Tag: Commerce

38 Of The Best Books From Your Childhood That The Kids In Your Life Need

Post author By Heather Vecchioni
Post date September 26, 2018

You might say the books you read when you were a child are some of your fondest memories growing up. You may even go on to say these tales you enjoyed with loved ones or by yourself contributed to the person you became as an adult.
Either way, it’s a solid truth that reading to children and spending time with them creates a bond that can last for a lifetime. When you’re ready to begin your literary journey with the little one in your life, start with these time-tested classics.

1. Not all spiders are bad.

If you’re looking for a tale that warms you heart—and softens your feelings toward arachnids—give Charlotte’s Web a try.

Written by E.B. White of Stuart Little fame, this wholesome story follows a little girl named Fern who saves a runt piglet named Wilbur. While spending time in the farm’s barn, the lonely pig befriends Charlotte, a spider who made sending secret messages on the web cool before the internet even existed.
Using her stealthy web skills, Charlotte would create uplifting messages for Wilbur, proving that even potentially creepy eight-legged creatures have some endearing qualities.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Charlottes-Web-B-White/dp/0061124958″]Charlotte’s Web, $7.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

2. Size doesn’t matter when it comes to being brave.

When you’re the youngest and smallest girl living in a Catholic boarding school in Paris, you have to look out for yourself, even if it means going on mysterious adventures. Fortunately, the heroine of the book Madeline follows this life rule and doesn’t disappoint.

Written and illustrated in 1939 by Ludwig Bemelmans, this popular tale portrays the life of Madeline, a courageous 7-year-old who goes on hilarious adventures, including running off to join a traveling carnival.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Madeline-Ludwig-Bemelmans/dp/014056439X”]Madeline, $8.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

3. Let your imagination run wild with this book.

When it comes to children’s books, it doesn’t get much better than Where the Wild Things Are.
Enter the world of Max, a little boy who wears a wolf costume and was sent to bed without dinner after he caused havoc in his house.

Max’s bedroom is mysteriously transformed into a jungle environment and he finds himself sailing to an island inhabited by monsters known as Wild Things. Max becomes the king of the Wild Things but begins missing his family and eventually returns home, where a surprise waits for him.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Where-Wild-Things-Maurice-Sendak/dp/0064431789″]Where the Wild Things Are, $12.45 from Amazon [/link-button]

4. Be appreciative of every gift you get.

If you’ve ever received a birthday present you didn’t like, you may learn to value it after reading this book. The Indian in the Cupboard, written by Lynne Reid Banks, shows that even seemingly disappointing gifts can turn into something great.

Omri’s friend gives him a plastic figurine of an American Indian for his birthday. Disappointed, Omri stores him in a cupboard that can only be locked with a skeleton key owned by his great-grandmother. The toy comes to life and Omri discovers a new best friend who he attempts to hide and keep as his own. Teach the kid in your life about not judging a book by its cover with this sweet story.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Indian-Cupboard-Lynne-Reid-Banks/dp/0375847537″]The Indian in the Cupboard, $5.59 from Amazon[/link-button]

5. Confusion and hilarity make this a kid favorite.

Introduce your little one to the delightful world of a gal who takes everything literally—and ends up creating hilarious disasters because of it—with the book Amelia Bedelia.

Coming from a family who takes everything at face value, protagonist Amelia does the same. She works as a maid for a wealthy couple and constantly misunderstands their instructions. Fortunately for readers, this confusion creates a variety of entertaining encounters for which Amelia is usually forgiven after she treats her unintentional victims with a tasty dessert. Go back to your own childhood with this classic story.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Amelia-Bedelia-Peggy-Parish/dp/0062209698″]Amelia Bedelia, $9.69 from Amazon [/link-button]

6. Entertain even the most energetic kiddos in your life with this inquisitive character.

What could be better than a mischievous monkey who lovingly drives his human companion crazy while getting into all sorts of trouble? After reading Curious George, the youngsters in your life will probably agree on the answer: not much.

The popular series begins with a story about how George, a monkey who lived in the jungle, was taken to America by the Man in the Yellow Hat. Naturally curious, George can’t help but find himself in a variety of sticky situations, from which he always comes out on top (and with a valuable lesson).
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Curious-George-H-Rey/dp/039515023X”]Curious George, $6.45 from Amazon[/link-button]

7. If you give a child this book, prepare for some giggles.

Hold on to your cookies—and milk—because this book gets little ones laughing in a hurry. If You Give a Mouse a Cookie, by Laura Numeroff, is a silly tale about a mouse who starts off by asking for a cookie but ends up getting a lot more.

The first of the If You Give… series, this sweet book contains an easy-to-follow, circular tale that children of all ages are sure to enjoy. And just like kids, this mouse shows that if you give him an inch, he’ll try to take a mile.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/If-You-Give-Mouse-Cookie/dp/0060245867″]If You Give a Mouse a Cookie, $11.49 from Amazon[/link-button]

8. Expand your child’s sense of culinary adventure.

If you’ve never been asked if you like green eggs and ham, are you even a kid? Ensure that the kids in your life don’t have to ask themselves that question by exposing them to the Dr. Seuss classic Green Eggs and Ham.

The book follows Sam I Am as he pesters his pal into trying this less-than-tasty-sounding treat. The list of possible places and people Sam suggests he could try it with grows longer and longer until his friend finally gives in. Show children that trying something new can lead to fun food adventures with this silly story.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Green-Eggs-Ham-Dr-Seuss/dp/0394800168″]Green Eggs and Ham, $8.59 from Amazon [/link-button]

9. Meet an unbearably cute mother and son duo.

The bond between a mother and son is one of the strongest connections there is, no matter what your species. Read about a perfect example of this type of genuine, innocent love in Little Bear.

Like most youngsters, Little Bear loves to go on lots of exciting adventures, like flying to the moon and playing in the snow. And fortunately for him, Mother Bear is always there to provide warm clothes, a hot meal, and lots of love. Strengthen your own bond with your little one by sharing this story together.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Little-Bear-Can-Read-Book/dp/0064440044″]Little Bear, $3.95 from Amazon[/link-button]

10. We predict a story that’s funny with a chance of silliness.

Imagine looking outside and discovering food is falling from the clouds instead of rain. Would this situation make you happy or leave you covered in a mess? Perhaps you can decide after reading Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs to your favorite kiddo.

Written by Judi Barrett, this edible weather story is sure to delight and spark the imagination of the little one in your life. Would blueberry rain drops be fun, or would hamburger hail be even better? Ponder the possibilities with this fun story.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Cloudy-Chance-Meatballs-Judi-Barrett/dp/0689707495″]Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs, $4.39 from Amazon[/link-button]

11. Classic fairy tales get a new twist.

What happens when you take classic children’s stories and give them a postmodern edge? The answer is The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales.

Narrated by Jack of Jack and the Beanstalk, the story features Little Red Riding Shorts, Chicken Licken, and other characters that may seem familiar—but not entirely. Take, for example, the eponymous Stinky Cheese Man, a riff on the Gingerbread Man who stays away from people for fear they will eat him. In reality, however, no one wants to get near him because of his offending odor. Silly and fun, this entertaining tale is sure to please.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Stinky-Cheese-Other-Fairly-Stupid/dp/067084487X”]The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales, $11.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

12. Be careful what you wish for.

Sometimes, having the power to wish for whatever you want isn’t always what it’s cracked up to be. Teach the kids in your life this valuable lesson by sharing the book Sylvester and the Magic Pebble.

Sylvester is excited to find a magic pebble that can make his wishes come true. Unfortunately, he ends up making a wish that comes with lots of consequences. After maneuvering through all the challenges, he finally makes it home to his loving family with some new adventure-filled memories and lessons learned.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Sylvester-Magic-Pebble-William-Steig/dp/1442435607″]Sylvester and the Magic Pebble, $9.94 from Amazon[/link-button]

13. Children’s books don’t get much more classic than this.

A stuffed rabbit is given to a little boy for Christmas. Because the bunny isn’t as fancy as the child’s more modern toys, the toys give him the cold shoulder. The lonely rabbit wants to become real and does so through his owner’s love.

Written in 1922, The Velveteen Rabbit has delighted children for almost 100 years. Introduce the kids in your life to this timeless tale that proves love conquers all.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Velveteen-Rabbit-Margery-Williams/dp/0385077254″]The Velveteen Rabbit, $9.59 from Amazon[/link-button]

14. Guess how much you’ll love this book.

What do you get when you combine the love of a father and son with a little healthy competition? The answer is Guess How Much I Love You.

Little Nutbrown Hare wants his dad to guess how much he loves him. When his dad asks, he wants to show him. He says he loves him as wide as he can reach and as far as he can jump. The problem is, Big Nutbrown Hare loves Little Nutbrown Hare just as much and is able to show him better. Watch as this cute duo tries to one-up each other when discussing just how much they care for each other.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Guess-How-Much-Love-You/dp/0763642649″]Guess How Much I Love You, $7.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

15. Make learning manners fun.

Your favorite little one will have the best manners on the block after you read Richard Scarry’s Please and Thank You Book.

Huckle Cat, Lowly Worm, and other characters discover the importance of manners in this beloved story that was written in 1973. The friends learn the appropriate way to behave in school, the importance of following safety rules, how to share, and more in this easy-to-understand story. Help your child learn the best way to react to everyday situations as you enjoy this book together.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Scarrys-Please-Thank-Pictureback/dp/0394826817″]Richard Scarry’s Please and Thank You Book, $4.95 from Amazon[/link-button]

16. A wardrobe can be full of adventure.

The first book in the series The Chronicles of Narnia, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, written by C.S. Lewis, will take you back to your childhood as you share this magical story with your youngster.

Set mostly in Narnia—a land filled with talking animals and mythical creatures—the book tells the tale of four English children who were relocated to an old country house due to wartime evacuation. The youngest child discovers a wardrobe in a closet that magically transports her to Narnia, and she eventually takes her siblings along. Discover adventure and witness the special bond between siblings in this fantasy book.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Lion-Witch-Wardrobe-C-Lewis/dp/0001720295″]The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, $12.39 from Amazon[/link-button]

17. This book keeps on giving.

One of the most thought-provoking children’s authors of all time, Shel Silverstein (who penned classics like A Light in the Attic and Where the Sidewalk Ends) created another iconic book with The Giving Tree.

This story begins with a young boy and a tree who develop a close relationship. The story follows the span of the boy’s life, beginning when he was a child until he is an elderly man. Watch how even though the relationship changes over time, the tree’s love never wanes. Help your tyke understand the importance of giving with this sweet book.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Giving-Tree-Shel-Silverstein/dp/0060256656″]The Giving Tree, $11.39 from Amazon[/link-button]

18. What do you see?

Help your little one learn about colors and animals with Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? Geared toward toddlers, this picture book asks various animals what they see. Brown Bear, Red Bird, Purple Cat, Blue Horse, and others talk to each other and take the reader on an educational adventure as colors and the meanings of objects are explored.

With colorful and unique illustrations by Eric Carle, this popular story inspired three spin-offs: Polar Bear, Polar Bear, What Do You Hear?; Panda Bear, Panda Bear, What Do You See?; and Baby Bear, Baby Bear, What Do You See?
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Brown-Bear-What-You-See/dp/0805047905″]Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?, $7.95 from Amazon[/link-button]

19. Explore the power of love with this classic.

The bond between a boy and a dog is tested in one of the most difficult ways possible in the heartwarming story of Shiloh.
Marty, a young child, finds a dog with whom he instantly makes a connection. He wants to adopt it, but unbeknownst to him, the dog already has an owner who isn’t kind to anyone—especially his pets.

The dog, Shiloh, runs away to be with Marty, who then has to keep Shiloh hidden and safe. See just how far Marty will have to go to save Shiloh—and if the two can stay together.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Shiloh-Quartet-Phyllis-Reynolds-Naylor/dp/0689835825″]Shiloh, $6.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

20. Here is where your child’s imagination can grow.

Written by Wilson Rawls, Where the Red Fern Grows is a gripping story about the love between a child and his animals.

When Billy has finally saved up enough money to purchase two dogs, he becomes a caring and dedicated owner to pups Old Dan and Little Ann. Soon, the threesome becomes the best hunters around. They face tragedy, however, and must learn how to carry on while still honoring the past.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Where-Fern-Grows-Wilson-Rawls/dp/0440412676″]Where the Red Fern Grows, $7.94 from Amazon[/link-button]

21. Even the smallest among us can handle big adventures.

When you’re a child who looks like mouse, was born into a human family, and is growing up in New York City, it’s safe to say you’re probably used to a little adventure. Pass on the meaning of friendship, family, and love to your little one by sharing the book Stuart Little.

Thoughtful and shy, Stuart lives with his parents, brother, and the pet cat and is always looking for his next great adventure. When his best friend disappears from her nest, it is up to him to find her. Get ready for belly laughs and entertainment reading about this clever character.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Stuart-Little-B-White/dp/0064400565″]Stuart Little, $6.98 from Amazon[/link-button]

22. Say goodnight to bedtime struggles with this story.

Introduce the child in your life to gentle and soothing poetry with Goodnight Moon.

Written by Margaret Wise Brown, Goodnight Moon has reached many generations and continues to be a favorite of both children and adults. This story features a little bunny who is tucked in bed and ready to fall asleep. But before he can, the bunny has to say goodnight to everything in the room, including socks, a picture, and the moon. Help your little one wind down, relax, and get ready for bed with this calming book.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Goodnight-Moon-Margaret-Wise-Brown/dp/0694003611″]Goodnight Moon, $8.94 from Amazon[/link-button]

23. The little one in your life is sure not to forget this book.

Forgetful days happen to the best of us, but you may prevent your child from having too many by reading the book I Just Forgot by Mercer Mayer.

Little Critter is having trouble remembering everything he is supposed to do one day. He forgets to turn the water off in the sink, he forgets to bring his lunch to school, and he even forgets to put on his rain boots. Have fun reading about Little Critter’s blunders while teaching your child about responsibility.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Just-Forgot-Little-Critter-Book/dp/0307119750″]I Just Forgot, $3.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

24. Connect with your youngster by sharing this 8-year-old’s story.

Life in an 8-year-old’s world can be tough; just ask Ramona Quimby. Join her as she navigates through life and overcomes some pretty major challenges in the book Ramona Quimby, Age 8.

While her parents are at work and school, Ramona is under the care of Mrs. Kemp. Along with having to behave while under the caretaker’s watchful eye, Ramona must also find the strength to juggle challenges in her life, like riding the school bus and dealing with kids at the play yard. Show a child you know who is experiencing these situations that they’re not alone with this fun book.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Ramona-Quimby-Age-Beverly-Cleary/dp/0380709562″]Ramona Quimby, Age 8; $6.39 from Amazon[/link-button]

25. Be true to yourself.

Help your child learn the importance of being themselves and feeling comfortable doing so with The Story of Ferdinand. Once upon a time, there was a young bull who was misunderstood. Instead of butting heads and playing with the other bulls his age, he preferred his own company, especially when under a tree, sniffing flowers.

When Ferdinand accidentally steps on a bumblebee, he runs about wildly and is mistaken for a fierce bull. People who observe this are convinced he’ll do well in the bullfighting ring, so they take Ferdinand away to compete, but what he does shocks and disappoints the crowd. Teach your child a valuable lesson with this endearing tale.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Story-Ferdinand-Munro-Leaf/dp/044845694X”]The Story of Ferdinand, $4.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

26. You’ll both love this book forever.

Watch a relationship between a mother and her son evolve in the touching book Love You Forever. The boy is an energetic and sometimes exasperating baby when the book begins, and his mother is always there to care for him and sing a nightly lullaby in which she promises to love him forever.

As they both get older, their relationship evolves, and even after he moves out, she still visits his room to sing the song. As time goes on, the boy is able to carry on the tradition of the lullaby with his own child. Create a new tradition with the kid in your life by reading this together.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Love-You-Forever-Robert-Munsch/dp/0920668372″]Love You Forever, $5.95 from Amazon[/link-button]

27. Oh, the lessons this book can teach the child in your life.

When the going gets tough, looking at the bright side is a helpful way to get through it. Teach the child in your world a positive approach to addressing life’s ups and downs with the Dr. Seuss book Oh, the Places You’ll Go!

With his signature style that combines humor, rhyme, and easy-to-understand language, Dr. Seuss creates a story that just about anyone can benefit from, regardless of their age. Toddlers, children, teens, and even adults can appreciate the message this tale delivers.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Oh-Places-Youll-Dr-Seuss/dp/0679805273″]Oh, the Places You’ll Go!, $12.76 from Amazon[/link-button]

28. The bears in this book know the real joys in life.

Get to know the members of a lovable bear family who are always there for each other in The Berenstain Bears and The Joy of Giving.

The holidays are coming, and Brother and Sister are getting excited about Christmas and all of the presents they are going to receive. During the Christmas Eve pageant, something unexpected happens, and the little bears learn all about the joy you can experience in giving. Teach your children this valuable lesson that can extend into a variety of aspects in their lives, not just during the holidays.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Berenstain-Bears-Joy-Giving/dp/0310712556″]The Berenstain Bears and The Joy of Giving, $3.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

29. Borrow this book and you won’t want to give it back.

The Clocks aren’t your average family. In addition to living underneath the kitchen floor of an old English country manor, they are also miniature. Go inside their small world in the book The Borrowers.

Parents Pod and Homily and daughter Arrietty comfortably reside in this small space that is decorated with minuscule furnishings they “borrow” from the average-sized people who live above them. Their secret existence is safe until Arrietty is spotted upstairs. Find out the fate of the tiny family with this imaginative book.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Borrowers-Mary-Norton/dp/0152047379″]The Borrowers, $6.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

30. Mice and rats join forces in this tale.

When Mrs. Frisby—a widowed mouse and mother of four—finds herself with a terrible problem, she learns that there are others out there who are willing to lend a hand in Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH.

The family must move to their summer quarters or else they likely won’t survive. The trouble is, one of the Frisby babies is sick with pneumonia and must not be moved. When Mrs. Frisby fears all hope is lost, the rats of NIMH—an extraordinary breed of highly intelligent creatures—come to her aid. See how Mrs. Frisby is able to return the favor to the rats in this Robert C. O’Brien classic.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Mrs-Frisby-Rats-Robert-OBrien/dp/0689710682″]Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH, $6.98 from Amazon [/link-button]

31. Increase your child’s appetite for learning.

With vivid pictures and an educational, yet entertaining, story, The Very Hungry Caterpillar has crawled its way into the hands of young and old alike since 1969.

As the title says, this green caterpillar is hungry. Ultimately, he takes readers on a tour of his culinary journey over the course of six days. On the seventh day, the caterpillar is done with his feast and surrounds himself in a cocoon. Two weeks later, he emerges as a beautiful butterfly who is ready to begin a new journey. You and your little friend can count how many apples, strawberries, plums, and other foods this fuzzy caterpillar devours.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Very-Hungry-Caterpillar-Eric-Carle/dp/0399226907″]The Very Hungry Caterpillar, $9.98 from Amazon[/link-button]

32. You’re never too young to help.

Meet a 10-year-old boy so talented at solving mysteries that even his local police department needs his help in Encyclopedia Brown, Boy Detective.

With a knack for trivia, Leroy (aka Encyclopedia) Brown solves neighborhood mysteries while running his own detective agency. Encyclopedia’s dad, the town’s police chief, also relies on his son’s uncanny ability to figure out some of the most baffling crimes. Collect evidence and clues hidden in the story to channel your own inner detective and see if you can solve the mysteries too!
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Encyclopedia-Brown-Detective-Donald-Sobol/dp/0142408883″]Encyclopedia Brown, Boy Detective; $4.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

33. Don’t waste any more time before sharing this story with your youngsters.

Imagine entering your kitchen for a midnight snack only to find yourself chatting with your eccentric neighbor about a supposed phenomenon, the very name of which causes your mother to faint. Well, that’s exactly what happens in the opening of A Wrinkle in Time.

Meg and Charles Wallace, the children of two scientists, go on an adventure with a classmate to find their father, who went missing when he began to research the scientific concept of a tesseract (or a wrinkle in time). Find out if the family is reunited and if this interesting theory is true in this thought-provoking book.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Wrinkle-Time-Quintet/dp/0312367546″]A Wrinkle in Time, $4.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

34. Word is this book is the best ever.

Help the kiddo in your life learn to read, identify objects, and work on letter and word recognition with Richard Scarry’s Best Word Book Ever.

This bright and colorful book has hundreds of clearly labeled objects you and your aspiring reader can go over together. And with cute characters to help introduce the items, youngsters are sure to enjoy this classic book, which has sold millions of copies worldwide.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Scarrys-Best-Giant-Golden/dp/0307155102″]Richard Scarry’s Best Word Book Ever, $12.79 from Amazon[/link-button]

35. It’s a safe bet your day will get better after you read this book.

Think your day is bad? Chances are it doesn’t compare with what goes down in Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day.

Alexander knows he’s in for a troubling day when he wakes up with gum in his hair. The hits just keep on coming as he encounters problems at school and back at home again. Let the special child in your life understand that bad days come and go, but they can get through them and even come out with a smile on their face.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Alexander-Terrible-Horrible-Good-Very/dp/0689711735″]Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day
$5.24 from Amazon[/link-button]

36. All pigs (and kids) should be themselves.

Olivia is a very special pig. She’s not afraid to showcase her talents (or lack thereof) and stand up for what she believes in, and she is always there to lend a helping hand to her family. Learn more about this sassy pig and follow her adventures in the book Olivia.

Never one to blend in, Olivia loves to wear clothes that make her stand out, especially if they have a splash of red. She also likes to follow her dreams, even if they get her in trouble. This top-notch picture book features author Ian Falconer’s minimalistic drawings that typically only contain the colors black, white, and red. Teach the importance of being happy with yourself and not being afraid to reach your goals with this fun book.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Olivia-Ian-Falconer/dp/0689874723″]Olivia, $10.94 from Amazon[/link-button]

37. You won’t want to keep this book a secret.

When orphaned Mary comes to live at her uncle’s house on the Moors, she discovers it is full of mysteries and secrets, including a hidden garden she wants to bring to life in The Secret Garden.

Uncomfortable in this 100-room mansion in which her uncle stays locked inside and she hears the sound of crying at night, Mary finds solace in a secret garden. Surrounded by walls and locked with a missing key, the girl must figure out a way to get inside and restore beauty to the enchanted space once again.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Secret-HarperClassics-Frances-Hodgson-Burnett/dp/006440188X”]The Secret Garden, $6.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

38. Never underestimate the power of helping.

Help can come in some of the most unexpected forms from the most unexpected people. Such is the case in The Family Under the Bridge.

Armand, a man living on the streets of Paris, befriends a mother and her three children who are also homeless. Reluctant to become friends in the first place, Armand overcomes his uncertainty and grows closer to the family. He invites them to share his living space under a bridge during the Christmas season and ultimately vows to find them a permanent home. Discover the power of helping others by reading this inspirational story.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Family-Bridge-Natalie-Savage-Carlson/dp/0064402509″]The Family Under the Bridge, $5.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

Tags Commerce, social

Conscious Beauty Lifestyle

12 Haircare Mistakes You’re Probably Making (And What To Do Instead)

Post author By Joni Sweet
Post date September 26, 2018

Bad hair days happen to everyone from time to time. We’ve all had that cowlick that just won’t go down, waves or curls that turn to frizz as soon as we walk outside, split ends that stick out of braids, or strands that have a dull appearance. Locks that look less than their best certainly don’t boost our confidence, but the problem usually goes away the next day.

But what if your bad hair days start to happen every day? If it seems like no matter what you do, you just can’t get your hair to look shiny and beautiful, you might want to start taking a hard look at your haircare routine. Something as simple as using the wrong brush for your hair type or damaging your hair with heat when you blow-dry could actually be wreaking havoc on the condition of your mane. They’re easy mistakes to make—but they can have long-lasting consequences on your tresses.

So before you give up entirely and resign yourself to a lifetime of bad hair days, consider exactly how you’re treating your hair and what you can do to improve it. Here are some of the most common haircare mistakes to avoid (and the things you should do instead); along with them are some products that’ll help you make the right choice—they’re just a click (or tap) away.

Haircare Mistake No. 1: You use products loaded with harsh chemicals.

Do you pick up the cheapest bottles of shampoo and conditioner from the drug store? While there’s nothing wrong with trying to save a buck or two, many of these ultra-cheap haircare products (and even some of their more expensive counterparts) are loaded with harsh chemicals that can damage your hair.

Not every ingredient with a long name is bad for your hair, but there are a few to watch out for. Namely, sulfates. These are chemicals that do a really great job cleaning your hair. They’re so good at what they do, though, that they often strip your hair’s natural oils away in the process. Look for bottles that say “sulfate-free,” and avoid common sulfate ingredients, such as sodium lauryl sulfate, to keep your hair clean and gorgeous.

[products ids=’1084227,1084228′ type=full]

Haircare Mistake No. 2: You wash your hair way too often.

Even if you’re using the very best shampoo available, washing your hair too frequently can come with some nasty repercussions. The fact is that the vast majority of people don’t need to wash their hair every single day. Over-shampooing removes the healthy oils from your scalp, leaving the skin dry and irritated and causing the hair to look tired and lifeless.

We’re not saying you should cut back on your shower schedule, just that you could probably stand to shampoo less often. Washing your hair every other day (or even every third day) is enough to keep it clean and healthy. On non-shampoo days, a simple rinse under warm water can rid your hair of any dust, debris, or product. If your hair looks a little greasy a day or two after your last wash, evenly spray some dry shampoo to absorb some of the oil and add volume. Dry shampoo is also an essential haircare product to use after a sweaty gym session. Once you have dry shampoo in your haircare tool kit, you’ll be amazed at just how long you can go between washing.

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Haircare Mistake No. 3: You don’t wash your hair often enough.

Infrequent washing can be just as bad as shampooing too often. And with the rise of the “no-poo” movement, in which people wean themselves off shampoo altogether, many women are starting to have chronically dirty hair.

Not only will unwashed hair look less than optimal, it can actually cause major problems for the scalp. The detergents in shampoo work to remove sebum, a waxy substance secreted by the glands in your skin. When healthy, sebum adds protection to the hair shaft and helps your strands look glossy. But when there’s a build-up, it causes the hair to stick together and look oily. Plus, sebum resists water, so it can be a struggle to remove if you wait too long.

Think you might have neglected your shampoo schedule for a day or two too long? Don’t worry—a strong shampoo with scalp treatment can get rid of the excess sebum and revive your hair. Use your fingertips to scrub it in, then rinse thoroughly.

[products ids=’1084234,1084235′ type=full]

Haircare Mistake No. 5: You dry your hair with the wrong towel.

What do you do when you get out of the shower? If it involves vigorously rubbing and scrunching your hair with any random towel in your bathroom, then twisting it up into a tight turban to dry, you might be damaging your hair.

Wet hair is significantly more fragile than dry hair and needs to be handled delicately. Rather than scrunching and squeezing the water out, use your fingertips to shake out the excess water. You can also blot hair with a soft cotton fabric to help get the moisture out. It might take more time before it dries completely, but your hair will be in much better condition.

The towel you use matters. Old terry cloth towels tend to be too rough to use on wet hair. Plus, the tiny thread loops in the fabric act like hooks for your hair, causing major frizz. Switch to a microfiber hair towel, which is gentler on your strands and helps minimize flyaways.

[products ids=’1084237,1084238′ type=full]

Haircare Mistake No. 4: Using a blow dryer that’s too hot.

Few people enjoy sitting under a loud blow dryer for an extended period of time, so they use the hottest, most powerful setting to speed things up. That’s a major haircare no-no, though. Why? It can actually burn your hair! Even if you’re short on time, “fry drying” is not the answer to getting a quick style.

The best hairdryers have multiple heat and power settings. Always use the lowest setting when you go to dry your hair. Even though it takes longer to dry, your hair will look a lot smoother and stay healthier. Use the cool setting to lock in your style toward the end of your blowout.

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Haircare Mistake No. 5: You don’t protect your hair from heat.

Using the lowest setting on your hairdryer isn’t enough to safeguard your hair from heat damage. If you’re not using a thermal protection on your tresses, they can still get ruined from any amount of heat from your straightener, dryer, or curling iron.

Before you use any hot tool on your hair, spritz on some heat protection spray. While you generally want to evenly coat your hair with product, it’s not a bad idea to give the ends a little more love, as this is the part of the strand that’s most vulnerable to damage from heat.

The main purpose of a thermal protector spray is to shield your hair from the effects of high temperatures. However, it’s not a bad idea to get in the habit of spraying it on your hair every day, even if you’re not using heat to style, because thermal spray also gives your hair some extra protection from the elements and leaves a smooth finish.

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Haircare Mistake No. 6: You’re teasing your hair too much.

Big, voluminous hair is on trend. But since most of us weren’t born with naturally billowing locks, we rely on a trick of the trade to get a boost: teasing. We back comb our roots to make it look like we have plenty of dimension. It’s a totally harmless technique, right?

Wrong. While there’s nothing wrong with teasing your hair for an occasional special event, like a wedding or birthday party, backcombing your hair can harm the cuticles and leave the strands vulnerable to breakage. That daily va-va-voom from backcombing just isn’t worth the long-term damage to your hair.

With that being said, using a volume-boosting haircare product can give you locks that would make Dolly Parton jealous without incurring damage from over-teasing. Spray it into your roots, then blow-dry and style as usual for a voluminous finish.

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Haircare Mistake No. 7: You don’t protect your hair at night.

How does your hair look when you wake up in the morning? If it’s super tangled and you look like you just got out of a windstorm, you’re probably damaging your hair while you sleep—and causing yourself a major styling headache in the a.m.

Just like old terry cloth towels, your run-of-the-mill pillowcase usually isn’t the best choice when it comes to protecting your hair. Switch to a silk pillowcase. It doesn’t grip the hair like cotton or synthetic fibers, so it’s more likely that you’ll wake up with smooth, tangle-free locks. Plus, silk usually has a cool feeling to it, creating a pleasant sensation as soon as your head hits the pillow.

You could always opt for a silk night cap instead. It will offer even more protection and increase the longevity of your style. Hey, blowouts don’t come cheap—make sure you’re making the most of your styling investment by treating your tresses well while you catch your beauty sleep.

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Haircare Mistake No. 8: You’re too rough with your tangles.

Knots are frustrating—we totally get it. Sometimes hair can get so tangled that we aggressively try to brush all the knots out, usually losing a lot of hair in the process. Ugh!

It’s worth cultivating some patience when it comes to snarls in your mane, though. Being gentle as you try to remove knots can help you avoid broken strands and hair loss. One tool that can help is a detangling comb. These wide-tooth combs are designed to untangle knots a couple of strands at a time without ripping through your hair. They’re definitely a smarter choice than a boar’s-hair brush when it comes to grooming your hair.

Detangling spray can also help loosen up even the most stubborn of tangles. It lubricates the strands so you can work through the knots without damaging your hair. Bonus: Detangling spray can also act as a leave-in conditioner that won’t weigh down your hair. Talk about a double whammy for your haircare!

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Haircare Mistake No. 9: You forget to use serum.

If you’re into skincare, you might already have a favorite serum that you use on your face every day. But did you know that serum is just as important for your hair as it is for your complexion? It acts as a mask for your strands and scalp, helping minimize dryness and frizz.

Hair serum also infuses your mane with a luster you can’t get from other products. Apply it with your fingertips, then run a large paddle brush through your hair to help distribute the serum evenly. When it comes to hair serum, a little goes a long way. You’ll notice an immediate improvement in your hair’s condition and appearance once you incorporate this product into your haircare routine.

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Haircare Mistake No. 10: You’re not careful enough with your ponytails.

Whoever invented the ponytail is a genius in our books. This easy-breezy style helps you look polished under any circumstance, whether you just finished a workout or you’re running late to a job interview.

But the problem with this simple style is that it can cause broken strands if you’re not careful. Avoid ponytails that are too high or too tight, which can stress the hair. And choose your ponytail holder wisely. We recommend tossing out those old-school elastics (you know, the ones that always get tangled up in your hair) and opting for hair coils, instead. They hold your hair in place, and they slip out so easily, you’d never know they were there. Choose a set that matches your hair color for a sleeker look.

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Haircare Mistake No. 11: You never deep condition your hair.

Daily conditioning is a great first step to keeping your hair healthy, but if you’re not deep conditioning at least a couple of times each month, you’re making a big mistake.

Between washing, removing knots, and styling, we put our hair through the wringer. Deep conditioning not only repairs some of the daily damage to your hair, it also helps prevent future breakage by strengthening your strands.

We suggest making a weekly self-care ritual out of your deep conditioning treatment. Generously slather on deep conditioner, lop your hair in a loose bun atop your head, and cover it with a shower cap. Then sit back, and let it soak in while you watch a movie. Your hair (and your mind) will feel completely restored after you wash out the treatment.

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Haircare Mistake No. 12: You don’t protect your hair from the sun.

You wouldn’t go out on a bright sunny day without sunscreen, right? Of course not. So then why do most us still go out in the sun without protecting our hair? Just like skin, hair is vulnerable to damage from harmful UV rays. Overexposure to the sun can wear away our healthy oils and permanently damage the hair. Talk about a way to ruin your fun in the sun.

Keep your tresses safe by applying a conditioning spray with UV protection before you spend a day outdoors. A stylish hat can also come in handy, not only for shielding your hair from the elements, but for hiding bad hair days. But we doubt you’ll be having very many of those going forward, now that you’re not committing some of the most common haircare mistakes. Happy styling!

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Tags Commerce, social

In Season Lifestyle

Everything You Need To Throw A Halloween Party With A Transylvania Twist

Post author By HealthyWay Finds
Post date September 25, 2018

Halloween’s probably our favorite holiday—at least, if we’re not counting National Spaghetti Day—and there’s no better way to celebrate than by throwing a big party. It’s a great excuse to dress up in a ridiculous costume, play some games, and eat an assortment of brain-shaped foods.
Of course, to throw a really great party, you need appropriate decorations. We searched Amazon to find the best affordable Halloween party gear, and we came up with quite a few gems. If you’re preparing to throw a monster mash of your own, here’s everything you’ll need to get started.

1. Nothing says Halloween like butcher’s knives and…cutting boards, we guess?

Here’s the perfect Halloween gift for the bloodthirsty cannibal who has everything. This personalized cutting board celebrates the dark holiday with eco-friendly bamboo construction. That’s right; you can eat the neighbors and save the environment at the same time.

Pick from a variety of limited-edition etchings, and supply your family’s last name for a special touch. We’d recommend skipping that part if you or the recipient are lying low for any major unsolved crimes.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Personalized-Spooky-Halloween-Cutting-Rectangular/dp/B07H2M4YX2/”]Personalized Halloween Cutting Board, $59.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

2. Make no bones about it; we’ll take sugar in our coffee.

There’s room for one final fright when you serve your guests their dessert coffee. Pick up this set of stainless steel sugar spoons and stick one in the bowl.

Your guests will toss in a few scoops and stir…only to realize, as they draw the spoon out, that they’ve been using a skull for a coffee spoon! Or, rather, they’ve been using a spoon-shaped kind of like a skull! Either way, the scare should run right up against the edge of a lawsuit, without quite crossing over. Hopefully.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/FOXAS-Stainless-Stirring-Everyday-Designed/dp/B01IT8926W/”]Stainless Steel Skull Sugar Spoons, $12.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

3. Hoo hoo who’s ready to party?

The only thing scarier than the hoot of an owl on a moonlit night is the hoot of a skeleton owl at your own Halloween party. We can’t help with the sound effects, but we’ve got you on the decorations.

You might remember Crazy Bonez as the company that brought you life-size plastic skeleton rats, cats, and even snakes. Well, they’re back at it, this time with an undead owl decoration that’s ideal decor for any fright-fest. Set this little creep up on the bookshelf and watch your guests back slowly out of the room. It’ll be a hoot!
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Crazy-Bonez-Z28048-Skeleton-Owl/dp/B01B7OI5SQ/”]Crazy Bonez Skeleton Owl Statue, $16.79 from Amazon [/link-button]

4. Injectable gelatin desserts? Now that’s creepy!

It’s not a party without gelatin desserts, are we right? If you want to get really wild this Halloween, you could even try pudding shots…but we can’t condone that kind of decadence.

Anyway, give your dessert table a darkly medical tinge by serving up your gelatin and pudding in big plastic syringes. Have fun squirting gunk in each others’ mouths, and play the Haunted Hospital vibe right to the hilt.
Note: Not for intravenous use.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Party-Syringe-Shooters-Syringes-Medium/dp/B004QHQPCU”]Party Syringe Shooters, $16.42 from Amazon[/link-button]

5. “Whaddaya got there, Dracula, a cold glass of sweet tea?”

We don’t care what the rules of the Buffyverse say; real vampires should only consume blood. If you’re a purist like us, be sure to invest in a few of these blood-bag drink cups. They’re realistic enough to preserve the vampiric illusion. Choose a set of 5, 10, or 20, depending on how many Draculas you expect at your party.

This set comes with a handy-dandy filling syringe, too, so you won’t have to get cherry cola all over the kitchen while you’re putting the refreshments together. No more Draculas with soda cans. We’re talking to you, Whedon.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/WYNK-Parties-Halloween-Vampire-Syringe/dp/B01NH33J19/”]Blood Bags Drink Cups, $11.98 from Amazon[/link-button]

6. “And the skelly goes to…”

Everybody loves a costume contest, but what’s a contest without a prize? This ghoulish statuette makes a memorable award for your contest’s first-place finisher. It features a skeleton (duh) with his head in his hands—literally—cast in brilliant gold (okay, fine, gold-painted plastic).

For under $7, it’s a nice pickup to bring some added pizzazz to your Halloween shindig. Everybloody will love it.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Amscan-Costume-Skeleton-Plastic-Trophy/dp/B000UWGWHS/”]Amscan Best Costume Skeleton Plastic Trophy, $6.90 from Amazon[/link-button]

7. Add some ghoulish fun to your refreshments table.

Cola tastes great, but it isn’t exactly scary. Halloween parties must be scary—or at least give a nod to the nightmarish. These soda-bottle stickers are freakier than the amount of corn syrup in your favorite 2-liter soft drink.

Offer your guests a taste of “Ye Olde Spider Venom” or the “Zombie Virus” itself. Just place these graphic stickers over the original label on your party beverage and let the fun begin. Best case scenario: The guests are too frightened to imbibe, and you get to keep the soft drinks for yourself.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Morbid-Enterprises-Halloween-Slapsticker-Decoration/dp/B003PSQPVM”]Halloween Slapsticker Soda Decorations, $9.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

8. Light your way through dark dance floors with bracelets that emit a ghostly glow.

Lots of people are afraid of the dark. Good. That makes it easier to set the ambiance at your next Halloween party. Of course, you can’t have people walking into each other and stubbing their toes on the fireplace. You do need some light.

Hand out these glowing LED bracelets at the door and get this party started. (You should probably provide other light sources, too. In fact, you definitely should not depend on LED bracelets to light an entire darkened house. That is not safe.)
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Bracelets-Fluorescence-Multicolor-Birthdays-Halloween/dp/B07FQQ9JV4/”]Multicolor LED Bracelets, $14.97 from Amazon[/link-button]

9. Who can wield these Medallions of Horror?

There’s no Halloween costume in the world that can’t be improved by a glowing LED necklace. This set of 15 plastic medallions covers all the bases of the season’s freakings. You’ve got your angry Jack-O-Lanterns, your friendly ghosts, and even your…pirate ships?

We guess pirates are still scary. At any rate, these flashing LED pendants add an ambient glow to any darkened party room. Kids love them, too. Toss them into trick-or-treat bags or hand them out to your party guests. That should be enough to keep the evil spirits at bay.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074BV191W”]LED Halloween Necklaces, $17.59 from Amazon[/link-button]

10. Candy alone can be too much of a good thing. Here’s a party favor that’ll fill the gap.

Remember Slinkies? Oddly enough, we could ask that question to everyone going back to our great-grandparents…but we’re asking you. It’s hard to explain how a bit of plastic spring can be so satisfying, but in an age of fidget spinners, maybe there’s no mystery there.

You can’t give your guests candy alone. You’ll make them sick! Supplement their goodie bags with these Halloween-themed “Magic Springs.” We can’t call them Slinkies for reasons of copyright law, but you know how they work.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Fun-Express-Halloween-Classroom-Giveaways/dp/B01LZZ9XX9/”]Halloween Magic Springs, $14 from Amazon[/link-button]

11. Don’t be afraid of assembling the goody bags.

This kit does it for you. It’s a 100-piece set of glow-in-the-dark Halloween toys, including creepy-crawly plastic bugs, eyeball-themed bouncy balls, and slip-on witch fingers. And did we mention it all glows in the dark? It all glows in the dark.

This grab-bag has pretty much everything you’d want for a primo Halloween favor bag. It’s all non-toxic, too, although we don’t recommend eating any of it. Come to think of it, these probably aren’t great for small children or anyone with a taste for glow-in-the-dark plastic. For everyone else, though, they’re great!
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/JOYIN-Halloween-Plastic-Fingers-Decorations/dp/B07579V2PT/”]Glow-in-the-Dark Halloween Party Favors, $14.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

12. Maybe we won’t have a second serving after all…

Serve up your Halloween dinner on a set of porcelain salad plates that feature lovely designs reminiscent of Morticia Addams’ finest lace. The designs include a skull, a black cat, a haunted mansion, and a witch in flight, all in the style of “Wiccan Lace.” We’re not sure what separates Wiccan lace from regular lace, but either way, these designs are gorgeous.

These are well-crafted, reusable dinner plates that will last you year after year. Shoot, you don’t even have to save them for just Halloween. Break them out early on October 1 to celebrate National Lace Day.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/222-Fifth-Halloween-Appetizer-Porcelain/dp/B00FYJ3342″]Wiccan Lace Appetizer Plates, $34 from Amazon[/link-button]

13. Serve up your Halloween candy with vintage flair.

Halloween is all about candy. Sure, there are the chills and thrills, but most of us could take those or leave them. Candy, on the other hand, is the real must-have item.

Why not give your guests what they’re here for with a little bit of style? This vintage Halloween candy bowl depicts a grinning cartoon cat (black, of course), seated inside a half-headed Jack-O-Lantern. The result is more whimsical than scary, but as long as your guests get their sugar fix, they’ll be happy either way.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/One-Holiday-Lane-Halloween-Decoration/dp/B072M6KMR4/”]Vintage Halloween Candy Bowl, $28.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

14. Ding dong, the witch is dead—but the cupcakes are still delicious.

Aren’t you sick of conventional Halloween cupcake toppers? We’ve seen enough pumpkins, skulls, and shrouded ghosts to last us a thousand Samhain Eves. However, until today, we’ve never seen a cake topper like this one.

They’re essentially little plastic witch legs. There’s kind of a Wizard of Oz vibe here, with the feet and legs of a sticking out witch (possibly of a wicked nature and eastern location), but the connotation is more that these witches dove right in. Either way, this will take your party treats further than the same old skull toppers (or aforementioned spider rings) everyone’s seen before.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Whaline-Halloween-Decorations-Decoration-Supplies/dp/B07GJLH9TS/”]Witch Boot Halloween Cupcake Toppers, $10 from Amazon[/link-button]

15. “Excuse me, where’s the little ghoul’s room?”

The bathroom: It’s arguably even more important than the kitchen for a good party. Still, when you have a bunch of elaborately costumed strangers in your home, you don’t want to spend all night pointing out the restroom door.

This full-sized door cover takes care of the job for you with a little wink. Mr. Bones is relaxing on the throne, reading his favorite newspaper. Your guests will get the gist.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Skeleton-Restroom-Cover-Party-Accessory/dp/B003NT5KRI”]Skeleton Restroom Door Cover, $5.50 from Amazon[/link-button]

16. We’d hate to meet the spider who made these webs.

Artificial spider webs are to Halloween what silver tinsel is to Christmas. Now, ask yourself: Where do you find your tinsel? It’s not like you can pop on down to the Town Tinselry after work.

Nope, you’ve got to go to Amazon. The same is true for your Halloween webbing. This manageable package from Fun World stretches out into more than 800 feet of cobwebs! With that kind of volume, you and a friend could hop into a two-person spider costume and still pose at scale. Now, where can we find a two-person spider costume?
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Fun-World-Stretch-Halloween-Decoration/dp/B00FQBLOVW”]Super Stretch Spider Web, $9.95 from Amazon[/link-button]

17. Everything is spookier by candlelight…

But who needs the fire risk? Plus, there’s all that wax to clean up when the party’s over. You can always go for LED candles, but they never look quite real enough for the creepy ambiance of a Halloween party…at least, not until now.

LED Lytes Candles are made from real wax, with a genuine dripped-over texture. They just don’t have the dangerous parts, like the wick and the flame. They’re little flickering LED bulbs that imitate real candlelight perfectly. Even better, they won’t blow out when the seance reaches its climax.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/LED-Lytes-Timer-Candles-Flickering/dp/B01M2CCEBK”]LED Lytes Candles, $25.97 from Amazon[/link-button]

18. “Worst of all were the eyes, the flashing eyes in the dark.”

Scare the tears out of your party guests by setting up these Peep n’ Peepers lights up in every dark corner. Just don’t tell them they’re called “Peep n’ Peepers.” That name kind of ruins the mood, when you think about it.

These sets of LED-powered flashing eyeballs have adjustable eyelids, so you can make them as silly or as threatening as you like. They flash at intervals, giving the impression of strange blinking creatures in the dark. Yikes!
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Peep-Peepers-Flashing-Halloween-Lights/dp/B001F8LICA”]Flashing Eyes Halloween Lights, $19.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

19. Build a truly spooky selfie station.

Look, no one under the age of 30 is coming to your party if you don’t have a selfie station. Here’s a simple, low-cost solution. It’s a 5-foot-by-7-foot drop cloth that you can hang from your professional-quality light stands…or just tape to the wall for the duration of the party.

This backdrop depicts a set of open gates that beckon you into a creepy, fog-choked cemetery beyond. In short, it’ll look great on Instagram!
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Halloween-Pictorial-Customized-photography-Background/dp/B0166U01RE”]Halloween-Themed Photography Backdrop, $16.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

20. Why stop with a selfie station when you can make a whole room into an unsettling set piece?

We’re assuming you don’t live in a crumbling gothic mansion. If you do, please disregard this entire item. If your walls, like ours, are more Sherwin-Williams than château-chic, this temporary wallpaper will do the trick.

It comes in two pieces and covers a good 40 feet of wallspace. Stick it on to create the illusion of a proud castle fallen on hard times…or maybe an immortal owner who’s biding his time for a dark age to come.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Amscan-676108-Gothic-Mansion-Room/dp/B005GZRFS4″]Gothic Mansion Room Roll, $20.39 from Amazon[/link-button]

21. Keep it simple, skeleton.

Sometimes the simplest ways are still best. This black-and-orange striped table cover would be at home at a thousand Halloween parties past. But there’s a reason it’s a classic.

This one is designed to cover your standard folding party tables, famous from generations of elementary school gatherings. You’ll recognize the feel of the slippery, thin plastic from your own childhood—or, if you are, in fact, a child now, you’ll make a holiday memory that’ll last a lifetime. Also, you shouldn’t be making online purchases without your parents in the mix. Come on, kids!
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Beistle-00104-Orange-Stripes-Tablecover/dp/B0131SHRUI”]Plastic Orange-and-Black Striped Tablecloth, $6.97 from Amazon[/link-button]

22. Direct traffic (gruesomely, of course).

These bloody footprints and bloodstains work wonderfully for directing guests to the bathroom, kitchen, or any other key party area. Simply peel the back and apply to any smooth surface. For extra horror, try tossing a few on the ceiling.

They feature a strong adhesive that’s safe on most materials, including ceramic tile and wood, and they’re fairly realistic. For under $11, you get 63 pieces—more than enough to make your home look like a crime scene (but, uh, in a good way).
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/jollylife-63PCS-Bloody-Footprints-Clings/dp/B0753B7F68/”]Bloody Footprints Floor Clings, 63 Pieces, $10.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

23. Indulge your inner arachnophile with this ring toss game.

Every party needs games. This inflatable ring toss is surprisingly fun, and it looks pretty adorable, too. The legs have different scores; play for a high score or elimination style (think darts, but with a giant spider).

It’s great for partygoers of all ages, and it’s made from high-quality plastic. For extra fun, throw a handful of real spiders onto it (note: Please don’t actually do this).
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Inflatable-Spider-Perfect-Halloween-Party/dp/B07GK2ZDR2″]37-Inch Spider Ring Toss Game, $15.95 from Amazon[/link-button]

24. Drinks taste better when you sip them from the hand of death.

You can quote us on that. This bundle comes with a dozen skeleton-hand glasses, spider webbing, and a bundle of Halloween-themed napkins.

Serve your guests a putrid punch or coffin cooler, then marvel at the high-quality craftsmanship. It’s almost like they’re made of real human bones…but they’re not, of course. That would be illegal. We checked.
We should note that these glasses are fairly small; they hold about two ounces, according to the description, so plan accordingly.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Halloween-Party-Supply-Bundle-Skeleton/dp/B075QXFKPZ”]Halloween Skeleton Hand Glass Party Bundle, $29.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

25. Cast a spell on your partygoers with this fun banner.

Printed on eco-friendly paper, this banner bears the words “Drink Up, Witches,” implying that your guests should, in fact, enjoy the prune juice and goat’s milk that you’ve set out for them. Surely, you’re not serving anything else at your Halloween party.

The glittering gold letters are suspended on a lightweight string, so you can easily hang them on walls, branches, or anywhere else (you know how banners work, right?). The manufacturer also offers a 100 percent satisfaction money-back guarantee, so if you’re disappointed with your purchase, you won’t have to place a hex on the seller.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Glittery-Witches-Halloween-Decoration-Supplies/dp/B07FZT3PG6/”]Gold Glittery “Drink Up Witches” Banner, $11.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

26. We can’t think of a good zombie popcorn pun, but give us a second.

Okay, let’s see…Orville Dead-enbacher? Yeah, that’s what we should have said.

Every party needs some food, and these miniature popcorn boxes add a little undead flair to your snack table. They’re intended for popcorn, and they’re made from cardstock, so you probably wouldn’t want to put anything heavy in them, but if you want to fill them up with cow’s brains or blood pudding—you know, typical party fare—be our guest.
Each order comes with 24 boxes. Note that they’re fairly small; each measures 3” × 3”× 4”.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Halloween-Zombie-Head-Popcorn-Boxes/dp/B009434PA0″]Halloween Zombie Head Mini Popcorn Boxes, $6.57 from Amazon[/link-button]

27. Glittery things can be scary, too.

Come to think of it, glitter is pretty terrifying stuff. Try to apply it on your own, and you’ll find yourself picking little sparkles out of your carpet for the next several decades.

These hanging decorations let you enjoy the glitter without the mess. You get an assortment of skulls, spiders, bats, and crows, perfect for adorning your party room. The product description notes that it’s perfect for “Halloween…or any other themed events,” but let’s be honest: If you’re using these for something other than Halloween, you’ve got real issues.
Each pack comes with one “chandelier” piece and 28 other hanging cutouts. For around $11, it’s a pretty fantastic value.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Shocktails-Gothic-Glitter-Room-Decorating/dp/B003PSH8D6/”]Amscan Haunted House Party Decorating Kit, $11.25 from Amazon[/link-button]

28. These punch balloons are perfect for kids’ parties.

Granted, they’re great for adult parties, too, but you’ve got to be a kid to truly appreciate the wonder of a punchable balloon. Each pack comes with 16 balloons: eight jack-o-lanterns, four skulls, and four vampire bats.

They’re made with high-quality, durable latex, and they’re ideal party favors for younger guests. For extra fun, fill them with about 80 percent helium to make them float mid-air. The rubber material has a slight synthetic odor, so unwrap them a few days before the event to give them time to air out (so to speak).
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Amscan-392399-Halloween-Ghoulish-Balloon/dp/B00B0Z0JPU/”]Halloween Ghoulish Punch Balloons, $8.49 from Amazon[/link-button]

29. This cute party dress has a macabre flourish.

At first glance, it’s a cute little cocktail dress adorned with flowers; look closer, and you’ll see the skulls and crossbones. Muhahaha.

It’s made with soft satin, and at under $30 (prices vary with sizing), it’s an outstanding value. We really love the big black bow-tie design and the halter neckline. Per the user reviews, the sizing is accurate—which is unusual by Amazon standards—and a stretch panel on the back allows for a comfortable fit. Pair it with a petticoat, and you’re ready to shake your bones on the dancefloor.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/DRESSTELLS-Rockabilly-Halloween-White-Skull/dp/B0732ZQ85L”]Vintage Skull Cocktail Dress, $18.66 to $27.69 from Amazon[/link-button]

30. Make sure that your party isn’t dead on arrival.

Nobody really sends paper invitations anymore, and that’s a shame. Sure, you can save a few bucks by inviting your friends on social media, but if you really want to throw a classic party, take the extra step and send out a few postcards.

These coffin-shaped cards help your guests plan for your shindig, and they perfectly walk the line between cute and grim (it’s a pretty wide line, now that we think of it). Each card has places for date, time, place, details, and an RSVP. They’re printed on durable cardstock with a matte finish. You also get a set of eye-catching blood-red envelopes.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Halloween-Invitation-Cards-Fill-Invitations/dp/B07DVX6LP6/”]Halloween Invitation Cards, 60 Count, $12.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

31. This toilet topper isn’t great for arachnophobes.

Peel it and place it onto the top of your toilet lid (not the actual seat). It shows a variety of venomous spiders climbing out of the commode—or into it, we suppose. That depends on your perspective.

In any case, it’s sure to scare the pants off your guests in the one room where that’s actually appropriate. After the party, it removes easily without leaving any residue. One reviewer notes that it’s “not very realistic,” but in our book, that’s actually a plus. Be sure to check the sizing; if you’ve got an especially large toilet, this sticker might run a bit small.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Spider-Toilet-Topper-Place-Accessory/dp/B003BQGN6U/”]Spider Toilet Topper, $5.32 from Amazon[/link-button]

32. Enjoy a candlelit party without the fire hazard.

If you’re sticking fairly close to this list, you’ve got an assortment of paper decorations, faux cobwebs, and other highly flammable stuff. Candles probably aren’t the best idea.

Fortunately, LED candles exist, and they’re the next best thing to actual flame. This 12-piece kit gives you plenty of soft light for a Halloween party, and they’ve got built-in timers to prevent the batteries from running down. Not that that’s much of a concern—each provides about 60 hours of light on a single CR2032 battery. The LED “flames” flicker, providing a realistic effect, and they’re still quite useful when the holiday’s over.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/PChero-Operated-Decorative-Flameless-Flickering/dp/B073FZ7VSM/”]12-Piece Timer LED Candle Set, $14.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

33. What’s a Halloween party without a nice serving of brains?

Maybe we should say, “braaaaaaaaiiiins.” This plastic mold lets you make your own brain-shaped gelatin molds, perfect for freaking out kids or eliciting a light chuckle from adults (man, we’ve become way too jaded).

Add in your favorite flavor of Jell-O, and you’ll have a jiggly, slightly horrifying snack. This line from the product description sums up the appeal nicely: “What’s the best way to freak people out? Serve them a gelatin brain.” We certainly can’t argue with that. Note that the same manufacturer also offers heart-shaped and hand-shaped gelatin molds, so with a bit of creativity, you can make an entire organ-shaped Jell-O buffet.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Fun-World-FW-8631-Plastic-Brain/dp/B009S5SL90/”]Plastic Brain Gelatin Mold, $4.59 from Amazon[/link-button]

34. When you really want your party to “crush it,” this prop is awesome.

It’s an officially licensed piece of Wizard of Oz merchandise, and more importantly, it’s a hilarious conversation piece. The two stuffed legs stick out from underneath any heavy object—we recommend tucking them under a piano or kitchen appliance.

They feature the ruby-red slippers of the Wicked Witch of the East. Dress up your dog as Toto—or simply throw on Toto’s “Africa”—and you’ve got a great theme party going. These are a simple accent, but you’ll find yourself bringing them out every Halloween from now on.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Wizard-18-Inch-Wicked-Witch-Legs/dp/B002UDUPP0/”]Wicket Witch of the East Legs, $11.20 from Amazon[/link-button]

35. If you’re really looking for something grim, these asylum scene setters should do the trick.

The kit includes “two large wall posters of a long, bloody hallway in a decrepit sanitarium with the images of a vacated wheelchair and corpse on a gurney, accented by assorted cardstock cutouts of rats, knives, murderous nurses, ‘Psycho Ward’ signs, and more.” What better way to show your party guests that you’re actually certifiably committed to spooking them with the most elaborately decorated Halloween party ever?

While the wall decoration is a horrific masterpiece, we really love the cardstock cutouts, which look great propped up in windows. If you’re trying to fill up some empty wall space, this kit is the ghastly touch you need.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Asylum-Scene-Setters-Halloween-Decorating/dp/B00JFB7W7Y/”]Asylum Scene Setters Halloween Decorating Kit, $9.88 from Amazon[/link-button]

36. After seeing It, we’re all a bit coulrophobic.

Coulrophobia, by the way, means an irrational fear of clowns. We’re pretty sure that phobia doesn’t technically exist—no fear of clowns is truly irrational.

In case you’re living under a rock (or in the depths of a haunted sewer), the 2017 film It brought clowns back into the mainstream. The main villain, Pennywise, is a figure of unspeakable evil, so naturally, someone made a cardboard cutout of him in all his demonic glory. We recommend setting it up right by your front door; as guests arrive, you can film their reactions.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Advanced-Graphics-Pennywise-Dancing-Cardboard/dp/B075NKL4V5/”]Pennywise the Dancing Clown Cardboard Cutout, $39.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

37. Start your own coven with these witch caps.

You know that someone is going to show up at your party without a costume. Maybe they’ll have a nametag with their name on it, and they’ll say that they’re “going as themselves.” Lame. Seriously, what’s wrong with people? You can’t take five seconds to get a cheap costume together?

If anyone tries that trick at your party, you’ll be prepared. Order a set of witch caps, and if someone shows up in their street clothes, hand them a hat. Now they’re going as “the wicked witch of being boring at parties.” Maybe they’ll think twice next Halloween.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/KESEE%E2%98%80%E2%98%80-Halloween-Adult-Womens-Chrismas/dp/B01KJT3ALC/”]6-Pack Witch Caps, $18.55 from Amazon[/link-button]

Tags Commerce, in season, social

Lifestyle Well-Traveled

The 16 Ultimate Packing Hacks Every Traveler Needs To Know

Post author By Joni Sweet
Post date September 24, 2018

For travelers, nothing is quite as invigorating as heading to the airport for a big adventure they’ve been planning for months, if not longer. Packing that suitcase, however, can be the opposite of exciting. Few things are more nerve-wracking than making sure you have everything you need, carefully folding each garment to avoid a wrinkled nightmare when you arrive at the hotel, and, of course, squeezing every last item into a tiny carry-on bag. After all, who has time to wait around for checked bags these days?

Packing can be a drag. So what’s a jet-setter with a serious case of wanderlust to do? For starters, she gets savvy. There’s a certain art to packing a bag. It starts with staying relaxed while stuffing that suitcase full. It definitely requires organization throughout the entire process. But to truly take your packing skills to the next level, you’ll need to learn a few tricks of the trade. Here are 16 travel hacks that will send your luggage-packing anxiety, er, packing.

1. Use a packing checklist.

It’s all too tempting to just grab a bunch of your favorite outfits, toss them in a bag, and call it a day. But inevitably, you’ll end up overpacking while simultaneously missing essential items, which is the worst of both worlds. A packing list can help make sure you bring along everything you could possibly need—nothing more, nothing less.
Ideally, you’d create a custom packing list to fit your exact needs. For example, if you can’t live without a stash of chapstick, your moisturizer, and your lucky hat, better add them to your list! Until you’ve got your own list locked down, though, a pre-made packing checklist can help you stay on track. It’ll remind you about the clothes, personal hygiene products, and accessories that belong in your suitcase, and give you reassurance that nothing important is left behind.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Travel-Packing-Checklist-Organizing-Accessories/dp/B071GPSD2D”]Shacke Travel Packing Checklist, $6.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Knock-Pack-This-Pad/dp/1601061560″]Knock Knock Pack This! Pad, $7 from Amazon[/link-button]

2. Try packing cubes.

It’s a fact: Your carry-on bag will never be as spacious as you need it to be. And those overhead bins aren’t getting any larger! You’ll need to condense your belongings down as much as possible to make sure everything fits in a couple of tightly packed bags. Fortunately, packing cubes seem to make the impossible possible when it comes to packing a ton of stuff in a small space. Roll your garments and tightly squish them in each cube, working to squeeze out as much air as possible.
A large packing cube can contain a week’s worth of clothes, while still leaving you plenty of extra space in your suitcase. Plus, they help you stay organized at the destination. Each cube acts as its own “drawer” when you unpack and can keep your dirty and clean clothes separated. Once you start using packing cubes, you’ll never go back to tossing stuff directly into your suitcase.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Packing-Travel-Luggage-Organizer-Laundry/dp/B01EBXYZQ6″]Hopsooken 5-Piece Packing Cube Set, $19.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/TravelWise-Packing-Cube-System-Weekender/dp/B00HHBR008″]TravelWise Packing Cube System, $22.95 from Amazon[/link-button]

3. Bring a mini steamer.

Everyone has their own technique to avoid wrinkling their clothes in a suitcase. Some roll their garments, while others swear by tucking each item between squares of tissue paper. But no matter what, your clothes are going to end up with at least a few creases—it’s the nature of being stuffed into suitcases for days on end. That’s why stylish travelers also throw a portable steamer and iron into their luggage.

These little gadgets weigh almost nothing, take up a minimal amount of suitcase space, and work far more effectively than that dingy old iron in your hotel room. Plus, a portable iron can help your outfits look pristine in minutes. They’re perfect if you’re taking a business trip, heading to a destination wedding, or just want to look your best, wherever you are.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Reliable-150GT-Heat-resistant-Resistant-Soleplate/dp/B07DP33YHJ/”]Reliable Ovo Portable Steamer and Iron, $50.34 from Amazon[/link-button]

4. Get foldable clothes, shoes, and accessories.

If you’re racking up a lot of frequent flier miles every year, it’s worth investing in some travel-friendly clothing. You may have noticed what a pain it is to lug around a big, heavy coat, or how impossible it is to pack one. A packable down jacket that squishes into a handy pouch is just what you need to stay warm without the added bulk.
Think about your shoes, as well. Footwear can eat up an enormous amount of suitcase space—if you let it. A pair of foldable flats is just what you need to save space without compromising your style. You’d be surprised at just how many foldable items are available for travelers. They even make foldable headphones that you can stash in the smallest bags!

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Wantdo-Womens-Hooded-Packable-XX-Large/dp/B06VVGGGL5/”]Wantdo Packable Ultra Lightweight Jacket, $50.76 from Amazon[/link-button]

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Talaria-Flats-Womens-Foldable-Ballet/dp/B07D93MTHH”]Talaria Foldable Ballet Flats, $38 from Amazon[/link-button]

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Bluelark-Foldable-Over-Ear-Headphones/dp/B011QJQMQ4/”]Bluelark Foldable Over Ear Headphones, $14.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

5. Buy reusable travel containers.

You never know what kind of amenities will be available at your hotel. It’s safe to assume that soap, shampoo, and conditioner will be on offer—but will they be any good? Many travelers prefer the peace of mind that comes with packing their own toiletries from home.
Rather than shelling out for those overpriced travel-size versions of your favorite products, invest in a set of TSA-approved silicone travel bottles that you can refill over and over again instead. They slip into any carry-on bag with ease. And, having access to the amenities you already know and trust when you’re on a trip is like a little taste of home. Pop them in a resealable plastic bag and you’re good to go!

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Portable-Soft-Silicone-Travel-Set/dp/B0713RH6M3/”]TSA-Approved Silicone Travel Bottles, $10.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/AUTENS-Accessories-Refillable-Containers-Conditioner/dp/B07GB3VR17″]Autens Leakproof Silicone Travel Bottles, $11.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

6. Power up while you’re on the go.

The most ubiquitous feature in today’s high-end suitcases is a built-in phone charger. It makes sense—who couldn’t use some extra juice when they’re scrolling through social media as they wait to board a flight? But even if you don’t have a fancy bag, you can still recharge your batteries on the go with a portable power bank.
Many of these devices can completely refill your iPhone battery three or four times on a single charge. There’s nothing like finding out your smartphone battery is dead when you want to snap a pic of a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Fortunately, portable chargers are a lifesaver when you’re traveling in remote areas (say, hiking in the jungle or taking a safari).

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/POWERADD-Pilot-4GS-Lightning-High-Speed/dp/B01LA941IG”]Poweradd Pilot Portable Power Bank, $24.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Portable-24000mAh-Capacity-Ultra-Compact-Compatible/dp/B07DYLZKSF”]Ruipu Power Bank, $28.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

7. Print is dead, go digital instead.

Books and travel go together like peanut butter and jelly. Travelers rely on guidebooks to help them find the best places to eat and sleep in a new city, wind down from a busy day of sightseeing with a story in their hotel rooms, and get lost in novels while they sunbathe on the beach. However, books are heavy and bulky, which is not ideal when you’re trying to pack light.
An e-reader is one of the smartest investments traveling bibliophiles can make. They can store thousands of titles in a device that weighs as much as a single paperback novel. Plus, if you finish up a book or two and still crave more literature when you’re on the road, you can just download a fresh novel and dig in, wherever you are.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Amazon-Kindle-Paperwhite-6-Inch-4GB-eReader/dp/B00OQVZDJM”]Amazon Kindle, $119.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Apple-Display-Bluetooth-Capability-Recording/dp/B07BTC641D”]Apple 32GB iPad, $314.70 from Amazon[/link-button]

8. Use a handbag with lots of pockets.

Airlines generally let you bring a rolling carry-on bag, as well as a “personal item,” like a handbag or backpack—and smart travelers take advantage of every inch of allowable space. Finding a handbag with a lot of pockets is one of the best travel hacks for jet-setters who want to stay organized on a flight. Nothing’s worse than digging around your bag on a cold, dark airplane when you’re trying to find your hand lotion.

A handbag with lots of compartments allows you to create a dedicated space for each of your essentials. Some even come with pockets specifically designed to hold crucial items, like your keys, passport, sunglasses, and wallet. There’s nothing like the peace of mind that comes with knowing where to find every last item in your bag.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Lug-Puddle-Jumper-Overnight-Pearl/dp/B01CYLD2Z2″]Lug Puddle Jumper Overnight Bag, $114.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

9. Tiny containers are your best friends.

When it comes to travel hacks, tiny containers are incredibly versatile tools. They can store all kinds of things that you probably want to travel with. While you might never think you’d need a contact lens case if you don’t wear contacts, it’s worth investing in one or two. They’re the perfect size to store the tiniest bit of moisturizer, toothpaste, or even perfume. And if you thought pill organizers were solely reserved for travelers with medical needs, think again.
These convenient cases can store your necklaces, earrings, small cables, and other items that might otherwise get lost or tangled. You’d be surprised at just how useful these cases and organizers can be for carefully storing small items in a big suitcase.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/AUVON-iMedassist-Compartments-Supplements-Medication/dp/B07794YMY7″]Auvon iMedassist Weekly Pill Organizer, $7.97 from Amazon[/link-button]

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Kikkerland-Contact-Lens-Case-Ladybug/dp/B00MU5MW5Y”]Kikkerland Contact Lens Case, $4.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

10. Pack a quick-dry towel.

It’s always a good idea to have a towel in your bag when you go on a trip. Sure, your hotel might have one—but what if you take a spontaneous trip to the beach, or go camping? You’ll definitely want your own. While those plush terry cloth towels you have in your bathroom might be soft and snuggly, they take up too much room in a suitcase.

Invest in a microfiber travel towel, instead. Favored by athletes and travelers alike for its ability to absorb moisture really quickly, this kind of towel also has another valuable feature: It dries super fast. Just hang it out on a balcony, drape it over a chair, or toss it on a tree branch, and it can dry in roughly 20 minutes. There’s no risk of a gross, mildewy towel stinking up your bag and making everything damp.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Wolfyok-Microfiber-Absorbent-Swimming-Backpacking/dp/B01L8RM8X0″]Wolfyok 2-Pack Microfiber Travel Sports Towels, $13.59 from Amazon[/link-button]

11. Put dryer sheets in your bag.

Speaking of a stinky bag, don’t be surprised of you get a whiff of something less than fresh when you’ve been traveling for weeks on end. Between your dirty laundry, the strange places you’ve stored your bag, and everything else that comes with having an adventure, you’re bound to experience an odor at some point when you unzip your suitcase.

It’s wise to pack a few aromatic dryer sheets in a resealable plastic bag to fend off strange smells. Not only can they make your clothing smell like it just came out of the wash, dryer sheets can also be used to deodorize a musty hotel room, reduce static electricity, freshen up a rental car for a road trip, or mask the lingering smell of a room-service breakfast long after you’ve finished your eggs and toast.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Downy-Infusions-Lavender-Serenity-Softener/dp/B00NJ1MALE”]Lavender Serenity Fabric Softener Dryer Sheets, $4.97 from Amazon[/link-button]

12. Personalize your luggage.

What color is your suitcase? Let us take a wild guess: It’s black. Pretty much every traveler has a run-of-the-mill black bag. That’s fine, until your bag goes missing and you need to tell a hotel clerk or airport agent what to look for when searching for your suitcase. Finding ways to help your bag stand out from the sea of other black suitcases is a particularly smart travel hack.
Try buying a distinctive luggage tag to dangle off the handle of your bag. Look for one with bright colors, unique shapes, and fun designs so you can recognize your suitcase right away. Suitcase stickers are another way to make your bag stand out. May we suggest travel-themed stickers that convey your passion for exploring the world?

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Mziart-Colorful-Pineapple-Strawberry-Watermelons/dp/B07BLHKQ1Z”]Mziart Colorful Fruits Luggage Tags, $9.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Countries-Landmark-Monument-Waterproof-Childrens/dp/B01L8APN1G”]Landmarks and Monuments Bag Stickers, $10.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

13. Separate your in-flight necessities.

You know how airlines are super strict about how many bags they let you take on board the plane? We get it—there’s limited space available. But sometimes you just need one more bag. That’s why it’s worth popping a foldable reusable grocery bag in your carry-on luggage. It’s the perfect place to stash your in-flight essentials, like a snack, chapstick, a book, your phone, and your headphones.

Board the plane with two bags and when you get to the seat, pull out your reusable grocery bag and store the rest of your luggage for the duration of the flight.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Foldable-Reusable-Grocery-Shopping-Patterns/dp/B07CTC1CCG”]Foldable Reusable Grocery Bag, $13.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

14. Use a jewelry organizer.

Traveling with jewelry presents its own set of challenges. Obviously you want to store things in as small a package as possible, but nothing’s worse than finding a tangled rat’s nest or broken jewels when you reach for your favorite necklace. A jewelry case can help you keep all your precious trinkets safe when you’re far from home.

This case has separate compartments for necklaces, earrings, and rings, plus lots of padding. And here’s a secret: A jewelry case can also be used to store your cables for your electronics.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Saffiano-Leather-Travel-Jewelry-Case/dp/B01M5JAZ5J”]Saffiano Leather Travel Jewelry Case, $37.77 from Amazon[/link-button]

15. Get a universal travel adapter.

Experienced travelers don’t have the time to fumble around with an assortment of power adapters, trying to figure out exactly which one they need for the country they’re planning to visit. Instead, they pack a universal travel adapter. These nifty devices can help you fit your electronics into outlets in more than 100 countries.

The extra USB outlets on the travel adapters will also come in handy when you want to charge multiple devices at one time. Having access to power wherever you are is one of the most useful travel hacks you can adopt.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Universal-HAOZI-International-European-Countries/dp/B074CRS574″]Universal Travel Adapter, $16.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

16. Always pack a sarong.

Travelers, meet your new best friend: the sarong. You may already have one of these garments left over from a beach vacation, but trust us when we say they are useful for so much more than throwing on over a bathing suit.
These make the best blankets when you’re freezing on an airplane, can double as a towel when you forgot to bring one, stand in as a blanket for an impromptu picnic in the park, and become a fashionable dress for beaches and resorts. You can also tie them up to create a little pouch for your gear. Once you see how useful it is to have a sarong on a trip, you’ll never travel without one again.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Mandala-Life-ART-Hand-Printed-Endlessly/dp/B072BB24WX/”]Mandala Bohemian Sarong, $25.52 from Amazon[/link-button]

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/USA-Womens-Sarong-Swimsuit-Black-Gray/dp/B077BV5FZP”]Tie Dye Sarong, $13.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

Tags Commerce, social

Nosh

5 Strange And Fascinating Food Jobs You Never Knew Existed

Post author By Ashley Linkletter
Post date September 20, 2018

Before I became a food and nutrition writer, I worked at two different cheese shops; when the years are combined, my time as a cheesemonger (more on that term later) spans a full decade. It’s a great conversation starter: If anyone asks, I can recommend one (or several!) of the hundreds of cheeses I’ve had the fortune to taste.
I can pair your favorite beverage with a cheese that will make your taste buds sing, and I can talk exhaustively about the politic of dairy farming any day of the week. Working in a cheese shop employed with foodies of the best sort (former chefs, pastry school students who always brought in their “failed” baking attempts, and even a now-famous forensic anthropologist) gave me an education in food that I’ll always treasure.

While some of these strange food jobs might seem far-fetched (or even downright dangerous), the people who fill these spaces are incredibly passionate about their careers. Many of these jobs require years of expensive and ongoing training, with plenty of long hours and extensive travel time. So how and why do people get interested in these professions in the first place? Read on to find out what makes these strange food jobs such interesting (and appetizing) career options!

1. Honey Sommelier

Carla Marina Marchese, owner of Red Bee Honey and author of Honeybee Lessons from an Accidental Beekeeper and The Honey Connoisseur Selecting, Tasting, and Pairing Honey (co-authored with Kim Flottum) was inducted into the world of honey tasting by accident.
“In 2000, I was invited by a neighbor to visit his apiary. Between the visual activity of the bees at the hive entrance, the smell of beeswax, and the taste of fresh honey, I was mesmerized,” she tells HealthyWay. Marchese’s initial interest bloomed into a strong desire to learn everything there is to know about honey and beekeeping.

“It did not take long before I became curious about the wide range of flavors in honey depending upon the specific type of flowers bees visit. I was on a mission to uncover information about matching each flower to the flavor it would impart to the honey.” After years of research and hands-on training, Marchese became the first non-Italian to be inducted into the Italian National Register of Experts in the Sensory Analysis of Honey, and in 2013, she founded the American Honey Tasting Society.

The term “honey sommelier” was invented by Marchese and is now widely used in the United States. “Today, people are using it to freely to describe expert honey tasters,” she says, “in reality, it takes years to understand the finer aspects of a wide range of honeys.”

2. Truffle Forager in the Pacific Northwest

When you think of foraging for truffles, your mind probably goes straight to Italy or France. Both countries are famous for their highly-prized white and black truffles (as well as the pigs that find them). You may not realize that there are people working as truffle foragers much closer to home. Oregon is quickly becoming a hotspot for truffle aficionados from all over the globe; there’s even a yearly Oregon Truffle Festival.

In 2015, the Discovery Channel unveiled a five-episode documentary called Unearthed that explored the trials and tribulations of truffle hunting in the Pacific Northwest. The state of Oregon boasts two specimens of white truffle, Tuber oregonense and Tuber gibbosum, and a single species of the highly coveted black truffle, Leucangium carthusianum.
For many years, truffle foragers in Oregon have used rakes to find the underground fungi, an inefficient practice that drove down the price of Oregon truffles. The reason animals are traditionally used to search for truffles is because their heightened sense of smell can discern between ripe and unripe truffles—whereas raking them out of the ground produces an uneven mix of the two.

The solution? Truffle foragers are relying on specially trained dogs to ensure they’re digging up only the highest-quality product. Dedicated trainers like the ones at the Truffle Dog Company are working with specific dog breeds to teach them how to identify a ripe truffle by its scent alone. Thanks to the efforts of these trainers and dogs, the value of Oregon truffles are now hovering around $400 per pound, and while still well below the asking price of European truffles, their popularity is growing as the culinary world deepens its commitment to locally grown ingredients.

3. Geoduck Diver

The geoduck (pronounced “gooey-duck”) is a rather alarming-looking specimen at first glance. The Pacific geoduck, also known scientifically as the much prettier sounding Panopea generosa, is a massive clam that is wildly popular in China and is quickly gaining attention in North America for its sweet, pleasantly briny flavor and delicate crunch.

Found all along the West Coast of the United States and Canada, from California to British Columbia to Alaska, harvesting geoducks is an extremely competitive, dangerous occupation that can quickly become deadly if circumstances turn sour.

Geoduck divers wear weights on their feet so that they can “walk” across the ocean floor, sometimes at a depth of up to 70 feet. During harvesting season, geoducks are mostly invisible to the naked eye as they bury themselves deep in the sand. Harvesters must tap the ocean floor to find them with the hope that a single hidden geoduck will lead to hundreds more close by. As the geoducks are harvested and placed in a net, the silt from the ocean floor scatters and creates low visibility conditions.

The diver is tethered to a boat and must signal when they’re ready to ascend, a process which can take several minutes. Of course, weather conditions and quickly changing ocean currents can worsen conditions within a span of seconds.
So why do geoduck divers take the risk? Depending on market value at the time, geoducks are worth anywhere from $7 and $20 a pound and on a good day, a diver will have harvested thousands of pounds of geoduck as the clams generally weigh an impressive 2 to 3 pounds each, although larger specimens are not uncommon.

4. Food Stylist

You may not realize it, but the work of food stylists is everywhere. They can make egg yolks look vibrantly sunny in recipe books and magazines, and they’re behind all of the food shown on TV and in films, whether it’s a cup of coffee or an extravagant feast.
Many food stylists begin their jobs as professional chefs, building their food styling portfolio up as they work (although some food stylists begin their careers through hands-on training, completion of a food styling certificate, or attending food styling seminars).

A major branch of food styling involves preparing and styling food for cookbooks and talk shows, an activity that many people assume is done by the cookbook author themselves. A 2017 article published in The Star profiles Jan Sherk, a prominent food stylist in the Toronto culinary arts scene.
“People are shocked when I say that the author didn’t make the food,” she told food writer Karon Liu. “I tell them that they’re flying in from another city and it’s impossible for them to shop for the ingredients when their plane lands at midnight or cook out of their hotel room. It’s why there’s a need for people that do what I do.”

Becoming a professional food stylist requires patience, time, organization, and a good eye for detail and what makes food aesthetically pleasing and interesting.
While the average salary of a food stylist depends on the industry they’re working in (for example, pay rates for book layouts, TV shows and film, and the hospitality industry all vary), an experienced food stylist can expect to earn between $30,000 and $50,000 per year.

5. Cheesemonger

The term “cheesemonger” describes someone who sells and is knowledgeable about cheese. Building on this title, cheesemongers can go on to become maître fromager (“cheese masters” who have been inducted into the prestigious Guilde Internationale des Fromager) and affineurs (individuals responsible for aging the cheese and serving it while at peak ripeness).
Marcella Wright, a former cheesemonger and current cheese educator, is a member of the Guilde Internationale des Fromager and now works closely with cheesemongers hoping to pass the notoriously rigorous American Cheese Society Certified Cheese Professional Exam. Wright was fortunate to grow up in a family that appreciated good cheese.

“During the summer, my grandfather delivered milk and cheese for a local dairy in Michigan—in the winter he drove a snow plow—and brought cheese home for the family. Robust, ‘sharp’ cheddars were always in our fridge and one of our favorite snacks was cheddar and bell peppers,” she tells HealthyWay.
However, it was a taste of an extra-aged gouda in the late ’90s that really sparked her interest in specialty cheeses. “One of the cheeses we tasted was an aged gouda with ‘those crunchies.’ I fell in love with that gouda and became an occasional customer of The Cheese Shop of Beverly Hills.”

For those people who love the delightfully crunchy texture of aged cheeses, Wright helpfully shares that “those ‘crunchies’ are tyrosine—an amino acid that develops in aging cheeses like gouda, cheddar, and parmesan. The crystals that develop on the outside of cheddar are usually calcium lactate.”

Wright’s advice to those interested in becoming cheesemongers is to work in an environment where you can taste different cheeses as often as possible:
“The best way to become a monger is to work in a cheese shop, especially for a chain such as Kroger, Whole Foods, et cetera. These stores have a greater selection of cheeses from “industrial” to high-end specialty and you can learn the ropes while being paid to taste cheese every day. Murray’s requires its mongers to taste three cheeses every day. You learn a lot about cheeses that way especially when you taste the same cheese at different times in its life.”

Pay rates for cheesemongers depend on where you’re working, what your responsibilities include, and your level of experience. For those interested in the actual making of cheese, Wright notes that “in the U.S. artisan cheese world, there is a need for cheesemakers. It’s almost a crisis; more jobs open than people qualified. There are courses at many universities and colleges and internships with cheesemakers are abundant.”
“If you are passionate, cheesemakers will welcome you and share their knowledge and train you to make cheese,” she says.

Strange but Necessary: Why We Need Weird Food Jobs

If I have learned anything from having a career in the niche food industry, it’s that the people who fill these positions are incredibly passionate about their job itself, as well as the products they work with.

Anyone working in a weird food job will be super knowledgeable, and, perhaps best of all, incredibly excited to share their expertise with people who have questions about their livelihoods (and the particular products they work with or produce). The passion felt by people in these industries is what maintains the integrity of the product and allows small artisan companies to thrive in a food culture that is becoming increasingly saturated with inferior, mass-produced items.

Tags Commerce, social

Favorite Finds Wellbeing

31 Amazon Finds For $1 Or Less

Post author By Rachel Murphy
Post date September 20, 2018

According to CNBC, more than 75 percent of Americans shop on Amazon, and chances are you are one of them. Amazon is a convenient way to buy the products you need without ever having to leave the comfort of your couch. Not to mention, the retailer is full of just about every product under the sun. It can be easy to load up your Prime shopping cart with endless products you never knew you needed. The downside is that these products can sometimes total up to hundreds of dollars or more, which likely doesn’t bode well for your bank account.
Fortunately, there are plenty of useful and innovative items you can buy on Amazon without breaking the bank. Many of these products can be bought for pennies on the dollar. Instead of cringing when you hit the checkout button, you—and your wallet—can feel good about your purchases. Here are our top 31 favorite Amazon finds for $1 or less.
*All prices are subject to change. All products listed were $1 or less at the time of publication.

1. Get those pesky plastic bags organized.

Although many opt to not use plastic bags at all, and reusable ones are indeed way better for the environment, reusing the plastic bags you do have can bring down your carbon footprint, too. If you want to reuse your plastic bags, you’ll need to find an organized way to store them. While it’s easy to shove the plastic bags in a drawer or under the sink, this can get out of hand after a while. That’s why this plastic bag holder and dispenser is a great way to get your bags in order.

Plastic bags can be used to hold wet swimsuits and clothes after a trip to the pool or beach, as garbage bags for bathroom trash cans, or as a makeshift lunchbox to take to work. There are endless possibilities when it comes to reusing plastic bags. Now you’ll be able to store them neatly, all in one spot, without busting your budget.
Bag Holder Dispenser, $0.99 from Amazon

2. Light the way.

Most of us have a built-in flashlight on our mobile devices, but it never hurts to have another product to light the way during a dark situation. This portable mini light dimmer plugs into any USB port such as a computer or back-up phone battery pack. It utilizes LED lights and fingerprint technology to control the brightness. This allows you to adjust the luminosity as little or as much as you want.

The portable mini light dimmer is also small enough to fit in your pocket or wallet, so you can take it anywhere with you. This is an efficient way to always have access to a light source—even when your phone is dead.
Mini Pocket Lamp, $0.99 from Amazon

3. All that glitters doesn’t have to be expensive.

Diamonds are forever‚ and they are expensive. That’s why this faux diamond ring is the perfect gift for your sweetheart. The sparkly ring is made of alloy and features one-of-a-kind vine leaf designs. It’s a unique piece of jewelry that comes in three different stone colors: Aquamarine, dark blue, and pink.

This ring may look like it costs several thousand dollars, but you won’t spend anywhere close to that depending on the style and size combination you purchase. Whether it be a birthday, Valentine’s Day, or just-because gift, the diamond flower vine leaf ring is an ideal gift for anyone special in your life.
Diamond Flower Vine Leaf Rings, $0.99 from Amazon

4. This Persian rug will give your space a makeover.

When decorating your home, deciding on the right rug for your space can be a challenging—and expensive—task. If you are on the market to spruce up your space, look no further than this Persian area rug for less than $1. It features an elusive neutral pattern and is encompassed by a bold black outline to really set off the room.

When making your purchase, be sure to select the black color. The runner, which is made in Turkey, measures 2 by 7 feet and would look great in an entryway, hallway, or alongside the bed. Aside from the great price, this rug is also a real winner because it is stain-resistant. This makes it an ideal choice for homes with pets and kids.
Persian Area Rug, 2′ x 7′, Black, $0.99 from Amazon

5. Finally, there’s a way to keep all of that loose change together.

According to CBS News, Americans toss out $62 million in coins annually. If you’re guilty of disregarding those pesky pennies, nickels, quarters, and dimes, this small coin purse is going to be a total game changer. There are five coin purses, all made of durable canvas material, to choose from. Each one features a different owl design, making it a timeless and stylish accessory you can carry on the go.

It’s not just for coins, either. The small clutch is also large enough to hold a driver’s license and credit cards, as well as cash, coins, lip balm, and other small items. These range in price from $0.59 to $0.69 depending on the style you select.
Toraway Vintage Small Owl Purse, $0.79 from Amazon

6. Prep your pet for the cooler weather.

Humans aren’t the only ones impacted by the cold temperatures—dogs are, too. If you have a four-legged friend at home, it’s time to get them a coat of their own for the colder months. This cotton dog jacket with a hood will keep your pooch warm without dipping too far into your winter weather budget. Plus, your pets will look unbelievably cute.

The slip-on coat ranges in price from $0.49 to $0.99 and comes in sizes extra extra small, extra small, and medium. Not only will your furry friend stay warm, but they will look stylish when they are all bundled up. The bright blue jacket has purple spots and scales and features a face with brown horns on the hood. This one is totally Insta-worthy. Your dog will be the talk of the town.
Unisex Pet Winter Coat, $0.48 to $1.49 from Amazon

7. Get your daily serving of water with this bottle.

You can never have too many water bottles. Whether you use them for the gym, work, or running errands around town, stocking up on affordable water bottles is never a bad idea. There are varying opinions out there about just how much water you should consume on a daily basis, but guzzling down h20 from this 25-ounce plastic bottle a with lid is a good place to start. It can also be used to quickly make protein shakes.

The red drinking bottle is dishwasher safe, so it’s easy to clean. You won’t need an extra scrubby brush to get this bottle spick and span. The bottle features a flip-top spout and a small hole at the top so you can hook a carabiner or other device to secure the bottle to your backpack.
25 Oz. Shake Bottle With Flip Top Spout, $0.99 from Amazon

8. This organizer is a game changer for your messy purse.

If the inside of your purse looks like a hot mess, this handbag organizer will help you put things where they belong. The merlot-colored organizer is great for holding lipstick and other small cosmetic items, as well as your mobile device, car keys, pens, paper, and other loose items. It can also be used to help get your diaper bag in check.

The pouches can easily hold several diapers, pacifiers, wipes, toys, bibs, and other things your baby needs while on-the-go. The organizer has one large pocket, four small pockets, two zipper pockets, and five mesh pockets. Since it is a standalone insert, you can easily move the organizer from bag to bag. It’s also ideal for traveling because of its portability. For $0.98, you can’t go wrong with this purchase.
Handbag Organiser (Wine Red), $0.98 from Amazon

9. Keep texting and stay warm with these stylish mittens.

When the temperature drops, mittens are a must. Be the style icon you are with this pair of faux fur mittens for $0.99. The gloves are made from wool and come in eight different colors including some in yellow, black, brown, and red. The mittens are fingerless, so you can continue texting away (or shopping on Amazon) while you keep your hands nice and toasty.

Faux fur additions and cable knit patterns are right on trend this for the cold weather seasons, and these mittens feature a button on each wrist for an extra chic touch. You can feel good about these gloves, too, since no animals were harmed in the process of making the mittens.
Beautyvan Warm Winter Faux Rabbit Fur Mittens, $0.99 from Amazon

10. Give the gift of a squishy watermelon.

This little guy makes an excellent gift for both the special kids and the stressed-out adults in your life. It can be used to squeeze as a stress ball to ease tension, or it can be given as a children’s toy for them to throw, squish, and bounce around.

The only problem with this is that the little watermelon’s face is so cute, you might feel bad squishing it!
Jumbo Watermelon Squishy Toy, $0.01 from Amazon

11. Blackheads, begone!

Your nose is one of the dirtiest parts of your face. You may notice that, because of its prominence as compared to the other parts of your face, your nose sticks out. This makes it more prone to taking on dirt and debris in the air. For this reason, your nose may have more blackheads than any other part of your face. But you’re in luck! There’s a product that can help you eliminate those bothersome blackheads.

This handheld pore clear brush is perfect for cleansing your face in areas that are difficult to wash. The brush, which is made of silica gel, has tiny bumps all over it that work in conjunction with facewash to penetrate your pores and remove dirt. All for $0.65.
Nose Cleaning Skin Care Tool, $0.65 from Amazon

12. This towel will dry your hair in no time.

When you step out of the shower, one of the first things you likely do is dry off your hair. This helps to keep water from running down the rest of your body as you proceed to towel off. But why not get a towel specifically for your hair? Especially at this insanely good price. This microfiber bath hair towel is made of microfiber, so it’s extra absorbent and gentle on your locks.

This towel is specifically made to fit all head sizes and measures about 2 feet by 10 inches. For $0.35, you can get this drying towel in nine different colors. Think of it like a shower cap that will dry your hair for you. Simply slip it on when you step out of the shower, and let the towel do the rest.
BeautyVan Fashion Microfiber Bath Towel, $0.35 from Amazon

13. Never use your nails to peel citrus again.

If you’ve got a fresh manicure, peeling a piece of citrus probably isn’t high on your list of things to do. Before you dig your nails into the protective and tough skin of an orange or tangerine, take a look at this citrus fruit peeler. You can’t choose what color you get, but it does come in green, pink, or orange.

This small kitchen tool can easily be kept in your purse to help your kids peel their fruit on the go. Or you can leave it in your kitchen utensil drawer to use at home. It’s also kid-friendly, and because of its small size, this handy tool can be stored in any lunchbox. The blade is made of plastic and works well to remove the skin without penetrating the fruit.
Citrus Fruit Skin Remover, $1 from Amazon

14. This item is a smart way to pack your travel toiletries.

When you pack your shampoo and conditioner bottles for an upcoming trip, you’re probably storing them in your makeup bag or in large plastic zipper bags. Save yourself a plastic bag—and space in your makeup bag—by purchasing a storage toiletry bag to bring with you on your next adventure. It’s large enough to hold your shampoo and conditioner bottles.

The storage organizer has a drawstring, so you can tighten the top and avoid any leaks. The best part is, the organizer is made from PVC and has a padded, waterproof fabric. You probably didn’t know you needed this useful tool, but it sure will come in handy the next time you pack your bags.
Storage Toiletry Bag, $0.99 from Amazon

15. This beauty tool is a celebrity’s best-kept secret.

Makeup sponges are one of the hottest ways to apply foundation these days. You will feel like a real-deal makeup artist when you use this teardrop-shaped sponge to put your face on. The small, lilac-colored sponge is 2 inches tall when dry and is the perfect accessory to add to your beauty routine.

The sponge’s soft texture works best for blending and applying liquid foundation to give you a flawless, red-carpet look. It can also be used to apply eyeshadow and smudge your eyeliner for a fresh-off-the-runway look. If you’re looking for a new way to put on your cosmetics, a makeup blending sponge is a great way to step up your game.
CAETLE Beauty Flawless Wedding Water Drop Comestic Sponge, $0.99 from Amazon

16. Get your clean on with this durable duster.

Small spaces aren’t always easy to clean, but with the right tool, they can be. This mini duster is perfect for cleaning those hard-to-reach spots like car air vents and blinds. It’s also great for dusting off your keyboard, computer screen, car radio buttons, and other areas.

On one end, the duster features soft bristles that can remove dust, debris, and dirt from hard-to-clean crevices. On the other end of the brush are three cloth extenders that are perfect for running between blind slats or air vents. It’s also a useful tool to clean the dust and pet dander from your air conditioning vents. It may not be the most fun product you can buy for under $1, but your house and car will be cleaner because of it. That’s reason enough to plunk down $0.99 for this mini duster.
Mini Duster for Car Air Vent, $0.99 from Amazon

17. Never cry over spilled milk again with this handy kitchen device.

Funnels are one of those kitchen tools that you rarely use but should always have on hand. Get yourself a mini silicone funnel to keep around for when the occasion calls for it. The funnels come in seven colors, but you won’t be able to choose which one you receive. Each funnel is made of silicone and can be collapsed down flat.

This space-saving device also comes with a hole for hanging, so you’ll always be able to find it when you need it. The product is also heat resistant and stain resistant, so you won’t have to worry about ruining it with whatever liquid you pour through it.
Mini Collapsible Funnel, $0.99 from Amazon

18. School supply organization made simple.

If your kids are going back to school, help them keep their writing utensils organized with this stylish pencil bag. The zipped pouch comes in four trendy designs and easily fits in any purse, backpack, or tote bag.

The bag is composed of canvas material. The pencil pouch features two compartments—one on the outside and the main pouch with a zipper to keep items secure. If you don’t have children, this can still be a great way to store tubes of mascara, eyeliner, makeup brushes, packs of gum, and other doodads you have hanging out at the bottom of your purse.
Multi-Functional Double Zipper Pencil Case Pen Bag, $0.35 from Amazon

19. Say goodbye to gunk and grime in your microwave.

Cleaning the microwave is a task that doesn’t make an appearance on the chore list as often as it probably should. The inside of a microwave can be a dirty—and scary—place. Inevitably, the spaghetti sauce will splatter or your microwave dinner will explode. It happens to the best of us. That’s why this microwave cleaner is an effortless way to make your appliance look brand new again.

The Angry Mama Microwave Cleaner is just $0.21 plus shipping. It’s an eco-friendly product, so you can feel safe knowing that you are avoiding harsh chemicals to remove the gunk from the interior of your microwave.
Angry Mama Microwave Cleaner, $0.21 from Amazon

20. This is a wallet-friendly deal you shouldn’t pass up.

This small, practical wallet makes for a great gift. The leather wallet comes in eight different colors and is made from durable materials. The bi-fold wallet measures 11.2 centimeters by 9.5 centimeters with plenty of room to store all of your important documents. It’s also the perfect size to fit in the front or back pocket of a pair of pants.

For just $0.19, you can place cash, credit cards, a driver’s license, and more in this durable leather wallet. The wallet also features a hidden zipper pouch for coins and other small trinkets. It’s small enough to make the perfect stocking stuffer!
Business Leather Wallet, $0.19 from Amazon

21. Protect your pipes.

Properly cover your shower drain with this adorable drain cover. The doily-inspired protector is made of silicone and is the perfect way to keep hair and other debris from clogging up your pipes. You can place the catcher in your tub, kitchen sink, or shower drain. The flower-shaped drain cover comes in blue, white, green, and pink. Each color ranges in price from $0.29 to $0.49.

The drain protector has a dome shape so it can lay flat or pop up depending on the type of drain you have. Because it’s made of silicone, it will stick to just about any surface without sliding around—or damaging your sink or shower floor.
Drain Cover for Showers or Bathtubs, $0.49 from Amazon

22. Throw shade with these spectacles.

Even babies need sunglasses. Your little one can show up to the pool or beach in style wearing these vintage baby sunglasses. The sunglasses range in price from $0.01 to $0.79. The cost will vary depending on which style and color you select, and there are more than 10 pairs to choose from including aviator lenses or vintage frames.

Each style offers protection against the sun’s ultraviolet rays and can help reduce eye fatigue. The anti-glare lenses are lightweight and durable. Your child can look stylish and get the eye protection they need without emptying your bank account.
Infant Retro Classic Anti-UV Color Film Eyeglass, $0.01 from Amazon

23. Wash your delicate clothing items with care.

To get the most out of your undergarments, it’s best to wash them in a protective bag. Instead of throwing them in the washer with the rest of your laundry, try out this mesh storage bag specifically for laundering your most delicate items. The pink mesh bag is just $0.09 plus shipping and is perfect for bras, underwear, stockings, and other fragile clothing items.

The mesh bag is made of polyester materials and is 15 centimeters tall by 13 centimeters wide. This allows for you to store several delicate items in the mesh bag at once. Now there’s no need to worry about your washer snagging your favorite lace delicate item or risk it getting stuck to velcro. This washable garment bag will keep your dainty items safe in the washer and dryer.
Protect Mesh Round Bag, $0.09 from Amazon

24. Up your lunch game with this bag.

You can save lots of money by bringing your lunch to work. You can save even more money by purchasing this canvas lunchbox for $0.49. The insulated bag features a trendy black and white pattern, so you can eat your lunch in style. The lunch box also comes in four other colors that are also $0.49 each.

The inside of the lunch bag has a tin foil liner that keeps cold food items cold and hot food items hot. It can also double as a toiletry or travel bag. This product is great because it can be used by all ages. When you’re ready to put it away, simply fold it in half and store it in a drawer or on top of the fridge.
Thermal Lunch Bags, $0.49 from Amazon

25. Make a statement with this tank top.

This tank is not only cute in its simplicity, but it pushes the feminist agenda, too. So if that’s your thing, you can’t go wrong with this top at just $.0.79. Pair it with high-waisted jeans for a day on the town or with athletic leggings or shorts for a yoga sesh.

This would also make a great gift for the rad feminist ladies in your life.
Statement Tank Crop Top, $0.79 from Amazon

26. This piece of jewelry will be a lifesaver at your next party.

If you are attending an upcoming party, be sure not to show up without this handy silver bottle opener ring—which you can purchase for just $0.86 plus shipping. The product is worn as a ring and can be a lifesaver when you don’t have another way to open your drink.

The bottle opener ring is made of steel and comes in size 8, 10, and 12. The useful ring is relatively small and about the size of a nickel. It’s not gaudy, so it won’t distract from your other party attire. Your friends will thank you for being well-prepared.
Bottle Opener Ring in Silver, $0.98 from Amazon

27. Get comfortable.

Re-decorate your home with these attractive throw pillow covers. There are seven different styles to choose from. Some pillowcases feature inspirational quotes, while others feature unique designs that will add an element of flair to your sofa. The pillowcases range in price from $0.49 to $0.98 depending on which one strikes your fancy.

They do not come with an insert, though, so you will have to buy your own. The size of the pillow is 18 by 18-inches and features a hidden zipper.
Throw Pillow Case, $0.49 from Amazon

28. This light fixture is a conversation starter.

If you are searching for a unique way to brighten up your space, check out this LED mushroom lamp. The lamp, which can be purchased for $0.01, is ideal for a baby’s room, bedroom, patio, living room, office, and more. It fits in best with earthy decor, but can easily fit right in with any style. The lights turn on automatically when it’s dark.

The light comes outfitted with several different light settings including warm and glitter. The lamp is made of plastic and silicone. Because it utilizes LED lights, this lamp is environmentally friendly, has low energy consumption, and will last for years to come.
Mushroom Lamp LED Sensor, $0.01 from Amazon

29. Take a look at the night sky.

There’s nothing like glow-in-the-dark stars to make you feel like a kid all over again. For $0.10, you can get this 103-piece glow-in-the-dark star kit. The package features stars, a moon, and shooting stars to bring the outdoors inside.

The sticking stars are odorless, non-toxic, and safe for even the smallest members of your family. You can create your own starry sky on the ceiling of your bedroom or create constellations on your wall. The fluorescent stickers need to be exposed to sunlight or artificial light in order to work properly once it gets dark.
103 Piece Luminous Wall Stickers, $0.10 from Amazon

30. Protect your makeup brushes.

The bristles of a makeup brush can become frayed over time. Without proper protection, that process can happen much quicker. If you travel frequently, or just want to store your makeup brushes with care, these makeup brush guard nets are here to help.

For just one penny plus shipping, you can get 60 mesh net protective covers for your makeup brushes. The nets are flexible and best used to keep your brushes clean and in mint condition. The mesh covers the top part of the bristles and covers the majority of the handle. It keeps the brushes from becoming dented, bent, or frayed. The covers are best suited for medium to large size brushes.
Makeup Brush Guard Mesh Net, $0.01 from Amazon

31. Your go-to weekend tote.

Finally, a bag big enough for your farmers market haul. This netted fabric bag is ideal for carrying around fresh fruits and vegetables during your weekend trip to the farmers market. It’s lightweight and breathable, so it is perfect for storing food and other items. This bag can be purchased for $0.01 plus shipping.

If you spill something on your bag, don’t worry. It can be tossed in the washer but should be hung up to dry. It also makes a great beach bag—because of its holes, you won’t feel like you’re bringing home a sandbox after a trip to the shore. The item comes directly from China, so make sure to allow time for shipping.
Mesh Net Bag, $0.01 from Amazon

Tags Commerce, social

Mindful Parenting Motherhood

The Best Baby Toys For Every Age (And Where To Find Them)

Post author By Mary Sauer
Post date September 20, 2018

Babies change in the blink of an eye. One day, they’re too young to be interested in any of the toys you bought, and in just a few months they’re too old be interested in those exact same toys. It’s kind of exasperating.
Whether you’re buying gifts for your sister’s baby shower, your bff’s baby shower, or you’re stocking up for the arrival of your own bundle of joy, these 37 toys won’t just gather dust in the closet. We’ve curated a list of toys for each development stage up to a year and a half—and they’re all a click away on Amazon.

Newborns: Learning Through Play Up to 3 Months

Play is so much more than fun and games for new babies—it’s serious business for newborns because it’s how they learn about the world around them. At times, it might feel like your brand new baby isn’t doing a whole lot more than just lying there flapping their arms, but they’re watching, they’re listening, and they’re learning a lot from their surroundings.
These toys are great for babies under the age of three months because they stimulate their developing senses. Some play music, some rattle, and some have bright colors that will encourage new babies to use their developing vision.

1. A Brightly Colored Rattle That is Sure to Catch Their Eye

Your newborn will spend a lot of time watching the world around them. This Butterfly Hanging Rattle Toy by Macik can be clipped onto the handle of their carseat or attached to the overhead arch of a playpen.

Bright pieces and patterned fabrics will catch your baby’s eyes. As your baby develops, he or she can begin to bat at the hanging pieces, squeeze at crinkling wings, and hear the body squeak when it’s squeezed.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Newborn-Toys-Rattle-Hanging-Teether/dp/B07932GFJD/”]Butterfly Hanging Rattle Toy, $13.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

2. A Colorful Toy for Grabbing and Shaking

If you’ve ever played with a newborn, you’ve probably noticed how they reflexively wrap their fingers around yours the instant your touch their palm. This is called the palmar grasp reflex, which develops in the womb and continues for months after birth.

This reflex makes a lightweight shaker like this Winkel Rattle and Sensory Toy perfect for a newborn baby. Place it in their palm and watch as they shake it, stare at it, and even draw it to their mouth to gum on it from time to time. The plastic loops of this toy are BPA-free, making them perfectly safe for teething babes.
As your baby grows older, they can learn to use both hands to play with this toy and may even begin transferring the toy from hand to hand.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Manhattan-Toy-Winkel-Sensory-Teether/dp/B000BNCA4K”]Manhattan Toy Winkel Rattle and Sensory Toy, $13.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

3. A Mobile That Encourages Visual Development

After a baby is born, their eyesight is constantly developing and changing. This Wimmer-Ferguson Infant Mobile is made specifically with those early days of vision development in mind. Small, reversible cards hang from the mobile. One side is black and white, perfect for those earliest weeks, while the other side is brightly colored.

This is a travel-size mobile, so you can hang it from their carseat, a stroller, or just dangle it over their head with your hands. Watch your baby’s eyes light up and follow the mobile as it moves and spins.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Manhattan-Toy-Wimmer-Ferguson-Infant-Mobile/dp/B008ZB5E2K”]Manhattan Toy Wimmer-Ferguson Mobile, $9.95 from Amazon[/link-button]

4. An Interactive Toy That Encourages Language Acquisition

Your baby might not be spouting off words anytime soon, but language learning begins early, and it’s all about their interactions with you. Babies are always learning, and toys that encourage that learning through parent-child interaction are great for any age.

My First Words Stacked Toy is decorated with bright pictures and common first words. Because this toy is made from non-toxic cloth, your baby can grab it, shake it, and put it in their mouth without any reason for you to worry. Individual cubes can be pulled out and stacked back together, and handles allow for young infants to easily grasp at this lightweight toy.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Stacked-TEYTOY-Animal-Education-Crinkle/dp/B07BSHRCBG”]My First Words Stacked Toy by TeyToy, $15.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

5. A Mid-Priced Mobile for Crib Play

Babies are surprisingly great at playing alone from a very young age. A mobile is a great way to eliminate worry while giving mom a bit of a break.. Simply lay your baby in their crib, switch on the mobile, and leave them to stare at their toy while you take a few minutes for yourself.

This Tiny Love Take Along Mobile is decorated with sweet little animals in bright colors to catch your baby’s eyes. The animals spin slowly when the mobile is turned on, accompanied by music that plays for 30 minutes at a time. It’s available in four different colors like “Animal Friends” in blue and “Tiny Princess Tales” in pink and grey.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Tiny-Love-Mobile-Animal-Friends/dp/B0789449T8/”]Tiny Love Take Along Mobile, $24.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

6. A Baby Night Light for Bedtime Soothing

Keeping a newborn asleep is no easy task, especially if you have older kids at home! This sound machine is a multi-tasker, providing soothing melodies and white noise to drown out background noise and encourage sound sleep. In addition to music and sounds, this owl-shaped night light shines stars and moons on the wall or ceiling, giving your baby a little something to watch while they rest in their crib.

In addition to the original owl, the Baby Soother and Sound Machine is also available as an elephant or smaller, less expensive, portable owl.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Skip-Hop-Moonlight-Melodies-Soother/dp/B076F9LV2V/”]Skip Hop Moonlight & Melodies Crib Soother, $28.80 from Amazon[/link-button]

7. A Musical Mobile that Plays 60 Songs

Before they are even born, babies can hear what is going on around them. Know this, it isn’t surprising that babies love to listen to music from such a young age. This Plush Musical Mobile is just right for those first few months of a baby’s life.

Available in ten different sizes, little plush characters made from non-toxic materials include bears, poodles, and bunnies. With 60 different songs, your baby can listen to music for an hour without hearing the same song twice.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/SHILOH-Decoration-Newborn-Musical-Mobile/dp/B01EL98LBA/”]Shiloh Plush Musical Mobile, $59.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

8. A Subscription Box That Grows With Baby

When you simply can’t make up your mind on the best toys for your baby’s development stage, there’s a fun subscription box that does to decision-making for you. Lovevery is a bi-monthly subscription service that delivers handpicked toys for your baby every other month.

A box called “The Looker” is delivered for babies up to 8 weeks, and toys included in the box are focused on that specific development stage. You’ll find a silicon rattle, black and white picture cards with a standing card holder, a wooden book, and soft blanket. You can subscribe on the Lovevery website to get your box, or you can purchase individual items like this well-reviewed play gym on Amazon.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Lovevery-Developmental-Sensory-Development-Grounded/dp/B075R8BXXC”]The Play Gym by Lovevery, $140 from Amazon[/link-button]

Moving and Shaking From 3 to 6 Months

From 3 to 6 months, your baby is going to focus on movement like it’s their job—because it kind of is! During this phase of development, you’ll notice skills that are the foundation for crawling and walking.
Your baby will learn to hold his or her neck up when on their chest, they’ll roll over, and they might even start sitting up with a little extra assistance. Your baby will also become increasingly social and thoughtful in his play, so eat it up! Look for toys that encourage movement and can be used for social play between you and baby.

9. Stackable Cups for Child-Parent Play

Your baby may not be able to stack cups just yet, but they’ll be learning soon. Remember, babies learn a lot from watching their parents, and interactive play is a great way to create a strong bond.

These stacking cups are a classic childhood toy, and at $3.99 they’re a purchase you’ll never regret making. Each of the eight cups are a different, fun color. Encourage color recognition by naming the colors as you stack and see if you can get a giggle by knocking the tower over when you’re through.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/First-Years-Stack-Up-Cups/dp/B00005C5H4″]The First Years Stack Up Cups, $3.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

10. A Set of Teethers for Play on The Go

If you haven’t noticed it already, you will soon—toys that can fit in your baby’s mouth will double as teethers during this phase of life. Not only does gumming on toys help relieve teething pain, it is actually one way babies explore their world.

Provide them with safe and clean teething options at home and on the go. This set of nine baby toys, rattles, and teethers by Beebeerun is perfect for stocking up. Keep a giraffe rattle in the diaper bag, a set of keys in the carseat, and a butterfly grip in the living room! This set is made from BPA-free plastic. Bright, primary colors make them fun to look at, too.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Rattles-Teether-Development-Educational-Randomly/dp/B07CYFZ2TF/”]9 Piece Baby Toys, Rattles, and Teethers, $17.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

11. A Musical Toy That is Perfectly Huggable

There’s no doubt that babies love music! This Musical Caterpillar Toy is perfect for ages 3 to 6 months because it’s made from plush, which is great for babies learning to grasp and pick up objects.
HealthyWay
In addition to the eye-catching colors and interesting patterns that will grab your baby’s attention, this little guy also has cheeks that light up when the music plays. The toy can be used for parent and child play or by baby alone in their playpen.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/FULLANT-Caterpillar-Interactive-Developmental-Educational/dp/B07CZZYSW1″]Interactive Musical Caterpillar Toy by Fullant, $17.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

12. An Interactive That Encourages Baby to Kick and Play

One of the best ways to encourage babies to learn to move is to give them plenty of time on the floor to play. A baby gym is a great way to do just that, with plenty to look at and interact with while they kick their feet, wave their hands, and work on rolling over.

This Baby Kick and Gym Play Mat has a soft, colorful mat with fun toys dangling from an overhead arch, so baby can lie on their back and reach up to touch the toys. What really sets this play mat apart is a keyboard at the foot of the mat. Your baby can kick their feet at the keys, making music while they play.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Life-Tandy-Fitness-Music-Lights-Piano/dp/B01MF57L7Q/”]Baby Kick and Gym Play Mat by Life-Tandy, $36.98 from Amazon[/link-button]

13. A Walker When Baby is Ready to Get on the Move

Your baby might not be ready to take off walking, but once they have control of their head and neck, they’ll love to be upright. This Baby Einstein Baby Neptune Walker gives them a chance to push up on their legs while supporting their back.

A ship’s wheel, a turtle, and colorful rings are on the tray—these will hold your baby’s interest while they hang out in the walker, and parents can turn music on an off with a switch on the front. As baby’s legs get stronger, this walker actually moves, allowing them to push around your house.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Einstein-Neptune-Walker-Explorer/dp/B00FNJ7FR4/”]Baby Neptune Walker by Baby Einstein, $59.66 from Amazon[/link-button]

Sitting and Standing From 6 to 12 Months

After 6 months, your baby will start to figure out how to sit on their own. It won’t be long before they’re crawling, too. Babies this age will become much more aware of their surroundings and will start to mimic the noises or actions you make.
Every day, their hand-eye coordination will improve and toys that didn’t interest them before will get their attention. Check out these developmentally appropriate toys perfectly suited for your newly moving baby.

14. A Toy for a Safer, More Fun Bath

Once your baby is sitting, bath time is a lot of fun, but it can also be a little nerve-wracking. It seems like the littlest slip could result in a bumped head or bruised arm, and the waterspout is often the culprit behind minor bathtub injuries.

This Skip Hop Moby Bath Cover solves that problem, and it’s super cute. The adorable little whale slips onto the spout, protecting your baby from the hard metal. Your baby will also love looking at and reaching for this soft plastic bath toy that is built to fit on most waterspouts, no matter their style or size.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Skip-Hop-Spout-Cover-Universal/dp/B001WAJVZM”]Skip Hop Moby Bath Cover Universal Fit, $12.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

15. A Soft Book for Language Learning

It’s never too early to read to your baby! Early reading is important to language learning and sets the foundation for strong readers later in life. This soft book features a stuffed puppy on the front and each page has an interactive activity for you and your baby to do together.

Your baby will enjoy exploring different textures, looking at themselves in a mini mirror, and playing with a mouse’s squeaky ears.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/ToBeReadyForLife-Newborn-Educational-Activity-Peekaboo/dp/B01GJJH580″]Just Like the Animals Cloth Book, $15.97 from Amazon[/link-button]

16. A Teether That Encourages Baby to Self-Sooth

Teething is hard on both baby and parents. Sometimes it feels like nothing you do gives them relief from their discomfort, and sometimes you simply need a break!

This Self-Soothing Teething Mitt can slip onto your baby’s hand, allowing them to chew at the rubber fingers as long and as often as they like. Bumps and ridges for added pain relief line the fingers, which are made from BPA-free, food-grade silicon. A strap around the wrist secures the glove in place.
This teething mitt is available in five different colors, including green, blue, and pink.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Teething-Self-Soothing-Teether-Toddlers-Infants/dp/B078TC71XY/”]Self-Soothing Teething Mitt for Babies, $11.88 from Amazon[/link-button]

17. A Stroller Attachment for Playtime On The Go

Sometimes you need a new option for keeping your baby entertained on the go, and this Spiral Rattle and Activity toy is a fun one that is perfect for ages 6 to 12 months. With its flexible, spiral shape, this toy can easily be attached to a stroller, carseat handle, or even the side of their crib.

A variety of toys dangle from the spiral, including a mirror, a rattle, a squeaking toy, and a crinkle paper toy. This toy is available in six different colors and themes, including rainbow fruits, pastel birds, and a blue and red dog.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/SKK-Stroller-Activity-Rattle-Teether/dp/B06XW316T6/”]Soft Stroller and Car Seat Activity Toy by SKK, $15.99 Baby from Amazon[/link-button]

18. A Repetitive Game Your Baby Will Love

There’s nothing quite as fun as watching your baby develop the skills to engage with more challenging toys. Babies this age love repetition and your newly sitting baby will love dropping a ball in this Whirl n’ Go Ball Tower over and over again.

Three balls containing rattling beads are included for baby to watch drop from level to level off the track. Each level is a different color and the entire toy pulls apart easily for storage.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Earlyears-Whirl-Go-Ball-Tower/dp/B01AYEYQXS/”]Early Years Whirl ‘n Go Ball Tower, $16.95 from Amazon[/link-button]

19. A Jumper for Tiring Out an Energetic Baby

As babies get older, it seems they start to get bored and frustrated with being immobile. Toys that help them stay upright and move often are great for keeping them entertained during long days at home.

This Doorway Bumper Jumper by Graco is a bestseller on Amazon with 2,436 reviews and 4.5 stars. Once your baby has good neck and head control, you can place them in a padded seat with a high back so they can swing and jump to their heart’s content.
Move the jumper from doorway to doorway as you need to move throughout your home without worries about leaving marks on your walls thanks to a no-mark clamp.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Graco-Doorway-Bumper-Jumper-Little/dp/B000WJLKQM/”]Graco Doorway Bumper Jumper, $27 from Amazon[/link-button]

20. A Music Table for Standing Play

Introduce your baby to music, and show them they can make music themselves. They can sit or stand at this Musical Learning Table while beating on a light-up drum, punching at keys, or twirling rotating musical gears.

Since this toy can be broken down and strapped to the crib, it works for several phases of your baby’s life from sitting to crawling to eventually standing.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/HANMUN-Musical-Learning-Table-Baby/dp/B01IT3UITM”]Hanmun Musical Learning Table, $29.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

21. A Musical Toy That Encourages Walking

This Amazon’s Choice Laugh & Learn Smart Walker gives your baby two options for interactive play. Before they learn to pull up and walk, you can place them in front of the walker to hit light-up musical buttons, flip through a book of ABCs, or spin a rattling ball.

As they grow older, they can pull up on the handle and use it to balance as they test out their first steps. This toy plays 75 different songs and noises and has seven different activities for seated play.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074ZDP7FZ/ref=dp_cerb_2″]Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Smart Walker, $24.84 from Amazon[/link-button]

22. A Moving Toy for Crawling Practice

During this phase of development, many babies learn to crawl. Once they’re on the move, there’s no slowing them down! This Follow Me Fred moving toy by Tiny Love is perfect for this new phase of your baby’s life. Turn it on, clear a bath, and let your newly moving babe follow it around the house.

This fun, moving toy is an Amazon’s Choice produce and available in two different colors. It runs on AA batteries, which aren’t included with the initial purchase.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Tiny-Love-Baby-Follow-Fred/dp/B00C86QLRU/”]Follow Me Fred by Tiny Love, $24.94 from Amazon[/link-button]

23. A Toy That Will Keep Their Interest as They Grow

Because babies change rapidly, it often feels like they quickly grow out of toys. This Wooden Activity Cube by Battat is perfect for a developing baby because it includes many activities suitable for kids at different stages of infanthood. As your baby learns to sit, they can bat at twirling animals and open and close tiny toys.

As they start to pull themselves up, they can balance on the sides and move wooden beads through a metal maze. With a different activity on each of the four sides of this cube, it’s certain to be a favorite toy for many months.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Battat-Wooden-Activity-Discover-Animals/dp/B07BF1V8K8/”]Wooden Activity Cube by Battat, $59.95 from Amazon[/link-button]

Social and Interactive Play from 12s to 18 Months

Your baby is officially a year old, and you can expect to be amazed by how quickly they change and develop over the next several months. If they’re not walking just yet, they will be soon, and their capacity for figuring out challenging games and toys will increase over time.
Look for toys that are interactive and slightly more complex than a noise maker or rattle. These Amazon picks are perfect for your babbling, toddling babe.

24. A Classic Toy That Never Goes Out of Style

This classic hands-on toy is a favorite on Amazon and has over 1,000 reviews and 4.5 stars. Animals hide behind doors that pop open when your baby slides a lever, flips a switch, pushes a button, or turns a key.

This Playskool Busy Poppin’ Pals is one of those toys that every baby will enjoy. Save it for another baby when they grow out of it or pass it along to family or friends. Amazon gives purchasers the option to save $11 by opting for simple “frustration-free” packaging.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Playskool-Favorites-Poppin-Amazon-Exclusive/dp/B00DSIQS6G/”]Playskool Busy Poppin’ Pals, from $33.30 on Amazon[/link-button]

25. An Opportunity for Pretend Play

Your baby likely sees you on your phone often, so it’s no wonder they’re interested in pretending to do the same. Give them their own miniature cell phone and prepare yourself for just how adorable their pretend conversations will be.

The contoured shape of this phone is just the right fit for small hands. With ten number buttons and multiple modes, this phone is surprisingly complex. Switch from talking mode, to songs, to tones, and adjust the volume as needed. The Jeacy Music Phone for Baby is available in yellow, blue, and green.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Phone-Months-Month-Toddlers-Birthday/dp/B07FMHV3N4/”]Jeacy Music Phone for Baby, $12.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

26. An Educational Toy for Learning Minds

Talk about options! This multi-sided educational toy has 15 different interactive games, perfect for curious minds. On one side, a miniature steering wheel and turning key allow for pretend driving. Another side features a small phone, a flip puzzle, and a switch for turning on music.

The Education Activity Center Cube can easily be used for independent play for your baby or you can participate with your baby, encouraging them by pointing out colors, shapes, and animals on the toy.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/IQ-Toys-Educational-Activity-Activities/dp/B073BXL2S8″]Education Activity Center Cube, $29.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

27. A Toy That Mimics Real Life

Your baby is walking and talking, and they’re learning a lot from mimicking everything you do. Encourage their love of pretend play with this Little Tikes Shopping Cart. Not only is this an activity so many babies love to act out during their play time, it’s a great way for them to steady themselves as they work on brand new walking skills.

This red and yellow shopping cart has a tiny seat in the front, perfect for your baby’s favorite stuffie to tag along on their next shopping trip. It’s an Amazon Bestseller with over 1,000 reviews and 4.5 stars.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Little-Tikes-Shopping-Cart-Yellow/dp/B00005BZKD/”]Little Tikes Shopping Cart, $21.25 from Amazon[/link-button]

28. A Grow-With-Me Trike for Outdoor Play

Get your baby outdoors with this Radio Flyer 4-in-1 Stroll n’ Trike. The amazing thing about this trike is that it works for babies as young as 9 months and as old as 5 years. Smaller babies can be placed in the infant trike, secured with a three-point harness.

Once they’re ready to move up, the trike converts to allow baby to do the steering while an adult pushes using a set of handles. Eventually, the steering handles can be removed and baby can take off on their own.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Radio-Flyer-4-Stroll-Trike/dp/B003AVIO4K/”]Radio Flyer 4-in-1 Stroll n’ Trike, from $79.88 on Amazon[/link-button]

29. A Toy Set for Loads of Bathtub Fun

Your baby is getting steadier in the bath, making it more fun for the both of you. Now that you’re not obsessing as much about keeping them upright, add a few toys for a little bath time play. This set of floating marine toys with a net is tons of fun.

Each of the six animal figurines is made from soft plastic, so they’re easy for your baby to fill with water and squeeze to squirt back in the water—or at you!. Baby can pretend to go fishing for their marine friends with the adorable blue net.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/QHGC-Floating-Accessories-Swimming-Interactive/dp/B07FS4Y7MT/”]Floating Marine Animals Baby Bath Toys, $11.86 from Amazon[/link-button]

30. A Classic Children’s Toy That Belongs in Every Nursery

Shape-sorting toys have been around for ages, and for good reason. Babies love this interactive learning game and their parents love the skills babies learn while they play. Each of the 12 included shapes fit in a matching hole in a wooden cube, teaching kids problem solving, shape recognition, and color recognition.

The Melissa & Doug Shape Sorting Cube is a favorite in the world of shape sorting games with 1,239 reviews and four stars. This is a toy your baby will love playing with, and you’ll love how it looks on the shelf in their nursery.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Melissa-Doug-Shape-Sorting-Cube/dp/B00005RF5G/”]Shape Sorting Cube by Melissa & Doug, $12.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

31. The Perfect Crayons for Tiny Hands

It’s hard to believe it, but that little baby that was awkwardly grasping at teething toys months ago is ready to learn big kid skills, like coloring with crayons. Typically sized crayons can be hard to grasp, but these My First Grip Crayola Crayons are just right for perfecting that grip.

Six different colors are included in this set, and each of the crayons are shaped like eggs, making them easier to hold onto than smaller crayons.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Crayola-First-Crayons-Coloring-Toddlers/dp/B077VXWPPL/”]My First Grip Crayola Crayons, $11.98 from Amazon[/link-button]

32. A Colorful Toy for Repetitious Play

Your baby probably won’t grow out of their love of repetitive play anytime soon, so games like this wooden racetrack by Top Bright will keep their interest for a long time. It’s one of those toys that is so high-quality and so much fun for your baby, you just know it’s going to get hours and hours of play.
HealthyWay
Made from durable high-quality wood, the cars can be parked in a parking lot at the top of the tower or given a gentle nudge to race down ramps.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/TOP-BRIGHT-Toddler-Gifts-Wooden/dp/B072X7CYH4/”]Wooden Race Track by Top Bright, $24.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

33. A Fun Little Toy for Walking From Room to Room

Your newly walking baby is going to love walking this musical doll from room to room in your house. A sweet little plastic puppy rolls on bright blue wheels, playing music each time your baby gives it a push or pull.

When your baby pushes the colorful buttons on the side, music plays, and the puppy’s nose lights up. Let your baby roam with this rolling toy or settle in on the floor to use it to teach colors, numbers, and even different parts of the body.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/VTech-Pull-and-Sing-Puppy/dp/B01MQ3YP7Y/”]VTech Pull and Sing Puppy, $12.97 from Amazon[/link-button]

34. A Set for Stacking, Knocking Over, and Stacking Again

The stage of development when babies start to learn to build towers and crash them over again and again is so dang fun! This Mega Bloks 80 Piece Building Blocks is the only bag of blocks you’ll ever need.

At this age, this is a toy that is perfect for baby-parent play. Over the coming months, however, they’ll learn to build towers and structures all on their own for independent play. Durable\ and stackable blocks fill this affordable bag of toys.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Mega-Bloks-80-Piece-Building-Classic/dp/B007GE75HY/”]Mega Bloks 80 Piece Building Blocks, $19.92 from Amazon[/link-button]

35. A Toy That Goes and Goes and Goes

By now, your baby might be making fun little sounds to go along with their play. Teach them “Vroom! Vroom!” and watch with delight as they push these rattling toys around the floors in your home.

The O Ball Rattle & Roll Cars are small enough for baby to grab onto with one hand, but big enough to feel safe for a baby who is still putting things in their mouth. Small holes in the top of the car are perfect for getting a good grip and tiny balls rattle in the wheels at the base of the car.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Ball-1-Piece-Rattle-Assorted-Colors/dp/B00CL2H1U2/”]O Ball Rattle & Roll Cars, $5.97 from Amazon[/link-button]

36. A Picture Book for Teaching First Words

It’s hard to believe it, but the time for talking has finally arrived! Encourage your baby as he or she tries out new words with the First 100 Words book by Priddy Baby. Pictures of real-life objects fill the pages accompanied by ext of the names of each object.

Since its a board book, your baby can easily grasp and flip the pages themselves, or you can read it together for fun parent-child play.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/First-100-Words-Roger-Priddy/dp/0312510780/”]First 100 Words Board Book (Hardcover), $4.04 from Amazon[/link-button]

37. A Moveable, Storable Playhouse You’ll Both Love

Whether you live in a small house or simply like to keep an uncluttered space, you’ve probably already noticed that kids’ toys take up a lot of room! Keep clutter under control with a moveable and storable playhouse for your crawling and walking baby.

This Indoor and Outdoor Car Playhouse from Anyshock easily pops open to fill with balls. Once your baby is through, you can tear down the brightly colored toy for easy storage anywhere in your home.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Anyshock-Playhouses-Waterproof-Carrying-Christmas/dp/B017H7FXAK”]Anyshock Indoor and Outdoor Car Playhouse, $31.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

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20 Beauty Products That Aren't Worth The Hype (And What To Buy Instead)

Post author By Cindy Lamothe
Post date September 20, 2018

You probably recall this scenario well: You spend hours looking at about a bajillion shades of foundation, dabbing some on your chin and hoping it won’t cause a breakout hours later. Or maybe you fall in love with the perfect shade of maroon for your lips, only to find that it dries into a shriveled mess once you sip your chai tea. Sigh. There’s nothing sadder than a deceptively gorgeous lipstick you can’t use.

We get it. When it comes to buying makeup, the biggest question is whether it will deliver what it promises. We’re not expecting miracles here, but we wouldn’t mind getting pretty close.

It’s quite simple. Whether you’re shopping luxury or picking out items from the drugstore, you want beauty products that will go the distance and won’t mess you up. And if you can save a little money while you’re at it, even better.

Demystifying which products aren’t worth the hype can get tricky (and pricey) when you’re staring down an array of options. From glittery primers and liquid eyeliners to shade-transforming lipsticks, choosing the right product ain’t for the weak of heart.

That’s why we’ve taken on the challenge for you. Since we know information overload is overwhelming, we’ve narrowed down items ranging from budget-friendly treasures to higher-end products that are actually worth their salt.

Enjoy our roundup of exclusively quality picks, and get shopping!

1. SUNDAY RILEY Luna Sleeping Night Oil

As a rule, you’ll want to use a lightweight night treatment that regulates your skin’s oil production and won’t clog your pores. And if you’re blemish-prone or have less-than-lustrous skin, you’re better offer with a lightweight formula. Some folks swear by Luna, but we find that its oil base is a bit heavier than retinol products that contain more water.

Try Instead: Retinol Fusion PM by Peter Thomas Roth

This serum’s potent retinol formula improves your skin’s overall texture and appearance with minimal irritation. Plus, the results are cumulative; the longer you use it, the better your complexion will look. It’s also WAY friendlier on your pocketbook compared to Sunday Riley’s $105 per bottle.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Peter-Thomas-Roth-Retinol-Fusion/dp/B002VJSGO0″]Retinol Fusion PM by Peter Thomas Roth, $35 on Amazon[/link-button]

2. Laura Mercier Invisible Loose Setting Powder

It’s undeniable that a simple and foolproof setting powder is essential in any makeup arsenal, but you also don’t want to overspend when you can easily opt for a lower-priced option compared to Mercier’s $38 powder.

Try Instead: NYX Studio Finishing Powder

In addition to smoothing over textured skin, NYX mattes over greasy spots without looking cakey. The finishing powder is made with 100 percent pure mineral silica and works on all skin tones.

Use lightly and blend with your concealer for an even, flawless look!

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/NYX-Professional-Makeup-Finishing-Translucent/dp/B009GLQG6Q”]NYX Studio Finishing Powder, $6.99 on Amazon[/link-button]

3. MAC Lipsticks

Finding the right beauty product for our lips means looking at the entire picture: color, shine, staying power, and of course, affordable price. While there are a ton of options out there, some aren’t so great on your budget. Case in point: MAC lipsticks will run you $18.50 per tube.

Try Instead: NYX Lip Lingerie

This lush liquid lipstick will cost you less than half the price of MAC’s alternative and give your lips a stunning matte finish. Not only does NYX offer a variety of luscious, natural-looking colors, you don’t have to reapply their lipstick every 30 minutes.

Dab some on before going out and look fresh for the rest of the day.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/NYX-PROFESSIONAL-MAKEUP-Lingerie-Embellishment/dp/B01APX1TLK”]NYX Lip Lingerie, $4.99 on Amazon[/link-button]

4. Smashbox Iconic Photo Finish Foundation Primer

You know how photo-editing filters give your skin that smooth, flattering look? That’s what a good foundation primer will do for you—create the perfect base for your makeup. Whether you’re looking to minimize the appearance of pores or conceal uneven skin tone, we’ve nailed down the best primer for your budget, and it isn’t this one from Smashbox.

Try Instead: NYX Professional Makeup Studio Perfect Trimmer

If you struggle with foundation “melting” on your skin, try applying a thin layer of this silky formula beforehand for a smooth matte finish.

Compared to Smashbox’s $36, NYX offers a flawless alternative.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/NYX-Studio-Perfect-Primer-Clear/dp/B004RC4S3M”]NYX Professional Makeup Studio Perfect Primer, $8.73 on Amazon[/link-button]

5. GLAMGLOW YOUTHMUD Tinglexfoliate Treatment

A good face mask is the foundation of any good skincare regimen, and while GLAMGLOW’s aroma is enticing, there are more cost-friendly alternatives to their $69 treatment.

Try Instead: Freeman’s Feeling Beautiful Gel Mask and Scrub

What you want is a silky formula that isn’t abrasive and allows your skin to breathe. Freeman’s polishing mask not only helps absorb oil from your skin without overdrying, it also gently exfoliates impurities away.

Black sugar gets rid of dull skin cells for extra smoothness and works for all skin types (especially sensitive). We recommend using twice a week for a dewy, glowing complexion.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Freeman-Feeling-Beautiful-Charcoal-6-Ounce/dp/B01N3SNHAZ/”]Feeling Beautiful Gel Mask and Scrub, $12.06 for 2 on Amazon[/link-button]

6. Too Faced Mascara

We love a good mascara. We might even go overboard with our paycheck if it involves a long-lasting, clump-free formula. Luckily, a budget-friendly option exists to achieve that dramatic lash.

Try Instead: Butter London Double Decker Mascara

While both bottles are similarly priced (Double Decker goes for $20 compared to the Too Faced Mascara’s $24), Butter London gives better value with its lightweight liquid and extreme curl technology.

Get extra length and definition by applying in a zigzag motion from root to the tip of your lash.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/butter-LONDON-Double-Mascara-Stacked/dp/B01DQG3G1Y”]Butter London Double Decker Mascara, $20 on Amazon[/link-button]

7. Urban Decay Naked Eyeshadow Palette

The right blend of eyeshadow can look downright magical. Whether you go for neutral or dramatic colors, there’s nothing more flattering than a shade that stands out, lasts the entire day, and won’t won’t smudge into creases. But a good palette no longer means a $54 dent in your budget.

“The naked palette from Urban Decay—which I do like—seems to be the only pallet most [people] seem to think is available,” says New York celebrity makeup artist, Chris Lanston, who’s worked with James Van Der Beek and Robin Thicke. As it turns out, though, there are many others to choose from.

Try Instead: NYX Professional Makeup Ultimate Shadow Packet

Going out for the night? The 16 rich shades in this set range from mattes and metallics to shimmers and satins for a mesmerizing finish.

Create a sultry, bold look for under $20!

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/NYX-PROFESSIONAL-Ultimate-Palette-Neutrals/dp/B01IW02HX2″]NYX Professional Makeup Ultimate Shadow Palette, $15.48 on Amazon[/link-button]

8. Marc Jacobs Re(Marc)Able Full Cover Foundation Concentrate

The first rule about wearing foundation: You never want to feel it on you. And this is especially true if you’re acne-prone or have an oily complexion. While Marc Jacobs is widely buzzed about, its formula doesn’t fare well on all skin types.

Try Instead: Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-In-Place Foundation

Wear it in hot or humid weather for coverage that goes above and beyond. Just a few dabs go a long way, and unlike other foundations, this one is definitely worth the cost.

Wear it for flawless matte coverage that’s both lightweight and comfortable to wear all day. Perfect when traveling or those all-day meetings.

[link-button href=”https://www.sephora.com/product/double-wear-stay-in-place-makeup-P378284″]Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-In-Place Foundation, $42 from Sephora[/link-button]

9. Charlotte Tilbury Instant Hollywood False-Lash Effect Mascara

Rather than pay $32 for a tube that might smudge under your eyes in a matter of hours, switch over to a mascara that costs less than your daily latte and leaves virtually no flakes.

Try Instead: L’Oréal Volume-Building Mascara

Rest easy knowing your dramatic look won’t end in a clumpy disaster by smoothing out lashes with this allergy-tested formula.

This mascara is also fragrance-free and recommended for sensitive eyes or contact-lens wearers.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004BCXAM8″]L’Oréal Volume-Building Mascara, $5.55 on Amazon[/link-button]

10. BECCA Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed Highlighter

If you’re not a fan of the glittery Twilight look, Becca’s shimmering pressed highlighter may not be for you. But that shouldn’t stop you from having lush, luminous skin.

Try Instead: NARS Illuminator

This light reflecting liquid casts quite the spell with its ultra-weightless texture. The subtle formula will make any winter skin look alive.

Wear it as a highlighter, or mix it in with your favorite foundation for a gorgeous touch of shimmer that won’t startle your friends.

[link-button href=”https://www.sephora.com/product/illuminator-P284301″]NARS Illuminator, $30 from Sephora[/link-button]

11. Tarte Shape Tape Concealer

Here’s a truth: I can’t live without my concealer. If I had to choose one and only one item to take with me on a trip, the right concealer is a close tie with my faithful eyeliner. There’s nothing a good concealer can’t do—hide dark circles, even out skin tone, and, more importantly, give you that elusive well-rested look. For this reason, you want a formula that gives you coverage without looking too obvious.

Try Instead: NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer

While pricier than Tarte’s Shape Tape, this long-wearing and crease-proof formula layers easily without caking.

And unlike other overhyped concealers, this one won’t make your skin break out.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/NARS-Radiant-Creamy-Concealer-Vanilla/dp/B00BM1WKT0″]NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer, from $38.07 on Amazon[/link-button]

12. Lipstick Queen Frog Prince Lipstick

If shade-transforming lipstick is your thing, why not opt for one that won’t cost you $25? Queen Frog Prince gets a lot of buzz, but there are more budget-friendly alternatives that have the exact same concept.

Try Instead: Barry M Genie Color Change Lip Paint

For less than half the price, watch your lips magically turn from green to a long-lasting shade of pink.

Aside from getting your shade-changing fix, this lip paint actually stays on for a solid eight hours!

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Barry-Cosmetics-Genie-Colour-Change/dp/B00KOOXCNY”]Barry M Genie Color Change Lip Paint, $5.99 on Amazon[/link-button]

13. Handy Mixture Nylon & Boar Bristle Hair Brush by Mason Pearson

Finding the right hairbrush for your texture can give you a completely new look and also protect your hair’s health. But fear not; you don’t have to spend $150 to tame your unruly mane.

Try Instead: Wigo Cushion 100 Percent Boar Bristle Brush

Whatever your hair length (but especially for longer hair), WIGO’s bristles will give you that added smoothness.

Try it for an extra-sleek blowout on medium to thin strands.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Wigo-Cushion-100-Bristle-Brush/dp/B0089WSAFI”]Wigo Cushion 100% Boar Bristle Brush, $19.95 on Amazon[/link-button]

14. Clinique Almost Lipstick – Black Honey

There’s nothing worse than falling in love with a lipstick shade only to have it end up chapping your lips—it’s almost perfect, but not good enough. If you’re not thrilled with Clinique’s formula (or price, at around $20 per tube), we’ve found a smoother-looking alternative.

Try Instead: Oh Sugar! Tinted Lip Balm Soda

The name alone sounds yummy. Infused with grapeseed oil and avocado butter, it’s like therapy for your lips (no, not that kind—whatcha thinkin’?).

Get your favorite shade in a nourishing balm for only a fraction of the cost!

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/COVERGIRL-Colorlicious-Sugar-Tinted-packaging/dp/B01CS5WCNM”]Oh Sugar! Tinted Lip Balm Soda, $5.39 on Amazon[/link-button]

15. Anastasia Beverly Hills DIPBROW Pomade

Obsessed with those ultra-defined brows you see all over social media? We feel you. A good pomade can give you that dramatic flair, but make sure the texture doesn’t dry out.

Try Instead: Milani Stay Put Brow Color

Compared to DIPBROW’S $18 pomade, with Milani you get a creamy, waterproof texture that stays moist for longer.

Pro tip: Try it in dark brown for a more natural finish.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Milani-Color-Brunette-Ounce-Packaging/dp/B00ZTFXF8K”]Milani Stay Put Brow Color, $6.47 on Amazon[/link-button]

16. Kat Von D Tattoo Liner Liquid Eyeliner

When it comes to liquid liners, you want a pencil that’s not going to smudge or fade after applying. While Kat Von D works great for many, others have found it streakier than they’d like.

Try Instead: Rimmel London Color Precise Eyeliner

Create precise lines or thick dramatic looks with Rimmel’s sweat and humidity-proof pencil. The liner glides on smoothly and gives you a flawless look that won’t budge.

Pro tip: For smoldering, smokey eyes, Lanston suggests using an old black pencil liner after burning the pencil wax for three seconds.

“Let it cool and apply,” Langston says. “It stays on all day and [is] super dark.”

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/RIMMEL-LONDON-Color-Precise-Eyeliner/dp/B01N8PNE41″]Rimmel London Color Precise Eyeliner, $23.84 on Amazon[/link-button]

17. Urban Decay All Nighter Makeup Setting Spray

We get it. You’ve heard the hype and find yourself tempted by the allure of avoiding makeup meltdown. But as it turns out, you can get the exact same value as All Nighter without dishing out $32.

Try Instead: Elf Makeup Mist & Set Spray

With just a few sprays, Elf’s refreshing formula (made with aloe, green tea, and cucumber) will give your makeup staying power and hydrate your skin. Just hold the bottle at arm’s length and lightly mist over your makeup.

Bonus: Elf’s cosmetics are all cruelty-free and vegan—so you can also feel good about wearing them.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/l-f-Makeup-Mist-Clear-Ounce/dp/B004X1QY20″]Elf Makeup Mist & Set Spray, from $7.99 on Amazon[/link-button]

18. Too Faced Born This Way Liquid Foundation

Unless you have ultra-dry skin, you might find Born This Way on the greasier (and orangey) side. No worries, though. If you’re on the hunt for a long-wear foundation that will give you more value for your buck, we’ve got you covered.

Try Instead: Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Weightless Foundation SPF 15

More than anything, what you want is your skin to breathe and for any foundation to feel weightless or “barely there.” This ultra-silky formula will not only stay on for an astounding 16 hours, it won’t crease, and it will withstand humidity.

The foundation is also formulated without parabens or sulfates, and is ideal for normal to oily skin types. Well, I’m sold.

[link-button href=”https://www.sephora.com/product/skin-long-wear-weightless-foundation-spf-15-P427430?icid2%3Dproducts%2520grid:p427430:product”]Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Weightless Foundation, $46 from Sephora[/link-button]

19. Kylie Cosmetics Lip Kit

“Anything Kylie Jenner is a bit overrated,” Lanston says, “but I give her credit for living her best life.”

We agree! Lanston adds that we can easily find the same value (and a similar formula) while also paying less.

Try Instead: Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick

Weightless and highly pigmented, this creamy lipstick gives you intense color without drying out your lips.

It’s also enriched with vitamin and avocado oil for added softness and hydration. We recommend pairing your smokey eyes with Stila’s nude Angelo shade.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/stila-Stay-Liquid-Lipstick-Patina/dp/B06W9F6PCX?th%3D1″]Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick, $22 on Amazon[/link-button]

20. Physicians Formula Powder Palette Mineral Glow Pearls

“Certain highlighting products with extreme high-beam power, like Physicians Formula Pearl—I believe—can make you look like a landing strip at night at an airport,” says Lanston. He recommends using more subtle highlighters you can build on, with lots of options for shades.

Try Instead: NYX Highlight & Contour Palette

After putting on your foundation, use the palette to enhance features like your cheekbones, nose, and jawline. First, apply the deeper (darker) powders to any spot you’d like to shade and define, and then add the lighter highlighting colors on areas to emphasize.

Pro tip: Use it for perfecting a dramatic brow.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/NYX-Professional-Highlight-Contour-Palette/dp/B00TKJO1RK”]NYX Highlight & Contour Palette, $17.39 on Amazon[/link-button]

Tags Commerce, social

Fresh Fashion Lifestyle

37 Designer Clothing Items You Can Get On Amazon

Post author By Jenna Jonaitis
Post date September 20, 2018

Developing your own personal style comes with determining which brands and designers you like the most. Whether you prefer a bohemian or preppy look, there are clothes and accessories that will help you build your unique wardrobe. Each designer offers their own flair—from the fabric of their leggings to the shape of their handbags.
Sometimes, though, the brands we love are priced beyond what we’d prefer to spend. But thanks to Amazon, many designer clothes are sold online at a fraction of the price, so you can get your favorite brands without breaking your budget.
From Vera Wang and Lacoste to Dolce & Gabbana and Tommy Hilfiger, our list includes some of the top labels in the world, all of which you can get directly on Amazon. And they’re the real deal, too. So whether you’re looking for a new pair of shoes or a cocktail dress, we have it all right here.

1. Invest in the trendiest sunnies for any season.

Whether it’s spring, summer, fall, or winter, a high-quality pair of sunglasses is essential for any ensemble. After all, protecting your eyes is critical. But beyond the health benefits, sunglasses add personality to your outfit. They’re an accessory that you can literally wear all year long. So why not invest in the best?

These Burberry Sunglasses make style easy with their patterned sides and signature Burberry appeal. They even arrive in a durable case with a special cleaning cloth.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Burberry-BE4160-34338G-Sunglasses-Category/dp/B00FJEJFMG”]Burberry BE4160 Sunglasses, $120.04 from Amazon[/link-button]

2. Stock up on high-quality underwear.

DKNY produces some seriously comfortable undergarments. Their Signature Lace Bikini Panties are offered on Amazon in a spectrum of colors and sizes—allowing you to find a set that’s just right for you. The panties are designed to show little seam if any.

You get the comfort along with the style. And not only are the Amazon prices lower than what you’d find in brick and mortar stores, but the package will be delivered right to your door also.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/DKNY-Collection-Intimate-Elevated-Coverage/dp/B0761PQP7Y”]DKNY Intimates Lace Bikini Panties, $7.99 and up from Amazon[/link-button]

3. Shop with the ultimate style in tow.

Known by its iconic green crocodile logo, Lacoste has been a prominent designer brand since the 1930s. They produce clothing, eyewear, footwear, and accessories that never seem to go out of style. And this Lacoste Small Shopping Bag is no exception.

The tote is the ideal size for day trips, mini shopping excursions, or a long day at the office. Amazon offers the bag in six colors from pink to black to yellow. Snag one as your go-to tote.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Lacoste-L-12-12-Concept-Shopping-NF2037PO/dp/B07848VM71″]Lacoste Concept Small Shopping Bag, $88.00 from Amazon[/link-button]

4. Be ready for any night out.

Comfortable, sleek dresses have become even more popular in recent years. Throwing on a flattering dress is polished style at its easiest and finest. So we have some great news! You can purchase a BCBG V-Neck Dress from the comfort of your own home.

The dress is snug at the waist, sleeveless, and machine washable. You can wear this BCBGeneration stunner with a simple necklace and a pair of shoes for any occasion, from weddings to formal work events to date nights.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/BCBGeneration-Womens-Sleeveless-V-Neck-Dress/dp/B073DD3ZXX”]BCBGeneration Women’s V-Neck Midi Dress, $78.00 and up[/link-button]

5. Expand your comfy pants beyond leggings.

What’s better than a cozy pair of pants? Not a whole lot, in our opinion. Snug-fitting, stretchy pants continue to be a popular trend, and we understand why: They’re incredibly comfortable. Just throw on a pair of flats with these DKNY Womens Ponte Pants and you’re ready for a casual workday or a Saturday outing.

Their stretchy fabric will quickly make them a favorite.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/DKNY-Ladies-Pull-Ponte-Pant/dp/B074RXXWM9″]DKNY Womens Ponte Pants, $26.59 and up from Amazon[/link-button]

6. Choose a heavenly scent for any outfit.

Your scent is certainly a part of your persona. It’s an integrated piece of your style and ensemble. So before you head out the door, make sure you have a fragrance that represents you. Other people do notice! Miss Dior—produced by the famous French designer Christian Dior in the mid-1900s—is an iconic fragrance. The perfume carries a timeless scent of fresh flowers and white musk.

In addition to its joyful floral elements, its top notes offer a burst of raspberries and pomegranates—making this an irresistible combination. Miss Dior is classic enough to be worn every day and for special occasions like weddings and black tie events.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Christian-Dior-Absolutely-Blooming-Womens/dp/B01H5OR8F8″]Miss Dior Absolutely Blooming Spray, $103.91 from Amazon [/link-button]

7. Throw on something chic for those cooler days.

Dress codes have relaxed in modern years, but you don’t have to sacrifice style for comfort. A perfect combination can be found in many of Ralph Lauren’s products, including the Women’s V-Neck Long Sleeve T-Shirt that comes in a range of colors—from gray to blue to red.

For a chilly evening at home or an outdoor gathering with friends, this long-sleeve cotton tee will keep you feeling stylish and cozy. The signature polo logo sends a signal that you’re hip in even the most casual of situations.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Polo-Ralph-Lauren-Perfect-T-Shirt/dp/B074CBFJN5″]Polo Ralph Lauren Long Sleeve T-Shirt, $24.97 and up from Amazon[/link-button]

8. Choose a little black dress that wows.

We’re sure that the classic little black dress will never go out of style. They’re ideal for dinner parties, date nights, black tie events, and more. But why choose a boring style? Instead, opt for this exquisite number from the one-and-only Vera Wang. While the Vera Wang label might lead you to believe it’s out of your price range, that’s not the case with this Sleeveless Cocktail Dress on Amazon.

The price is surprisingly reasonable from such a distinguished designer. After all, Vera Wang has made wedding gowns for the likes of Chelsea Clinton, Khloé Kardashian, and Mariah Carey—not to mention all of the Olympic figure skaters’ costumes she’s designed.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Vera-Wang-Womens-Sleeveless-Cocktail/dp/B077JGQT89″]Vera Wang Sleeveless Cocktail Dress, $79.44 and up from Amazon[/link-button]

9. Slide your feet into style.

Kate Spade didn’t just design handbags. She also created jewelry, clothing, shoes, and various other accessories. From dressy to more casual, her line offers versatility and your choice of pieces that fit your unique style perfectly. Kate Spade Lilly Sneakers are supportive and durable but still boast her iconic style.

Available in a range of colors and patterns, these lightweight sneakers might just become your go-to casual shoe.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Kate-Spade-New-York-Sneaker/dp/B072YV113H”]Kate Spade New York Lilly Sneaker, $69.99 and up from Amazon[/link-button]

10. Opt for a statement bag with a purpose.

It comes as no surprise that the bags and purses we carry make a statement. And that’s evident with anything designed by Michael Kors. For over three decades, Michael Kors has produced shoes, watches, handbags, and other accessories for those who enjoy luxurious, timeless designs. Add one of their creations to your collection with a Women’s Jet Set Large Crossbody Bag, which has leather trim and a fully lined interior.

The adjustable shoulder strap gives you options to make it as comfortable as possible.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Michael-Kors-Womens-Crossbody-Vanilla/dp/B06XD49WTQ”]Michael Kors Jet Set Large Crossbody Bag, $124.91 from Amazon[/link-button]

11. Add a pop of personality to your winter gear.

Yes, you can remain stylish even on the chilliest days. This Tommy Hilfiger Toggle Coat is primarily made of wool and polyester—making it warm but not overly heavy. The attached hood is a bonus for those particularly windy and snowy days.

Its versatility is perhaps its biggest selling point, though: It can be worn with business attire or a nice pair of jeans. Many similarly styled coats carry quite a hefty price tag, but not this Tommy Hilfiger model offered on Amazon.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Tommy-Hilfiger-Womens-Classic-Hooded/dp/B071V6LCHX”]Tommy Hilfiger Classic Hooded Toggle Coat, $119.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

12. Strap on the best.

During the warmer months, it’s common to lose the shoes and keep your feet in sandals. If you’re looking to step up your style from the average flip flops, Tory Burch will provide you with the polished look you’re hoping for.

Available in a range of colors, let Tory Burch Women’s Miller Sandals become a chic option on your shoe rack.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076BRRCGS”]Tory Burch Miller Sandals, $178.00 and up from Amazon [/link-button]

13. Don’t forget your wardrobe staples.

A good pair of jeans is as good as gold, especially if they fit your curves just right. Levi’s is one of the best-known brands in the world for a reason. The craftsmanship is backed by more than 160 years of denim expertise. Levi jeans flatter a range of body types, and the quality of materials simply can’t be beat.

While you may expect these jean favorites to cost a lot, that’s not the case with the Signature by Levi Strauss & Co. Gold Label Women’s Totally Shaping Skinny Jean. Their super stretchy fabric makes it feel like you’re wearing leggings, when in fact they’re genuine jeans that just happen to offer exceptional comfort.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Signature-Levi-Strauss-Totally-Shaping/dp/B01H3EEAHE”]Levi’s Signature Totally Shaping Skinny Jean, $19.99 and up from Amazon [/link-button]

14. Honor the great fashion contributors.

There’s a whole lot to love about Kate Spade’s style. Her handbags are the epitome of class and fashion. If you want to honor her contributions to the fashion world, consider her classic Smooth Leather Tote Handbag with Matching Wristlet Pouch. The large handbag is sturdy and roomy.

The wristlet is sufficient on its own for a night out but pairs easily with the handbag for a full ensemble. No need to wait for the combo to go on sale elsewhere, snag them at the discounted price on Amazon.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Kate-Spade-Shoulder-Matching-Wristlet/dp/B076G7BQN7″]Kate Spade Leather Tote With Matching Wristlet, $199.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

15. Let your shoes do the talking.

Betsey Johnson is known for her colorful, eccentric designs. While you may be familiar with her handbags, she also creates a collection of shoes that are known to stand out. Her Women’s Diskko Heels aren’t for the faint-hearted.

With 5.5” heels and a platform of over an inch, these shoes will help you reach the sky (or match the height of your date). So go ahead and let your personality shine. A pair of these heels will make a standard outfit—like jeans and a black top—an immediately eye-catching ensemble.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Betsey-Johnson-Womens-Diskko-Tattoo/dp/B004V7VWM8″]Betsey Johnson Diskko Heels, $140.00 from Amazon [/link-button]

16. Snag designer eyewear without the designer price.

Prada brings supreme elegance to their sunglasses line that flatters any face structure. Check out these Prada Women’s Sunglasses for an iconic design with gradient lenses.

And with polarized, 100 percent UV protection, you’ll know your eyes are protected on warm summer days and bright winter mornings.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Prada-Womens-32PS-Sunglasses-57mm/dp/B00DT6INOW”]Prada Women’s Sunglasses (PR 32P), $181.38 from Amazon[/link-button]

17. Treat your feet.

When you think of comfy clogs, the Birkenstock name probably comes to mind. That’s because Birkenstock has been making shoes since the 1700s. You read that right: Johann Adam Birkenstock registered his shoe-making business in 1774. Since then, the company has come to be known for their comfortable styles, and the Birkenstock design offers arch support and shock absorption, all while being lightweight and durable.

In other words, there’s no excuse to put off grabbing a pair of suede Birkenstocks. Try these snazzy Unisex Boston Soft Footbed Clogs. Your feet will be glad you did.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Birkenstock-Unisex-Boston-Footbed-Taupe/dp/B000G6VC5K”]Birkenstock Boston Suede Clogs, $140.00 from Amazon [/link-button]

18. Sweat it out in style.

Who says designer wear is just for the office and nights on the town? Whether you’re an avid Bikram yogi or simply enjoy jogging in your neighborhood, feeling good (and having gear that fits) is an important part of exercising. And lululemon has been at the top of the leggings world for a while now—and for good reason.

Their pants fit exceptionally well and are made with high-quality materials, including their signature Luon fabric, which is sweat-wicking, breathable, and boasts four-way stretch. So before your next trip to the gym, slip into a pair of lululemon Wunder Under Crop III Yoga Pants.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Lululemon-Wunder-Under-Pants-Black/dp/B01DKOJ1MA”]Lululemon Wunder Under Yoga Pants, $110.00 and up from Amazon[/link-button]

19. Tell time trendily.

Wrap some style around your wrist with an exclusive Lacoste Women’s Casual Watch. Select a vibrant color like pink or red to brighten any outfit. Or opt for a more neutral shade like white.

No matter what you choose, you’ll have that iconic crocodile logo looking up at you every time you check the time.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Lacoste-Womens-L-12-12-Quartz-Silicone/dp/B01MR616QZ”]Lacoste Women’s Casual Watch, $125.00 from Amazon[/link-button]

20. Give your girls the best.

Three things Victoria Secret is known for: comfort, style, and fit. Choose a bra from their PINK collection for an undergarment you’re likely to wear daily. Victoria’s Secret Pink Wear Everywhere Push-Up Bra can be worn classically or in a cross back, depending on your outfit.

The extra push-up provides a lift while still offering plenty of support.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Victorias-Secret-Womens-Pink-Everywhere/dp/B013X5G7GE”]Victoria’s Secret Pink Push-Up Bra, $29.95 and up from Amazon[/link-button]

21. Rock your job interview or work presentation.

A sharp suit jacket goes a long way toward filling out your professional wardrobe. And while some jackets are stiff and uncomfortable, they don’t have to be. BCBGeneration Women’s Tuxedo Blazer, for example, is made of polyester and spandex and lined with polyester jersey.

That sounds pretty comfy, doesn’t it? The shape of this blazer is sleek and provides a tasteful blend of formal and casual. So after a day at the office, you can head to happy hour without needing to change.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/BCBGeneration-Womens-Tuxedo-Blazer-X-Small/dp/B01FWBUY5M”]BCBGeneration Women’s Tuxedo Blazer, $86.69 and up from Amazon[/link-button]

22. Layer up.

Levi’s are known as the quintessential jeans, but they offer so much more than that. The Women’s Classic Faux Leather Sherpa Collar Jacket features a chic style and offers plenty of warmth.

The jacket is classy enough to wear with jeans or over a dress. Don’t like the sherpa collar? No problem. It’s removable.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Levis-Womens-Classic-Leather-Trucker/dp/B074HRRH8G”]Levi’s Classic Sherpa Collar Trucker Jacket, $89.99 and up from Amazon[/link-button]

23. Diversify your legging collection.

While brands like lululemon take up a large share of the leggings market, other designers have come up with stylish, beautifully fitting pants, too. Calvin Klein Women’s Modern Cotton Leggings, for instance, are made especially for comfort.

These leggings are intended for sleepwear and lounging—not necessarily wearing out on the town. But they rival the best in the business with their well-fitting design and mix of cotton, modal, and spandex fabrics. Say “hello” to the most comfortable Sunday you’ve had in years.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Calvin-Klein-Womens-Modern-Legging/dp/B00GBD4RTU”]Calvin Klein Modern Cotton Leggings, $21.98 and up from Amazon[/link-button]

24. Personalize your bling.

A special piece of jewelry helps to make your outfit feel like yours. And it doesn’t need to be extravagant. A simple alphabet necklace, like this one from Kate Spade, is a beautiful way to add a bit of your personality to your wardrobe.

Whether you decide to put your first or last initial or the initial of someone you love, like a child or significant other, it will carry special meaning wherever you wear it.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Kate-Spade-New-York-Pendants/dp/B00JHE0N3Y”]Kate Spade New York Alphabet Pendant Necklace, $58.00 from Amazon[/link-button]

25. Be ready to celebrate in any season.

It’s natural to stock your closet with spring and summer dresses, but what about the cooler months? A Vera Wang Long Sleeve Lace Cocktail Dress ensures you’re ready for a wedding, holiday party, or date night during the fall or wintertime.

The lacy overlay gives it a fancy edge, and you can choose from black, red, and navy shades so you’ll have a stunning option for all your special events.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Vera-Wang-Lace-Sheath-Dress/dp/B06WRPWF4M”]Vera Wang Lace Cocktail Dress, $36.93 and up from Amazon[/link-button]

26. Embrace the classics.

It’s hard to find a brand that’s more recognized than Ralph Lauren. Since 1967, the company has produced everything from clothing and apparel to fragrances and accessories. Polo shirts and button-ups are among the most popular Ralph Lauren items. Thanks to Amazon, you can now add an Oxford classic fit button down shirt to your wardrobe at a steal of a price.

It’s made of 100 percent cotton and carries the famous embroidered polo logo. Sport this shirt on the job or for a casual evening out.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Lauren-Womens-Classic-Oxford-Button/dp/B01516NX88″]Ralph Lauren Women’s Oxford Shirt, $48.67 and up from Amazon [/link-button]

27. Snuggle into a cotton fleece hoodie.

Athletic wear has become increasingly popular in recent years. Rather than just sporting it for exercise, it’s fashionable to wear athleisure on casual days. And we understand why; it’s super comfy and often extra flattering. As one of the top athletic wear brands, Lululemon designs more than just leggings. The lululemon Scuba hoodie, for example, is made with a relaxed fit using cotton fleece and polyester.

The front can be zipped up past the chin for those chilly days, and the waistline rests at hip length for a slimming shape. The hood will block out the cold, whether you’re leaving the Pilates studio or walking the dog. Welcome supreme comfort to your closet with this cushy hoodie.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Lululemon-Scuba-Hoodie/dp/B01JZMO0KE”]Lululemon Scuba Hoodie, $129.99 and up from Amazon[/link-button]

28. Stand out from the crowd.

Part of assembling your own personal style is being willing to step outside of the norm. Instead of blending in, choose to be yourself. And Betsey Johnson designs help you do just that. Take the Mini Crossbody Satchel, for example.

This cross-body bag featuring stars and moons isn’t something you see every day, and it’s large enough to fit your wallet, phone, keys, and other essentials.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Betsey-Johnson-Harlie-Satchel-Crossbody/dp/B01N3YYHO9″]Betsey Johnson Mini Crossbody Satchel, $26.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

29. Choose comfort above all.

If you’ve ever worn a pair of Birkenstocks, you know the level of comfort can’t be beat. That doesn’t just apply to their clogs, either. A pair of Mayari Adjustable Toe Loop Sandals will make your feet feel supported all day long.

And Birkenstock has even been named the “Most Vegan-Friendly Shoe Company” by PETA. So why not add these affordable sandals to your laidback summer wardrobe?
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Birkenstock-Womens-Mayari-Birkibuc-Sandal/dp/B002LZUQBU”]Birkenstock Mayari Toe Loop Sandal, $89.95 and up from Amazon[/link-button]

30. Incorporate casual.

Jean jackets have come in and out of fashion more times than we can remember. But for now, they seem to have risen to the top of the fashion charts. With this in mind, now is the time to snag the best of the best. And when it comes to jeans, that inevitably means Levi’s.

Made with premium denim, the Levi’s Authentic Trucker Jacket features a fold-over collar and shank-button hardware. It’s classy and flattering, without losing any durability.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Levis-Womens-Authentic-Trucker-Jackets/dp/B0178ZX4YI”]Levi’s Women’s Authentic Trucker Jacket, $54.72 and up from Amazon [/link-button]

31. See with style (literally).

Eyeglasses give you an extra opportunity to add style to your ensemble. Fortunately, Gucci makes that easy. The Gucci GG0027 Eyeglasses fit prescription lenses and can be found on Amazon for a fraction of the cost you’ll see at an optometrist’s office.

Seriously, a pair is priced at under $160 on Amazon. It’s impossible not to love this sleek style.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06ZZ63YSM/”]Gucci GG0027 Eyeglasses, $123.70 from Amazon[/link-button]

32. Welcome the top designers to your jewelry collection.

Accessories can be as important as the clothes you wear—and that includes jewelry. There are plenty of top designers who also offer stunning jewelry, from earrings to necklaces and bracelets. Want to start with something simple? Try these Tory Burch Hex-Logo Stud Earrings.

These gold-plated studs are made primarily of a blend of durable metals—ensuring they remain in beautiful shape for many years to come.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Tory-Burch-Hex-Logo-Stud-Earrings/dp/B01F9F2RGK”]Tory Burch Hex-Logo Stud Earrings, $67.61 from Amazon [/link-button]

33. Opt for a classy t-shirt.

Several staple items should be in every woman’s closet. And pretty high on that list is a high-quality t-shirt. While you can find a comfortable t-shirt almost anywhere, the quality and style of Ralph Lauren are hard to argue with. Our favorite is the Ralph Lauren Women’s V-Neck Jersey T-Shirt.

The neckline is flattering, the shirt is lightweight, and it carries the iconic pony logo. And on Amazon, these designer shirts are unbelievably affordable.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Lauren-Womens-V-Neck-Jersey-T-Shirt/dp/B01CDPRGAQ”]Ralph Lauren Women’s V-Neck T-Shirt, $27.00 and up from Amazon [/link-button]

34. Protect your eyes fashionably.

There’s hardly a day when we leave the house without a pair of sunglasses. In other words, sunglasses are just as important as the type of dress or handbag you’re carrying. So why not go with an irresistible style like Dolce & Gabbana’s DG 4138 Sunglasses?

You’ll get plenty of use out of them—and plenty of compliments.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Dolce-Gabbana-Sunglasses-Frame-Shiny/dp/B007EP3V4G”]Dolce & Gabbana’s DG 4138 Sunglasses, $158.00 from Amazon[/link-button]

35. Include some basics.

Building your wardrobe isn’t just about having the luxury items. You should also invest in quality basics like shirts, pants, and activewear. That’s why we had to include Tommy Hilfiger Henley Tanks.

They’re super soft and form-fitting—and they go with just about anything. Throw one on with a pair of jeans or leggings and you’re all set for a comfortable outing or day around the house.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Tommy-Hilfiger-Womens-Henley-Heather/dp/B06XC6JTQG”]Tommy Hilfiger Henley Tanks, $11.74 and up from Amazon[/link-button]

36. Hit the town with a chic wristlet.

Michael Kors’ designs are simple and timeless. And the materials chosen to carefully construct each product are never anything but the best. This Michael Kors Jet Set Travel Wristlet is the ideal size for your phone, keys, and other essentials like your ID and debit card.

The leather trim offers a classic touch to this beautifully made bag. And it’s unlikely you’ll find any better price than what’s on Amazon—surprise, surprise.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06WRSNP4M”]Michael Kors Jet Set Wristlet, $84.87 from Amazon[/link-button]

37. Show your sporty side.

Do you enjoy designer clothes and accessories but don’t want to feel dressed up all of the time? Stick with a sporty look, like this Tommy Hilfiger watch. After all, athletic wear is at the peak of mainstream popularity.

This Tommy Hilfiger design features a silver-tone bezel and white dial with the brand’s signature colors. The silicone band makes it comfortable enough to wear on the regular.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Tommy-Hilfiger-1781271-Stainless-Silicone/dp/B009EGE87M”]Tommy Hilfiger Watch with Silicone Band, $82.50 from Amazon[/link-button]
With the expansive offerings of Amazon, you can get the designer label and quality at a price that makes your budget rest easy. Whether you’re looking for something now or in the future, save this list so you’ll have it handy at just the right time.

Tags Commerce, social

Life x Culture Lifestyle

Here’s What To Get The Women In Your Life Based On Their Zodiac Sign

Post author By Katie Martin
Post date September 19, 2018

My birthday is January 20, and as a true Aquarius, my favorite things include hip gatherings with friends, like the opening of a trendy new coffee shop and boutique clothing store down the street. Aquarians tend to be altruistic, and the word “no” doesn’t exist in my vocabulary when it comes to helping others. But all that social energy can leave me feeling drained and craving time to recharge, which is not easy to come by when you’re also a work-from-home mom with a toddler.

The best gift I ever received was geared right toward my Aquarian nature; my darling husband scheduled a whole free day for me with absolutely zero responsibilities. He took the baby and left me stocked with all my favorite goodies: a face masks, a foot soak, a new book, and my favorite ice cream. Even though I didn’t leave my house, I felt as refreshed as if I’d spent the day at a spa.
Does someone you know have a birthday coming up? Whether it’s your mom, bestie, or a coworker, let the zodiac be your guide, and give a totally unique gift based on their star sign.
[sul title=”Aries” subheader=”March 21 to April 19″]
The first sign of the zodiac, Aries women are ruled by the fiery planet Mars. Aries is a cardinal sign, which means it signals the beginning of a new season (in this case, spring). Those born under cardinal signs are natural leaders. An Aries woman goes after anything she wants, whether it’s a big promotion at work or that cute guy from the farmers’ market, with bold confidence.

Their independent nature means an Aries can sometimes be impulsive, but they’re almost always optimistic about the outcome of a situation. They have the confidence and charm to make almost any circumstance work in their favor.

Because they possess the confidence to pull it off, Aries women will love receiving a piece of funky statement jewelry, like the Humble Chic NY Hinge Bib Necklace. Pair this fierce warrior-goddess statement necklace with these chic, delicate CY Supplies Moon Crawler Cuff Earrings to complete a look that bold Aries can rock on any occasion.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00V66ZSTA”]Humble Chic NY Hinge Bib Necklace, $23.89 on Amazon[/link-button]
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Moon-Crawler-Cuff-Earrings-Sterling/dp/B071RL32QJ”]CY Supplies Moon Crawler Cuff Earrings, $10.99 on Amazon[/link-button]
[sul title=”Taurus” subheader=”April 20 to May 20″]
Creative yet practical, steadfast but temperamental, women born under Taurus are sensual, strong-willed creatures. Taurus is an earth sign, which means women born under this sign are grounded: She’s the kind of friend you can always rely on to pick you up at the airport in a pinch.

Taurus women also enjoy relaxing in tranquil, natural environments. But before you start packing for a weekend camping getaway, beware: Venus, the planet of beauty, rules this sign, and Taurus also loves luxury and comfort. Taurus may work toward goals with tenacity, but she also loves to pamper herself on the regular.

How about channeling the ultimate glamour girl, Holly Golightly, and give luxe-loving Taurus a Breakfast at Tiffany’s-inspired sleep mask from The Sleepy Cottage for a luxurious night’s sleep wherever she lays her head? Or, if you feel like showering your Taurus with more than one gift, pair that sleep mask with this Cuddle Dreams Mulberry Silk Throw Blanket that’s so soft and luxurious, it’s often mistaken for cashmere.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Breakfast-Tiffanys-Inspired-Golightly-Robins/dp/B016WM3MT0″]Breakfast at Tiffany’s Sleep Mask, $14 on Amazon[/link-button]
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/CUDDLE-DREAMS-Exclusive-Naturally-Breathable/dp/B07D69MFGT”]Mulberry Silk Throw Blanket in Ice Blue, $96.90 on Amazon[/link-button]
[sul title=”Gemini” subheader=”May 21 to June 20″]
The twin sign of the zodiac, Geminis are highly intelligent, dynamic women. Gemini is an air sign; like a strong gust of wind, they tend to arrive on the scene full of energy and adventure.
Because of their dual nature, Geminis are often playful and curious, have a certain mystery about them, and value romantic gestures from their partners. Ruled by the planet Mercury, Geminis are in tune with their feelings and have no problem communicating their desires. They are always up for trying something exciting and new, whether it’s learning to skydive or simply trying out the new restaurant down the street.

Gemini is the ultimate communicator; she makes friends wherever she goes and is sure to have an active social media presence. She’ll love this quirky Carrie Bradshaw-inspired take on the personalized necklace with her social media handle prominently displayed. Getting followers has never been so stylish!

Gemini will also love this DharmaObjects Hand Carved Wooden Yin Yang Keepsake Box to store all her treasures in. She’ll appreciate the intricate artistic design, and the yin and yang symbol celebrates the duality of her zodiac sign.
[link-button href=”http://shopstyle.it/l/Sa6R”]Personalized Silver Nameplate Necklace, from $36.24 on Etsy[/link-button]
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/DharmaObjects-Carved-Wooden-Storage-Keepsake/dp/B01MA3NES3″]DharmaObjects Hand Carved Yin Yang Keepsake Box, $15.98 on Amazon[/link-button]
[sul title=”Cancer” subheader=”June 21 to July 22″]
Cancers are ruled by the moon. Because the moon also rules the night, Cancers have a highly active subconscious life and believe in the power of dreams. Even so, Cancers can be ultra-cautious and prefer to do thorough research before making a commitment.
For better or for worse, women born under the sign of the crab are extremely empathetic and can easily pick up on the energies of those around them. Because of their empathetic nature, Cancers are often found serving others and may put their own needs aside for the sake of others.

That’s why women born under this moon sign will love reading Lunar Abundance: Cultivating Joy, Peace, and Purpose Using the Phases of the Moon and applying lunar cycles to their own self-care.

With a rich inner life, Cancers are happiest in their home environment. If your Cancer bestie is missing home, gift her a Homesick Scented Candle. Each one individually designed to remind her of her home country, state, or city.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Lunar-Abundance-Cultivating-Purpose-Phases/dp/0762463570″]Lunar Abundance, $15.17 on Amazon[/link-button]
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/stores/node/12080044011″]Homesick Scented Candles, $29.95 on Amazon[/link-button]
[sul title=”Leo” subheader=”July 23 to August 22″]
Cancers may be ruled by the moon, but Leos are totally governed by the sun, and it shows in their spotlight-loving personalities. With their warm, outgoing nature, Leos are natural leaders who love to be the center of attention. Regal Leo is action-oriented, never content to rest on their laurels when there’s a problem to be solved.

Always ready to make a dramatic entrance, treat your Leo to a tube of MAC Matte Lipstick in Russian Red, a universally flattering, bold red shade that will definitely make her the star of the show wherever she goes.

Despite their take-charge attitudes and dominant personalities, Leo women are surprisingly tender with people they care about and love to give and receive affection. Tap into Leo’s tender side with a fun, thoughtful gift like the Alex and Ani Birth Month Swarovski Crystal Bangle in Leo’s birthstone, Peridot.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Alex-Ani-Swarovski-Rafaelian-Bracelet/dp/B06XC8L7WV”]MAC Matte Lipstick in Russian Red, $22.93 on Amazon[/link-button]
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Alex-Ani-Swarovski-Rafaelian-Bracelet/dp/B06XC8L7WV”]Alex and Ani Birth Month Swarovski Crystal Bangle, $26.55 on Amazon[/link-button]
[sul title=”Virgo” subheader=”August 23 to September 22″]
Like Gemini, Virgo is ruled by Mercury. Where Gemini is gregarious and outgoing, Virgo is the flip side of Mercury’s traits; their analytical nature means they don’t make any decisions without having all the information first. While this might seem like Virgo is a stick in the mud, she’s anything but. Virgo is the friend you know you can always lean on.

Women born under this sign tend to be perfectionists and love to plan everything down to the last detail. Because they pay so much attention to the little things, your Virgo coworker may seem introverted and shy at first, but once you get to know her, you’ll see a warm, caring personality that thrives in intimate settings.

Erin Condren planners are beloved by highly organized individuals for their customizable options, making this gorgeous Erin Condren Deluxe Monthly Planner the perfect gift for perfectionist-planner Virgo. Or, since ladies born under this sign rarely take time for themselves, pencil in some time for busy Virgo to relax with a Beauty by Earth Organic Bath Bomb Set.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Erin-Condren-Monthly-Planner-Sept-Aug/dp/B07F8CH256″]Erin Condren Deluxe Monthly Planner, $47.99 on Amazon[/link-button]
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00W2EH98I”]Beauty by Earth Bath Bomb Gift Set, $28.49 on Amazon[/link-button]
[sul title=”Libra” subheader=”September 23 to October 22″]
Libras, like their symbol, the scales, thrive on balance and are totally in tune with the world around them. Because Libras are always trying to balance the scales, they are excellent at compromise but can often end up putting others needs before their own. Like Taurus, Libra is ruled by Venus; both are drawn to the finer things, but where Taurus prizes pampering, Libras love to be surrounded by beauty, whether its a custom piece of artwork or a gorgeous natural landscape.

Recommended as a top-performing travel mat by one of our very own, this Liforme Travel Yoga Mat is the perfect gift for a Libra lady who needs to restore balance to her life. It pairs perfectly with this EQUA Water Bottle that Libras are sure to love for its pretty rose gold accents and aesthetic design. Time for an outdoor yoga session in a peaceful garden.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01CI6SO1A”]Liforme Travel Yoga Mat, $124.95 on Amazon[/link-button]
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/EQUA-Myequa-Mismatch-0-75-litres-Designer/dp/B07CN96SHW”]EQUA BPA-Free Water Bottle, 25 oz, $20 on Amazon[/link-button]
[sul title=”Scorpio” subheader=”October 23 to November 21″]
Scorpios have magnetic personalities that easily draw people in. Passionate about their beliefs, Scorpio women love a spirited debate over dinner and drinks, but when it comes to work, they prefer to go it alone. Ruled by masculine Mars, Scorpio women rarely have time for regrets, preferring to live in the present and look toward the future.

Like Taurus, Scorpio women like to explore their sensual side. Whereas Taurus is all about touch, luxuriating in silky robes and cozy cashmere, intense Scorpio women are ready to make a statement in attention-grabbing “unmentionables.” Gift her this Klier Lace Teddy Romper, for an after-hours look that’s sexy, stylish, and comfy enough to sleep in.
From lingerie to the perfect vacation, the Scorpio woman has an ultra-adventurous spirit, and is more likely to be found exploring a hip solo travel destination than embarking on a pre-planned cruise. Perfect for Scorpio’s exploring nature, this Travelon Heritage Anti-Theft Crossbody Bag is a must-have. Featuring an RFID-blocking pocket and slash-resistant suede fabric, this little crossbody will keep Scorpio’s personal items completely safe on any excursion.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Klier-Lingerie-Halter-Babydoll-Bodysuit/dp/B07F3V7QHS/”]Klier Lace V Neck Teddy, from $11.99 on Amazon[/link-button]
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XBKSSYF”]Travelon Anti-Theft Heritage Crossbody Bag, $33.27 on Amazon[/link-button]
[sul title=”Sagittarius” subheader=”November 22 to December 21″]
Like Scorpio, women born under the Sagittarius zodiac sign are energetic explorers who love to travel. Sagittarius women are generous to a fault, love to have fun with a wicked sense of humor, and value the freedom to roam more than anything else. The Midori Traveler’s Notebook is the perfect gift for open-minded Sagittarius, who’s always up for a new adventure. This genuine leather-bound journal is passport-size, making it great for tucking into a backpack for a spur-of-the-moment getaway.

Always up for a laugh, your Sagittarius gal pal will also love Joking Hazard, a hilarious comic-building game in which players compete to create the most absurd comics (that are anything but kid-friendly).

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Midori-Travelers-Notebook-Starter-Passport/dp/B01BVJPP0I”]Midori Traveler’s Notebook, Starter Kit in Camel, $36 on Amazon[/link-button]
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Joking-Hazard-JHUS0000-Game/dp/B01IA9R2TY”]Joking Hazard Game, $25 on Amazon[/link-button]
[sul title=”Capricorn” subheader=”December 22 to January 19″]
Sagittarius may always be up for a laugh, but women born under Capricorn are serious, ambitious, and love a little friendly competition. Capricorns are laser-focused on being successful; they make great leaders at work and are often seen shutting down the office, unwilling to leave anything incomplete. For successful Capricorn, this Boss Babe Name Plate Desk Sign is the gift that says it all.

While their ambitious nature may make them seem aloof at first, Capricorns love much-needed quality time with friends and family and commit to those relationships with a work ethic that rivals their professional drive. Give her a Stash Tea Chest stocked with eight different types of tea, along with the real gift: a cozy friend date sipping tea and catching up with one another.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Boss-Babe-Nameplate-Desk-Sign/dp/B0787TPY9D”]All Quality Boss Babe Name Plate Desk Sign, $13.99 on Amazon[/link-button]
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Stash-Tea-Variety-Individual-Teapots/dp/B003D4GR1G”]Stash Tea 8 Flavor Variety Gift Set, $51.94 on Amazon[/link-button]
[sul title=”Aquarius” subheader=”January 20 to February 18″]
The best is always second-to-last, isn’t that how the saying goes? JK, guys, JK. Of course, I’m partial to Aquarius, in part because, like other women born under this sign, I relish building and maintaining my social networks and value open communication. Chances are you’ve seen fierce Aquarius standing up for what they believe in at rallies and protests because she’s adamant that everyone deserves to be treated fairly (and she’s absolutely right!). Rebellious by nature, Aquarius will love this t-shirt featuring the ultimate rebel, Princess Leia.

While Aquarius is all about forming connections and standing up for her beliefs, she sometimes needs downtime alone to recharge. Help Aquarius create a feng shui bedroom oasis for when she needs a minute to herself by gifting her this soothing blue and white Macrame Wall Hanging from BlueMake.

Not only are light blues are Aquarius’ lucky color; according to feng shui principles, this color also a healing, soothing energy—perfect for when Aquarius needs quiet and calm.
[link-button href=”http://shopstyle.it/l/Sbv6″]A Woman’s Place Is In The Resistance T-Shirt, from $17 on Etsy[/link-button]
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Tapestry-Decoration-Furnishing-Accessories-Blue-%EF%BC%B7hite/dp/B075WZHB28/”]Bluemake Macrame Wall Hanging, Blue and White, $29.99 on Amazon[/link-button]
[sul title=”Pisces” subheader=”February 19 to Marcy 20″]
Gemini isn’t the only zodiac sign that represents duality. Pisces is symbolized by two fish because she tends to drift between being both a dreamer with a wild imagination and living in the real world. Pisces often sees the world through extremely rose colored glasses and only wants to see only the best in people. Tender Pisces will appreciate I’m Fine: A Real Feelings Journal. Designed to help navigate emotions and feelings in a healthy way, the journal features exercises, positive affirmations, and blank pages for free expression.

Ruled by Neptune and symbolized by fish, Pisces is a water sign. Like the ocean’s watery depths, Pisces’ emotions run extremely deep. She can be extremely sensitive, getting her feelings hurt easily, but at the same time is intuitive and empathetic toward the emotions of others.
Most at home near the water, Pisces will love this set of ocean-inspired Tree-Free Watercolor Waves Notecards, perfect for keeping in touch with friends near and far.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Im-Fine-Real-Feelings-Journal/dp/1493522027″]I’m Fine: A Real Feelings Journal, $12.99 on Amazon[/link-button]
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Tree-Free-Greetings-Stationary-Watercolor-FS66479/dp/B00JZWLL2A”]Tree-Free Greetings Eco Notes Stationery, $10.99 on Amazon[/link-button]

Tags Commerce, social