift giving interviews on a red carpet and dancing around a fancy hotel lobby in a blue gown while making "dorky" faces. Instead of her usual #squad, though, Swift is alone. For most of the video, she's either being flanked by bodyguards, alone or being ignored.
While the video has been warmly received by fans, with many dubbing her expressions and uninhibited dancing "relatable", the rest of the discussion around it has been far less complimentary, with many accusing Swift of "ripping off" others' work and channelling dance prodigy Maddie Ziegler.
The most common comparison so far has been between the video and a Kenzo fragrance advert directed by Spike Jonze back in 2016. In the ad, actor Margaret Qualley ( The Leftovers) dancing energetically around a fancy building in a gown while pulling strange faces.
Watch the ad above and you'll struggle to deny the similarities, both in terms of their content and aesthetics.
taylor swift's "delicate" video is a poor man's version of spike jonze's ad for Kenzo, this bop deserved more pic.twitter.com/39Ub99bKqc
✔ profile tracking shot of militant walk ✔ ballet leap (one v good, the other ... not as good — granted margaret qualley is a mutant dance goddess, so taylor was doomed there) pic.twitter.com/fLm2BM1M9b
The new @taylorswift13 Delicate music video is such an insanely blatant copy/rip-off of the Spike Jonze Kenzo World commercial. The setting, colour palette, choreography, everything.
Others have made links between "Delicate" and Britney Spears' 2000 Hit "Lucky", which sees the pop icon struggling under the pressures of fame and surrounded by fans on a red carpet.
Everyone thinks Taylor's 'Delicate' video is this original masterpiece.. It's not... Parts of it have a very similar concept to Britney's 'Lucky' and most of it has Maddie Ziegler written all over it (umm the dancing)...
Other eagle-eyed Britney fans have compared later scenes in "Delicate", in which Swift dances in an abandoned rainy street, to the video for Spears’ “Overprotected (Darkchild Remix)".
The video for the 2002 hit features a similar scene in which Spears (from 2:50 above).
These similarities will no doubt be a Delicate issue for Swift, who has faced plagiarism accusations in the past, including over the lyrics to her worldwide smash hit "Shake It Off" last year.
Imagine spending a good chunk of your Friday night color correcting, concealing, applying your foundation, and contouring only to have your hard work melt off by the time you make it to the bar. Truth be told, forgetting a delicate dusting of setting powder is almost worse than forgetting your primer before you apply your base.
"Think of setting powder as the varnish a painter uses to protect pigments from fading over time on her canvas," makeup artist Clarissa Luna says. "It literally 'sets' your foundation and concealer, and stops it from moving around on your face. And it creates a smoother finish and a flawless look overall."
While setting powder is deemed necessary by most major makeup artists and influencers (hey, Patrick Starr!), it's not always easy for those with darker skin tones to find the right one. Most powders are white or translucent, and can sometimes leave an ashy cast — or worse, photo flashback. "A lot of cosmetic companies have yet to make a universally-true translucent formula," Luna continues. So, to combat that, look for a selection that has been finely milled and tinted with your complexion in mind. See the pro picks ahead.
The Pro:Clarissa Luna Clients: Cynthia Erivo, Regina Hall, Normani Kordei
"Fenty Beauty’s Invisimatte Blotting Powder is a godsend," she says. "It can be used for setting, touching up, and it holds back shine. The two formulas have become favorites in my kit for celebrity clients!" Plus, Priscilla Ono (Fenty Beauty's global artist) told us that Rihanna herself goes nowhere without this in her clutch.
FENTY BEAUTY BY RIHANNA, $32, available at Fenty Beauty
"Bobbi Brown carries a range of powders that I’m in love with," Luna adds. "Its Retouching Powders come in six different colors made to compliment every skin tone. Whether you use them to set foundation, color correct, or for shading, these powders do the job. The best part is the finish: They smooth over any type of textured skin, creating a soft-focus look with no white cast. Plus, you don't need to use a filter for selfies when you're done!"
The Pro:Samuel Rodriguez Clients: Vivica A. Fox, Malika and Khadijah Haqq
"Hands down, this is one of my favorites," Rodriguez says. "The price is considerably affordable compared to other products that are currently on the market, and you end up with the same exact results as the 'designer' powders, without paying designer prices."
The Pro:Alana Wright Clients: Khoudia Diop, Aurora James, Ebonee Davis
"I love the darker shade that it comes in for deeper complexions," Wright says about this Laura Mercier option. "Plus, it’s talc free, weightless, and doesn’t look ashy on darker skin tones."
"Nars has wide range of shades for darker tones, too." Wright adds. "I love the light reflecting particles in this because it’s great for smoothing textures, minimizing pores and — most importantly — it doesn’t flash in photos."
"I don't wear base every day, but when I do, I reach for this pink-lidded baby to set it," Underwood explains. "Glossier's all about that natural ~aesthetic~, like me, and Wowder keeps my concealer and tinted moisturizer in place without dimming my glow."
"My little sister is notorious for her mile-long Christmas lists, but last year she only had one — ok, ok, ALMOST one — item on her list: Sacha Buttercup Setting Powder," Underwood says. "Long before Laura Mercier offered a deeper option, bloggers and vloggers reached for the brown-girl friendly powder perfect for setting, baking, and getting rid of shine."
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Trends may come and trends may go, but certain seasonal tentpoles remain. Where winter is laden with black coats and oversized snow boots (no matter how much effort we put in to dressing otherwise), spring is a rejuvenating period of colorful trends and exposed legs. Once the snow melts, even if it's still below 40 degrees out, neutral-toned storefronts seem to transition, Wizard of Oz- style, into a technicolor fantasy.
With a literal rainbow of options to choose from, we're breaking it down to the six hues you need to keep your eyes on this spring. From expected winners like an Easter-ready baby blue to some belated adoration for a rich brown, these trending colors will be worth breaking your winter shopping fast for. And forget the olden days of picking just one statement color: If you love them all, wear them all — the more colors, the better.
What was once called "clashing" is now deemed power styling, so throw as many hues into your spring wardrobe as you want — starting with our forecasted picks ahead.
Purple Mania Spanning from pretty lavenders to bold fuchsias to vibrant violets, purple's having its renaissance. With ultra violet leading the way as 2018's Pantone Color of the Year, we're not surprised to see this color family making waves in clothing and accessories.
Pale Pastel Green This retro shade has arrived in the modern age. Cool, classic, and clean, this light color pairs well with vintage tortoiseshell sunnies and bright white mules.
Milk Chocolate Brown Maybe we're hungry, or maybe we're just noticing the rich, almost delectable shade of brown that's popping up this season. Either way, we're falling for this Hershey's-approved color from head to toe. Amid a throng of rainbow and pastel colors, this deeper hue is an unexpected yet strong play for spring.
Sweet Baby Blue Think Baby Spice Barbie's famous blue mini dress. This sky-blue hue is as sweet as the first blooms of spring and makes the case for being a new neutral. A good substitute for white, this easy color is the perfect backdrop for brightening up any look.
Maryam Nassir Zadeh, $424, available at Garmentory
Cherry Tomato Red Easily the most energetic color of the bunch, we're dubbing this the new hue you'll see across Instagram vacation photos everywhere. Pack this fiery tone for your upcoming stroll through seaside towns or desert oases.
Lemon Yellow It's tough to pinpoint just which shade of yellow is emerging as this season's winner, but we're placing our bets on the bright, sunny shade. Ingest some sunshine into your wardrobe with a pair of citrusy sandals or a pastel corduroy set.
Zara, $129, available at ZaraZara, $69.9, available at Zara
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It's been exactly a month since a shooter gunned down 17 people at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, FL. But in this very short time, a group of grieving students has mobilized into a movement that's already changing the conversation about guns.
"It is important to be involved in this because gun violence — mixed with mild incompetence — is found everywhere and is lethal to all of us," Taryn Hibshman, a senior at the school, told Refinery29.
Here's what the student activists have accomplished so far.
The governor of Florida has signed a sweeping gun safety bill.
Breaking with the National Rifle Association, Gov. Rick Scott signed a gun safety bill on March 9 that raised the age for all gun purchases from 18 to 21, created a three-day waiting period for most firearm purchases, banned bump stocks, and created a program to arm and train school faculty. It's a bipartisan compromise, and has been criticized on both sides, but groups like Everytown for Gun Safety are considering it a major step forward given the NRA's stronghold in Florida (and its nickname as the "Gunshine State").
Oregon became the first state to put a new gun law on the books since the shooting.
Oregon Gov. Kate Brown signed a bill on March 5 expanding a law that prevents domestic abusers from owning guns. It closed the "boyfriend loophole," which let abusers or stalkers who aren't living with, married to, or have kids with their partners buy guns. "I’m proud to sign this bill, making Oregon the first state to take action to prevent senseless gun violence since the tragedy in Parkland, Florida," Brown said in a statement.
The First National Bank of Omaha was among the first companies to divest, ending its production of a special NRA credit card. Delta and United airlines both ended their discounted rates for NRA members. Several major rental-car companies, including Hertz, ended their NRA discounts. The MetLife insurance company has halted its discount program as well.
Guns are in the national conversation more than ever.
Not only have the Parkland students appeared everywhere from CNN to The Ellen DeGeneres Show, but they have kept the public's attention on gun control for longer than ever before. According to Vox, news outlets talked about the subject longer than after past tragedies and Google searches were up. Which means that — we can only hope — things will be different this time.
Students around the country are rising up against gun violence.
Inspired by the Parkland students, thousands of young people have participated in school walkouts, with the biggest one, the National School Walkout, planned for Wednesday, March 14. Activists are also inspiring students to register to vote as soon as they turn 18, with the 2018 midterm elections looking like they're going to be a turning point when it comes to gun control and many other issues. Together with Everytown, students are looking to #ThrowThemOut — as in, throw out lawmakers who offer "thoughts and prayers" to gun violence victims but continue getting funding from the NRA. (You can register to vote here.) They've even started a nationwide conversation on whether the voting age should be lowered to 16.
Students are marching in the March for Our Lives in D.C.
In Washington, D.C., and across the country, students are organizing the March for Our Lives on Saturday, March 24, to ensure that their voices will be heard.
"This is my school, this is my home," Hibshman said. "And I have lost 17 of my friends. I left early that day and something blessed me, and I will use that blessing to fuel my fire to make a change. We will continue to fight and we will not be silenced."
Scores of young people are raising their voices against gun violence on Wednesday, March 14, by planning a National School Walkout. But some school districts, like Needville near Houston, TX, have already threatened to slap students with suspension if they participate in a protest or walkout during school hours. Which might make you wonder: What rights do I really have at school?
The American Civil Liberties Union — which has been fighting on students' behalf in districts like Needville, and others from Nevada to New Jersey — has put together a Q&A (and a video) on free speech in schools so that students know their rights ahead of the walkouts. The superintendent in Prince William County, VA, has already walked back on a message threatening to punish students for protesting after the Virginia ACLU sent him a letter.
Here's everything you need to know about your right to protest.
Do I have the right to protest during school hours?
100%. This is your first amendment right, which you don't lose just because you're at school. "You have the right to speak out, hand out flyers and petitions, and wear expressive clothing in school — as long as you don’t disrupt the functioning of the school or violate the school’s content-neutral policies," according to the ACLU. If a school disagrees with your position, that doesn't necessarily mean it's "disruptive." What does "content-neutral" mean? Your school can prohibit you from wearing, say, a hat — but not specifically a pink pussyhat (or an NRA hat).
Because of a landmark Supreme Court case called Tinker v. Des Moines, ACLU attorney Vera Eidelman wrote, punishing students for exercising their first amendment rights is illegal and unconstitutional. The 1969 decision upheld the right of Mary Beth Tinker to wear an armband to school signaling her protest of the Vietnam War.
Could I still be punished for participating in a walkout?
Yes. "Because the law in most places requires students to go to school, schools can discipline you for missing class. But what they can’t do is discipline you more harshly because of the political nature of or the message behind your action," the organization says. Look up your district's individual rules to make sure you're not being treated differently for participating in a walkout.
What if I'm protesting off school grounds?
You have the same rights as any American citizen to protest and speak out, says the ACLU. "This means you’re likely to be most protected if you organize, protest, and advocate for your views off campus and outside of school hours."
Are my rights different depending on whether I go to public or private school?
Unfortunately, there is not as much protection when it comes to students' free speech at private schools since private schools aren't run by the government. "That said, we hope that private schools will still allow students the leeway to express themselves and engage politically in the issues of the day," says the ACLU.
Wednesday morning, news broke that Stephen Hawking passed away at his home in Cambridge. He was 76. A brilliant mind and force, Hawking was famously pithy. As we celebrate his achievements, let us reflect on his most affecting quotes.
Original story follows.
Stephen Hawking's life has been one of triumph. It's been so triumphant, in fact, that it's the subject of a new film, The Theory of Everything, starring Eddie Redmayne and Felicity Jones. (This author can tell you it's not only one of the greatest movies she's seen in a long time, but one so beautifully scored it will change the texture of your skin.)
As you prepare to experience the film, it's important to reflect on what makes Hawking himself so remarkable. Yes, it's that he's brilliant. Yes, it's that he's exceeded the wildest expectations about his motor neuron disease and quality of life. But, it's also because of the attitude he maintains and perspective he provides. Ahead, in honor of his birthday, 15 of his most inspirational quotes.
Listening to a sound clip of this quote is even more powerful than reading it.
Illustrated by Elliot Salazar.
In a 2005 interview with The Guardian, Hawking responded to a question about whether he gets "surges of rage" about his disability. "It is a waste of time to be angry about my disability," he told the paper. "One has to get on with life and I haven't done badly."
Illustrated by Elliot Salazar.
When Diane Sawyer spoke with Hawking in 2010, he shared this perspective on love. He said it's one of the most important things he's taught his children.
Illustrated by Elliot Salazar.
He also told Sawyer he's instilled a solid work ethic in his children.
Illustrated by Elliot Salazar.
When a reporter for The New York Timesinterviewed Hawking in 2004, she remarked at how cheerful he seemed. He responded with this bit of wisdom.
Illustrated by Elliot Salazar.
In that same interview, this is how Hawking responded when the reporter asked him his I.Q. "I have no idea," he said.
Illustrated by Elliot Salazar.
Hawking shared this advice in a speech to Cambridge University graduates in 2012. "It matters that you don't just give up," he added.
Illustrated by Elliot Salazar.
He added this to his speech to the Cambridge grads.
Illustrated by Elliot Salazar.
In a 2011 interview with The Guardian, Hawking addressed how he feels about his own mortality. "I have lived with the prospect of an early death for the last 49 years," he said. "I'm not afraid of death, but I'm in no hurry to die. I have so much I want to do first."
Illustrated by Elliot Salazar.
Hawking shared this sentiment when he opened the Paralympic Games in 2012. "We are all different," he said. "What is important is that we have the ability to create."
Illustrated by Elliot Salazar.
In this quote from his bookThe Grand Design, Hawking is likely speaking to the ideas of space and time. But, it also works when you apply it to your personal life.
Illustrated by Elliot Salazar.
Something to think about on those days when you're feeling lackluster.
Illustrated by Elliot Salazar.
Hawking advised this in a 2005 interview with The Guardian. "What I do is keep thinking about the problem, but work on something else. Sometimes it is years before I see the way forward. In the case of information loss and black holes, it was 29 years."
Illustrated by Elliot Salazar.
"If they could then there'd be nothing to stop the whole universe from descending into chaos," he wrote in the Daily Mail.
Illustrated by Elliot Salazar.
“My daughter, Lucy, knew one of the scriptwriters for The Simpsons. He said he would like to write an episode involving me," Hawking explained of his guest starring on the animated show. "I accepted immediately because it would be fun, and because The Simpsons is the best thing on American television.”
Illustrated by Elliot Salazar.
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While shopping earlier this month, I experienced the best kind of fashion déjà vu moment: I glanced around my favorite fast-fashion store and realized that everything I once begged my mother to buy me in middle school is back in style and even better than before — and now I control the credit card. Camo pants, furry leopard everything, and Clueless -era plaid feel strangely fresh... and it's left me scratching my new Zara cap while fondly remembering my nearly-identical Wet Seal version from way back when.
Everything old is new again, but it's not just fashion that's pulling a rewind. The scrunchies, hair ribbons, and headbands we all wore back in the day are trending, too — especially the latter. Pinterest reports that the search term "headbands" is up 38% year over year, "silk headbands" has grown a whopping 122%, and "velvet headbands" is up a massive 364%. Clearly, it's time to get on board — and we'll be in good company.
Ahead, take inspiration from Tom Ford, Lupita Nyong'o, and major street-style stars on how to make the trend modern, not middle school.
Caroline Daur showed us that there's more to athleisure than just track pants when she sported a Miu Miu headband at Paris Fashion Week.
Photo: Mireya Acierto/Getty Images.
There's a lot to love about this street-style look from London last month — but the thin headband is our favorite.
Photo: Edward Berthelot/Getty Images.
The reigning queen of the red carpet, Lupita Nyong'o, sported this simple crown headband last month in London.
Photo: David M. Benett/Dave Benett/Getty Images.
Chloë Grace Moretz went full Brigitte Bardot at Sundance in January — and we're so here for it.
Photo: C Flanigan/FilmMagic.
What's stylish, coordinated, and printed all over? This rad throwback take on Chelsea Leyland during London Fashion Week.
Photo: Christian Vierig/Getty Images.
Leave it to Tom Ford to take the '90s supermodel headband and make it feel just as fresh as it once was. Here, Joan Smalls rocks the look during the F/W 2018 show last month.
Photo: JP Yim/Getty Images.
Black can be preppy, too, as we saw at Agnes B's fall show in Paris last week.
Photo: Kristy Sparow/Getty Images.
Let's take a moment to appreciate just how practical this look is: Look, ma, no shampoo!
Photo: Mireya Acierto/Getty Images.
Christian Siriano sent models down his Fall/Winter 2018 runway wearing gorgeous headbands and silk headpieces.
Photo: Victor VIRGILE/Gamma-Rapho/Getty Images.
Word to the wise: It's time to raid your mom's collection of plush headbands. Thanks for the tip, Pixie Lott.
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If the spring runway shows were any indication — with their parade of bolo ties, bandanas, fringe, big buckles, extreme button-ups, and yay-high cowboy boots — fashion is decidedly journeying into the Wild Wild West this season. Yep, it's true: The Western trend is back, but this time, it’s more refined than it’s ever been.
Although some may argue that rodeo-inspired looks have always dominated music festivals, this season is all about adapting that cowgirl aesthetic to the streets. Fashion girls are seeking a more utilitarian and structured approach to modest dressing for the upcoming months, and luckily, there are myriad ways to giddy up in a cool, contemporary way.
For starters, we’re taking cues from leather accessories purveyor Frye. The heritage brand has pointed booties accented with silver hardware, luxe desert-toned bags, studded strap heels that are anything but dainty, and way more. Wrangle in these tough wares, and rock them with your favorite denim-on-denim ensemble or frilly prairie dress. You’ll be well on your way — westward, naturally.
An ankle mule with (nine!) silver conchos and a tuft of side fringe makes for a bolder take on the Western look.
Take the ankle bootie up a notch with crisscrossed double buckles and intricately designed studs. Show 'em off with a pair of flowy culottes or rolled-up jeans.
It’s the bag that can do both. Sling the strap over your shoulder like you would with a roomy, go-anywhere purse, or simply remove the strap, and consider it a clutch.
Imagine this ultra-luxe, cowboy-inspired boot — which, BTW, is made of buttery Italian leather — paired with all the flowy sundresses in your closet. Consider it your latest warm-weather uniform.
For those who prefer slip-on footwear, take a gander at these belted mules. A pointy-toe shape lets you put a sassy foot forward while a chunky block heel keeps things grounded.
Our teachers always told us we'd use math in the real world. And while we haven't calculated the cosine of a of a triangle recently, it turns out there's at least one math lesson we'll never forget: Pi. A mysterious Greek number, the purpose of Pi is to make us pause on March 14 ever year and enjoy edible pie. Or, at least, that's what we are pretty sure why the irrational number is so important.
Okay, okay, we know Pi is important because it helps you find the circumference of a circle. But, unless your job requires you to crunch numbers like that on the reg, we doubt you've calculated a circle's circumference since the SATs. But we bet you have made or eaten a pie to celebrate it's official holiday, March 14. In honor of the first three digits of pi (3.14), its the main reason we've remembered pi's mathematical value. Because, as it turns out, sugar is a great motivator. Now if we could only come up with a national holiday for the quadratic formula, we'd probably remember that, too.
Until then, however, please enjoy these 11 recipes perfect for Pi Day — or any day, really.
Uniqlo sure knows how to deliver a designer collaboration we can get behind. From 2009's collection with Jil Sander (which went on for five seasons) to J.W. Anderson's recent sellout rainbow-bright knits and tartan bags, the retailer's choice of creatives to partner with seems to always results in a crashed website and a list of highly sought-after pieces.
On Wednesday, the store announced new details about its forthcoming collaboration with Bottega Veneta creative director Tomas Maier. Launching online and in stores from May 17, the line is Uniqlo's first "resort wear" venture. Featuring pops of color by way of lilac tees and bikinis, tangerine knits and loose shirts, and floral dresses, the offering has us looking to warmer days. The sun-kissed hues are inspired by Maier's Florida roots — something he's known for with his own eponymous brand, which has the Floridian palm tree as its symbol.
"This collaboration fuses Tomas Maier’s 'time off' and 'escape' philosophy with Uniqlo’s commitment to create high-quality clothing that is universal in design, comfort, and made for everyone, everywhere," a statement from Uniqlo read. "The collection helps people get away from it all, whether relaxing at a resort or winding down after a busy day at work."
“Our new collection is designed to work in many different ways. Beach attire can turn into lounge wear, casual cover-ups paired with polo shirts can easily be worn in town — this is the concept of my brand," Maier said of the line. "Things work in many ways. Even if bought for a special trip or occasion the customer will soon discover these garments adapt to a year-round life.”
Prices range from $10 for swimwear to $80 for knitwear, but the real hook is the quality of the collection, often overlooked when designers bring their pieces to the masses. Time to book a beach break, stat.
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Floral fragrances for spring... we know, we know, insert the Miranda Priestly joke here. But groundbreaking isn't always practical: No one really wants to wear musks and woods with their airy cotton dresses in 75-degree weather. Still, that doesn't mean you need to settle on a basic rose-gardenia-peony blend; if those are the blues of the floral world, the new fragrances hitting shelves are the ceruleans — tropical, rich, and just different enough from the seasonal norm to feel fresh.
Ahead, the scents we're breaking out the second we put our puffer coats in storage.
Tiaré Flower Monoï oil is like the This Is Us of the fragrance world. It's the kind of scent you really, really don't want to love because it's so creamy coconut-y and sweet and stereotypically tropical, so appealing to the type of people who love all-inclusive cruises, and yet... oh my god that's fucking good. It's good even when it's cheap, but it's something else entirely when blended with $250 worth of bergamot, neroli, ylang-ylang, and vanilla. It'll hook you whether you want it to or not, and soon you'll be the type of person who sobs to primetime family dramas while smelling like everyone's idea of Hawaii. And you know what? You'll be better for it.
Kilian Love The Way You Feel, $250, available April 1 at By Kilian.
Lily of the Valley If you, like us, are so excited for rosé season that you overlook the second 'e' in this fragrance's name, you'll expect something a little different than what you get. There's no rose note in here, because rosée means dew, silly, but there is blackcurrant, lily of the valley, and just enough musk to make the scent last on your skin without taking away from the light freshness.
Pineapple Flower Pineapple is the star of this scent, but that doesn't necessarily make it a fruity fragrance, because technically, the pineapple is a flowering plant with berries (that's the part you eat) and contrary to popular belief, it doesn't grow on trees. That's just a good fact to have for future HQ games, though. All you need to know right now is that the note gives a unique sweetness to a warm, slightly spicy blend of jasmine, vanilla, cardamom, and patchouli. It's what you hope to smell like (but never actually do) after a day in the sun spent sipping piña coladas and sweating just enough to make you look gleam-y.
Memo Paris Tamarindo, $275, available at Memo Paris.
Frangipani A super-sweet, girly mix of citrus notes, coconut essence, frangipani, almond milk, vanilla, and sandalwood, this new take on the classic Dolce scent could cause a headache if you go too heavy, but wait for the warm, creamy dry-down. If it doesn't make you want to run to the farmer's market for some gelato and a fresh bouquet, something's wrong.
Dolce & Gabbana Garden, $118, available at Macy's.
Jasmine Calling this a jasmine fragrance is cheating a bit — mandarin is really the overpowering note — but the rich white flower is what elevates this beyond the somewhat stale citrus category. It's bright and sunny with just the right amount of seriousness — the kind of scent a Jenna Lyons type might wear in the boardroom during the summer months.
Louis Vuitton Le Jour Se Lève, $240, available at Louis Vuitton.
Hibiscus Sometimes, it's the simplest things that are the hardest to get just right: a burger, a white t-shirt, a classic tropical perfume. This one has all the basic ingredients — lotus, hibiscus, tiare, heliotrope, coconut milk — plus some sorcery that balances them all perfectly so you never run the risk of smelling like a tacky island gift shop.
Orange Blossom Here's where we do that cliché set-up about how if a pamplemousse La Croix had a baby with an orange Creamsicle, it would result in this sparkly, zesty, invigorating juice featuring every citrus note you can possibly think of (pomelo, tangerine, bergamot, neroli, orange blossom...).
Dr. Sandra Lee, a.k.a. "Dr. Pimple Popper," is a board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon in Upland, CA who has her own TLC show. She has practiced for 15 years and specializes in cyst removals and blackhead extractions. The following story was told to Kelsey Castañon and edited for length and clarity.
I had been practicing for more than a decade when I started getting into Instagram in late 2014. I noticed hairstylists and makeup artists were uploading 15-second clips and before-and-after transformations of their work, and I thought, Dermatology is a really visual field. I wonder if people would be interested in seeing what we do, too. Then one day, I happened to post a blackhead extraction on someone's back and noticed an immediate increase in attention. People were tagging other people. They were writing, "Oh my gosh, you have to look at this." So, I did it again. Same reaction.
I decided to post a full extraction video to my YouTube channel, which at the time just had a few of my TV appearances. But when I went to put in my tags, I discovered there was a whole community of people on the internet sharing popping videos with each other. Essentially, these people were amateurs — they were popping pimples with a paper towel, in their backyard, beer cans everywhere, with no gloves, and dirty fingernails. I thought, I pop pimples all day. I'm a surgeon, so I can surgically excise things that pop out of the skin and try to video tape it. I could be their queen.
This wouldn't have worked five or 10 years ago, because we didn't have smartphones like we do today. After that, I just kept throwing logs on the fire to see how big it could get — and look what happened.
Finding Her Niche In the last three years, I've done more pimple popping and cyst removals than I have in my entire career times 100. As dermatologists, we usually don't do these types of extractions. They're not medically necessary and are not covered by insurance, so it would be very expensive for the patient — easily $500 or $600. When I first started, I would just ask, "Do you want me to remove these blackheads for you? I won't bill you, if you don't mind me anonymously videotaping it." Everybody said yes.
It made me realize that people want these removed, but there's no one to do it for them. So it was a win-win-win: I was able to create these videos, people were able to watch and enjoy them, and the patients were benefiting because they wouldn't have to pay for something that bothered them. Sometimes patients ask not to include their faces or voices, and I'm totally fine with that. The whole point is to make them feel safe — that's important for me. They are #1. We're not there trying to get the perfect camera shot or angle; that part is just secondary.
Going Hollywood I was almost kicked off Instagram and YouTube multiple times. There were other people before me, like Dr. Miami — who does a lot of Brazilian butt lifts — putting behind-the-scenes images on Instagram, and he was kicked off. The photos were considered too shocking. My posts would get taken down all the time; I'd get the notice, "This is deemed not appropriate," or whatnot.
Then the CEO of Instagram did an interview with Selena Gomez and Kevin Hart, and the question, "Who do you think the most creative person is on Instagram?" came up. Of all people, Selena chose me! Everything changed after that, and I haven't had any issues with my posts since.
Dr. Sandra Lee with her patient, and fan, Ayesha Curry
Embracing The Popaholics Popaholics are everywhere — they know no creed, no region of the world, no socioeconomic status. In a room of 10, there's probably one or two people who love pimple popping videos. There are a lot of celebrities who are closet popaholics, too. Some will come out and say it, like Gillian Jacobs from Love, who went on Jimmy Kimmel and talked about it. Ashley Graham follows me and likes my posts. Even Ayesha Curry called when she had a mini pimple emergency, so I drove down to give her a cortisol injection on set.
Then there are others who just will not admit it. There's an Oscar-winning actress who has written me, and I've sent popaholic merchandise to her, but she won't follow me — at least not on her official account. It's like, Come on! It's not like this is some serial killer gang or something.
I’m not really a popaholic myself — I'm what you'd call a "born-again." I actually start to sweat when people send me popping videos of themselves. It makes me so anxious to think that someone is in pain, or that the tools aren't sterile or they aren't doing it in a clean, controlled environment. It's different when I do it, because I'm in control; I know everything is clean, I know no one is in pain. When I see someone squeezing out a huge cyst on someone's back and the person is screaming, I can't even look at it! That's just barbaric.
Going Beyond The Pop It's not just about the pops for me. What I love about my job is that it feels very similar to [the photo series] Humans of New York. It's somewhat anonymous. You don't know who these people are, but you hear their stories. That's what I try to do with my videos. It's as if you're standing in line at Disneyland or on the subway and you're forced to have a conversation with someone you normally wouldn't talk with. When you're stuck in a room for 30 minutes, you learn the most amazing things. That's what I try to show people, and some viewers fall in love with my patients just from hearing their story.
That's what happened with this one guy named Pops. He had the most amazing blackheads, and during the first extraction video we did on him, he talked about how he had just lost his wife. He had to go to a retirement home and he was so upset because he couldn't afford it. He got hundreds of letters from around the world. Through that, viewers encouraged me to start a GoFundMe account and we raised $12K for him. I mean, how does that happen from popping pimples? You should have seen how that changed his outlook on life. He learned that all these people who don’t know him care about him and that is what makes it all worthwhile.
A New Way To Watch I was never excited about doing a Dr. Pimple Popper show. When you sign on for something like that, you're no longer the person in control. So I went into it thinking, if it happens, great, but I wasn't going to pursue it. Then, when the TLC special premiered, I didn't realize how much I was freaking out until right before. But... people liked it.
I heard from the network on the Nielsen ratings, and it actually beat out the #1 show. Everyone was saying all these wonderful things on Twitter. Part of that, I think, is because it captured the backstory of my patients. We now have 12 episodes coming out on TLC in the summer. Even saying that makes me nervous! This show has come at a really good time in this world, where a lot of us don't know what's real or what's fake news. There are reality shows based on people being crazy and that's why people watch them — because they're bonkers. Pimple popping is crazy, but I'm acting like it's normal. So it's the opposite.
It might gross some people out, but for those who love it, these videos make them so happy.
It might gross some people out, but for those who love it, these videos make them so happy. It decreases their stress. It lulls them to sleep. Maybe in this day and age, that's all people are looking for: something to show us that we're all going to be okay.
Welcome toMoney Diaries, where we're tackling what might be the last taboo facing modern working women: money. We're asking millennials how they spend their hard-earned money during a seven-day period — and we're tracking every last dollar.
Today: a medical student who makes $19,000 per year and spends some of her money this week on groceries at Publix.
Occupation: Medical Student Industry: Healthcare Age: 25 Location: Tallahassee, FL Salary: $19,000 from unsubsidized Stafford loans, after tuition is deducted
Monthly Expenses Rent: $485 Student Loan Payments: $0. (Scholarships covered my undergraduate education, so thankfully I don't have loans from that.) Spotify Premium: $5. (I get the student deal.) Amazon Prime: $5 The New York Times: $4. (I get the academic rate.) Health Insurance: $0. (Last year on my father's health insurance plan!) Cellphone: $0, also paid for by father. Car Insurance: $0. (Thanks, Dad!) Gas: $60
Additional Expenses Blue Apron Subscription: $60/week
Day One
7:30 a.m. — It's Saturday, but thanks to my internal alarm clock, I wake up earlier than I want to. I catch my cat munching on my already struggling plant (it's nontoxic to cats, I've already Googled) and while trying to swat him away, I end up knocking over the plant. The pot breaks and my cat doesn't look guilty at all.
8:20 a.m. — I sweep up the mess and the rest of my room while I'm at it, then toast a bagel for breakfast.
9:20 a.m. — Spend too long searching for ways to prevent my cat from making my plants his personal buffet and then browse Reddit before I study! I have my board exams in three months so I'm cracking down now by doing as many practice tests as possible.
12:20 p.m. —I'm not as productive as I want to be and I reheat a slice of pizza from earlier this week and eat it with raspberries. I head out to the local plant nursery and buy a pot for a plant stand I have at home, plus a cute cactus. $23.10
2:10 p.m. — Stop by Trader Joe's, where my sweet tooth takes over. I buy a chocolate cake and frozen macarons, as well as a bagged salad, frozen veggies, mango slices, bananas, and an almond butter and turmeric salad dressing I'm excited to try. I drop off the groceries at home, grab my book bag, and head back out. $24.51
2:50 p.m. — I haven't wheel thrown anything in weeks and I make my way to the ceramic studio and pay to get early access before the class session officially starts. $7.50
5:10 p.m. — I make a couple of coffee pour overs because they are popular in my Etsy shop, plus some vases for fun. Then, I go to the library, where I can hopefully focus on studying.
8 p.m. — Starving, I go home and eat General Tso's chicken with bok choy I made yesterday. (I love leftovers.) I chat with my roommates in the kitchen while eating macarons.
10 p.m. — Do another practice test while my cat snuggles on my lap. Pass out at midnight.
Daily Total: $55.11
Day Two
8 a.m. — Wake up and make a bowl of cereal. I bask in the morning sunlight for a bit because my room has huge windows, and then focus my attention on churning through flashcards.
12:30 p.m. — K.*, the man I'm dating, comes over; we planned to go hiking and I need a study break. We make a packed lunch with selections from the hot food section at the grocery store. Unfortunately for my wallet, that area is located next to the bakery and drinks. I also buy a cookie and sparkling energy waters that are on sale. $21
2 p.m. — We catch up on new episodes of my favorite podcasts, 99% Invisible and Hidden Brain during the drive. K. pays the park entrance fee and we have a good hike that ends at a lighthouse.
5 p.m. — Get home and watch an episode of Broad City with K. while we hang out.
7 p.m. — K. leaves because I'm feeling guilty about not studying. Thankfully, tomorrow is a holiday, so I don't have school and can catch up. Dinner is lunch leftovers and cherries because I'm too tired to cook.
9:30 p.m. — Roommates and friends want to have a bonfire! We gather blankets and feast on s'mores — so much for being productive!
Daily Total: $21
Day Three
7:30 a.m. — Wake up and spend too much time in bed scrolling through Instagram. I eat a breakfast of frozen waffles (because I'm a child) and a banana while watching review videos on the current block we're studying in class.
12:30 p.m. — Lunch is chicken leftovers with the new salad dressing — it's A+; would recommend.
2:30 p.m. — Finish another flashcard deck and head over to the pottery studio. My pieces are semi-dry and ready to be trimmed and fired for their first time in the kiln!
5 p.m. — I trim and throw a few big, bottle-shaped vases I'm really proud of. Then I go to school for a few hours of undistracted studying.
8 p.m. — Head home so that I can cook my first Blue Apron meal of the week. Blue Apron is super convenient and the ingredients and recipes are always interesting, plus it saves me the process of planning a grocery list for only one person. Tonight, I'm making Mexican-spiced barramundi with a kale, sweet potato, and an avocado salad.
12:30 a.m. — Check my school calendar before passing out. Turns out I have no required classes for tomorrow, so it's gonna be another studying-in-leggings type of day! I make a to-do list so that I'm more productive than I was over the long weekend.
Daily Total: $0
Day Four
7:30 a.m. — Wake up to my cat stomping all over me. We walk to the kitchen for breakfast and I make a chia smoothie bowl with loads of strawberries, coconut shreds, and almonds.
12 p.m. — Finish reviewing another practice test and start tackling my to-do list. I send a couple of emails and then take pictures of my new ceramic pieces for my Etsy shop. I spend my lunch break editing pictures and posting them while eating leftovers from last night.
2:30 p.m. — Back to flashcards, made more exciting this time with the addition of a sparkling water energy drink.
5 p.m. — I'm feeling stir crazy and go on a bike ride for a change of scenery. I spin around my neighborhood and stop by CVS to pick up hydrating Korean face masks. I went to the dermatologist for the first time ever a few weeks ago, and my skin is still getting used to the retinoids. $9.62
8 p.m. — I take a break from studying to eat dinner — more of the Trader Joe's salad and gyoza I found in my freezer. The rest of the night consists of (you guessed it!) studying the recorded lectures from the morning and dancing with my cat to a particularly good Discover Weekly playlist on Spotify.
Daily Total: $9.62
Day Five
8 p.m. — Chia pudding bowl for breakfast, then the usual procrastinate-and-study routine. I watch lectures from the comfort of my home but will need to go to school for a standardized patient exam to test my clinical skills. I change out of my comfy clothes for the first time this week for a more professional get-up.
1 p.m. — Lunch is the last of my barramundi leftovers. I go to FedEx to get my picture printed and then to my school's international affairs office to renew my passport. I have a couple of weeks off after my board exam and I am using that time to travel abroad with my family. The passport process is an inconvenient nightmare: My picture was printed on the wrong paper and I have to buy a money order because the office doesn't take cards. Thankfully, my father says he'll pay some of the passport fees. $135
4 p.m. — Time for my clinical skills exam! The "patient" is coming in for a follow-up on their chronic hypertension. As a second-year student, I should have a handle on things, but I still struggle with interpreting an EKG!
6:30 p.m. — Get started on dinner, a brussels sprout and pearl couscous salad with harissa frying cheese. It's delicious and hopefully balances out the slice of chocolate cake I eat afterward.
7 p.m. — K. comes over and we catch up on our weeks, discuss the news, and watch Netflix before he leaves so that I can get some reading in.
11 p.m. — I don't get much done because I'm exhausted. I plan an outfit for tomorrow and pass out.
Daily Total: $135
Day Six
8 a.m. — Wake up and do household chores while my bagel toasts. I spend the morning researching public health statistics because today I'm going to the Capitol building to lobby for a bill expanding needle exchange facilities statewide. It's a topic I'm passionate about because I used to be an HIV tester before starting school. It's really unfortunate that the state cut even more funding for public health programs last year.
10:30 a.m. — Unbeknownst to me, I accidentally get on an express elevator and it shoots me up more than 20 floors in a matter of seconds. I survive the tower of terror, go to the correct floor, and arrive just in time for the press conference. It is inspiring seeing all the lawmakers, medical students, and pharmacists who are here supporting the bill! After the conference, I tag along with a group of medical students to lobby. We spend more time navigating the hallways than speaking to aides and legislators, but it still is a good experience.
12 p.m. — Head to school, where I eat my leftovers from last night. I try to buy tickets to see Ira Glass speak in a couple of weeks but the affordable student tickets are sold out. I kick myself for not getting them sooner.
2 p.m. — In my mandatory small group meeting, where we discuss patient cases relating to hematology and oncology with a doctor facilitator. Afterward, I go to the library to study.
8:30 p.m. — It's late and I'm too hungry to cook. My only remaining motivation is to order tacos from my favorite place near school. When I drive up, the place is unlit with a note saying they've permanently closed! The classmates in my group chat share my sorrow, and I begrudgingly go across the street for a Chick-fil-A sandwich. $5.68
10:50 p.m. — I halfheartedly do some flashcards and spend the rest of the night catching up on news, Instagram, and dumb YouTube videos while slathering on a clay face mask.
Daily Total: $5.68
Day Seven
7:30 a.m. — Breakfast is cereal with a banana. I spend the morning snuggled in bed with my cat, watching review videos for my upcoming exam next week because I'm starting to feel the pressure! I check my credit card and my Blue Apron box for next week gets charged.
11 a.m. — I go to school for a lunch-and-learn about minorities in medicine. I love these events because, as a student, I am always down for free food, and the speakers are usually really interesting. Today is no exception: the speaker talks about his personal experiences as a minority physician training in orthopedic surgery in the South. I relate to a lot of the stories he shares.
4:30 p.m. — Head over to USPS right before closing time to drop off some Etsy orders and then head to Publix for fruit, iced coffee, bread, and hand lotion. $24.30
7 p.m. — Thanks to Blue Apron, I make a ginger-marinated steak with bok choy in less than an hour. I complain to K. about not feeling up to socializing tonight because I'm so stressed about studying, but I make plans for tomorrow to go to Cascades Park and a brewery with classmates so that I don't become too much of a shut-in.
8 p.m. — Finish my self-pity party and then have a bathtub soak, do my extensive nighttime face cleanse routine, and light a nice candle. (To be honest, I like my Mrs. Meyer's cheap candles best!) I get through today's lectures while listening to Spotify to keep me pumped, and then crash at midnight.
Daily Total: $24.30
* Name has been changed for anonymity.
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With the exception of Reese Witherspoon, most stars who shot to fame in the '90s spend more time in TV movies than at the Golden Globes. However, over 20 years since her career began, Witherspoon still remains just as popular and successful as ever. But just because her résumé grew significantly since her start, doesn't mean we forgot what it was like to have the multi-hyphenate star as our breakout '90s beauty icon. But in case you did forget, her daughter and doppelgänger, Ava Phillippe, is here to remind you.
Photo: Ian West/PA Images/Getty Images.Photo: Melissa Moseley/Columbia/Kobal/REX/Shutterstock.
While accompanying her famous mom to the London premiere of A Wrinkle in Time, Phillippe walked the carpet and debuted a brand-new bob. There's a reason it looks so familiar: This is almost the exact same cut Witherspoon had when we met her in some of our favorite cult classics, like Cruel Intentions, Election, and Pleasantville. It's that exact blonde lob that helped introduce Witherspoon to the world.
Sadly, we can't confirm the 18-year-old used her mother's signature style from the '90s as her haircut mood board, as much as we can see it playing out in our heads. In fact, it was quite the opposite. What we do know is that Phillippe most likely thought less about the cut than we are at this moment. According to Phillippe's Instagram story, London-based salon The Chapel is to credit for the drastic change — and it was totally spontaneous. Still, the fact that the mid-length cut looks just as flattering on Phillippe now as it did on Witherspoon then proves it's the kind of timeless chop that will never go out of style.
You might not want to say it in a corporate job interview or list it on your Hinge profile, but we're of the belief that "skin care" fully qualifies as a very important hobby. After all, skin is your largest organ and your first line of protection against everything the earth might decide to throw your way on any given day — why shouldn't it get a big chunk of attention?
Of course, you already know the basics — retinol, vitamin C, and SPF are crucial blah blah blah — so make 2018 the year you go deep. Learn what your ingredients are really doing, tend to your microbiome, consider stem cell treatments, and you just might come out the other side with your best skin ever.
Ahead, five product and procedural trends that the pros are excited about this year — and that'll put your complexion ahead of the curve.
If there are people in your friend group with skin (and an inclination to make it better), you probably know just how buzzy microneedling and so-called vampire facials are at the moment — everyone's curious whether they live up to the hype and are worth the money. (But if you need numbers: Pinterest's 2018 trend predictions report a whopping 345% increase in saves for "derma roller " over the past year.) And yet, we're only just starting to see what these techniques can do.
Plastic surgeon Matthew Schulman, MD, says combining the two — microneedling and PRP — is one of the fastest-growing non-invasive procedures, as there is virtually no downtime. In addition to the face, it's also being used on the scalp as a solution for thinning and receding hair. He and dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD, both predict something more novel in the future, too: microneedling patches. "They're being developed to deliver the flu vaccine and it is just a matter of time (although it may be years) before they target aging skin," says Dr. Zeichner, who explains that the patch will be made up of slowly dissolving microneedles impregnated with the active ingredient, designed to deliver it deeper than anything you could put on topically.
If you want glowing angel baby skin, it may be worth getting over your aversion to smearing afterbirth on your face, as some of the most potent products and treatments coming out tout placental tissue and umbilical stem cells as the star ingredient. Why? "Stem cells have infinite growth and potential, and for this reason, stem cell-derived growth factors are used in skin-care products that target aging skin. These growth factors are messengers that encourage cells to grow and divide, so they help recharge old or lazy skin cells," says Dr. Zeichner.
You can go the topical route — MZ Skin, a new line by oculoplastic surgeon Maryam Zamani, MD, uses sheep placenta; Novo Solutions MD employs purified human umbilical cord cells; and, of course, plenty of serums on the market contain plant-derived stem cells designed to mimic human placenta — but those on the cutting-edge of dermatology and plastic surgery are finding human stem cells to be most effective when injected.
Plastic surgeon Rian Maercks, MD, uses amniotic tissue (sourced from women who sign a consent form authorizing the donation of their discarded umbilical cords and placenta) as a filler option in non-invasive facelift procedures he performs. "It can lead to improved skin appearance and generation of new healthy vascular tissue, for a long-lasting result that is actually the patient's own tissue. Using these natural human components gives a natural result in every sense of the word," he says.
Plastic surgeon Stephen Greenberg, MD, uses adult tissue stem cells for facial rejuvenation fat transfers, relocating them to areas on the face that show volume loss, agrees. "They provide a very soft, natural result that is often more permanent than dermal fillers," he says.
Healthy immune systems produce antibodies when they detect the presence of antigens, which can be bacteria, viruses, toxins, and foreign proteins. If all goes according to plan, the antibody gets directed to the particular antigen, neutralizes it without damaging surrounding healthy cells, and you don't get sick.
Antibodies have long been used in medical research and application, usually extracted from the blood of rabbits (which is costly and far from cruelty-free), but now the skin-care world is starting to look at how to use the technology to treat conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and acne, according to Dr. Greenberg. "They allow for delivery of actives to the skin in ways not done before," adds Dr. Zeichner, who predicts they'll be used to reverse signs of aging in the future.
One new brand that's leading the charge is Adsorb Beauty, a skin-care line out of Japan that uses antibodies humanely extracted from the egg yolk of ostriches, which have one of the strongest immune systems of any living animal. The antibodies work by targeting ceramidase, an enzyme that disrupts your body's natural ceramide production and causes moisture retention levels to drop, so skin stays plump and hydrated.
Yes, it sounds like something you'd call the IT department for, and the explanation of what the microbiome is (the natural colonization of bacteria that's found on the skin, according to dermatologist Rachel Nazarian, MD) doesn't make it any sexier, but paying attention to yours could be the difference between a clear, healthy complexion and breakouts, dryness, and irritation.
Microbes, bacteria, fungi, viruses, and itsy-bitsy, microscopic mites live on your skin — that's a fact of life. And while that might make you want to scratch your face off, don't, because the goal is not to destroy the “bad” bacteria — like P. acnes and S. aureus (which are associated with acne and atopic eczema, respectively) — and replace them with “good” bacteria. Rather, it's bacterial diversit y, and a healthy balance of all the microbes — even the ones with a bad reputation.
Brands are making it easy to care for your microbiome by developing skin-care lines that specifically address the sensitive composition of it and don't strip your skin of the microbes it actually needs. La Roche-Posay's Toleriane line, for example, incorporates prebiotics as “food for bacteria,” based on the brand's research of bacterial diversity. Dermalogica is also working with bioactives that support the microbiome while targeting stress and environmental factors.
Topical alternatives to injectable dermal fillers are saturating the market and will continue to get more effective in the coming years as the demand for non-invasive solutions increases, especially among millennials. On shelves now, look for Dior's new Capture Youth Plump Filler Age-Delay Plumping Serum, which combines hyaluronic acid molecules of different weights to target moisture levels on the surface and deeper into skin layers, and Demarche Labs' Fullfill Hyaluronic Acid Topical Wrinkle Filler, a highly effective line-smoothing serum that comes recommended by multiple derms.
In not-quite-topical-but-hardly-invasive news, experts are excited about innovations like Juvéderm Volite, a skin-conditioning hyaluronic acid gel which works on the surface level to improve hydration, uneven texture, and elasticity. According to Dr. Greenberg, a typical treatment involves about 100 tiny injections (this isn't your deep, cheekbone-lifting filler) and lasts for nine months. Currently, it's only available in Europe, but some predict it'll be hitting the U.S. soon.
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