We see you over there, watching what seems like every other friend either dropping to one knee or squealing with delight upon a magical proposal against an outrageously beautiful backdrop. You’re happy for your friends, naturally. But…with every sparkly ring that’s bestowed to another giddy woman, you also feel a tiny pang that prompts some serious introspection. iStock.com/PeopleImages
Maybe you’re at an early point with your partner where you’ve begun toying with the idea of getting hitched someday and aren’t sure what the next steps ought to be. Or perhaps tying the knot is something you’ve seriously considered and you’re ready to get a move on already! Whatever the case, we urge you to put on some blinders toward others’ relationships and instead channel all that focus into your own partnership.
The truth is that every couple is unique, and what’s right for one duo may be completely wrong for another. There are couples who got hitched after a few months of dating and have been together for 20 years, and there are other couples who’ve been together just as long without ever walking down the aisle. In that sense, “How long should we wait before getting married?” is a question each couple needs to consider for themselves, and there’s a lot more that goes into it than a simple timeline.
Three Relationship Musts to Check Off Before a Proposal
To help you determine if you’re ready to take that next step toward engagement and, ultimately, marriage, you must be able to do the following.
Get past the intense lust stage.
Your sexual chemistry is out of control and you’ve never had a more fulfilling physical relationship in your life. This is great news, but there’s more to coupledom than that. Your first hurdle in any relationship is to see beyond the steamy physicality of it all and into the, well, boring stuff. iStock.com/Foremniakowski
“Marriage is a financial, emotional, romantic, familial, and lifestyle partnership which requires compromise, good communication, and a shared vision,” says Bianca L. Rodriguez, MA, a licensed marriage and family therapist based in Los Angeles. “Seeing how your partner reacts to these situations is very important because it tells you about their communication style, frustration tolerance, intimacy template, level of emotional maturity, and ability to navigate life.”
Before anyone gets down on one knee, make sure you’ve thoroughly discussed your approach toward finances and how that might change as a committed couple; whether you want to have children and how many and when; the importance (or lack thereof) of family relationships; and what kind of major lifestyle shifts you see in your future, including any relocation, extensive travel, career change, or continued education.
Back to lust: It shouldn’t disappear. In fact, being able to keep that spark alive after the initial chemical rush—and this does require work from both—is another sign that you two just might be in it for the long haul.
“The lust stage can last years or a lifetime if there is truly crazy chemistry,” notes Bonnie Winston, a celebrity matchmaker and relationship expert. “If lust fades out quickly within a year or two, did you really ever have it? Or was it just a shooting star?”
https://www.instagram.com/p/BjSP7lXAIDw/?taken-by=bonniewinstonmatchmaker
Maybe it’s not quite as intense (and it probably isn’t because that’s how nature works), but you should still remain attracted to each other as the years go by.
Hit these important milestones.
Not to sound like a broken record, but sharing experiences in a relationship is crucial in the months and years leading up to a formal engagement. After all, understanding how you work together in various scenarios is the best indicator you have of what the future will look like.
[pullquote align=”center”]“Travel together is huge, as it can show you a different side of your significant other.”
—Bonnie Winston, celebrity matchmaker and relationship expert[/pullquote]
Some important relationship milestones a couple should experience, says Rodriguez, are introducing each other to your close friends and key family members (and becoming a comfortable part of these circles), celebrating holidays and events together, dealing with sickness or injury, getting through a major argument, dealing with a serious disappointment, attending professional business functions as a couple, and traveling together.
“Travel together is huge, as it can show you a different side of your significant other,” says Winston. “For example, one of my clients was smitten with her boyfriend until they vacationed together. He snapped his fingers at the waiters, treated the staff as if they were a lower class, and had a meltdown at the airport when their flight was delayed. Needless to say, they never made it to the altar. She saw a side of him she couldn’t abide and broke it off.”
Living together, or at least being very familiar with the way your partner lives, is also very important. Is your partner remarkably tidy or exceptionally messy? Do they like to keep the windows closed all day or feel the breeze? What’s the thermostat at? What’s their morning routine look like? Do they have pets? What’s their preferred aesthetic? Do they make the bed in the morning? Is the bathroom a sanctuary or a catch-all? Do they crave extensive alone time or prefer to be attached at the hip? iStock.com/PeopleImages
There will be inevitable growing pains once you’re actually living together—and there’s always room for compromise on all the above—but make sure you know what this person is like in their day to day living space in case there are any non-negotiables.
Lastly, another important milestone is hitting a lull or low point in your relationship and making it through to the other side. Every couple experiences seasons of warm bliss and then chilly winters. For example, maybe one partner temporarily pulls away or one of you is going through an exceptionally trying personal battle. Being able to find the warmth in the cold—or being able to trudge through the slushy snow until spring—is a telling of a relationship’s strength.
Time it right.
While the length of time may not be quite so important, the timing is. Things to consider include your age, your career path, your education, and your desire to start a family. For example, older couples who want children tend to tie the knot more quickly in order to begin their family. On the other hand, couples who are young and finishing their schooling may prefer to wait until they have a degree in hand. iStock.com/FatCamera
That said, waiting around for perfection means you’ll be waiting around forever. At some point, you do need to make the decision of whether or not this is the partner you want to commit to for the rest of your life.
So, you’re looking for an actual number?
We get it. You came here looking for an exact number of how long you ought to wait, and we sent you on a wild journey of important factors to consider before walking down the aisle. If you’re looking for a ballpark range, our experts agreed that an appropriate waiting time was between one and three years.
“Even if you absolutely know you’ve found your person, I think two to three years between dating and marriage is a healthy incubation time between first date and I do,” says Amiira Ruotola, a dating expert and the co-author of How to Keep Your Marriage from Sucking and It’s Called A Breakup Because It’s Broken. OWN/Youtube
“The early days are always effortless and exciting, which is not the norm for long-term relationships. Excitement wears off and is replaced with stability which is its own kind of sexy. As you get more comfortable with your partner, you allow yourself to become the more authentic version of yourself rather than the ‘best, most easy going’ version you were being at the beginning.”
[pullquote align=”center”]“Every love story makes its own rules.”
—Amiira Ruotola, dating expert[/pullquote]
Rodriguez adds, “If I had to give a range, I would recommend a minimum of one year as this allows a couple to experience the ‘four seasons’ together. Although this is literal, it’s also figurative as over the course of 365 days you’re likely to encounter the ups and downs of life, like illness, holidays, travel, family drama, etc.”
https://twitter.com/alexismagana27/status/946015574563479553
Basically, you’re looking for that ability to feel like you can be your authentic self with your partner, which for many can take several years. Once you’ve hit that point you can take your relationship to the next level. Start by having real conversations about what life will look like in a long-term, committed partnership, what sort of struggles you might encounter, and what steps you’ll take to remain teammates, lovers, and friends through it all.
And remember, the one-to-three-year waiting range is not a hard and fast rule.
[pullquote align=”center”]“Marriage is not the prize, though we tend to rush towards it as though it is.”
-Amiira Ruotola, dating expert[/pullquote]
“Some of our best friends dated, lived together, and shared their lives for 17 years before getting engaged,” says Ruotola. Though it was a point of contention for many of those years, their relationship was so healthy and buoyant that neither party wanted something different just to get to be married or not married. They have now been together for more than 25 years and have one of most vibrant marriages we know of. Every love story makes its own rules.”
The Real Prize
It’s easy to get caught up in the idea of a grand wedding, a person to call husband or wife, or checking off an item on your life’s to-do list. And while planning a wedding can be great fun and it’s understandable to have specific life goals, it’s the journey toward that “big day” and the years that follow that are the most important.
“Marriage is not the prize, though we tend to rush towards it as though it is,” says Ruotola. “The real prize is seeing and being seen, knowing and being known, finding the partner that helps you achieve your goals while you help them achieve theirs. Marriage is a three-legged race, so pick your partner wisely.”
You come home from a day at the beach after slathering on sunscreen every couple hours, only to find parts of your face and body are beet red. Ouch! We’ve all been there. No matter how well you think you’re applying (and reapplying!) sunscreen this summer, sunburns happen to the best of us. In fact, according to 2015 research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than one-third of adults in the U.S. reported having a sunburn in the previous 12 months, even though 71 percent of adults said they usually or always take sun protection measures like wearing sunscreen or seeking shade.
Why’d I get sunburned? And what is a sunburn, exactly?
A sunburn is your skin’s response to prolonged, unprotected exposure to UV radiation (UVB rays in particular). “Ultraviolet rays in sunlight directly damage DNA and other molecules in the skin,” says Anna Guanche, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Bella Skin Institute. “The broken-down and damaged skin cells signal the body, just as they would with any other type of skin burn. Then blood vessels dilate in order to bring healing factors and cells to the skin and an inflammatory response is what you see.” A sunburn usually appears about six hours after sun exposure, says Guanche. While the redness and pain associated with a sunburn are temporary (three to five days for the typical sunburn or seven days for one that’s more severe, says Guanche), the cellular damage lasts a lifetime. According to a study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, an overall history of severe sunburns was associated with an increased risk of melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer. Of course, being super diligent with your sun protection is key to avoiding sunburns (and potentially skin cancer down the road), but if you have a sunburn, you’re probably looking for a way to relieve the irritation, like, right this second. While sunburn relief products are available, a study published in the Archives of Dermatology found that hydrocortisone cream—just one example of an OTC sunburn treatment—did not have much of an effect on sunburn when applied six to 23 hours after sun exposure. Natural remedies for sunburns usually involve cooling and soothing the skin, says Guanche. If you’re concerned about the ingredients, cost, or efficacy of OTC creams, you may want to consider a natural sunburn remedy instead.
The Best Natural Remedies for Sunburns
Ready for relief? Try one of these natural remedies, all of which are suitable for mild to moderate sunburns. “Consult a doctor if your sunburn is severe,” says Guanche, sharing that severe sunburn can involve any of the following:
Blistering
Sunburn that covers a large portion of the body
Fever
Headache pain
Chills
Nausea
And while these natural remedies for sunburns are generally safe for pregnant women and kids, Guanche says it’s best to consult your doctor just to be sure before trying anything if you’re pregnant or intend to use a natural remedy on a child. Once you’re good to go, apply your natural remedy of choice two to three times a day for maximum benefits.
1. Aloe
Ah, the gold standard in sunburn relief. Aloe has been used for centuries to heal skin, and for good reason. A study published in the Annals of Plastic Surgery stated that topical aloe vera improves wound healing and minimizes scarring. Julie DeMaio, an herbalist who specializes in skincare, says aloe would be her first choice for soothing a sunburn. She suggests buying a giant aloe leaf, which you can find in a grocery or health food store. Use the back of a spoon to scrape the inner gel of the plant out and apply it directly to your skin. According to DiMaio, you can use it on both your face and body. “Keep the leaf in the fridge through the lifetime of your burn,” says DeMaio.
“Witch hazel is a plant, but only the leaves, bark, and twigs, are used medicinally,” explains Marina Peredo, MD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skinfluence. “It contains chemicals called tannins which, when applied directly to the skin, can help reduce swelling, repair damaged skin, and ward off nasty bacteria.” Peredo is a fan of Dickinson’s Witch Hazel, which can be used on face and body. Apply to a cotton ball and gently rub it over your sunburned skin. A study published in theEuropean Journal of Pediatrics found that [linkbuilder id=”6458″ text=”witch hazel”] was equally as effective as a prescription moisturizer for treating skin conditions (like diaper rash and burns) in children.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar
“Consider a diluted apple cider vinegar bath,” says Dendy Engelman, MD, dermatologic surgeon at Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery Centers. “Try adding a cupful or two to your bath to neutralize the burn. After soaking for 10 minutes, the apple cider vinegar will have helped restore your skin’s pH levels and your skin will feel cool and soothed.” Engelman says that if you’re going to apply apple cider vinegar to your face, you need to be careful to avoid your eye area because it can be irritating. “Soak a paper towel or washcloth and gently press [it on your] face instead of splashing,” she says.
4. Whole Milk
“The fat and the pH factor [of whole milk] has an anti-inflammatory effect on sunburned skin, says Peredo. Make a compress by submerging small cotton towels in cool whole milk and wringing the excess, then apply the towel to your face and/or body. As long as you don’t have a milk allergy, this natural sunburn remedy is safe for pregnant women and children, says Peredo.
5. Vitamin E Oil
“It’s important to treat the sunburn with products that have ingredients like vitamin E, which helps the skin heal,” says Engleman. She likes Bio-Oil Multiuse Skincare Oil for treating mild to moderate sunburns on the face or body because the vitamin E neutralizes free radicals (molecules that are damaging to the skin) and it also contains nourishing and calming ingredients like chamomile oil, calendula oil, and rosemary.
6. Oatmeal
Remember taking oatmeal baths to soothe itchy chicken pox when you were younger? Guanche says oatmeal baths can help ease the pain associated with a mild to moderate sunburn on your face or body. She likes Aveeno Soothing Bath Treatment, which helps relieve irritation and itchiness temporarily. All you have to do is pour a single packet into your bath and lightly rub the oatmeal onto your skin. Just make sure your bath water isn’t too warm, says Guanche, since this can cause further irritation.
7. Lavender Oil
Lavender oil can offer relief from sunburns, says DeMaio. Look for lavender oil in hydrosol mist form, like Plant Therapy’s Organic Lavender Hydrosol. Hydrosol is the liquid that is left over when a plant is turned into an essential oil, and it’s typically less concentrated, says DeMaio, meaning it can soothe without irritating. Because hydrosols aren’t quite as highly concentrated as essential oils, you can apply them to your face as well as your body. DeMaio likes spritzing a lavender hydrosol onto a sunburn a few minutes after applying aloe.
8. Coconut Oil
“Coconut oil may soothe and hydrate the skin,” says Guanche. According to a study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, coconut oil can help improve skin barrier function and promote wound healing. Plus, a study published in the journal Dermatitis found that the application of extra virgin coconut oil significantly improved skin dryness. Mix a few drops of an essential oil like lavender into coconut oil before applying it to your face or body, says DeMaio.
9. St. John’s Wort
“As an infused oil, St. John’s wort is amazing for burns,” says DeMaio. “It’s an analgesic, which means it helps reduce the pain associated with sunburns.” A study published in the Journal of Postgraduate Medicine found that applying a St. John’s wort ointment topically to skin helped improve psoriasis lesions. DeMaio says St. John’s wort is particularly useful at the beginning of a sunburn (whether on the face or body) when the pain is at peak levels. As with lavender, try mixing a few drops of St. John’s wort into coconut oil, or another carrier oil like jojoba, to dilute it so that you can apply it directly to your skin, says DeMaio. You can also find St. John’s wort in hydrosol form, although it’s less common than the oil.
10. Helichrysum
This little-known herb is actually a major sunburn soother. “Helichrysum is an incredible wound healer and skin regenerator,” says DeMaio. It’s great for damaged skin.” A study published in the International Journal of Antimicrobial Agents explains that helichrysum, which comes from a shrub in the Mediterranean, has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. The only downside is that helichrysum is expensive, so you may just want to use it on your face or an area that’s exposed, as opposed to a large area of skin, says DeMaio. Again, mix it with a carrier oil first since, as with all essential oils, it’s potent on its own.
11. Peppermint Tea
“Peppermint is a cooling herb,” says DeMaio. Make a gallon of iced peppermint tea, dip a cotton ball into it, and gently rub it onto your skin wherever you’re burned, she suggests. “You can also address a sunburn from the inside,” says DeMaio. “When you’re burned, your skin is dehydrated, so it’s just as important to make sure you’re increasing liquids.” So try sipping on a glass of peppermint tea, too. The bottom line: While these natural remedies for sunburn can be used to help relieve the pain and irritation associated with mild to moderate sunburns, head to a doc STAT if your burn is more serious. And do not, we repeat, do not go back into the sun while you’re still burned as doing so can lead to even more skin damage!
Redoing your home is a major undertaking, and tossing all of your old decor for everything new just isn’t in the budget for most people. But there’s no reason that revamping your home has to be expensive. In fact, some of the most impactful changes can be made with the smallest pieces. We’ve found pieces that can liven up your space and even change the look of an entire room—all without breaking the bank.
Pillows Under $20
Pillows are perhaps the easiest and quickest way to add a pop of color and comfort to your space in seconds. Even though throw pillows can be surprisingly expensive, there are just as many affordable and stylish options out there.
This fringed pillow from Target is a cute way to add texture to any space. The muted colors are perfect for laid-back boho vibes. Target
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If you already have pillows that feel nice but you want to switch up their look, opt for a pillow cover instead. If you don’t already have a throw pillow though, you can find affordable inserts to fit the cover you like. Amazon
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This neutral lumbar pillow is perfect for adding a touch of comfort and texture without any extra color. Toss it on your couch, armchair, or even your bed to amp up the coziness. World Market
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Throw Blankets Under $30
Tossing a soft, drapey throw over your couch or armchair is another easy way to add an element of interest to your room. Both luxurious and functional, no living room really feels complete without a throw blanket.
This textured knit blanket is soft and lightweight, perfect for when you need just an extra bit of warmth. Available in six shades, you can use it to add a pop of color to your room or (our preference) keep things neutral.
Amazon
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If you’re looking for a patterned throw, this woven cotton one is not only beautiful but is also affordable. Perfect for draping over your shoulders on a cold night or even laying over the foot of your bed, it’s a blanket you’ll be reaching for all year long. Joss & Main
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In need of something a little more chunky and warm for the colder months? This chenille throw blanket is ultra-soft and oversized and comes in multiple color options to coordinate with any room. Target
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Knick Knacks Under $40
Small trinkets and decorative pieces are truly what make a space feel more lived-in and homey. Though people tend to pick up most of these items over time, adding even a small piece or two can really start to add some of your own personality and sense of style to your home.
If you like the look of plants but are more of a black thumb, there are plenty of faux plant options out there that look realistic but don’t require any maintenance. This faux banana plant is great for adding a pop of color and is the perfect stand-in until you can grab (and care for!) a live one. Target
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A terrarium is another great way to add a touch of green to your home without bringing in a full-blown plant. These globe-style options are not only beautiful on their own—they sit on a fun brass base for a unique look and the extra-small size is under $20. West Elm
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A great coffee table book not only adds visual appeal but can also provide you and your guests with some serious inspiration. You can go with something that’d be of general interest to everyone, like In The Company of Women, or add a book that relates to one of your personal hobbies or interests. Amazon
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Wall Art Under $75
Get rid of those asylum walls and hang some art up; it’s the quickest way to add a pop of color and texture to any room. Pieces can be expensive though, especially when they’re from local artists. To get a unique addition that won’t break the bank, check out these fun pieces—all under $75.
This three-piece set can be hung together in any room for an interesting focal point, or hung separately in different rooms for strategically placed pops of color and pattern. World Market
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Who says that adding art into your home has to mean hanging up a painting? This handwoven macrame hanging makes a statement—put it up on any blank wall for an Instagram-worthy look. Urban Outfitters
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Rugs Under $300
Buying rugs on a budget is rough—they’re crazy expensive! And it’s hard to go too budget-friendly: The difference in quality between a cheaper rug and one that’s a little pricier is pretty evident. Thankfully, there are lots of rugs that sit right in the middle, offering good quality at a fair price. If you’re looking to freshen up a blah-feeling space or you want to change up the style altogether, invest in a new rug to switch things up.
If you’re going for the modern farmhouse look on a budget, this rug is for you. It’s available in a variety of sizes, so it’s easy to find an option to fit in whichever room you need it for. Wayfair
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A rug is usually the focal point of the room and that’ll definitely be true of this rug. These bright colors would be dreamy in a white-walled room with neutral furniture. Joss & Main
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This rug adds a little eye-catching detail without going overboard. Perfect for high-traffic areas, it’ll give any room a pop of color without the maintenance of a high pile rug. Target
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Lighting & Lamps Under $80
Lighting plays a big role when it comes to the atmosphere in your home—anything too dim can make things feel bleak and depressing, while anything too bright can make you feel like you’re standing under grocery store fluorescents. The key is having different lighting options available so you can adjust the light during different times of day.
A tripod lamp is an easy way to add a unique visual element to any room. It’ll give off the perfect amount of warm light for reading or watching a movie at home. Amazon
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Forget your basic table lamp: With mixed materials and clean lines, this lamp mixes brass and acrylic for a stylish, sophisticated twist that’ll heighten the look of any room. Target
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This lamp is basically a two-for-one because it’s almost a work of art on its own. Set it on a side table or your nightstand for a modern touch. Target
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Ottomans & Poufs Under $100
Sometimes our couches and chairs meet our fashion needs but totally fail when it comes to function. There’s no need to go out and buy an entirely new living room set if yours isn’t quite as comfy as you’d like, though. In addition to tossing on some pillows and a cozy throw, adding a fluffy pouf or sturdy ottoman can really help you relax and, literally, kick your feet up.
This faux-fur pouf will help lend a luxurious, bold look to your sitting area. It’s even firm enough to be used as a makeshift seat when you have extra guests over. World Market
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If you want something a little sturdier, this faux-wool stool gives the same bold look with the addition of wooden legs. World Market
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Accent Chairs Under $200
If you’re really looking to change the look of your living or sitting room, adding in new furniture is your best bet. But it can be hard to justify spending the money on new furniture when there might not be anything wrong with what you have, especially when you see the high price tag on certain pieces.
The mid-century modern look is in right now and, thankfully, you don’t have to spend a ton to get it. This armchair is not only affordable but comfortable and stylish, too. Amazon
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Think outside the box when it comes to accent seating! This woven rattan chair is simple but makes a statement with its cool, summery vibe. Urban Outfitters
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For a simple chair with clean lines, opt for this sloped, wingback style. Sleek and stylish, it comes in 15 different colors and patterns to fit any style. Target
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Side Tables Under $100
If you already have a coffee table, adding an accent table or two may have slipped your mind. They can be a great addition to any space, though: Just add a lamp, a plant, and some cute coasters and you’ve got a piece that works for your room.
Hairpin legs are currently on-trend, and an end table is the perfect way to work them into your decor. The metal legs combined with a wooden table top add an industrial, modern edge to any space. Amazon
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This brass side table makes a statement, whether you use it as a functional side table or not. Try setting it up in a corner as a unique stand for a cascading plant. World Market
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The beautiful combination of brass and marble add a lavish touch to any room. With a clean, simple silhouette, this side table easily fits in with any decor while still standing out. Urban Outfitters
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Coffee Tables Under $200
A living room or sitting area doesn’t always feel quite right without a coffee table in the middle. Use it for game nights, to display coffee table art books, or even to kick your feet up on. Though they tend to be a more expensive item, the great news is that you can find one that looks nice and holds up well for less than $150.
If you have an angular sectional sofa, round things out with this brass coffee table. We especially love the glass top, which won’t take up too much visual space. Amazon
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This coffee table is perfect for a more rustic style. The raised edge adds an interesting touch that makes it easy to hold photos or other decorative elements. Target
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For a more modern, angular look, this coffee table combines the look of wood and chrome for a piece that’ll easily become a focal point in your home. It’s also two-tiered, allowing you to use it both functionally and decoratively. Wayfair
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It’s no secret that eating healthier isn’t always an easy task. Not only do you have to squash cravings, plan out meals, and make more mindful trips to the grocery store, but you also have to take the time to get in the kitchen and cook. If it sounds daunting, we don’t blame you, but we’re here to say it doesn’t have to be as big of a challenge as you think. Take all of the stress out of preparing meals with these products designed with healthy eating in mind.
Veggie noodles have become super popular over the past year or so, and you can buy them in most grocery stores pre-cut and ready to cook. However, why pay extra money when you can easily get the same product at home with your own spiralizer? This option comes with different blades to make shapes like ribbons, or even just shorter noodles. Just slide in the blade for whichever shape you’d like, hook your veggie onto the handle, and give it a spin for fresh veggie noodles in minutes. Amazon
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Planning ahead is one of the biggest keys when it comes to prioritizing healthy eating, and cooking in bulk is one of the best ways to ensure that you always have a healthy option available. Using a slow cooker is a great way to make a lot of food at once, but the only downside is that you really do have to plan ahead to make a meal—until the Instant Pot, that is. The Instant Pot is a slow cooker and pressure cooker in one, so it’s perfect to use on days when you want something to do the cooking for you, but didn’t plan ahead. Amazon
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You probably have a store that sells fresh juice near you, but when even the smallest bottle is over $5, it’s an easy treat to pass on. Instead of thinking of fresh juice as an occasional treat, why not make it an everyday part of your health routine with a juicer? Simple to clean and use, this Breville juicer is super powerful and will get every last drop of juice out of your fruits and veggies so nothing goes to waste. Amazon
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One of most painstaking parts of preparing fresh fruits and vegetables is peeling them. Whether it’s potatoes, apples, carrots, or kiwi, peeling is a time consuming task, and one that can be dangerous if you don’t have the right tools. This set of peelers will not only help you easily remove the peels from your favorite fruits and veggies, but can also help you cut them, too. Make your own matchstick carrots for salads with the julienne peeler, or create zucchini ribbons by running the regular peeler lengthwise down your zucchini. Amazon
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You may find yourself turning to frozen vegetables in steamer bags to get a veggie on the table quickly, but steaming your own can be just as easy. Just put an inch or so of water in a pot, get it boiling, then put your steamer basket full of veggies in and let them cook until they’re just soft enough to poke with a fork. Not only is steaming veggies easy to do, but you can create your own favorite combinations to make getting those nutrients in a little easier. Amazon
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Most people have a habit of tossing a little oil or butter into a pan before cooking. While a small amount of healthy fats isn’t bad, it’s something we can easily overdo. If your goal is to use less fat while cooking, a Green Pan can help you out. The pan is coated with non-stick ceramic, a non-toxic alternative to the traditional non-stick coatings found on cookware. Anything you put in is pretty much guaranteed to come out without sticking, so you can cut down on your fat intake without changing up your cooking method. Plus, it’s dishwasher safe. Amazon
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One of the best benefits of cooking more meals at home? Knowing exactly what goes into the food that you’re making. However, there are still lots of things that we tend to buy pre-made at the grocery store, like canned soups, jarred sauces, and bottled dressings. You may think executing these types of recipes is reserved for more advanced cooks, but with an immersion blender they’re simple enough to make yourself. Blend your soups and sauces right in the pan, or make your own dressing or homemade mayonnaise in the included measuring cup. Amazon
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Most of us have never thought of fried food as healthy, but the invention of the air fryer has really changed the game. The device circulates hot air in a special way that gives your food a fried texture without actually dunking it in oil—which means no oily smell, no oily mess, and no grease-laden food. You can even bake or roast your food in the air fryer, so it’s the perfect multifunctional countertop appliance for preparing a meal without turning on the oven. Amazon
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If you’re used to buying canned or frozen veggies and fruits, keeping the fresh stuff around can be somewhat difficult. Even if you do stock up on beautiful produce, you might not be used to reaching for it when you need a snack or side. Before you know it, half your fruits and veggies have gone bad before you got the chance to eat or cook with them. Enter the Bluapple device, which can extend the shelf life of your fresh produce by absorbing any ethylene gas it produces as it sits, preventing your produce from going bad so quickly. Each Bluapple lasts for about three months before the absorbent packet inside should be changed, and the starter kit will give you everything you need to keep your produce fresher for about a year. Amazon
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Cooking your own food tends to mean more prep work for you, and that means lots of slicing and dicing as you go. However, making healthier food isn’t just about doing the prep work yourself, but also making sure that you’re preparing your food safely. This cutting board set is color coded based on food group, so you’ll never cross-contaminate raw meat, poultry, or fish with your other ingredients, which ensures that your food is prepped properly. The cutting boards are also anti-microbial, so they’re easy to clean and sanitize when all the prep work is done. Amazon
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Whether it’s athletic performance, mental stamina, or emotional well-being, there’s no denying the impact of food. It’s no wonder, then, that so many badass women prioritize meals that work for them, choosing foods that will bring them the energy, nutrition, and satisfaction to continue in their badass ways. Of course, health doesn’t have to—and often should not—look like the menu from an elite detox retreat. Happiness, balance, and success almost always look less glamorous than they appear on Instagram. (Artful rose latte made from raw dairy, coconut nectar, bee pollen, and crushed rose petals, anyone?) To paint a clearer picture of the diverse ways go-getter women are fueling their workdays, HealthyWay asked for a peek into the menus powering the daily grinds of a fitness trainer and model in Toronto, a mother and pastry chef in Little Rock, and an Olympic athlete and consultant in New York City. [Editorial note: These interviews have been edited for length and clarity.]
Edith Werbel
Edith Werbel is a Toronto-based certified personal and group fitness trainer, model, entrepreneur, and “crazy cat lady” with a very informative fitness blog and a BootyFull training program that promises a more shapely backside in eight weeks. How long have you worked as a fitness trainer and a model? My first job out of university was an office job—and I hated it. I thought to myself “what’s the opposite of this s**t?” And that’s how I became a trainer! I’ve been a full-time trainer for about eight years now, and I’ve modeled for more than 15 years. I started as a fashion model in my teens and have since transitioned to more fitness modeling.
How would you describe what you do? The pros: I practically get paid to stay fit, have fun, and hang out with cool clients all day. And what’s more, I feel I genuinely help people, and it’s incredibly rewarding. The cons: The hours are long, the work unstable, and it’s very tiring in more than one way. What are you most proud of accomplishing so far? I think the one thing I’m most proud of is my BootyFull eight-week glute training program that I sell on my site. Glutes are my area of specialty, and I’ve helped shaped many a beautiful backside. I’m proud of this program I’ve put together that is both popular and effective and helps pull in some extra passive income. What are three terms that pop in your mind when you think of your eating philosophy?
Intuitive, enjoyable, and healthy
Edith’s Daily Grind Menu
Breakfast
I start each morning with a coffee protein shake: coffee, coconut water, half a banana, and a scoop of vanilla protein powder. It’s a pretty light breakfast. I look forward to it every day and it keeps me fueled for a workout.
Lunch is usually after my workout and usually consists of a salad with chicken.
Dinner
And dinner again is often a protein with some roasted vegetables. I eat healthy and moderately most of the time, without overly obsessing or restricting myself. Once a week, I have a properly dirty meal of something like a burger and fries.
Zara Abbasi
Zara Abbasi is a lawyer, pastry chef, entrepreneur, and mother of three living in Little Rock. How long have you been a lawyer, pastry chef, mother (and any other amazing things you are up to)? I graduated from law school in 2013 and have been a pastry chef for five years. I have not had any professional training in the culinary department so I feel like maybe the title of pastry chef may be too important for me. I have been a mother for nine years now, and out of all the hats I wear, that is by far my favorite. I do all these “amazing” things for my kids so that they can believe in the positivity of this world and can see that someone who works hard can achieve anything. How would you describe what you do? I’m a Jane of all trades. I love working different positions and learning about the world through the different challenges placed before me. But if I had to describe who I am at heart, it’s an entrepreneur.
What are you most proud of accomplishing so far, and what do you hope to someday accomplish? Professionally, I’m really proud of finishing law school and passing the bar. I had two of my kids while I was in school and there were days I felt I would never pull through. I love being on the other side of that feeling, seeing how all the hard work paid off. Creatively, I’m so proud to have made a name for myself in our small city by throwing caution to the wind and following through with my creative visions. It’s been remarkable to see how supportive people can be when you put yourself out there. Physically, I’m proud of taking care of myself. I used to put my health and well-being last like most women do. But this year, I’ve made it a priority to get enough sleep, drink plenty of water, exercise, and most importantly, say “no” and guard my mental energy. What I hope to accomplish: I hope that the hard work I’ve put forth in my business venture really pays off and I’m able to create a sustainable line of products that makes the business successful. What are three terms that pop in your mind when you think of your eating philosophy? Balanced, fun, homemade
Zara’s Daily Grind Menu
Breakfast
I have a pretty erratic schedule. I have a small 10-month-old baby, so I tend to follow her lead on the day sometimes. Breakfast usually consists of a cup of chai, first and foremost. I feel it has the same effect on me as does a cup of coffee on most other people. I find that I cannot start my day without it. When I have my first cup of chai, it’s usually when I’m making some breakfast for the baby and simultaneously checking emails and messages. When it is my turn to eat, I usually stick to pretty basic breakfast staples such as oatmeal, eggs, and a fruit. I change up the type of eggs based on my mood but find that I like a healthy combo of both protein and carbs.
Lunch
For lunch, I usually have more time to myself, because it usually coincides with the baby’s nap. This is where I really like to take care of myself. I usually make myself a salad of some sort. I’ve been known to stock my pantry and fridge with ingredients to make no less than seven varieties of salad at any given time. It makes lunch less boring, and [having] the staples on hand keeps me from noshing on things I probably shouldn’t. I follow up my lunch with plain Greek yogurt (FAGE is my absolute favorite) with a little brown sugar sprinkled on top.
I usually snack in between lunch and dinner and head to our dry pantry for those snacks. I find myself going to pretzels, cheddar popcorn, and roasted nuts around that time because I find I need something salty before I need anything sweet.
Dinner
For dinner, I like to plan pretty elaborate meals sometimes. Some nights we’ll have handmade pasta and meatballs, other nights we’ll have a full French three-course meal including coq au vin, roasted vegetables, and crème brûlée. And then on other nights, we will have something simple like chicken and dumplings or a pot of chili. We like to keep dinner interactive with the kids and keep it rotating so we don’t fall into meal ruts.
Nzingha Prescod
Nzingha Prescod is a foil fencer—a 2012 and 2016 U.S. Olympian, a 2015 Senior World Championships bronze medalist, and four-time world champion—and a consultant for a Big Four accounting firm in New York City. How long have you been a professional athlete? I have been on the senior national team for nine years—through high school, college, and right now as I balance my athlete life with a career in business. I’m a consultant at EY [formerly Ernst & Young], so my schedule is a bit packed. As the games approach, I’m looking to dedicate more time to fencing and everything that comes with it (speaking engagements, photo shoots, clinics, etc.).
How would you describe what you do?
Consulting is really mastering learning on the job. I am aligned to the data analytics practice so I’m primarily assigned to projects where my team helps the business structure their data and report/present it in the most intelligible way. Every client has different data and systems, so each engagement requires different skills! What are you most proud of accomplishing so far and what do you hope to someday accomplish? I’m most proud at any moment I overcome self-doubt, especially in uncomfortable situations, i.e., competitions! Every time me or my team has medaled at world championships, I’ve been able to affirm to myself for the entire day that I am capable. I hope to continue sharing what I’ve learned through sport and opening doors for children to have similar opportunities and experiences as I did. What are three terms that popin your mind when you think of your eating philosophy? Balance, moderation, and experimenting!
Nzingha’s Daily Grind Menu
Breakfast
If I have time to eat a bowl of cereal I’ll have Alpen and Honey Bunches of Oats with skim milk. I always add in a couple of walnuts and coconut flakes so my bites are more exciting. I really look forward to it most days when I wake up. If I am heading in to the office, I’ll get a bowl of oatmeal with peanut butter, granola, blueberries, brown sugar, raisins, and coconuts flakes in the cafeteria. If I’m looking for something more savory, I’ll have bacon, egg whites, and pepper jack cheese on multigrain bread. If I have an early workout and need some sustenance quickly, I’ll have Belvita breakfast cookies with Greek yogurt. Whatever I’m having, I make sure it’s balanced between protein and carbs. I switch my carb intake for breakfast depending on my activity for the day. So I’ll have less cereal or only one slice of toast if I’m not as active that day.
Snack
If my meal was more than two or three hours before my workout, I’ll have a snack like apple or banana with peanut butter, seed crackers with hummus, or piece of banana bread. If my meals aren’t awkwardly spaced I may just have some fruit to snack on throughout the day. Post strenuous workouts, I’ll have a scoop of protein powder with skim milk to promote recovery and prevent soreness.
Lunch/Dinner
For lunch and dinner I try to have some form of vegetables in both meals. I aim for half a plate of veggies, quarter protein, quarter carbs. This isn’t always the case, but whenever a meal is heavier on one spectrum, I try to even it out later in the day!
Dessert
I have been eating a lot of Oreos (no cream) and milk!
Takeaways: Protein, Veggies, Enjoyment, Balance
As you can see, there are a handful of common threads running through the menus. All of these women prioritize protein and vegetables, they consume fruit in at least one of their meals, they talk about enjoying something that they eat every day, and they aim for balance, whether between macronutrients like carbohydrates and protein or nutrient-dense foods and “junk” foods. Most of them also mention hydration and regular exercise. This is smart living. As we know, water is literally life, and the benefits of exercise are as infinite as the internet. It’s smart nutrition, too. “Protein is essential for building and maintenance throughout the body,” registered dietitian Christeena Haynes (full disclosure: also my sister) tells HealthyWay. “Vegetables, fruits, and other complex carbohydrates are the body’s largest source of energy and provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals the body needs to keep things running smoothly. Fiber and protein also help you stay fuller longer, meaning you’re less likely to overeat and fill your body with empty calories.” This balancing of proteins and carbs mentioned gives “your body what it needs to function well…so you’re not overeating carbs, which affect blood sugar levels more,” says Haynes. What’s more, some research suggests that the combo may be better suited to improving athletic performance and recovery than carbs alone. The fulfillment these women seek in their noms is also good practice. “If you don’t enjoy what you’re eating, just from my own experience, you’re probably not going to maintain what you’re doing,” says Haynes. Beyond the intuitive component of eating bites you find exciting, it also makes physiological sense. In his book The Gospel of Food: Everything You Think You Know About Food Is Wrong, sociologist Barry Glassner references a study from the 1970s that suggests we might actually absorb more nutrients from foods that please us. “In one of my favorite studies, Swedish and Thai women were fed a Thai dish that the Swedes found overly spicy,” Glassner wrote. “The Thai women, who liked the dish, absorbed more iron from the meal. When the researchers reversed the experiment and served hamburger, potatoes, and beans, the Swedes, who like this food, absorbed more iron. Most telling was a third variation of the experiment, in which both the Swedes and the Thais were given food that was high in nutrients but consisted of a sticky, savorless paste. In this case, neither group absorbed much iron.” We’d love to see a more recent reproduction of the above study, but until then, we’ll stand by one takeaway: Pursue pleasure in your diet. It’s easy to let the prescriptiveness of “healthy eating” erase desire. Nutrition does not equal dull and flavorless meals. The way food looks and smells, its taste and texture in your mouth, how it makes you feel after you eat it, and the rituals surrounding mealtime—these are part of living, and they’re worth your attention. Stay hungry, boss Bs.
Cooking salmon is one of those things that sounds harder than it actually is. Is it different from cooking meat? Yes, completely. Will you find yourself making salmon multiple times a week once you’ve tried these methods? Absolutely! The cooking methods in this article are perfect for beginners because they require very little in terms of ingredients, equipment, and time. The first step? A visit to the fish counter!
The Fish Counter (the Beginning of a Beautiful Friendship)
Your local fish shop or fish counter at the grocery store will almost always have the freshest salmon. The salmon on display should smell fresh and faintly briny; an overly fishy smell indicates that it’s past its prime. Don’t be afraid to ask questions! Fishmongers are more than happy to give you cooking tips and prep suggestions, and they can help make your life easier by removing bones and skin (especially if you call ahead to place your order).
Farmed vs. Wild Salmon
As a general rule, it’s the safest bet to opt for wild salmon over farmed salmon. Farmed salmon has a mixed reputation. Critics say that salmon farms have been shown to have detrimental effects on both the fish themselves and the ocean at large. Farmed salmon is more likely to carry diseases (and to potentially spread those diseases to wild salmon if they escape their pens). There are also environmental concerns about the chemicals that are used to treat farmed salmon. That said, as farming methods have changed,some varieties are considered safer than others. And not everyone has access to wild salmon, so buying farmed fish may be the only option in some areas.
A Quick Reminder of How Nutritious Salmon Really Is
An incredibly versatile protein, salmon is high in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids (which are thought to contribute to healthy brain and cardiovascular function). Salmon is also a good source of vitamin B12, selenium, and niacin. Vitamin B12, found most commonly in animal-based proteins, is essential for blood cell and nerve health and the production of DNA. Selenium, a trace mineral, is crucial for healthy thyroid function. Niacin lowers cholesterol levels and cardiovascular risks.
Prepping Salmon for Cooking
The best practice when cooking salmon is to either cook from a fresh fillet that hasn’t been frozen or to cook directly from frozen form. Since salmon is so perishable, it can be risky to attempt defrosting before cooking. Use fish tweezers (such as theseKotobuki Japanese fish bone tweezers) to remove any pin bones left in the flesh. Resist the urge to rinse fresh salmon under cold water, as this can potentially splash bacteria all over the fish—or even contaminate your sink or other items in your kitchen. Use a paper towel to pat the fish dry; the drier the surface of the salmon the better for searing over high heat. Once the salmon has been thoroughly dried, it’s time to get cooking!
Avoiding Overcooking Salmon
Overcooking is often the biggest fear people have when it comes to learning how to cook salmon. Although it’s true that salmon overcooks easily, the trick is to remove it from the heat just before you think it’s done. LaDonna Rose Gundersen, an Alaskan fisherwoman and author of My Tiny Alaskan Oven, Salmon, Desserts & Friends, and The Little Alaskan Salmon Cookbook, offers these words of advice for beginners: “Do not overcook salmon, and remember it continues to cook when you remove it from the heat. Better to undercook it slightly than to overcook it.” Salmon is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145° F. Aim to take it off the heat at 140° F and let the residual heat do the cooking in the last few minutes before you check the internal temperature again. Salmon that has been properly cooked will be opaque throughout and will flake easily with a fork.
Sides and Wine: What goes with salmon?
Diane Morgan is the author of the best-selling cookbookSalmon: Everything You Need to Know + 45 Recipes and a huge fan of this versatile fish. When it comes to pairing with wine, it’s all about what’s in season at any given moment. Wine-wise, salmon and pinot noir are a lovely pairing, as is true for a Beaujolais. That said, an Austrian grüner veltliner is terrific if the fish will have a smoky flavor. When tomatoes are at their peak, I pan roast salmon and serve it with sautéed green beans, yellow pear tomatoes, and drizzle it with a homemade basil oil. That dish is grand with a French white Burgundy or Orvieto. Salmon is so versatile that it can also take on Asian flavors, creamy sauces like an aioli, or Mexican accents as in grilled salmon tacos with a chipotle sauce. Gundersen likes to pair salmon with classic comfort food. “This sounds crazy, and yet simple baked beans pair well with [pan-seared] salmon. …Or, a nice Caesar salad or asparagus roasted alongside the salmon.” Wine and beer that is slightly acidic can stand up to salmon’s assertive flavor, while buttery wines like chardonnay complement salmon’s milder flavors.
How to Cook Salmon
Pan Searing Salmon in a Skillet
Whether you pan sear salmon in a skillet exclusively or you finish the fillet in the oven, the secret to crispy skin remains the same: plenty of heat and patience.
Yields:
2 servings
Ingredients:
2 center-cut fillets about 1” thick (use fillets with a uniform thickness for best results)
2 Tbsp. grapeseed oil (or anotherneutral oil with a fairly high smoke point)
Kosher salt
Freshly cracked black pepper
Special equipment:
Paper towel
Sharp chef’s knife
Heavy skillet (either cast iron or stainless steel; it should be oven safe if you choose to finish the salmon in the oven)
Remove the salmon fillets from the fridge 15 minutes before cooking. Carefully pat all sides down with a paper towel—the drier the salmon the crispier the skin.
Using a sharp chef’s knife, make four shallow cuts (aim for a depth of ¼”) diagonally across the salmon skin. Repeat in the opposite direction so that you end up with a crosshatch pattern. This extra step will allow the salmon to lie flat over high heat and on your plate (otherwise the skin has a tendency to curl under).
Generously season the salmon fillets with kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper.
Add the oil to the pan and heat over medium-heat high until the oil is just beginning to shimmer. Resist the temptation to add the salmon before the pan preheats!
Using long-handled tongs, carefully add the salmon fillets skin-side down to the pan. Cook the salmon for 4 minutes undisturbed (again, resist the temptation to move the fillets around in the pan or flip them after only a moment or two).
Carefully flip the salmon fillets over using a fish spatula and cook for another 3 minutes. The salmon should feel firm but not dried out. Remember, it’s always a good idea to remove the salmon from its heat source just before it’s done, as the residual heat will continue cooking the fish.
Serve the salmon fillets with the skin on while still hot.
From skillet to oven method:
Preheat the oven to 350° F.
Follow steps 1 to 4 exactly as described above.
Gently place the salmon fillets in the hot oil skin-side down and cook for 2 minutes. Carefully turn the fish skin-side up with a spatula and cook for 2 more minutes.
Transfer the hot skillet to the preheated oven and cook the salmon for another 8 to 10 minutes or until the fish flakes easily and has turned opaque.
Perfect pairing:
Pan-seared salmon is a great match for a crunchy broccoli slaw dressed with soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. A bottle of cold, crisp lager with an optional squeeze of lime is all that’s needed to round out the meal.
How to Poach Salmon on the Stovetop
Poaching is an elegant, easy cooking method that results in perfectly flaky, coral-colored salmon. This method uses white wine, but feel free to use water or fish stock in its place.
Lightly season the salmon fillet with kosher salt. The skin can be left on or removed (many fish counters will do this free of charge).
Add the wine, dill, parsley, scallions, and lemon slices to the sauté pan along with an extra teaspoon of salt.
Set the salmon fillet on top of the aromatics and fill the rest of pan with cold water so that it just covers the salmon.
Bring the poaching liquid to a rolling simmer over medium-high heat. Immediately turn down the heat to medium-low and place the lid over the salmon.
Allow the salmon to gently simmer in the poaching liquid for 5 minutes. Check to make sure the salmon is opaque (give it another 30 to 45 seconds if not) and carefully remove with a fish spatula.
Perfect pairing:
Poached salmon can be served hot or at room temperature and tastes particularly delicious when served with steamed snap peas and asparagus. Poached salmon can also be served chilled as part of a green salad or cold grain dish. Enjoy the rest of that pinot gris used in the poaching liquid; its slight acidity is a fantastic match with oily fish.
How to Grill Salmon on a Plank
Morgan is a huge fan of grilling salmon using the plank method. In fact, it’s the only method she’ll use for grilling salmon. “If I had to name my absolute favorite way, it would be to grill salmon a la plancha* or on a cedar or alder plank. I never grill salmon directly on the grill grates because the delicate flesh inevitably sticks to the grill,” she says. To get started with this method you’ll need a wooden plank (preferably cedar) that has been soaked in cold water for several hours.
Yields:
2–4 servings
Ingredients:
1–2 large salmon fillets, ~1 lb each.
Olive oil
Kosher salt
Freshly cracked pepper
Special equipment:
Wooden grilling plank (like these cedar grilling planks fromGrill Gourmet)
Grill (gas or charcoal)
Fish spatula/turner
Soak the grilling plank for 2 to 4 hours in cold water.
Heat the grill to medium heat and arrange the pre-soaked grilling plank directly on the grill rack.
Brush the salmon with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
Carefully place the salmon on the grilling plank. Close the lid and cook the salmon for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on the size of the fillet.
Remove the cooked salmon from the plank. It should separate easily from the skin. Serve while hot.
*A la plancha is a Spanish cooking technique seldom seen in North America. It involves cooking food on a flat-top metal grill that resembles a griddle.
Perfect pairing:
Classic barbecue sides like corn on the cob and grilled veggies are right at home next to salmon cooked via the plank method. A mellow lightly chilled pinot noir will complement the salmon’s buttery flavor.
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You might have heard about the link between aluminum in deodorant and breast cancer. It makes for a terrifying headline—after all, more than 90 percent of Americans use some form of underarm deodorant or antiperspirant, and we count our fresh-smelling selves among that number. If there’s something dangerous lurking in our stick of Secret, we’d certainly want to know about it. We looked into the science surrounding the proposed link between aluminum and breast cancer, and we found some conflicting information. Before you throw out your deodorant, here’s what you need to know.
Why is there aluminum in deodorant, anyway?
Most leading deodorants contain some amount of aluminum salt, which prompts the question: Why? What’s a metallic substance doing in your armpit? The short answer is that aluminum is extraordinarily effective as an antiperspirant. It temporarily plugs up the sweat ducts, leaving you with that nice dry feeling that you’ve come to know and love. Deodorant and antiperspirant are separate things; deodorant gets rid of body odor, while antiperspirant attempts to stop sweat from occurring in the first place. Therefore, you can find deodorants that don’t contain any antiperspirant (more on those in a moment). However, if your deodorant does contain antiperspirant, it likely contains aluminum. Few other ingredients work as effectively, and while aluminum-free antiperspirants exist, they’re rare.
Why are some people concerned about aluminum in deodorant?
We can trace a lot of the controversy to a study conducted in 2005 by Philippa Darbre, PhD, professor emeritus at the University of Reading. Darbre, a breast cancer researcher, noticed that cancer was unusually common in the upper outer quadrant of the breast and suspected that deodorant was somehow responsible. “Aluminum is something that has always concerned me [in deodorants],” Darbre tells HealthyWay. “I don’t know whether it’s aluminum on its own, or the mixture, because there are quite a lot of chemicals in there. But the aluminum is a major concern.” Darbre says that she began studying tumor samples and finding aluminum in just about every one of them. “To cut a long story short, there’s aluminum in every type of breast tissue I can lay my hands on,” she says. “There’s aluminum getting into the human breast. Getting in [in] high quantities. Aluminum is not something that our bodies would normally have in them. The question is, is it harmful or is it not? It’s getting in, but what might it do?” Initially, she believed that aluminum was triggering estrogen receptors. Estrogen exposure seems to be a risk factor for breast cancer, so the hypothesis made sense. Today, however, she believes that aluminum is toxic because it causes a loss of expression of BRCA1, which is a breast cancer susceptibility gene. Darbre is also one of the main researchers behind the anti-paraben movement. In 2004, she identified large concentrations of parabens, a type of preservative substance used in various cosmetics (including deodorants), in human breast tumors. “It’s certainly true when people put these solutions under their arms, they’re not just putting a solution of aluminum,” Darbre says. “They’re putting a lot of other chemicals as well, and those chemicals are going to be interacting. There’s a lot of them in there already that can mimic estrogen action as well, and what we’re looking at with all these things is cocktails of chemicals.”
Does aluminum in deodorant cause breast cancer?
Here’s where things get complicated. Depending on who you ask, the aluminum-in-our-deodorants scare is either totally warranted or completely overblown. Currently, the scales are tilted in favor of “overblown,” but cancer researchers tend to agree that more studies would be helpful. A few examples that turned up in our research:
In 2014, the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) recommended regulations to limit the amount of aluminum used in antiperspirants. They also recommended that women avoid using antiperspirants after shaving their armpits, hypothesizing that freshly shaved skin would allow aluminum into the body.
A 2017 scientific review found that “the contention that the use of aluminum-containing antiperspirants promotes breast cancer is not supported by consistent scientific data.” That review also noted that large-scale studies assessing the potential link between aluminum and breast cancer would be beneficial.
We certainly can’t say that aluminum in deodorant is definitively linked with cancer, but we also can’t call this a conspiracy theory; aluminum’s toxicity deserves more research. Currently, though, most authoritative sources we found agree that aluminum is a safe deodorant ingredient, including the National Cancer Institute and the American Cancer Society. We should also note that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration says that current research shows that parabens are safe in cosmetics, including deodorants.
If you don’t want to wear deodorant with aluminum, you’ve got options.
We realize that all of this isn’t exactly a ringing endorsement of the deodorant industry, so if you decide to play it safe, we won’t call you paranoid. Fortunately, you’ve got options. The first and most obvious choice is to stop wearing deodorant altogether. No, seriously: You might not even need it. A study from the University of Bristol found that about 5 percent of people aren’t naturally smelly, thanks to a rare genetic variation (which we’re tempted to call a superpower). If you’re one of the lucky few, you can ditch the deodorant without sending your co-workers fleeing from the office in disgust. Besides, your current deodorant might be doing more harm than good. Some research suggests that regular antiperspirant use has a remarkable effect on your armpit’s microbiome (the bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms that exist on healthy skin). If that’s the case, you might actually end up being smellier as a result of your deodorant, which obviously isn’t ideal. That’s not to say that you shouldn’t do anything about your odors. “I haven’t used [underarm deodorants] for more than 20 years,” Barbre says. “I use nothing under my arms. I wash with soap and water twice a day, and so far nobody’s complained. I believe the more you use, the more you need.” If you’re not sold on that solution—and yes, we realize it’s a hard sell—consider aluminum-free deodorant options from brands like Tom’s of Maine, Native, Origins, and Schmidt’s. Note that some of these brands also offer deodorants that do contain aluminum, so read the ingredient list carefully. If you want to get away from aluminum but you still want to stop the sweating, check out aluminum-free antiperspirants from brands like HyperDri, which uses tiny proteins called peptides instead of aluminum salts. Be prepared to pay for this state-of-the-art sweat tech though. Finally, remember that cancers are complicated. Dozens of risk factors can influence your risk of developing breast cancer, and things like family history, age, and alcohol use are certainly more significant (and more widely accepted) factors than deodorant use. Keep that in mind the next time you hear that a certain substance or ingredient “causes cancer.” Chances are good that the actual science is a whole lot more complicated than that.
For three months, I sported 15 pairs of leggings around the city. Some tagged along to my favorite yoga studios for power vinyasa and heated hatha flows. Others were sidekicks for a bit more heavy weightlifting, running and hiking through my favorite local parks, traveling across the country, yoga teacher training, and nibbles at my favorite local eateries. Suffice it to say, I used the past several months to find out just how compatible each pair was with my wildly unpredictable lifestyle.
The Ultimate Legging Test
As a retired lululemon educator, avid fitness enthusiast, yoga teacher, and certified personal trainer, I’ve been in the legging game for a while. Leggings are the one constant in my ever-changing wardrobe, and finding dependable, quality options that accommodate my many endeavors has become a bit of a specialty. Through this project, I get to share this niche with you—my fellow women pursuing the perfect pair of black stretchy pants to support you as you conquer your next sweat sesh, athleisure adventure, and whatever else your day has in store.
Criteria to Consider When Shopping for the Best Workout Leggings
Material
You may have noticed the exceedingly wide range of activities listed above. Well, for each one, there’s an ideal legging material. Unfortunately, the best leggings for a slow yoga flow won’t typically be conducive to your weekend WODs at your favorite CrossFit box. While some materials tend to feel like a traditional legging, boasting that familiar cottony-soft feel, others have a notably sleeker finish. With this, we tend to see a shift from matte, brushed fabric to a silky, cool weave. These differences reflect a number of factors that are important to consider. Moisture-wicking properties, for example, are highly variable and tend to be most effective in workout leggings that have a silkier finish. This technology will help the leggings remain dry during circumstances that are sure to create quite a bit of sweat. Bikram, anyone? Four-way stretch is another characteristic that I took into consideration while evaluating each of the leggings I tested. This is present when a legging can easily stretch in both directions: crosswise and lengthwise. Many leggings with spandex blends offer this feature, and let me tell you, it’s a must! The wash and care instructions are yet another detail worth considering. Some workout leggings require a bit more love and patience than others. While this may not be a deal breaker, it’s nonetheless worth considering prior to making a purchase. Clinginess is a major factor as well! Have you ever had a pair of leggings that always looked as if it had picked up every fleck of lint or dog hair within in a 10-foot radius? Certain materials tend to latch onto particles more than others, and more often than not, these are the same cottony soft fabrics we love lounging around the house in. Others, though, are seemingly repellent and can make a great pick for travel days and pup walking. Last but certainly not least, the sheerness of material can often be the deciding factor when it comes to purchasing a new pair of workout leggings. Whether you’re hanging out in downward dog, whipping through a few snatches, or chasing your precious toddler around the kitchen, the material of a legging determines whether or not you’ll be bending over without hesitation. Some fabrics, quite embarrassingly, fall short.
Rise
Where should the waistband of your leggings fit? Well, truth be told, it’s up to you and your personal preference! Of course, many women love their low-rise pairs, but it seems the majority of companies are gravitating toward designing workout leggings that boast high-rise waistlines. Is this high-waist fit better? Not necessarily, but they certainly leave you feeling far more hugged and supported. There’s also the undeniable fact that high-rise waistbands create the illusion of an hourglass figure for even those with square torsos—myself included. lululemon Note that within the realm of the high rise, there are still variations. High-rise for one brand may mean two inches below the belly button, while other brands’ high-rise leggings reach up toward the sternum, resulting in a dramatically different look and feel.
Length
Leggings offer just as many options for length as they do for rise! There are pairs that sit around the ankles, others that fit snug around the lower calf, and still more that land either right above or just below the knee. I’ll be referring to these as full-length, ⅞ length, and capri throughout my reviews. Preferences for each of these will depend largely on an individual’s height. As a petite woman, my personal collection features many of my go-to ⅞ length leggings. Athleta Full-length leggings often have extra fabric that gathers around the ankles of shorter gals, which certainly isn’t always an issue! With that said, this may not be conducive to activities like high-intensity spinning. Capris are an obvious fix to this, with a much shorter length that’s perfect for sweaty pursuits that call for a bit more breathability. Not all of us enjoy this “half-pant” look though, and if that’s the case for you, the ⅞ length will help you inhabit the middle ground with enviable style.
Paneling
Ah, the perks of mesh detailing. Aside from the aesthetic advantages we’ve all seen and loved, mesh paneling also offers a degree of technicality to a pair of leggings. In many cases, companies include this feature to improve the breathability of the pant. Of course, some workout leggings offer far more assistance in this department than others. Athleta When meshing is present in a pair of leggings, it’s important to understand how this could potentially affect their fit, stretch, and comfort. Various brands have mastered high-quality flexibility, but others manufacture leggings that are far more likely to snap at the seams around less expertly-executed mesh paneling when they’re pulled up the body. With aesthetics in mind, let’s also remember that meshing is hella cute in the gym but not always ideal for everyday wear. If you’re a feisty mama who loves the look of skin shining through those peek-a-boos, don’t let me stop you! Many of us, though, prefer a solid fabric look for our athleisure pursuits and lounging around the house. Ultimately, the look and feel of mesh paneling is something to keep in mind as you consider what you can comfortably wear your leggings with and where you want to sport them.
Pockets
Side pockets, waistband pockets, zippered pockets—all the pockets. Given our countless gadgets, many brands are creating leggings that offer several different ways to carry our necessities. Side pockets are particularly effective for stashing phones during workouts or errand runs, while waistband pockets are better suited for cash, IDs, cards, and loose keys. lululemon Zippered pockets can be used in a similar fashion but with an added security measure to ensure your valuables won’t slip or fall out during any intense movement. (Because no one wants to replace an iPhone screen, am I right?) If you like keeping your items on your body (literally), this is one feature that you won’t want to dismiss.
Everyday Wear
With each of these characteristics carefully considered, there’s still one more important feature to add to the list. Despite the hundreds of leggings gracing the market, not all conform well to daily wear. Details like the fabric quality, waistband rise, length, paneling, and pockets can all affect how well a legging fits into your wardrobe, weekly routines, and travels. If you’re a woman who’s constantly on the go, this is an important criterion to keep in mind. On days you find yourself rushing from the yoga studio to lunch with your girlfriends, a dependable pair of leggings that goes just as well with your favorite sporty crop as it does a cozy button-down is simply non-negotiable. If this scenario sounds all too familiar, it’s easy to see why the level of comfort and the overall look of the pant are also worth considering!
Requiring greater flexibility than any other style of workout tight, the right pair of yoga leggings must blend comfortable fabric with a reliable, solid finish. In my frequently changing world, they also need to support me in each of my yogi pursuits: from the slowest yin flows to the most upbeat power vinyasas (and everything in between)!
These leggings offer a goddess warrior squat-proof, naked-feeling fit and super-cute aesthetics. Merging heavenly soft material with side pockets and mesh cutouts for both functionality and style, these leggings are the ultimate game changer. Athleta Material: You’re sure to notice this feature as soon as you slide this legging on, but the Salutation Tight is made with highly breathable material. This airy, thin fabric wicked away the possibility of any lingering sweat during class. The all-too-common dilemma of visible sweat spots? Not an issue with this legging. The overall fit is remarkably comfortable: I did not experience any chafing or excessive compression along the seams of these yoga pants. After taking them off, there wasn’t a single hint of residual indentation down my legs. Athleta’s mesh is far more flexible than what you’ll find in many other pairs. In fact, it moves with the legging during the wildest yoga sequences. The matte black material denied any possibility of sheerness. It held up throughout my widest prasarita padottanasana and wasn’t shiny in the least, which I loved. Despite the clinginess that often accompanies luxuriously soft leggings, the Athleta Meshblock Pocket Salutation Tight was essentially anti-clinging and anti-pilling. No visible pup hair despite our tightest early morning snuggles. What’s more, according to Athleta’s website, the Salutation Tight can be machine washed and dried, which is a definite win for the modern yogi. Rise:Thanks to a high-rise waistband that hits just below the belly button—and the already mentioned soft matte material—flowing through a vinyasa class in these yoga leggings combines comfort with undeniable style. The waistband lays flat and never gathered beneath my form-fittinglululemon Cool Racerback. Throughout each of my yoga classes, the high-rise waistband successfully resisted folding and bunching. Length:The Meshblock Salutation Tight comes in regular, plus, petite, and tall sizes, meaning you can find the perfect length for your yoga flow. I wore the regular tight with a 26” inseam for reference. Paneling:The strategically placed mesh blocks flatter a woman’s natural curves and contribute to breathability, making these great go-to leggings for hot and power yoga flows. With that said, be sure to remove them after heated classes. Although they are moisture-wicking, no one enjoys a clammy feeling after 90 minutes of perspiration. Pockets:These yoga leggings feature a waistband pocket that’s useful for non-clunky items like cards, cash, or a loose key, although I wouldn’t recommend using it for any such items during a flow. A nagging poke into your abdomen isn’t necessarily conducive to a moving meditation. Walking into my local yoga studio, I was pleased to find that the side pockets easily accommodated my iPhone 6s during the quick commute. Everyday Wear: Not only do these leggings afford you the opportunity to move through your day freely—you’ll also look good doing it! After my most zenned-out (non-heated) yoga flow, I threw on platform Vans and a boxy striped crop to give the femininity a bit more ’90s edge, then grabbed a casual dinner with my beau in the city. Considerations: If you’re looking for cellulite-concealing compression, this won’t be your ideal pair of yoga pants. A thicker, slightly sleeker fabric would be your best alternative. As mentioned, the sweat I’d worked up during the 108-degree dates with my mat resulted in a noticeably moist feeling. I loved the comfort mid-class but made sure to change into my breezy romper before heading out to my favorite coffee shop. With that said, the general breathability isn’t quite enough for a quick transition from the studio to your next activity.
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If you’re looking for a legging that boasts the same level of comfort, tummy-hugging waistband, and naked-feeling fabric without the mesh paneling, then the lululemon Align Pant is the perfect option. Made with a nearly identical material, the cut-outs are the only detail that distinguishes the winning Athleta Meshblock from this deserving runner-up. lululemon The softness of the lululemon Align Pant is coupled with similar moisture-wicking properties, a small pocket in the waistband, and a variety of lengths to choose from depending on your stature. On days when I knew I’d be rushing from one activity to the next, this was the legging I reached for first! As cute as mesh can be, it isn’t always my desired look when running errands or headed to a mid-afternoon kombucha date. Wanting more deets about this flattering legging? It’s my clear winner in another category, so read on as I’ll discuss the Align Pant in greater detail below.
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Unlike yoga leggings, running tights have yet another crucial dimension to consider: compression. The right pairs will often be designed with material that contributes to a sturdier sensation and boasts a sleek finish to minimize the possibility of pilling during the high-friction activity. Wearing various pairs from the city streets to hidden dirt trails and back for my gym’s newest Skillmill allowed me to test just how much these running leggings could withstand.
Athleta struck gold when they perfected the balance between well-built compression and uncompromising comfort in this running legging. With the sought-after bells and whistles, including everything from a secure zippered pocket to reflective properties, these leggings seem to have it all. Of course, I put them through a battery of tests to see if these lived up to their hype—wearing them during a variety of sessions ranging from all-out sprints up the grassiest hills to low-intensity steady state walks after an hour of heavy training. This legging finished leaps and bounds ahead of the others. Athleta Material: The material used for the Up for Anything running tight is the No. 1 reason for its greatness. I was impressed by how the silky material quickly dried my sweat without revealing panty lines. I’ll admit: As a woman who prefers to workout sans underwear (who needs that extra layer?!), I also appreciated how well this legging fit along the crotch during my most intense training sessions.
Although the material fits snug against the length of the pant (waistband included), it didn’t dig into my obliques or leave me unable to fully enjoy my post-run meals. These leggings provide phenomenal support and compression without preventing you from, you know, living.
Also worth noting, as light as these leggings felt during my toughest (and most humid) runs, they would still be thick enough to appease any woman hoping to hide her cellulite. Of course working up a sweat in your favorite running leggings means frequent laundering, and the cool, sleek material resists pilling after washing and wearing. There wasn’t a single sign of wear after this intensive three-month test. The cherry on top? These leggings repel even the finest dog hair, which means taking your excited pup along for a breezy jog through the park just got that much more enjoyable. Rise: The flat waistband on these high-rise leggings fit my abdomen so well that any mid-run adjustment was altogether unnecessary. As mentioned, I felt supported and entirely comfortable. Length: The ⅞ length of the Up for Anything Tight is ideal for women with a shorter stature and tailors perfectly to the calves. Because of this, there’s no need to fold the bottom of the pant or worry about excess fabric gathering around the ankles. This running tight comes in plus, petite, and tall sizes—making it a great option for the entire sisterhood of asphalt kickers.
For even more runner-friendly personalization (and safety!), the bottoms of these running leggings can be rolled up to reveal a clever added feature: reflective piping. This subtle and easily hidden detail makes the Up for Anything Tight ideal for any sunrise or sunset adventure. Paneling: These leggings don’t feature mesh panels, but the curved stitching along the upper glutes certainly adds an element of feminine style. The breathable fabric design doesn’t require any additional venting as it prevents overheating on even the warmest summer days. Pockets: These Athleta running leggings give you the option of keeping a smartphone secure against your thigh (and unaffected by any inevitable jostling) thanks to the included zipper pocket. Everyday Wear: Slim-fitting and tailored along my entire leg, I was confident sporting these leggings both during my runs and meetings with potential clients. How often can we say that? Chic athleisure? YES. Considerations: It’s difficult to find anything negative to say about these running tights. While it may be a bit nit-picky, the one area for improvement has to do with the side pockets. The slightly bulky appearance could easily be eliminated by cutting down the amount of material used, but all in all, these running tights are as close to perfect as you can get!
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For a budget-friendly option, the Core 10 Run High Waist Crop is a wonderful alternative. The silky material is similarly resistant to pilling and clinging while also providing the moisture-wicking properties we all rely on during our running endeavors. Amazon This crop fits shorter in length than Athleta’s Up for Anything Tight, with laser-detailed mesh cutouts along the calf. Both details support noteworthy breathability, and the paneling gives an enviable aesthetic appeal. Although not as supportive as the aforementioned winner, the Core 10 Crop does offer a drawstring in the high-rise waist to ensure that waistband wiggling is kept to a tolerable minimum. The overall quality and compression may not be entirely comparable to Athleta’s line, but this is another running legging that I still genuinely enjoy wearing—intensive research aside.
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What makes a legging perfect for the gym? Simple: material that’s thick enough to provide reliable compression without tiptoeing into suffocation territory, squat-proof four-way stretch, and ample moisture-wicking properties. With my tendency to spontaneously throw CrossFit WODs, Olympic Weightlifting, and HIIT conditioning circuits into my usual bodybuilding training, the right gym legging has to move from one task to another without a single hitch to earn a space in my closet.
lululemon triumphed over my sweaty battery of tests with theSpeed Up Tight. By the end of these legging-filled months, this was the one pair of leggings I habitually reached for before booking it across town to my favorite CrossFit box. Their consistent responsiveness during wildly unnatural movements (hang snatches, anyone?) and high-quality construction pushed them far ahead of the rest of the pack. lululemon Material:The thick, sleek fabric used for these lululemon tights was particularly remarkable, and no, I’m not exaggerating. The four-way stretch supported me through every direction of lunging, jerking, and pulling, while the sweat-wicking properties kept me feeling comfortably dry. Due to their silky finish, the material prevented any chafing along the inner seams or snagging during my fastest intervals on the assault bike and prevented fuzz harboring, too. As long as the Speed Up Tight is laundered properly (meaning wash on cold with like items and air dry), they’re also fairly anti-pilling—performing for a notably long period of time before showing obvious signs of wear. As compressive as compression could ever be, this lululemon legging is perfect for your most grueling pursuits as they stay in place almost like a second skin. Since we’re now all aware of my love for going commando, I’m also ecstatic to report that this pair is female-anatomy friendly. It refuses to ride up (or down, for that matter)—regardless of which piece of equipment you hop on or how low your squats go. That said, if you prefer an extra layer of comfort, I recommend wearing seamless underwear to minimize any bunching along the panty line. Rise:The waistband fits like a glove, sitting just below my belly button. As mentioned, there wasn’t any hint of movement during my training sessions. I was fully supported during every kettlebell swinging, deadlift pulling, Jacob’s ladder mastering, trail-blazing endeavor I attempted in these workout leggings. Length:As a smaller-framed woman—I’m 5’4”—there was a bit of excess fabric that bunched around the bottom of the legging. While this didn’t negatively affect any movement, this may not be your ideal pair. If you feel most confident in a tailored look, try the Athleta Up for Anything ⅞ Tight instead. Paneling: The lululemon Speed Up Tight doesn’t have any paneling, but that didn’t detract from its quality in the slightest. With the material’s cool finish, meshing simply isn’t necessary to counteract the possibility of overheating. Pockets:My iPhone 6s fit perfectly in one of the side pockets, snug against my thigh as I put myself through one of my notoriously difficult hypertrophic leg workouts. Curious to see if anything bigger would fit, I’m pleased to report that I found my gal pal’s iPhone 7 could fit just as easily! The zippered pocket along the back of the waistband is perfect for a loose key or debit card. Anything you couldn’t stand to lose should go here! Everyday Wear:Feeling hugged in your leggings is definitely important during a workout, but I was very eager to take these off as soon as each of my training sessions was over. Although beneficial for countless gym activities, the level of compression the lululemon Speed Up Tight provides made them incompatible for leisure wear and yoga. Because of this, there’s a lack of versatility if you’re hoping to incorporate these pricey leggings into your wardrobe as more than gym attire. My main takeaway: These workout leggings are a wonderful (and undoubtedly worthwhile) investment for the gym regulars who are willing to pay for the unparalleled quality these provide. Considerations:Is it too redundant if I mention the tight fit of these leggings just one more time? Although this feature essentially promises to keep the leggings in place throughout any type of workout, prepare yourself for the possibility of fabric cutting into your abdomen and mid-obliques. While it certainly wasn’t unbearable, this detail coupled with the sporty appearance means that this pair of leggings wouldn’t be a viable option for an impromptu dinner with your gym crush. If you’re searching for a workout legging that you can transform from gym attire to a casualdate night outfit, reach for the ZELLA Live In High Waist Leggings instead.
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Seeing as we aren’t strangers to the many perks of the Athleta Up for Anything ⅞ Tight, I’ll keep this short and sweet. This pair of leggings is nearly identical to the lululemon Speed Up Tight, if not for one important detail. Although it does offer enough compression to power you through a rough training session, it isn’t nearly as tight as the category winner. Athleta The support was taken down one small notch, making these leggings ideal for women who want to feel held in yet comfortable. Another factor that makes the Athleta a viable alternative is the length of the pant, which minimizes the chances of any fabric bunching around the ankles.
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If someone would have told us years ago that high-rise leggings would be the most desired staple in any woman’s wardrobe, we would have laughed off the outrageous claim. Now? Well, I can guarantee that most of us have a few different pairs tucked away in our dresser drawers. Hugging just above the waistline, these leggings have the potential to be comfortable beyond belief, but of course it’s necessary to nail all the details for this to be the case. With the right criteria mastered, you’ll find me happily sporting a high-rise pair with a longline sports bra any day. The figure-flattering combo is nothing short of magical.
Thelululemon Align Pant boasts a level of comfort that just can’t be replicated, making women (and definitely a few men) crave the feeling of their buttery soft fabric on the regular. These leggings effortlessly took me from inverted vinyasa sequences in my neighborhood yoga studio to small plates at the nearby plant-based cafe and out for an evening of mocktails with my closest friends. I even sported this matte black legging during a weekend getaway to Colorado for a round of graduate school interviews. When my world was inching into chaos, my outfit was one less thing to stress over thanks to these high-rise leggings. lululemon Material:The lululemon Align Pant is exceptionally soft and comfortable and is similar to the Athleta Meshblock Pocket Salutation Tight in terms of sweat-wicking properties and general breathability. There is a complete absence of tight compression with these pants, largely due to the thin, delicate fabric. Despite this, the shape holds perfectly when worn as suggested (meaning no high-intensity exercise, ladies). The cozy fabric hugged every inch of my lower body, from my torso to just above my ankles. It flaunts a ⅞ length, hitting in the sweet spot where calf meets ankle. The main takeaway here is hugged. These leggings were well tailored to my body, but there was no feeling of support. By the same token, though, this also means there isn’t any squeezing. Imagine this: no marks along the seams after stripping these leggings off after a full day of wear. Rise:The waistband on the lululemon Align Pant is easily my favorite of the all pairs I tested—and quite possibly of any pair I’ve ever worn. It hits just above my belly button and lays completely flat, meaning it’s blissfully incognito under any top. The waistband of the Align Pant is also tight enough to prevent any rolling or adjusting, yet there’s absolutely no digging, pinching, or suffocating. Length:The Align Pant comes in 19”, 21”, 25”, and 28” lengths, meaning there’s a luxurious option for any and all women—regardless of your height and unique preferences when it comes to fit. Paneling:This legging doesn’t have paneling, but extra features aren’t necessary given the extraordinarily thin material. In fact, the lack of mesh paneling in this pant lends to its aesthetic versatility. Pockets:The Align Pant has a small, barely noticeable pocket along the front inner seam of the waistband. It’s best used for a loose key, a few dollar bills, or an ID if your plans include running across town. The tapered mouth of the pocket keeps any tucked-away items secure throughout the day’s activities. Everyday Wear:The minimal seaming and matte black material make this legging one of the best for day-to-day wear because it’s comfy yet undeniably polished. Without a single hint of sporty athleticism, I eagerly paired the Align Pant with everything from high-top Converse to bohemian gladiators and distressed v-necks to flowy kimonos. The soft, matte finish makes these the perfect pant to transition your look from a workout to a night out. Since these workout leggings lack details like flashy paneling and elaborate piping, they’re paired well with just about any item in your closet, no matter the occasion. Considerations:As mentioned, the material in the Align Pant is fairly delicate (and doesn’t lend itself to smoothing cellulite). In terms of care, I suggest avoiding machine drying altogether to preserve the integrity of the pant. Wash your lulus on the coldest setting with similar items (no jeans or zippers—they’ll snag!) and air dry. These leggings may require a bit of caution in this respect, but I promise it’s entirely worth your while. As soon as you get your hands on a pair, you’ll quickly understand why you would want to make them last as long as possible. In addition to needing TLC, this workout legging has one of the highest price tags of the bunch, but trust me when I say that lululemon is providing you with unrivaled quality. That said, if your financial planning calls for a wallet-friendly option, read on for our best budget leggings (and the runner-up!). Finally, while these high-waisted leggings were airy and comfortable during any and all yoga flows (hot studios included), a faint clammy feeling was noticeable after my practice. The sweat spots certainly weren’t apparent, but I would still recommend removing these pants shortly after a warm class since they are not altogether moisture-wicking.
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With thicker fabric, full length, and a lower price tag, the ZELLA Live In High Waist Leggings are an easy runner-up to the lululemon Align Pant. When it comes to the beauty of high-rise waistbands, ZELLA has created a staple pant. Similar to the Align, the waistline hits above the belly button, but this is where the two pairs diverge. The fabric of the Live In High Waist Leggings is much thicker, giving it a far more supportive and structured sensation. Somehow, with a bit of legging luck and magic, the pant achieves this level of support while simultaneously maintaining the utmost comfort. Nordstrom Along the back of the waistband, the seams dip into a curved line (versus the straight lines of the Align Pant), flattering the upper tush. We’ll dive into the details of this legging—which won Best Everyday—later in the article, so read on for the complete picture.
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As amazing as the previously mentioned workout leggings are, I would be lying if I said I could drop $100 on leggings regularly. I’m a young woman working three jobs, planning a move across the country, and taking care of my furbaby, all while prioritizing nourishing my body by investing in the best food and movement protocols. If we’re talking budget, I’m the first to admit that wallet-friendly workout legging options are absolutely necessary. Whether you’re stranded in an unfamiliar city in dire need of a sweat sesh or are prioritizing daycare costs, home ownership, or an aggressive savings plan, the right $30 leggings can easily win a place in our hearts and wardrobes. All women, regardless of financial constraints, should be able to enjoy high-quality fashion and activewear, am I right?
These leggings offer fabric quality and a chic aesthetic that puts them on par with brands like Athleta and lululemon—all while costing under $30. The surprising combination of comfort, style, and adaptability of the 7Goals High Waisted Cyber X Mesh Panel Legging had me packing them in my yoga bag without a second thought. To sum it up: They flaunt many perks that I had once believed were only available with luxury brands. Amazon Material: 7Goals has refined the perfect blend of stretch, support, comfort, and affordability. These leggings aren’t see-through in the slightest. In fact, even when stretching into the lowest yogi squat, you won’t fall victim to panty peekaboo or the all-too-common sheen that plagues many budget leggings.
The fabric in this pant has a soft, brushed finish, making it a cozy choice for any leisure (or mindful) activity. Rise: The high-rise x-band waistline was a new detail for my athleisure-laden wardrobe. Although I was a bit wary when first trying them on, it took nothing more than a quick peek in the mirror to fall head over heels for the effect. The cross-wrapping along the front of the abdomen accentuated my rectangular waistline, instantly affording me an hourglass shape. What’s not to love? Length: The High Waisted Cyber X Mesh Panel Legging is tailored along the calves and hits just above the ankles. There was little to no extra fabric gathering at the bottom. Despite my short stature, I do have long legs, which can make finding the right length pant a difficult task. Just one more reason this workout legging was awarded budget gold! Paneling: To my surprise, the mesh detailing was comfortable and the flexibility of the leggings around the long panels wasn’t affected. The stylish feature actually helped the overall breathability of the pant, which made me forget that these were a budget steal! I took advantage of this playful and feisty look during a few yoga flows and weekend trips to nearby dog parks. Pockets: This pant doesn’t have any pockets, which could be a downside depending on your plans. The paneling makes side pockets impossible, but an insert along the inner lining of the waistband would’ve been a nice addition. Personally, I wasn’t fazed by this missing feature. As convenient as a pocket may be when you’re on the go, I’m not one who tends to tuck items away in my waistband. Everyday Wear: I had no reservations when reaching for this pair of leggings for an entire day (and sure, maybe several consecutive days) of yoga, poetry slams, pup dates, brunch outings, and more. My legging logic? If no one you know can claim to have seen you in the outfit, did you really wear it? Flaunt these for a stylin’ three-day streak. I won’t tell. Considerations: The fabric of the 7Goals High Waisted Cyber X Mesh Legging does tend to bunch around the waist simply due to the extra material required to create the x-band. It doesn’t present any issues when pairing the pant with a strappy sports bra or cropped tank, but it may be less than ideal if you’re hoping to couple the leggings with a more standard top.
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For an option that doesn’t require mail delivery (7Goals styles are available online only), the Old Navy High-Rise Compression Leggings do a decent job, providing adequate quality within a tight budget. The fabric of this pant gives a similarly brushed sensation—like the 7Goals—but it’s noticeably thinner than the victor. Price considered, this Old Navy Legging gives you exactly what you need to get the job done. It’s bare necessities, but bare necessities done well. Old Navy The legging has a simple look, absent of any ostentatious piping or overly athletic tones. This makes it a good fit for everyday wear that will pair well with longer tops if that’s a look you’re after. From lounging to errands, your behind will be covered.
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Best Everyday Leggings
Leggings or jeans, jeans or leggings? The answer is fairly simple for me. As far as I’m concerned, leggings are the ultimate pant for almost any situation. In a world that’s finally beginning to understand that we as women have the power to and pleasure of expressing ourselves in own bodies, why not choose to dress them in what feels best? Plus, leggings give us the opportunity to drop into a post-five-hour-flight downward dog at a moment’s notice. Yes, please.
The name totally gives away my favorite feature of these leggings. ZELLA was right when they implied you could live in these Live In High Waist Leggings. And can we talk affordability? This pair may not be $30, but I’m sure you’ll be just as surprised as I was when you try these on for yourself. For how cozy, functional, and supportive these leggings are, a price tag of $54 is nothing short of wonderful. Nordstrom Material:The moderately thick, brushed fabric of the Live In High Rise is as comfortable as it gets, making these leggings a true dream for any woman’s version of everyday attire. My own pair supported me through exhausting travel days, back-to-back personal training appointments, and even 25-hour yoga workshop weekends. The ZELLA Live In Leggings were particularly wonderful for the late-spring gloom Mother Nature decided to unleash on Midwesterners this year, yet it’s not too thick for the recent warmer weather days. As mentioned, the material is quite a bit thicker than what I tend to gravitate toward. My revelation? These leggings offer added warmth without inhibiting flexibility or the integrity of the fit and design! Rise:The Live In waistband is, well, outstanding. The high-rise hit above my belly button and stayed in place despite hours of unpredictable movement. The material provided an altogether comforting feeling of compression across my torso that was noticeably different from what I experienced in previous pairs. These high-waisted leggings are the perfect combination of firm and forgiving—no digging, cinching, or anxieties about suffocation. Length:The bottom hem of the leggings hit at my ankles, making them a fitting pairing for both my battered deadlifting sneaks and femme fatale combat boots. Paneling:The ZELLA Live In High Rise doesn’t include any mesh paneling. That said, the aforementioned seaming above the glutes was one welcome surprise that all the other pairs in this cohort lacked. Hello, shaping. Pockets:I kept my driver’s license and debit card handy without needing to lug around a purse thanks to the pocket hidden in the waistband of the ZELLA Live In High Waist Leggings. Everyday Wear:Strides ahead of many other pairs, these are the perfect leggings for brisk walks along shaded trails, lunch at the mom and pop restaurant down the road, and Pilates on the gym’s newest reformers. Considerations: This pair was prone to clinging because of the brushed material of these everyday leggings. A spontaneous wrestling match with my pup required some attentive lint rolling before strutting out in public again. If you have any fine-haired, light-colored furry friends in your family, consider yourself warned. Also, I may be a fan of ZELLA when popping into my favorite yoga studio for the yummiest slow flows (hello, deep stretch), but I’m not an advocate for wearing theLive In High Waist Leggings to the gym for heavy training. The fabric is similar to that of a Luon-based lululemon Wunder Under, for anyone who’s familiar. It’s notably thicker than the rest of the leggings I tested, with more of a cotton-like feel. Daily WODs and conditioning circuits aren’t in the cards while wearing these, but milder sessions of targeted bodybuilding (arm day, for example), a barre class, or even Zumba are feasible! You can definitely count on the Live In Leggings as a workout staple, but steer clear of the unavoidable wet spots along the sweatiest areas of the body by opting for the lululemon Speed Up Tight or Athleta Up for Anything if you know you’re going to be sweating it out. Given the pilling nature of the pant, any high-friction activities like sprinting intervals or CrossFit circuits could also lead to early signs of wear.
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Ah, the return of the buttery soft staple! The lululemon Align Pant is your next go-to for everyday wear. With a lengthy list of benefits, it’s hard not to love what this legging has to offer. If the ZELLA Live In High Waist Leggings is a bit too thick for your taste, this is the alternative I would recommend. lululemon Not only that, but the varying lengths available mean a capri, ⅞ crop, or full-length pant are all options for your wardrobe’s most pressing needs. Depending on your typical day-to-day activities, lululemon has designed a legging that’s as close to heaven as we mortals can get.
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With summer quickly approaching, there’s never been a better time to try your hand at creating your very own indoor herb garden. It turns out there are quite a few herbs that are easy to grow inside, so even those of us who live in teeny-tiny apartments (with no real outdoor garden area to speak of) can get in on the action. Herbs are a great place to start. Not only are many of them easy to grow, but they’re also useful for cooking. Don’t think you have a green thumb? You don’t need one! We’re outlining exactly how to grow your own herbs indoors, even if you have no prior gardening experience.
Herb Gardening for Beginners: 5 Herbs Anyone Can Grow
“Most herbs are meant to be consumed, so you’re not actually looking to grow them long-term,” says Jon VanZile, master gardener and author of Houseplants for a Healthy Home. Here are five to get you started:
Basil
This Mediterranean herb does best in warm weather, says VanZile. It’s a great addition to lots of foods like pizza, pasta, salads, and sandwiches.
Mint
Mint is super versatile and can be used in sweet and savory dishes, says Jodi Moreno, chef and recipe developer of What’s Cooking Good Looking.
Thyme
Thyme can be used on its own or paired with other herbs like rosemary, says Moreno, making it another versatile option. It’s particularly yummy when used in roasted dishes.
Parsley
This herb grows all year, can withstand cooler temperatures, and can be added to just about any meal, says Rebecca Lee, registered nurse and founder of the natural home remedy blog Remedies for Me.
Chives
Lee says that chives are hardy, can last through winter, and can be added to just about any dish. Maria Failla, founder and creator of the podcast Bloom and Grow Radio, likes using chives at breakfast time.
For a study published in the Journal of Health Psychology, participants performed a stressful task, then spent 30 minutes either gardening outdoors or reading a book inside. Both activities lowered their cortisol (aka the stress hormone) levels, but gardening had a bigger effect. “I find plants calming and psychologically wonderful to have at home,” says VanZile. “To be keeping a plant alive in a space, it’s a very nurturing activity.”
Growing herbs makes meal prep a bit easier.
“Certain plants have functional purposes,” says VanZile. The fact that you can eat herbs cuts down on having to run to the supermarket for that ingredient you might have forgotten to put in your cart.
Growing herbs teaches you something useful.
VanZile says he finds growing herbs and caring for them to be very grounding. “Here’s something that you need to take care of almost on a daily basis,” he says. “It brings a kind of very positive discipline to your day and to your life.” Growing herbs is also an educational experience for kids. Sara-Chana Silverstein, master herbalist, has seven kids and has gotten them involved in the process of growing herbs in their tiny Brooklyn apartment. “It was important to me for them to understand how things grow,” she says. “Every spring we make a garden on our fire escape.”
Where to Get Your Herbs
Once you decide which herbs you want to grow in your apartment or house, it’s time to go out and buy them. “Herbs are very, very available,” says VanZile. You can buy them at supermarkets, nurseries, or home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s. For true beginners, pre-potted, pre-sprouted herbs are your best bet, says VanZile. “Seedlings require a lot of light to do well—more light than a window can give them,” he says. “So you’re probably going to want to invest in a fluorescent light and tray [if you’re growing seedlings], and suddenly you’re not a beginner anymore.” VanZile says the main reason you’d want to start with seeds is if the herb you’re looking for doesn’t come pre-potted.
How to Create an Indoor Herb Garden
Now that you have your herbs, we’ll teach you how to care for them properly.
Place your herbs in the right spot.
All herbs should be placed in a sunny spot with south-, east-, or west-facing windows being the best choices, says VanZile. “Avoid a north-facing window because there’s just not enough sunlight,” he says. Failla, who lives in an apartment in New York City, says it’s ideal for indoor herbs to get six to eight hours of direct sunlight per day. VanZile says as long as you have a window that gets some sunlight, you shouldn’t need to invest in any fancy equipment. If you truly don’t have any space for herbs near a window, you can invest in a fluorescent light setup, although this may be costly. Modernsprout’s Growhouse ($150) was designed for indoor spaces and features full spectrum LED lights.
Know when to water your herbs.
VanZile doesn’t like to give a hard-and-fast rule about how often you should water your herbs because it really depends on where you live. If you’re in Arizona and it’s 110 degrees outside, you may need to water your herbs more frequently than someone who lives in a cooler or more humid climate. The best thing you can do is pay attention to how your herbs and the soil look. “If you need a marker, use the surface of the soil as a gauge,” says VanZile. “If the surface of the soil is dry and starting to contract, your herb probably needs water.” If an herb starts to get droopy, that means it needs more water, says VanZile, while if it starts to get yellow, it’s getting too much water.
Don’t let your herbs sit in water.
“All indoor plants need really good drainage,” says VanZile. Let the water run out of the bottom of the pot (the pot should have drainage holes in it), and then empty the saucer underneath the pot once the soil is drained. “Never let a potted plant sit in water because this will rot the roots and be terrible for the plant,” says VanZile.
Pick the right soil.
VanZile says the right soil will help with water drainage and ensure your herbs have a healthy lifespan. He suggests using a fortified soil like Miracle-Gro, which you can find at nurseries, grocery stores, and Home Depot or Lowe’s.
Get rid of bugs without chemicals.
“There are pests that are going to be attracted to herbs for sure,” says VanZile. If you suspect there are critters on your herbs, lift, look under, and brush the leaves to see if anything flies off. Check for little dots that look like mites, because almost every bug is going to leave behind some trace that it’s living there. Scale insects, mealybugs, spider mites, and whiteflies are the most common pests. VanZile doesn’t do anything until he actually knows his plants have bugs on them. Then, the rule of thumb would be to start with the least toxic option. Take your herb to the sink, turn on your spray faucet, and spray the bugs off. “Do that several times over the course of a week to blow away any bugs, larvae, or eggs,” says VanZile. If that doesn’t work, try neem oil. “It’s generally non-toxic and is a very gentle product,” says VanZile. “I would never use a strong pesticide on an herb I was going to eat. I would just throw it out and buy another one. They’re cheap, so the margin for error here is tremendous.”
Determine when your herbs are ready to use.
“As soon as your herb has mature leaves on it at all, it’s ready to eat,” says VanZile. “Once flowers start to appear, that means it’s probably near the end of its lifespan and is getting bitter, so it won’t be as tasty.” If you’re growing herbs from seeds, it’s usually 30 to 45 days before you can harvest the plants, says Failla. When you are harvesting your herbs, be gentle, says Lee, since tugging at the leaves can strain the plant and dislodge the roots.
How to Cook with Your Herbs
“You can mix basil into so many different kinds of pastas,” says Moreno, “and it’s great as a garnish.” She suggests using it as one of the main components in an herby salad. VanZile uses basil a lot, making pizza at least once a week. Failla and her boyfriend make basil-walnut pesto. “Any dish you make is elevated by some fresh basil on top,” says Failla. “It can be something so basic, like tomatoes with basil and a little sea salt.” You can use parsley in pesto or as a garnish as well. Moreno uses mint in tea and in smoothies. “I also love to throw a little mint in sauces, even if the recipe doesn’t call for mint,” she says. “It adds a pop of brightness that you’re not expecting.” Moreno says that mint is also a great addition to salads when used sparingly. “It can really overpower a dish if you use too much,” she says. Meanwhile, cucumber-mint yogurt is a favorite of Failla’s. Thyme is a great herb for roasting veggies, meat, chicken, and fish, says Moreno. “I usually pair thyme and rosemary together,” she says, “but if I were to use one on its own, it would be thyme.” Failla says she makes cheesy scrambled eggs with them. Sometimes she’ll shred potatoes, sautee them with a little salt, let them sit and get crispy like hash browns, and add the cheesy eggs on top.
How to Dry Your Herbs
Dry your homegrown herbs by cutting off the stems, tying them, and hanging them upside down in a cool, dark, dry place, says Lee. The flavor of dried herbs takes more time to come out, so you should plan to use them earlier on in the cooking process to let their flavor bloom, while fresh herbs don’t need to be added until later on, says Moreno. Dried herbs are a great option in the wintertime if you’re making a soup or stew that takes hours to cook, while fresh herbs are a great to add to condiments like salsa that you can whip together in a few minutes, says Moreno.
Minimalism is all the rage these days, with just about everyone and their mother opting for a life free of clutter and embracing the less-is-more philosophy. And that trend has translated into beauty, with no makeup makeup becoming one of the go-to looks on red carpets and runways in the last couple of years. The thing is, while no makeup makeup comes across as relatively low-key, it actually takes a bit more effort to do than you might think. That doesn’t mean no makeup makeup is super complicated—it’s pretty simple once you get the hang of it. We talked to three top makeup artists to get their best tips for creating a no makeup makeup look that’s perfect for the office, date night, and more.
Wait, so what is no makeup makeup, exactly?
Contrary to what it sounds like, no makeup makeup isn’t the same as going makeup-free. “For the no makeup makeup look, it’s about attempting to look as natural as possible with product,” explains Camara Aunique, celebrity makeup artist. In essence, it’s about enhancing what you’ve got without actually appearing as if you’re wearing any makeup at all, says Sophia Porter, makeup artist and hairstylist in Chicago. A typical no makeup makeup routine requires a decent amount of products, but it’s not so many that a beginner will feel overwhelmed. Some of the products you’ll want to have on hand include a lightweight base (think tinted moisturizer or BB cream), brightening concealer, highlighter, sheer lip color, and a natural-looking mascara and eyebrow groomer. No cobalt blue eyeliner or vampy lipstick here! Makeup artist Mary Irwin says skin prep is also an important part of no makeup makeup because following a solid skincare routine will ensure your complexion is in optimal condition for makeup application.
Why is no makeup makeup having a moment right now?
There are a few reasons why no makeup makeup is surging in popularity these days. For starters, Porter says many of her private clients are turning to no makeup makeup because they’re sick of the overdone beauty trends they’ve seen on Instagram. (Think feather eyebrows, ombré lashes, and contoured-to-the-extreme complexions.) “They feel as if those beauty trends are too clownish, and they just want to look fresh without looking like there was too much effort involved,” she says. Porter adds that no makeup makeup is timeless and won’t ever go out of style, so there’s no risk of looking like you’re not up-to-date with the latest beauty trends. Lately, women have been moving toward embracing what they’ve got (whether that’s freckles, acne, wrinkles—you name it) and away from hiding their faces under thick layers of foundation and concealer. “Women want to look like themselves—just slightly enhanced,” says Aunique. “They want to see their freckles. Women are loving the skin they’re in more and more, and I love it.” Irwin cites Christina Aguilera (who had a “makeunder” for a recent Paper Magazine cover) and Alicia Keys (who decided to ditch makeup altogether a couple of years ago) as celebs who’ve embraced their skin, inspiring no makeup makeup to stick around. Finally, although creating a no makeup makeup look involves using a bunch of products, it’s something that can be done relatively quickly. “It’s simple—only a few steps, and anyone can do it,” says Irwin.
How do you do no makeup makeup?
Want to hop on the no makeup makeup bandwagon? We’ve got you covered. Follow our step-by-step guide to doing a no makeup makeup look on your own.
Step 1: Work through your skincare routine.
“The most important step is having a well-rounded skincare routine to prepare your canvas,” says Porter, who recommends keeping an emphasis on hydration so you end up with a glow. Porter likes using facial oil before makeup to get a dewy base—she just recommends being careful about which one you choose. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, for example, you’ll want to make sure you pick a non-comedogenic facial oil, like Dr. Hauschka Clarifying Day Oil ($45), since that won’t clog pores. Porter is a fan of NOW Organic Argan Oil ($30) for dry skin, which easily absorbs for glowing skin sans grease. You only need to apply facial oil sparingly to the high points of your face (your temples, brow bones, cheekbones, jawbone, cupid’s bow, and down the bridge of your nose) to get a glow.
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Step 2: Lay your base with tinted moisturizer or foundation.
If you find your makeup regularly wears away by midday (this can happen if you’re oily), start with a primer, says Irwin, who likes the Heir Atelier Face Primer ($42). “It smoothes skin and makes a world of difference in how the makeup wears,” she says. Then, move on to applying tinted moisturizer, BB cream, or a small amount of foundation. For seamless coverage, Porter suggests buffing thin layers of your product into your skin starting from the center of your face and working outward for a seamless effect. You can do so with a makeup sponge, like the beauty industry favorite Beautyblender ($20). For a base, Porter likes Kevyn Aucoin The Sensual Skin Enhancer Concealer and Foundation ($48), which comes in 16 shades ranging in skin tones and undertones, as well as Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation ($64), which comes in 24 hues and has a glowy finish and lightweight texture. Irwin recommends Laura Mercier because the brand offers multiple formulas and finishes for different skin types and tones. She says Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 – Illuminating ($45) has a particularly stunning finish.
It’s easy to go overboard with blush, but that doesn’t mean you should skip it. Porter suggests using an itty-bitty bit of blush for the slightest hint of color. You can easily do that by applying a sheer cream blush with your fingers to the apples of your cheeks. Porter is a fan of Glossier Cloud Paint ($18), while Irwin notes that Stila Convertible Colors ($25) are a makeup-artist staple. “Just swipe a little bit on the apples of your cheeks and blend with your fingers,” says Irwin. “It can also work as your lip color. Pat it in with your fingers, just like on your cheeks.” If you prefer powder blush, Aunique says NARS Blush in Orgasm ($30) suits everyone—it’s a classic for a reason.
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Step 5: Highlight key areas of your face.
Next, highlight the high points of your face to really brighten up your appearance, recommends Porter. One of her favorite highlighters is RMS Living Luminizer ($38), which can be applied with your fingers for a super sheer highlight.
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Step 6: Groom your brows.
Once you’re done concealing, move on to your brows. “Don’t paint them on,” says Irwin, “but fill in any sparse areas and use a tinted gel to hold them in place.” Try Benefit Cosmetics 24-HR Brow Setter Shaping & Setting Gel ($24).
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Step 7: Go easy on the mascara.
Super black mascara is great for a night out, but when it comes to no makeup makeup, brown or black/brown will give you a more natural look, says Porter, who adds that you should stick to one coat for no makeup makeup. Aunique recommends Lancome for their wide variety of mascara formulas. Lancome Definicils – High Definition Mascara in Brown ($27.50) is a good everyday pick.
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Step 8: Swipe on tinted lip balm.
Steer clear of bright colors, and pick up something that looks like your lips but better. Porter says Perricone MD No Lipstick Lipstick SPF 15 ($30) fits the bill (and the name fits our theme!). Irwin loves Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment SPF 15 ($24) because there are a ton of shades, and the formula moisturizes while providing that hint of color.
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Step 9: Set your no makeup makeup look.
And now we’ve come to the end! Under 10 steps isn’t too bad. All you have to do is spritz your face with a mist to set your makeup and add a glowy sheen, says Porter, who likes Tatcha Dewy Skin Mist ($48).
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No Makeup Makeup Hacks for Busy Days
Even if you don’t have time for a full no makeup makeup routine, you can simplify things and still give the trend a whirl. Hit snooze one too many times? You can always pair clean skin with a little lipstick, says Irwin. For a bit more coverage, combine foundation and highlighter to get your glow in less time. Mix one drop of highlighter (Aunique likes MAC Cosmetics Strobe Cream) into one pump of your foundation, combining the two in your hands, and press it into your skin.
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