While anger about family separations raged on, Melania Trump hosted Queen Letizia of Spain for tea at the White House on Tuesday. "Queen Letizia & I enjoyed tea & time together focusing on the ways we can positively impact children," said a tweet her office posted later in the evening. The visit was part of King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia's five-day trip to the U.S.
Unfortunately, we never found out what, specifically, the two women discussed when it comes to positively impacting children. (We reached out to the White House and haven't yet heard back.) The rest of the country was talking about the Trump administration's cruel and inhumane policy of tearing children away from their parents and throwing babies in jail. Hopefully the subject came up at least once.
A great visit with the King & Queen of Spain at the @WhiteHouse today. Queen Letizia & I enjoyed tea & time together focusing on the ways we can positively impact children. pic.twitter.com/IiaMQOil3K
In contrast to the U.S., Spain recently welcomed 600 migrants from Africa who were turned away by Italy and Malta, among them 123 unaccompanied minors and seven pregnant women. After a harrowing 800-mile journey, all of them are entitled to request asylum given the special circumstances of the case. "It was a ship adrift, unable to dock anywhere, with people at the end of their tether, almost out of fuel and food, with children and pregnant women on board," said a spokesperson at Spain's Interior Ministry.
"Mrs. Trump hates to see children separated from their families and hopes both sides of the aisle can finally come together to achieve successful immigration reform," the statement reads. "She believes we need to be a country that follows all laws, but also a country that governs with heart."
Instead of making a strong statement, she waffled. Now, the GOP is waffling on how to fix the situation it created. And when you try to stay out of the issue and don't take a stance, you end up alone. Which is why this photo, taken during the Spanish royals' visit, is so emblematic of Melania.
Come June, my personal style tends to waver between the stereotype of a dad on holiday and a the inside of a suitcase packed for a weekend in the Hamptons. So, if you haven't already guessed, I'm majorly championing the visor this summer (Instagram proof here). Think: Equal parts functional, equal parts cool — in my book, at least. In tandem with investing in Hawaiian shirts and fanny packs, my newfound objective is to collect as many woven visors as I can get my hands on.
And, the current options on the market are a major of a step up from their '80s-centric predecessors. Instead of the cloth-covered, Maria-Sharapova-on-the-court styles, visors have pivoted toward elevated materials and oversized shapes, which means they're influencer- approved for lounging poolside. They exhibit a, "Yeah, I try, but I'm still laid-back" look, all while giving you the bonus benefit of shielding your face from the sun's harsh rays. I already have straw bags and straw shoes in my summer arsenal, so it's time to round it out with a straw visor — or three. Shop ahead to get a leg up on this soon-to-be summer hit.
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Welcome toMoney Diaries, where we're tackling what might be the last taboo facing modern working women: money. We're asking millennials how they spend their hard-earned money during a seven-day period — and we're tracking every last dollar.
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Today, as part ofYour Spending In Your State:an assistant director working in college athletics who makes $38,000 per year and spends some of her money this week on peep-toe booties.
Occupation: Assistant Director Industry: College Athletics Age: 25 Location: Norman, OK Salary: $38,000 Paycheck Amount (2x/month): $1,133.42 (I'm currently also earning overtime, so my paycheck varies by $100-$400.)
Monthly Expenses Rent: $685 for a one-bedroom on a golf course Monthly Loan Payments: $459.86 (I have $40,000 in loans to pay off from undergrad. I went to school out of state and did not have a huge college fund.) Health, Dental & Vision Insurance: $303.75 Internet: $40 Sling TV: $29.99 Spotify: $9.99 Utilities: ~$100 (It varies, depending on my work travel schedule.) Car Insurance: $115 Car Payment: $366.82 (I didn't want to have a car payment right now, but my car broke down on me and was basically totaled, so I didn't really have a choice.) Ashley Furniture: $108.50 Netflix: $0 (Thanks, Mom and Dad!)
Day One
7 a.m. — I'm up and exhausted. It's been a draining week, but I only have to work half a day today! I'm heading home to Dallas this weekend and cannot wait. I was supposed to go home last night but have some things I need to wrap up this morning before I take the weekend off.
11:45 a.m. — TGIF! I head home from the office to finish packing and then call my mom to let her know I'll be on the road soon. I just got a new car last month and I don't know how good its long trip mileage is, so even though I have half a tank I fill up anyway just to be safe. $17.63
3:30 p.m. — People are idiots on the road and I hate traffic. I can usually get to Dallas in about two and a half hours, but it takes me over three today. I walk in the door feeling cranky, but happy to be home.
6 p.m. — After sitting in the car for three hours, I really want to go out and walk around. My mom and I head to our local outlet mall to browse. I try on jeans at Levi's, but get frustrated by the sizing (I'm three different sizes in three different styles) and opt to come back another day. I find a puffer jacket at Columbia that's on sale for $65, which will be perfect for not only next winter, but my upcoming work trip to Minneapolis, so I purchase it. I'm impressed that we're only leaving with one bag! $69.19
8:45 p.m. — My godmother stops by to drop off her dog at our house. My parents are dog sitting while she goes to visit my cousin out of town. We chat for a bit and say our goodbyes as the dogs run around the house.
10 p.m. — In bed and ready to pass out after a long day! I peruse Twitter for a bit before finally succumbing to sleep.
Daily Total: $86.82
Day Two
8:30 a.m. — I've decided my body can no longer sleep in, as I am awake at 8:30 on a Saturday. At least I'm waking up at home and Dad is making a breakfast run! All I want is a breakfast taco, so he goes and gets those for my mom and me.
11 a.m. — In November, an IKEA opened literally behind our neighborhood. I wish I was exaggerating, but you can see it if you stand on our roof. I really want this canvas photo I saw there a few months ago, so we load up and head around the corner to shop.
12:35 p.m. — Dad heads to his second job at Home Depot as Mom and I finish walking through the store. I get the photo I want ($49.99), and my mom has a $15 gift card to make it cheaper! I also grab a cinnamon roll ($1) on the way out because, well, why not. IKEA is literally amazing, and I'm so glad there's one close to home. $35.99
2:30 p.m. — I'm tired of sitting around, so Mom and I head to an outdoor shopping mall for a bit. I lost my OU (Oklahoma University) charm on a recent work trip (the chain broke and the charm disappeared into the abyss that is Des Moines, Iowa), so I stop into James Avery to get a new one. Unfortunately, they no longer sell it due to licensing issues, and I resign to the fact that I'll never have one again. I've had it since I graduated high school, and had been wearing it every day. I'm bummed and in desperate need of retail therapy.
4 p.m. — I wander into Francesca's and find a pair of dark grey over-the-knee boots on sale for $15! The only size left is a size 10, and I take it as a sign that I need them ($16.18). I also find a pair of peep-toe booties ($55.30) and after downloading a coupon, decide they're worth the splurge for a good summer work shoe. We hit up a few other stores and I buy a Texas Rangers shirt ($35) for baseball season and a few car decals ($24.34). Thankfully, I've been getting overtime at work and have money put aside for “fun purchases,” so this doesn't hurt my wallet too much. $130.82
5:30 p.m. — We're home with pizza that we picked up from a local restaurant. We've been going to this place since I was four years old and eat there every Friday night. I always have to go when I'm home because they make the best NY-style pizza. We eat dinner with Dad before he heads back to work until 10.
9:30 p.m. — Mom and I watch the school I work for play softball on ESPN and celebrate a victory! I jump in the shower and then watch Netflix in bed for a bit before falling asleep.
Daily Total: $166.81
Day Three
7 a.m. — I'm up early to go to 9 a.m. mass with my family. I'm not very chatty at this hour and am thankful that the priest doing today's mass is the quick one. Even with communion taking 12 minutes, we're out of there before 10 a.m.
10 a.m. — Free donuts! The church my parents go to has free donuts on the first Sunday of every month. My stomach has been growling since mass started, so I scarf down a donut, losing some sprinkles along the way.
11 a.m. — Head over to see my grandma at the retirement community she lives in. We eat and hang out for a bit before heading home.
1:30 p.m. — It's a gross day in Texas, and it's going to be even worse when I get back to Oklahoma. Dad fills up my gas tank for me and I hit the road.
4:30 p.m. — I head to Sprouts and I pick up chicken, apples, strawberries, watermelon, granola, yogurt, frozen dinners, veggie chips, and tzatziki. $33.38
5:15 p.m. — I'm traveling for work this weekend and realize I need to replenish my travel-size toiletries. I have to pick up a prescription as well, so I head to Walgreens and get everything there. It's pricier than Target or Walmart, but it's cold outside and I don't want to get out of the car again. $19.85
6 p.m. — I don't feel like cooking anything for dinner, so I cave and get Taco Bell. I try not to eat fast food too much, but some days just call for it! $4
9 p.m. — Jesus Christ Superstar is AMAZING. I've always loved the musical, and was a bit skeptical of NBC's performance of it, but they did a great job! The guy playing Judas is INCREDIBLE; the set work and lighting is insane. As a former theater kid, I'm very impressed. Some things (namely, ALL the commercials) could have been better, but overall it was fantastic.
Daily Total: $57.23
Day Four
7 a.m. — I hate Mondays. Especially Mondays during meet weeks. The team I work for is traveling to Minneapolis this weekend and there is so much to get done in the few days before we leave. I make a granola, yogurt, and strawberry “parfait” for breakfast and grab a frozen meal for lunch before heading out the door just after 8.
12 p.m. — Heat up my lunch and continue to crank things out. I'm down to just one item on my to-do list and it's only lunchtime, so I'm feeling pretty good about today! I send a few emails and update my planner while I finish eating.
3 p.m. — Never. Say. A. Monday. Is. Easy. Just when I thought my day would be fine, I get slammed with multiple projects that are all time-sensitive. Everything has to be finished by Thursday at noon or we won't have everything squared away in time for our trip. I rush through things and hope that printing services can get what we need done in a short amount of time.
5:15 p.m. — Finally out the door and headed home! I'm exhausted after my whirlwind afternoon and looking forward to spending my evening on the couch with reality TV. I call my mom on my way home and sort through a ton of mail before making dinner.
7:30 p.m. — I have successfully been a couch bum since getting home. I grab Thin Mints from my stash in the freezer and curl back up on the couch to watch Vanderpump Rules.
9:30 p.m. — Is 9:30 too early to go to bed? Asking for a friend. I shower, prep my lunch for tomorrow, and climb into bed to watch the season finale of Summer House before passing out.
Daily Total: $0
Day Five
7 a.m. — I wake up at 7, but since I showered last night, I sleep in a little longer. It's 70 degrees outside right now but dropping to 50 by midday, so getting dressed proves challenging. I end up in a skirt and long sleeve top to hopefully combat the weird weather.
12:15 p.m. — I've been so productive, but it still seems like nothing is getting done. I go to Starbucks with a coworker and get a tea. I'm getting over a case of strep, so the tea helps and is a warm treat on what's turning out to be a cold and VERY windy day. $2.45
3 p.m. — The head of our office leaves at lunch to go home and watch his daughter for the afternoon due to the Oklahoma teacher walkout going on. Two of my coworkers are at practice, and the others took an early afternoon, so it's literally just me holding down the fort. I don't mind it, though. I get a lot of work done and even do freelancing stuff for my mom when I need a mind break.
5 p.m. — I'm speaking at a campus group tonight (Association of Women in Sports Media) and I'm actually really excited. The meeting isn't until 6, and it's about an hour long so I text our volleyball director of operations to see if she wants to grab dinner beforehand. We walk over to Campus Corner and grab a couple slices of pizza. $7.74
7:10 p.m. — Meeting is done! I had a great time talking to the girls, and I'm already looking forward to more interactions with other groups at the college. I'm an alum of the journalism school, so giving back to the place that taught me so much feels great. I call my mom on the drive home, complaining about how incredibly windy it's been all day.
10 p.m. — I get home and spend most of my night watching tattoo shows ( Ink Master is my favorite). I don't have any tattoos, but I love seeing how amazing (and terrible!) the designs turn out. While watching, I browse through a couple that sales some of my favorite stores are having, but after my spending binge this weekend, I decide I need to take a break! I head to bed around 10:45 and am out within minutes.
Daily Total: $10.19
Day Six
7:30 a.m. — I let myself sleep in a whole 30 minutes today because yesterday wore me out for some reason. I cut up strawberries and throw them into a container of yogurt with granola for breakfast. I head to work a little later than normal, but still make it in before 8:30.
10:30 a.m. — A website I love is having a “42” sale today in honor of Jackie Robinson. I've had my eye on a few shirts and a poster print, so I take a look and see if anything I want is on sale. If I spend $50, I get a free "42" snapback. I put stuff in my cart but decide to hold off and see if I still want the items later today.
11:35 a.m. — Last night's meeting has me feeling generous this morning, so I decide to join the alumni association through the journalism college. It's $50, but I can split the payments, so I opt to do it in two separate payments with the second not due until October. $25
12:15 p.m. — On Wednesdays we wear pink – and go to the athletic dorm for lunch. Faculty can eat there for just $5, which is a deal, since it's all-you-can-eat! We all get our money's worth and grab cookies on our way out. $5
1:35 p.m. — It always takes me a while to get back in the work groove after lunch. I don't know what it is, but I am always so unproductive in the hour right after getting back. I browse Ticketmaster for concert tickets to country shows this summer and fall, but literally every show close to me is on a day I have a work event or will be out of town. It's a bummer that I won't get to see Dierks Bentley again, but at least I'm saving money?
4:50 p.m. — The last 10 minutes of the work day are the worst. I leave the office right at 5 most every day. I'm an hourly employee, so as long as I have my eight hours for the day, I'm outta here! I text a work friend about my desire for Chick-Fil-A and the lack of one near my apartment.
6 p.m. — The Chick-fil-A cravings are too strong, and I decide to just go for it. I get chicken strips, fries, and a chocolate shake and head back home. $8.25
9 p.m. — Laundry and packing have taken up most of the night, but my friend stops by to bring me a cupcake! She has a work bake-off tomorrow and needs a taste-tester, and I happily oblige. She made the cupcakes and frosting from scratch, and they taste amazing. We haven't seen each other in a while, so we catch up for a bit.
10:45 p.m. — Packing is done and I think I'm all set for the trip. I always feel like I'm forgetting something but I don't know what it could be. I pull up Netflix on my iPad and watch a few episodes of Friends before falling asleep.
Daily Total: $38.25
Day Seven
7 a.m. — I washed my hair last night before bed, and I currently look like a curly-haired lion, so I get to work straightening it. I've been doing this for close to 12 years now, so I can get my hair straight in just about 30 minutes despite having extremely thick hair.
9:15 a.m. — I finish packing and head out. I didn't eat breakfast, so I stop at McDonald's for a sausage biscuit and smoothie. $4.23
11:45 a.m. — I wrap up everything I need to do for the morning and head home for a couple hours before our flight. I make myself scrambled eggs.
3 p.m. — On the plane and ready to go! We've got a big competition this weekend, and luckily were able to get a charter flight out instead of flying commercial. Flying commercial is fine most of the time, but we would have had to be on two different flights and had layovers to deal with, so this straight shot is so much better. I use the time to get ahead on work for next week and enjoy having a row to myself.
5:35 p.m. — We land and head straight to dinner. On the way, we see that the Frozen Four is in town and the semifinals are tonight. Two other staff members and I decide to go, since Michigan and Notre Dame are playing. Tickets are only $35, so I purchase them on Stubhub and the others immediately Venmo me for theirs. $35
11:30 p.m. — LET'S GO IRISH!!!! An incredible game ends with Notre Dame picking up a 4-3 win with a goal in the last six seconds. We're all a little buzzed after drinking throughout the game. We've basically had one beer per period and two in the third because of last call. I didn't really want to spend $40 on alcohol, but it's not everyday you get to go to a Frozen Four, so it's worth it. $40
12:45 a.m. — We're not ready for the night to end, so we head out to an Irish pub down the street from the hotel. We buy a couple more rounds and take shots (bad, bad idea) and talk with a couple Notre Dame staffers. I pay for my drinks and the round of shots (my coworkers were Michigan fans, so I buy the drink as a peace offering for putting up with my bragging all night) and have now spent more money on alcohol than on tickets. Oh well. $38
1:30 a.m. — We head back to the hotel in Minneapolis and pretty much pass out immediately. We all have to work tomorrow, but tonight was definitely worth the hangover/exhaustion we'll feel tomorrow. (Side note: Tomorrow morning I will wake up to find that my wallet has been stolen/lost. I guess that's the downside of getting a little too lit!)
Daily Total: $117.23
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Contrary to what your favorite Instagram accounts may have you believe, you don't need studio lighting, zoom lenses, tripods, and reflector discs to take a really good picture. You certainly don't need studio space or a team of assistants. All you need is your phone. Your phone is the ultimate way to share your life, allowing you to take any mundane or unexpected activity and turn it into art — or at the very least, a lasting memory. All you have to do is point, snap, edit, and upload.
In partnership with Adobe Lightroom CC, we tapped eight artists to do just that. Armed with only a camera and the Lightroom app, they divulged how they make art from the most unexpected sources of inspiration: from the seeds on a sandwich bun to the contrasting geometry between buildings and plants. Ahead, each artist takes us behind the scenes of their photography, from beginning to end, and every editing step in between. (Of course, not all of us are experts in this area, so make sure you brush up on the basics before getting started with your own mobile editing.)
Jin Lee and Dana DeCoursey, an NYC-based photography duo, say timelessness and nostalgia are their greatest sources of inspiration, and it's apparent from just one glance at their portfolio. Their portraiture evokes the '70s and '80s by way of bold makeup, bright colors, and captivating poses. At times, their work feels like it's plucked straight from an old Hollywood film — and it's intentional. "Cinema definitely plays a huge role in our influences," say Lee and DeCoursey. "If either of us is inspired by a particularly cool character or [the] plot of a film, we’ll always try to incorporate that into a shoot." While the duo loosely based the photo above off the dynamics of their own partnership, they were also unexpectedly inspired by a popular 1970s Hollywood photo series. With a little tweaking and white balancing, the result is a portrait that proves retro style is anything but old-fashioned.
To edit a photo like this, Lee and DeCoursey suggest using color manipulation. First, they used Lightroom's curve tool to adjust the brightness and contrast and make the image pop. Then, they used the color tool to adjust the overall tone and control the white balance. Finally, they used color mix to isolate the reds, amp up the hue, and shift the undertones. Nervous to jump into color and light editing? Watch this tutorial first.
To Kelsey McClellan and Michelle Maguire, a photographer and makeup artist duo that go by Terrence Caviar, humor is a natural part of photography. "Our images are always a product of what inspires us. We usually have a great time making them, and I think that lightheartedness shows in our images together," says McClellan. Here, the combination of humor and style doesn’t go unnoticed. It’s a flawless juxtaposition of a seeded sandwich bun and cherry-blossom seeds. But after the editing process, the photo stimulates the senses even more with bright lighting and contrasting shadows — leaving anybody hungry for a bite.
To get a similar look, McClellan advises using Lightroom's preset auto adjustments. She made slight adjustments using the auto tool for lighting. "[These settings] are very good for an auto option, which I usually avoid in other apps," she says. Then, she boosted the saturation and warmed up the temperature. To finish, she increased the clarity with the effects tool and the sharpness with the details tool. (Get more comfortable with all the effects tools here.)
Photographing the beauty of the human body is what Leeor Wild does best. "I love how bodies move, and I love exploring bizarre positions, twisting bodies as far as people will let me," the New York- and Toronto-based photographer says. Her work includes intimate portraiture that often contrasts bodies and space. For this photo, Wild found herself in the middle of New Mexico with a thousand stick-on gems and a few of her closest friends (who jumped at the idea of hand modeling). The gems alone speak to the depth and dimension of the human body, but the magic of the photo really comes from the editing process, where Wild split tones and transformed the hands into a sculptural element.
For a comparable effect, Wild suggests editing your photo's lighting, color mix, and split tones. She first reduced the exposure, contrast, and highlights using Lightroom's lighting tool. Then, she decreased the saturation and luminance of the orange, aqua, and blue hues. As a final — and important — step, Wild used the split tones in the effects tool to add warmth to the highlights.
Whereas some artists look to people for inspiration, visual artist Hayley Eichenbaum looks to the environment surrounding her. "Driving long distances alone through the American Southwest ignites all of my senses," she says. "I feel [like] I see the world more objectively when driving." A lot of Eichenbaum’s work features exterior architecture in a way that’s illustrative and geometric, and that’s exactly what she hoped for with this photograph. Inspired by its unexpected color, texture, and geometry, Eichenbaum wanted the photo to read like an architectural mood board. It's beautiful on its own, but cropped in and adjusted for color, it becomes a layered story of Eichenbaum’s road trips.
To edit your own exterior photography, use a cropping technique similar to Eichenbaum’s. She first cropped the image using the 5x4 ratio in Lightroom. Then, she used the app's auto tool on the entire photo, followed by the selective tool to make minor color edits on the cactus plant. Finally, she adjusted the color mix to amp up the green, fuchsia, and purple hues of the entire photo. She also brought down the hue on the light blue and the luminance on the red and yellow. (Check this out for secrets to a good crop.)
Iggy Smalls describes her style as "spontaneous but focused." The Norwegian photographer (who currently calls Spain home) has a way of expertly narrowing in on surprising combinations of texture and color. "Contemporary art is what inspires me to think about how many different ways a project can be approached, consider how images can be used, and creatively open my mind," she says. That’s just how this photo functions: It opens the viewer's mind to the combination of oversaturated hues and unexpected texture. According to Smalls, the photo was inspired by her love for food and cooking and her appreciation for the visual art of food. First captured on film, Smalls brought the photo into the digital realm and added a contemporary flare with the app.
To get this look, focus on making the color pop. Since this was originally a film photo, Smalls first used Lightroom to adjust the framing, straightening and cropping it. Then, she went into the color tool and turned up the vibrancy. To finish, she used the color mix tool to turn down the yellow hues.
Designer turned photographer Ana Linares is proof that photography can open up a different way of seeing the world. After years of owning her own design business, Linares craved a stronger connection with people. So she shifted her attention to travel photography and never looked back. "I love visiting the local markets from the cities I visit," she says of her travels. "That’s where you really see the true essence of a place: its colors, the locals, and the energy of the locale you're about to discover." Here, the energy of the never-ending steps is undeniable, but Linares’ edits turn up the contrast and color to make the architecture even more notable.
For a similar editing style, Linares suggests warming the tones and adding slight contrast. First, she brought up the temperature and vibrancy using Lightroom's color tool. Then, she used the lighting tool to increase the contrast and deepen the shadows.
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We hate to burst anyone's bubble, but facts are facts, and you won't be able to watch Game of Thrones star Kit Harington brood, fight battles, and win hearts as Jon Snow forever. By the end of 2019, Snow and all your other favorite citizens of Westeros will have long left your TV screen (that is, until those planned spin-offs come to fruition).
Unfortunately for Harington, that means having to revamp his entire look, because — if you hadn't noticed already — he's a dead ringer for his character both on-screen and off... even when he's not swathed in several layers of animal fur and looking downcast.
The actor recently told Entertainment Weekly that he's excited to enjoy obscurity post- GoT, but he also knows there's no way to do that without losing his signature mop of curls and facial hair. (Emilia Clarke, on the other hand, clearly didn't give her decision to go platinum the same forethought.) “I’d like to... make myself less recognizable as the character, and go do and some other things with a completely new look and tone,” he said.
So, what are we talking here — a trim or a full buzz? Harington explains that he's prepared to go "short-short," whatever that means. "The beard will be harder to get rid of — I quite like the beard," he told the publication. "I like having the long hair and beard both, but it will be like a ritualistic thing. I can’t go into my next role looking the same. This role was brilliant, but I’ll need to get rid of Jon Snow."
With the last season of the series fast approaching, Snow Harington is already gearing up to shed his iconic role for good before we've even had a chance to say goodbye. Luckily, there are plenty of bobbleheads out there in the world to carry on his hairy memory — whether he ends up seated on the Iron Throne or not.
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Instagram is making a major video play: Today, the Facebook-owned app announced it is launching IGTV, a new video network on your phone. In other words, this is Instagram's take on YouTube.
There will be two ways to access IGTV: You can update your app today to start watching through Instagram, or you can watch via a separate, standalone app that will roll out in the coming weeks. In the Instagram app, you'll see a colorful new TV logo in the upper right-hand corner to the left of the Direct icon.
When you open IGTV, video will immediately begin playing. You'll see content from users and brands you're already following (a handful, including LaurDIY and King Bach, have already uploaded videos), as well as others Instagram's algorithm thinks you might like based on your activity on the app. There will be four tabs you can swipe through: "For You", "Following", "Popular", and "Continue Watching".
On IGTV each creator has a channel, similar to YouTube. And for users who have a channel there, you'll be able to access it from their Instagram profile, too.
The difference between the 60-second videos on your feed and those on IGTV is the length. IGTV will support full-screen, vertically-oriented videos up to an hour long. ( The Wall Street Journal first reported on rumors about the news earlier this month.)
Instagram 's business blog lays out its reasons for the major investment in video: "People are watching less TV and more digital video. By 2021, mobile video will account for 78% of total mobile data traffic. And we've learned that younger audiences are spending more time with amateur content creators and less time with professionals."
The race for streaming supremacy is certainly heating up. The desire to attract existing creators and help new ones find their voice is one that has been steadily increasing in Silicon Valley. Over the past 12 months, Snapchat, YouTube, and Facebook have each launched new suites of tools meant to woo creators. It was only inevitable that Instagram would want to get in on the content push.
Today's news leaves us with many lingering questions, though. Will creators post new material to YouTube and IGTV? Or treat them as separate platforms with unique audiences? And what about Instagram Stories? Will it fall by the wayside as more people spend time on IGTV? There's also a more serious issue: How will Instagram handle the inevitable need for increased moderation?
These are all questions the app will have to answer. For now, we're updating and watching the Instagram tube.
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On Wednesday, President Trump issued an executive order to somewhat amend his own administration's zero-tolerance immigration policy, which has led to families being forcibly separated at the U.S.-Mexico border. Now, parents and children will stop being separated and instead be held together in detention facilities indefinitely.
Outrage over the administration's policy escalated in recent days. But in the midst of the devastating stories, images, and audio showcasing the effect of this inhumane policy, confusion and misinformation has spread among the public. This is in part because members of the administration — including President Trump, White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders, and Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen — have continued to lie and blame others for their own policy.
About 700 children were separated from their families between October 2017 and April 2018, prior to the policy being enacted. Since in early May, at least 2,300 kids were taken away from their parents. Wednesday's executive order doesn't address what will happen with these parents and children who were separated in the last months.
“Make no mistake—this executive order is a betrayal of families fleeing violence and persecution. Mothers, fathers, and children must not be held behind bars for prolonged periods for seeking safety. Not only does imprisoning children go against our country’s shared values of dignity and equality, but it is also unlawful and threatens to permanently stain the U.S. human rights record," Denise Bell, refugee and migrant rights researcher at Amnesty International USA, said in statement provided to Refinery29. "People who are running for their lives have the right to seek protection. The United States cannot continue to treat vulnerable families fleeing horrific violence and persecution like criminals."
Here’s what you need to know.
What’s the zero-tolerance policy?
In early May, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced that the U.S. would start criminally prosecuting all adults caught crossing into the U.S. illegally. In the past, these migrants were held at an immigration detention center and then sent before an immigration judge, who would determine whether they were in the U.S. without authorization and should be deported.
But criminally prosecuting migrants apprehended at the border means they’re now held at a federal jails for a few weeks before being sent to federal judge, who determines whether they’ll get prison time. Being sent to federal jail means children inevitably get separated from their parents, since adults can’t keep the kids with them.
After crossing the border, families are brought together to a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) detention facility. Here’s where they get split up. It’s been widely reported that in some cases, officials took the children under the pretense that they would be getting a bath. Parents have said they were not given any information about where their children would be placed.
By law, authorities can only hold children at CBP facilities for three days since they’re not made for long-term holding. (There’s been reports of child abuse at these facilities for years, though CBP denies the claims.)
Within those 72 hours, kids are supposed to be transferred from immigration detention to the custody of the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR), an arm of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). There are about 100 shelter facilities in 17 states where migrant children are held. These facilities are all operated by non-profit groups, which are contracted by ORR. According to the agency, children remain at these shelters for around 51 days on average. However, it’s been reported that many children have been detained for much longer than that.
At the moment, there’s about 10,000 migrant children in these facilities. According to ORR, most of the kids are unaccompanied minors, which means they crossed the border alone. But because of the influx of children separated from their families now being detained in these facilities, the Trump administration is planning to start erecting temporary shelters.
The first temporary facility — also known as a “tent city” — was set up in Tornillo, TX. The government wants it to hold around 4,000 minors. The cost of holding these children in tent cities is about $775 per person per night, much more expensive than holding them with their parents or in more permanent accommodations. (For the rest ORR shelters, the cost is somewhere between $250 and $300 per person per night, depending on the location.)
Once the children are in ORR custody, the plan is to reunite them with family members, foster parents, or sponsors in the U.S. Typically, parents would be the preferred option — but that’s not the case for the separated families since the parents remain detained by the U.S.
Starting to get some handout photos from our tour with @HHSGov.
Here’s the Trump mural I mentioned to @chrislhayes inside the shelter for incarcerated child migrants.
Is the Trump administration following a law passed by Democrats, like it says?
The zero-tolerance policy is entirely President Trump’s own making. His administration is choosing to criminally prosecute migrants and was choosing to split families. There’s no law in the books mandating children and parents be separated at the border, no matter how many times President Trump repeated that lie.
In fact, during Trump’s first 15 months in office, his administration released nearly 100,000 unauthorized immigrants who crossed the border illegally. That group included more than 61,000 family members.
What the Obama administration did, however, was detain families together at the height of the 2014 Central American migrants crisis. He also detained unaccompanied children (that’s where the 2014 pictures of tent cities and kids in cages come from.) These children followed the same process as those that are being separated from their families do today: Arrive at a CBP facility, be transferred to the ORR’s care, and be released to a sponsor.
President Obama tried to hold families in detention indefinitely, in hopes of deterring new migrants, which caused public outrage at the time. The policy was blocked by the courts because it violated the Flores settlement, a 1997 consent decree banning the federal government from keeping children in immigration detention for more than 20 days, even if they’re with their families.
Trump’s executive order will modify the Flores agreement in order to hold families in immigration detention for an indefinite period of time without releasing them. His EO will likely be challenged in court.
What happens after the families are separated? Are they being reunited?
Once parents are deported without their kids, it’s more difficult to reunite them. Former head of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement John Sandweg has said that many of these families might be permanently separated as a consequence.
Some parents who remain in the U.S. have also struggled to get their children back, too. A Guatemalan mother is currently suing the Trump administration, alleging immigration officials won’t tell her the whereabouts of her seven-year-old son or help them reunite.
Why have we only seen boys in detention centers? Where are the girls and toddlers?
Officials have not been forthcoming about where the migrant girls are being held. What we recently learned is that the Trump administration set up three detention centers in Texas for children under the age of five, called “tender age” shelters.
According to the AP, physicians and lawyers who visited the shelters say that while the facilities’ conditions are fine, the young children have been acting out because of the trauma of being separated from their families. (Several national medical organizations have come out against the family separation policy because of the long-lasting effects it will have on children.)
What about the 1,500 missing kids from a few weeks ago? Is that related?
No. The missing migrant children story and Trump’s family separation policy are two different matters.
The “missing” children are part of a group of nearly 7,000 kids who HHS recently reported it cannot locate were unaccompanied minors who arrived in the U.S. during FY2017 and were placed with sponsors, in many cases their own family members. The 1,475 children are not “lost” — the HHS report said that they were just unable to locate them after a phone call to their sponsors’ households.
What the story did raise concerns about is that HHS might already have enough strain trying to help the unaccompanied minors in its system and now they also have to deal with the influx of children being separated from their parents.
What is Congress doing about the family separation policy?
No. Families won't be separated, but instead will be held in immigration detention centers indefinitely. If this is something you're against, volunteer with and donate to organizations on the ground, go to a protest, and call your elected representatives.
If, like me, you find yourself placing late-night orders for overpriced, frilly blouses thanks to Instagram, you, too have fallen victim to a modern-day phenomenon. It seems like almost every day I stumble upon another top I absolutely "need" due to Instagram and its algorithm that seems to have tapped into my weakness for a good puffy sleeve or vintage-inspired crop-top. We're calling the big boom of millennial-leaning aesthetic tops the era of the "Instagram blouse." They're the pretty, not all-that-practical, indie-brand-made blouses that are just too photogenic (and made in limited quantities to boot) to resist placing an order for one immediately. You've seen them popularized by cool-girl influencers who could look good in a literal paper bag (please don't challenge us on that though, Vetements). And they're really hurting my bank account.
Even a few of the Instagram-based vintage shops I've followed for months are now creating their own must-have statement blouses. And once they start advertising that they're made by a cute mother-daughter duo, I'm a goner. Naturally it's resulted in a closet filled with so many voluminous, airy cotton tops that I can hardly get myself to wear anything else. The sole comfort, though, comes from knowing I'm not alone. Many of these hard-to-resist buys are becoming the most popular Instagram-worthy trend of the summer, selling out with each and every restock.
If you haven't already fallen into the world of Instagram blouse shops yourself, click ahead. Warning: I'm not liable if you get sucked in and end up with 10 of them in your own closet.
If you have any idea how I'm supposed to resist this perfectly pearly pink, let me know.
Considering this can also be worn multiple ways, and is made in France, it's a done deal.
So sheer. Much need.
Inconvenient for eating or washing your hands, convenient for pretty outfit photos.
Never met a wrap-top I didn't like.
Taking cropped to new heights.
Give me all the ruffles, please.
Tight bodice, huge sleeves: My kind of blouse.
A back detail will never let you down.
This one is shiny in the best way, sans sequins or sparkles.
My summer uniform, basically.
Dôen always does boho right.
Here for the plunge.
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If you're someone who considers getting bangs at least once a year, you likely abandon that notion by the time June rolls around. It's hot, you're sweaty: Who wants bangs when you're already more overheated than an iPhone on the beach?
But maybe you shouldn't be so quick to give up your dreams of fringe that would make Françoise Hardy jealous just because it's summer. According to two of Hollywood's top hairstylists, getting bangs isn't necessarily a bad idea, and what's more, you can actually make them look good in the blistering 90-degree heat. It sounds crazy — but if you can't trust celebrity hair gurus Mark Townsend (the man behind Reese Witherspoon, Dakota Johnson, and the Olsen twins' hair) and Justine Marjan (whose clients include Olivia Culpo and Ashley Graham), then who can you trust?
"Fringe is a great way to change up your look for the summer; it’s fun and romantic," says Townsend. He says if you're down to go for a new set of bangs, don't think of them as a one-size-fits-all transformation; you can find exactly the type of bang that works for you based on your upkeep regimen, hair type, and even personality without having to wield a blowdryer in 100% humidity every day.
Convinced yet? Click ahead for all the pro-approved secrets to styling bangs in the summer.
Townsend says that the shorter the bang, the more maintenance you'll have to worry about. But if, like Noomi Rapace, baby bangs are your beat even when it's too hot to function, he suggests relying on a dry shampoo to protect your new face-framing layers from the sweat that's bound to find your forehead.
"It's all about keeping your bangs from looking greasy, oily, and flat," Townsend says. "Add the tiny step of dry shampooing your bangs before leaving the house. This is a preventive step and only takes a few seconds." His recommendation? Dove Unscented Dry Shampoo (which also won't interfere with your summer perfume).
Photo: Jun Sato/WireImage..
If you're not in the mood to visit the salon more than once this season, follow Camila Cabello's lead and opt for a Brigitte Bardot-inspired bang — otherwise known as "curtain bangs " — this summer. "[These] gradually get longer as they hit your cheekbones and [can be] worn with a center part," which is ideal for wavy hair, Townsend explains.
Just because these bangs are longer than most doesn't mean they can't fall victim to flatness. If it happens, Townsend suggests using a 1.25-inch curling iron to twist hair up and away from your cheekbones for a quick fix on a second-day style.
Photo: Ian West/PA Images/Getty Images..
Straight bangs like Rashida Jones'? Skip the hot iron for now and use a comb or small paddle brush — not a round brush, Townsend stresses — while you blow-dry to brush the hair with the direction of the heat coming out of the dryer.
Photo: JEAN-BAPTISTE LACROIX/AFP/Getty Images..
Want to add a bit more texture? Marjan suggests blowdrying the roots towards your face, using a small rounded brush to bend the ends out and away. Add even more of a bend to fringe with a curling iron on low heat. "I like to point the iron down and spiral it away from the face in a fluid motion to get a really loose bend," says Marjan — like the finished result shown here on actress Rila Fukushima.
Photo: Jacopo Raule/GC Images..
Once upon a time, some people said that only the straight-haired could rock a bang. Those people were wrong. (See how good it looks here on model Alanna Arrington?) Marjan suggests that, when you're ready to wash-and-go, make sure the hair is saturated in curl cream (her recommendation: Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream) and a leave-in conditioner (try Tresemmé Repair and Protect 7 Pre-Styling Spray).
Photo: Theo Wargo/Getty Images..
Curly fringe like Alison Brie's thrives when air-dried. "There is something so chic and French about this look right now," Townsend says. "When your hair is damp, apply a mousse to your fringe and let it do its thing." He adds that the less you do to hair, the better these curly layers will look, so avoid over-brushing those pieces, or raking your fingers through, to avoid disrupting your natural curl pattern.
Photo: Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images..
Yara Shahidi 's hairstylist, Nai'vasha Johnson, recently told us that there's nothing quite like a bob and bang combo to really celebrate a natural curl pattern. "Bangs are such a good look with textured hair because no one expects a curly girl to have super short, or super refined, bangs," Johnson says. Style coiled pieces like this with a generous amount of buttery creams, oils, and milks for a long-lasting blast of hydration and shine.
Photo: Frazer Harrison/VMN18/Getty Images.
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Planning a wedding is no walk in the park. In 2017, the wedding registry site Zola conducted a survey that found that 96% of couples found it to be a stressful experience, with one of the biggest contributors to the anxiety being the pressure to make everything — including yourself — look perfect.
Whether you're the bride, a bridesmaid, or the second cousin who was asked to usher, there's always the question of how to prep for all the tears during the ceremony and the hours of drinking and dancing later. The answer? Find a really good foundation.
But consider the search checked off your to-do list already, because the best makeup artists in the bridal biz rounded up the foundations to buy before wedding season is in full swing, ahead.
"I love this HD foundation for anyone with a normal skin type — not too dry, not too oily. It goes on like silk, blends out for a more natural finish, and makes your skin look like skin in person and in photographs." — Amanda Shackleton, makeup artist
"I just started trying this foundation stick that has a primer on one end and a full-coverage foundation on the other. It's a great multi-purpose product!" — Shackleton
"I love this formula for anyone who has combination skin. The coverage is light and gives the skin a healthy glow. And depending on how you apply it, this can offer light or medium coverage." — Amanda Christan, makeup artist
"For foundations that offer a wide range of skin tone options, go for Bobbi Brown. The foundation sticks are good, but opt for something with a liquid base — it's easier to stipple on with a brush or Beautyblender." —Amy Zdunowski-Roeder, makeup artist
"If you have acne, always start with a matte base and choose your SPF carefully. Keep in mind that you want the makeup to become one with your skin, and SPF or primer could hinder that — especially in the summer." — Zdunowski-Roeder
"When it comes to acne breakouts on the day of the wedding, I try to stick to long-wear, full-coverage formulas. I like this one from Estée Lauder, applied with a damp Beautyblender for an even and full finish. If acne needs additional coverage, I'll spot treat with a thick concealer." — David Maderich, makeup artist
"I always prefer light coverage for wedding days. Remember, the more makeup you apply, the more chances you have for that makeup to melt, move, and look cakey. I like this cult favorite because it's waterproof, shine- and- sweat-proof, and won't budge until you wash it off." — Maderich
Maderich often uses this long-wear formula from MAC for clients with dry skin who might benefit from a creamier formula. What's more, it promises to last up to 15 hours — rain or shine.
When it comes to her hair routine, Patia Braithwaite, health editor at Refinery29, likes to keep things simple: She'll sweep her thick natural curls into a high bun and then continue on with her day. But for the first time in a really long time, Braithwaite wants to try something different with a protective style... and not just with your typical 1b plaits. "I’ve wanted to have different colored hair before, [but] I lived in D.C., which was a little bit more conservative than New York. [Now] I don’t feel like I have to explain myself," she says.
To make a statement, Braithwaite opted for gray ombré Casamance braids (named after a city in Senegal) at Khamit Kimks in Brooklyn, New York. The stylists there say the braids are less painful, which makes them a popular choice for clients like Braithwaite. "The reason I stopped getting my hair braided in high school is because it hurt. I'd be in pain for three days," she says. "It just wasn't worth it."
Without protective styles to fall back on, there was no happy medium: Braithwaite's mom wouldn't let her get a perm until the age of 16, and there was plenty of fighting between them in those early days. Even after a relaxer, Braithwaite still struggled with the usual breakage, loss, and thinning. So, she caved in to her mother's original stance and went natural.
"I watched a lot of YouTube videos about transitioning and styling," she says. "I thought going natural was going to be super hard. I got a haircut and loved how my face looked." Although her curls are hidden in her braids (for now), she still holds on to that same confidence — which helped her choose this bold summer style. "My hair is pretty and feral. When I was younger, I really wanted to fit in with a relaxer," she says. "Now, I want to stand out. I love myself just the way I am – big, complicated hair and all."
See Braithwaite's transformation — and hear her hair story — above.
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Brace yourselves: June has arrived, and that means the national treasure known as the Old Navy $1 Flip-Flop sale is here.
If you're not familiar with the annual sale (perfect for stocking up on the beach-going essential) here's how it works: Once a year for one day only, Old Navy marks down its solid-colored flip-flops to $1, while its printed pairs will set you back a whopping $2. This year, the in-store-only event will take place this Saturday, June 23.
Before you start dreaming about filling an empty pool full of rubber sandals, just a reminder that Old Navy puts a cap on 10 pairs per customer. Who would ever want to breech that 10 pair limit you ask? We crowdsourced our office and apparently more people than you would think: Benevolent brides who keep buckets of them around the reception dance floor for heel-exhausted guests, summer camp counselors who make use of them during craft time, and our personal favorite, a friend of a friend who genuinely enjoys wearing flip-flops 365 days out of the year. That's one cheap habit.
But believe it or not, those few examples are just the beginning. A couple years back, we asked Old Navy just how devoted people are to the annual sale. Julie Luker, director of PR and partnerships at Gap Inc. and Old Navy, shared with us that "customers start asking about the date as early as February."
The one-day-only event began in 2005 and has evolved a great deal over the past decade, including some high-tech spins on the shopping concept. In 2014, for example, Old Navy introduced a vending machine that dispensed flip-flops in response to tweets, Ad Age reported. The same year, the retailer's then-CMO, Ivan Wicksteed, told Forbes that the event was Old Navy's second-biggest shopping event of the year, after Black Friday.
While the brand won't release exact sale numbers, in previous years Old Navy estimated that it's sold enough flip-flops to walk the length of California, according to Luker. In 2015, people started lining up way before opening on the day of the sale, getting worked up over summery footwear (and, of course, tweeting about it), per USA Today. Since the sales are local and run only as long as supplies last, we recommend making a morning pit-stop since the afternoon may leave you with the least desirable colors at best.
So start stacking up those stray dollar bills and make sure you have June 23 circled on your calendar. It's time to get our flippy-floppies on.
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In news that probably won’t surprise you, the ’90s are back in a big way. Crop tops, chokers, track pants — you’ve likely seen these '90s-kid staples popping up in stores — and Insta feeds — everywhere. Our celeb crushes — Kylie and Kendall, Gigi and Bella, you get it — are no strangers to turning the nostalgic styles into modern-day trends.
While it’s safe to say our affinity for oversized denim and gold hoops isn’t going anywhere, it’s about time our hair played a little catch up, too. Enter: scrunchies. You may associate them with Halloween costumes or 2nd-grade picture day, but 2018's versions are far more refined. We'd even call them chic. With modern touches, the return of the scrunchie has the potential for some major cool factor. Plus, the soft material is far easier on your hair than tight elastics.
Still not convinced? Keep clicking for inspo.
Exhibit A: With one look, the ultimate cool-girl gives us all of the proof we need that scrunchies are back — and here to stay.
PHOTO: VIA @BELLAHADID.
Dark lips, shimmering highlighter, moto jacket — this is how you make a scrunchie badass.
PHOTO: VIA @ashleybigfun.
Completing a French braid updo, this subtle take on denim on denim is so chic.
PHOTO: VIA @PETITS_BOUDINS.
This half up, half down look gets a little extra oomph with some pattern play — and we're so here for it.
PHOTO: VIA @GALACTIC_EXCHANGE.
For lessons in head-to-toe dressing, look no further.
PHOTO: VIA @HAPPYDAYYZZE.
Relaxed beach waves make the perfect partner for a scrunchie.
PHOTO: VIA @ASOSMARKETPLACE.
We’ve got ’90s spirit, yes we do, we’ve got ’90s spirit, how ’bout you?
PHOTO: VIA @PLICK_OFFICIAL.
Sequins, sequins, and more sequins! This scrunchie not only gives a classic loose fishtail an extra touch of glam, but also holds every strand in place.
PHOTO: VIA @BIGHAIREDHANNAH.
If bold isn’t your aesthetic, the hair accessory can also add a delicate touch, like with this side-swept braid.
PHOTO: VIA @JILLIAN_I.DO.HAIR.
A major plus of scrunchies? They won't give you an annoying hair dent.
PHOTO: VIA @LAURABUAREHANDMADE.
If it’s in Vogue...
PHOTO: VIA @VOGUEMAGAZINE.
Even Selena Gomez is a fan of the nostalgic trend, proving that it comes in handy on the days you just can't be bothered with hot tools.
Photo: Backgrid
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On Sunday, fashion watchdog Diet Prada alerted its followers that more plagiarism was afoot in the Kardashian West household. “Another day, another Kanye rip,” Diet Prada captioned the Eli Russell Linnetz-photographed ad campaign for Yeezy Season 6. The duo considers the offense especially egregious because the original art by Rita Minissi was created as a statement about feeling disconnected from her own body and identity.
“Will Kanye own up to it this time, or will he be blaming others like he did with the Tony Spackman sketch not so long ago?” Diet Prada asked in the caption. The Tony Spackman incident happened in May, when West shared a photo of what he called “a YEEZY study.” It was later revealed that the drawing was created by Spackman 10 years ago when he was a designer at Nike. And while West has since apologized and fired the Yeezy employee who brought him the sketch, he has yet to say anything about the most recent allegations.
In a statement to Refinery29, Minissi offered the following: “Although I am deeply distressed by this exploitation, the greater issue here is that a large corporate entity is profiting off of years of labor from a self-funded artist by turning something cathartic into capital; attempting to steal the truth of an individual without consequences. This is not an isolated instance, to the corporate entity in question or to the industry as a whole. .”
The artist stressed the issue was not personal and that she has supported both West and his Yeezy line for some time. Had she been contacted, Minissi stated, she would have happily collaborated.
Since the Diet Prada post, Minissi has experienced online harassment by Kanye fans. “I am an intensely private person excessively outside of my comfort zone right now,” her statement read. “A painful personal trauma is defining my identity in news media, while I receive hateful messages from strangers when I’ve done nothing wrong and never desired to be at the center of a public spectacle,” she continued. “Undoubtedly, this situation is not solely significant to me and my story, but to all other artists/creatives who have endured a similar ethical offense.”
We’ve reached out to both Yeezy and the photographer and will update this article if/when we hear back.
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Every year, Sarah Boyd hosts a series of influencer marketing conferences for aspiring Instagram stars and digital marketers. In her seven years of hosting the event, Boyd, the founder of Simply, a digital influencer agency, has noticed an interesting trend: When one of her ex- Bachelor clients promotes the conference, they will sell 10 times the number of tickets as when an A-List celebrity promotes it.
This massive difference is evidence of the increasing power of current and former reality stars, many of whom hope to parlay their success on a TV series into careers that extend beyond their 15 minutes of fame.
For some, it's working, and they have Instagram to thank. While many influencers are hesitant to disclose exactly how much money they're raking in from sponsored deals, new research published today by influencer marketing agency Mediakix estimates the top reality TV stars can make over $1 million every year on Instagram alone.
To reach that figure, the company tracked popular current and former reality stars, such as Amanda Stanton, Jade Roper, and Ashley Iaconetti, over the course of 30 days on Instagram. Mediakix looked for posts that were "definitively sponsored," as evidenced by #ad or other disclosures, and "likely sponsored," since they featured a particular brand or product. Then, they tallied the number of sponsored posts — typically between seven and eight per month — and multiplied that number by the amount of money stars can earn per post — $5,000 on the low end and $15,000 on the high end — to come up with a prediction for the monthly and yearly Instagram incomes of today's top reality stars turned influencers. The company suggests influencers with fewer followers and lower engagement rates are earning $444,000 a year, while those with higher numbers are earning upwards of $888,000 to $1.33 million.
Remember, that's just from sponsored content on Instagram.
Design by: Paola Delucca
Boyd, who represents ex- Bachelor and Bachelorette contestants including Lauren Bushnell, Ali Fedotowsky, and Ben Higgins, is hesitant to generalize, but also says reality stars can easily make six figures from sponsored content on social. She says 100,000 followers tends to translate to rates of $1,000 to $5,000 dollars per post, while 1 million followers equates to rates starting at $10,000 and up.
She attributes the success of reality stars on Instagram to their I-can-identify-with-you factor. Whereas celebrities have beautiful, but unattainable lifestyles, reality stars are often the girl and guy next door: "America loves them because they are real people," Boyd says. "They can relate to them, which brands love because it translates to sales."
Still, starring on The Bachelor doesn't ensure an easy transition to Instagram's million-dollar-club. Boyd often sees new cast members take every deal that comes their way, instead of accepting ones for products and companies that align with their off-show, personal brands.
"America loves [reality stars] because they are real people. They can relate to them, which brands love because it translates to sales."
"They're taking anything and hurting the industry because they'll take deals for basically no money, devaluing everyone else," Boyd says. "All of our clients are looking for longer term, more authentic deals as opposed to the one-offs, because the consumer is getting much savvier."
The stars who are able to break out of the reality realm and survive beyond the 15-minute spotlight are the ones who found their own businesses on the side. Bushnell, for example, now has a clothing line and rosé brand.
Influencer marketing is constantly evolving, so it's hard to say whether Instagram income will remain lucrative in years to come. A current industry trend, for example, is what Boyd calls "dark ads." In a dark ad, a brand will use an influencer's name to promote their product, but the influencer will not post about it on their own feed. (The frequent Influencer-headlined Instagram ads from HelloFresh seem to fit this new category.)
There are also changes that happen on the social network side of the equation. Now that Instagram is putting a bigger focus on video with the launch of IGTV, influencers will need to figure out how to leverage their personal brands there, too.
If anything, Instagram is showing that, for reality stars, making it to the final rose ceremony isn't the end of their fame, nor is it a requirement for establishing their long-term money-making prospects. What would Chris Harrison have to say about that?
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If waiting on sales were a professional pastime, well, we'd be in the hall of fame by now. Luckily our patience doesn't have to be tested much longer with the fourth of July doorbusters just around the corner. But before we even make it to then, Zara is blessing us with its annual summer sale and, no surprise here, it's really good.
The bi-annual clean out sale, which kicked off late last night, leaves nothing off the list. Everything you've ever spotted on the site from spring to summer is coming in hot with a red tag. Here's to regretting any full priced Zara purchases we've made recently.
But for anything you've patiently bookmarked, now's the time to strike. From exaggerated wide-leg jeans that would make JNCO lovers swoon, to the perfect summer dress, to more affordable takes on the "Instagram blouse," this sale has it all.
So, cash at the ready. Ahead, we've rounded up our top 40 picks; a feat considering we wanted it all.
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Just when we thought we were over a show revolving around the lives of high school students, Riverdale sucked us back in again. But aside from the small-town drama and seemingly never-ending suspense, what really keeps us clicking yes to "Are You Still Watching?" are the standout beauty looks. From K.J. Apa's faux red hair to Camila Mendes' award-winning brows, we can't get enough.
Which is why, when Lili Reinhart (a.k.a. Betty Cooper) shares her makeup and skin regimens with the rest of us, we take notes. She's recorded her entire skin-care routine on Instagram, and gave the world a behind-the-scenes look at her everyday makeup via Vogue. She's spread the wisdom of her application secrets, and the exact products she uses to keep her face looking natural and glowy.
Ahead, click through Reinhart's virtual makeup bag and medicine cabinet to see her entire beauty routine. And — unlike the pricier routines of Kim Kardashian West or Bella Hadid — it's one we can definitely relate to.
In a recent interview with Vogue, Reinhart gave us an IRL look at how she gets her gorgeous brows. "I used to pluck all these hairs right here," she admitted, referencing the inner corner of her brows. "Which I learned was a big mistake. You should not do that." For shape and dimension, Reinhart uses the trusty Anastasia Beverly Hills's Brow Powder palette and a small angled brush to enhance her natural arches.
Reinhart told Vogue that she's loving peachy pink shadow for a pop of color on her eyes at the moment. She uses a blush tone from the Stila Eyes Are the Window palette to brighten her lids, then brushes the dark brown shade along her upper lash line for definition. "I feel like if I don't run a little bit of shadow or liner on my lash line, my eyes sort of disappear," Reinhart explains in the video.
This cult classic clay mask seems to be stocked in every beauty guru's cabinet. According to Reinhart, it was model Madeline Hill who recommended the cheap find for acne-prone skin.
Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay, $7.89, available at Walmart.
R29 editors swear by this mask for clearing up cystic acne, and Reinhart uses it three times a week when her skin is clear and every day when there's a breakout.
Renée Rouleau Rapid Response Detox Masque, $60.50, available at Renée Rouleau.
This at-home exfoliating peel leaves your skin so radiant, you might think you just left a facial. Reinhart uses this antioxidant-rich formula once a week.
Renée Rouleau Triple Berry Smoothing Peel, $86.50, available at Renée Rouleau.
This two-step serum and sleeping mask fights dullness, which is ideal for an actress with long shoot days.
GlamGlow DreamDuo Overnight Transforming Treatment, $59, available at Sephora.
Reinhart has tons of breakout-busting recommendations, including this sulfur-infused treatment that beauty editors also swear by.
Mario Badescu Drying Lotion, $17, available at Ulta Beauty.
Reinhart mixed her own scrub made with papaya and pistachio at the St. Ives pop-up mixing bar in New York. But this existing favorite includes a similar hydrating blend of avocado and vitamin E.
St. Ives Daily Hydrating Vitamin E and Avocado Body Lotion, $4.99, available at Target.
When non-stop flights start taking a toll on Reinhart's lips, she reaches for this lip mask to keep hers smooth.
Laniege Lip Sleeping Mask, $20, available at Sephora.
To keep her skin in check, Reinhart also swears by overnight masks, like this one, to do all the work while she catches her beauty sleep.
Laniege Water Sleeping Mask, $25, available at Sephora.
Sorry, Betty Cooper stans — Reinhart isn't a natural blonde. But, if you aren't either, she recommends this weekly treatment for damaged ends.
Joico K-PAK Color Therapy Luster Lock, $19.99, available at Ulta Beauty.
Or try this hydrating hair mask, which leaves hair smooth and soft.
Shu Uemura Ultimate Remedy Extreme Restoration Treatment, $68, available at Shu Uemura.
This hair oil created by Hailey Baldwin's colorist Ryan Pearl, and loved by the Riverdale star. Warm a dime-sized amount in the palm of your hands before smoothing through ends after your weekly shampoo.
Pearl Hair Oil Color Protectant Oil, $28, available at Pearl.
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When it comes to tattoos, a lot of people choose something of significance — they are, after all, permanent. That could mean a cool design you love to look at, a daily reminder on an arm or leg, or a more concealed message that hits a personal sweet spot. And while the options are endless, sometimes, a little ink on the body means more than meets the eye. That's where rainbow tats come in.
These stunners can inject a much-needed dose of color into our lives, and even take a basic black-and-white sketch to new levels. But beyond making tats a little more fun, the ink also symbolizes something so much bigger.
June marks the official start to Pride, the month-long celebration of the LGBTQ community. And while Pride doesn’t start or stop in June, this month gives it an added boost. We’re all for taking a stand against discrimination toward the LGBTQ community, this month and beyond, which is why we’re so here for rainbow tats that show pride all day, every day. The colorful flag represents the diversity of the community, with each color holding its own meaning, while further symbols like the heartbeat commemorate and pay tribute to Orlando's Pulse nightclub massacre. Check out the coolest ink inspiration that proves even just a little color goes a long way.
Rainbow streaks look cooler than any color swatch we’ve seen, while still letting the world know you’re proud of who you are.
PHOTO: VIA @SIMPLYBRAZENBEAUTY.
The same goes for this subtle wrist decor, which looks rad, thanks to its minimalistic take.
PHOTO: VIA @LADY_ADSIS.
On its own, the equal sign represents equality. Combined with rainbow colors, this tat holds double meaning.
PHOTO: VIA @TATTOOSILLUSTRATE.
We’re into a classic rainbow, whether or not there’s a pot of gold at the end.
PHOTO: VIA @MRS.THANADOS.
Because Pride is more powerful than a strike of lightning.
PHOTO: VIA @DAVEY.D.
This is one way to show the love.
PHOTO: VIA @SOGGYMACARONS.
Honoring the Pulse tragedy, this tat reminds us that love will always win.
PHOTO: VIA @URANOREBEL.
Midi rings have never looked better.
PHOTO: VIA @LUKEBRUNDISH.
This gradient line might be thin, but we love how bold it actually looks.
PHOTO: VIA @LADY_NADSIS.
Mini rainbows bring the fun to your classic arm cuff.
PHOTO: VIA @WHITEHENNATATTOO.
The classic color wheel gets a whole new meaning.
PHOTO: VIA @LGBTQPPL.
With this tattoo combo, you’re getting three for the price of one — equality, love, and so much pride.
You always want what you can’t have — especially when it comes to beauty products. That’s why we’re getting the inside scoop from your favorite retailers on what’s selling out right now, how to sign up for waitlists, and where to go to find the next best thing. Because if everyone’s buying it, you know it has to be good.
If your limbs haven't seen the light of day since 2017, then the influx of shimmery body bronzers probably sound pretty appealing right now. And, when one hits the market that also smells like a tropical vacation, it flies off shelves faster than seats on one of Scott's Cheap Flights.
That's what happened with Sol de Janeiro's Ipanema Sunset Glow Oil, which sold out within eight hours of its pre-sale. The oil not only imparts the prettiest sheen to skin without feeling sticky or heavy, but it also smells like drinking a cocktail at sunset somewhere exotic — with notes of fig, pomelo, and Brazilian gardenia.
Lucky for us, the oil is now back in stock (along with its deeper bronze counterpart) at Sephora and on the brand's website. If it sells out again, though, we've got you covered...
This shimmery formula doesn't just look pretty — it also deeply hydrates dry legs and arms with a blend of cupuaçu butter, acai oil, and coconut oil.
If you've never used body oil in your life — not to mention, a shimmery one — NARS' Monoï oil is your training wheels. It leaves a pretty sheen to the skin, but doesn't contain any distracting chunks of sparkle.
When Rihanna first dropped two new body luminizers, fans quickly flocked to stores to grab a bottle. The glow giver, which definitely packs the most shimmer of the bunch, makes limbs gleam.
FENTY BEAUTY BY RIHANNA, $59, available at Fenty Beauty
The next celeb to bring us the best glow of our lives? Chrissy Teigen. Back for her second beauty collaboration with Becca Cosmetics, Teigen is gearing up to introduce the must-have summer buy that's just subtle enough, but still packs a major punch of shimmer.
Becca Cosmetics Glow Body Oil, available summer 2018.
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Some months ago, the fashion industry saw its two masters of menswear share the spotlight: Kim Jones was leaving Louis Vuitton for Dior Homme, and Virgil Abloh, the Chicagoan who has never worked for a luxury design house, would replace him. While the former has yet to make his debut for the label, the latter, at the Palais Royal in Paris, just made history: as the third Black designer to helm a French maison, Abloh has managed to refresh the beloved menswear arm of the biggest luxury fashion brand in the world in radical ways no one predicted.
For starters, the Paris Fashion Week show's theme of Diversity will likely serve as the pinnacle and blueprint for any other high-tier designer stumped on just how to add the right kind of color to their collections. Along with the show notes came a coded map that showed where the models — predominantly people of color, including celebrity catwalkers Kid Cudi, Dev Hynes, and Playboi Carti — and their parents, came from. And then there was the front row: his longtime mentor and former employer Kanye West (with whom he shared a viral, tearful hug as he took his bow), Kim Kardashian, Kylie Jenner, Rihanna, Bella Hadid, and others. To complete the audience, Abloh invited local design students, wooed by free T-shirts, to help cushion the crowds along his gradient catwalk.
But, in terms of what they were all there for — to survey Louis Vuitton's latest coup de foudre since Marc Jacobs — did Abloh's most important collection meet the hype? Yes. Did it surpass expectations, raise any bar, or make us think differently about the menswear market? No. But did it need to? Perhaps it was more utilitarian than ever, with military-grade vests, oversized denim workwear pieces, a long-awaited sneaker arrival and a Yeezy influence throughout. But it was what's to be expected from someone who can credit Instagram for part of his success. Bottom line: He succeeded, while still making a few bomber jackets.
Most of the industry will be split on Abloh's debut: Those who are loyal to Jones — and whose roster of chosen streetwear icons, like Yohji Yamamoto, Helmut Lang, Raf Simons, etc., is already full — will take him to task on what he presented at Paris Fashion Week. But those others, perhaps the younger-generation seat-fillers, will continue to show him unconditional love (with their wallets or their knockoffs). What we know for sure, though, is this: It took Abloh only four years at his label, Off-White, to get to where he is now. While Louis Vuitton's spring 2019 menswear offering may not have said much to its legacy, it does mark a new beginning for the French luxury house. Like his rainbow-colored Place Colette runway, the road ahead is very long.
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