8 Times Simone Biles Brought So Much Joy to Our Lives in 2016

Despite the controversy in the lead up to and duration of this summer’s Olympics in Rio, the games were also majorly inspiring — and, yes, kinda hilarious.

But they didn’t just give us memes — the Olympics also brought us Simone Biles. As a part of the US Women’s Gymnastics team this summer, the 19-year-old, first-time Olympian took the games by storm, racking up an impressive FOUR gold medals (five medals in total) and winning America’s collective heart — yep, even celebs loved her — while doing so.

Here are some of the highlights from all the joy true American hero Simone Biles brought us in 2016.

1. Simojis: A slew of Olympic athletes released their own emoji apps this summer, including Simone, who curated this collection of emoji herself. Because duh.

2. That EYELINER: Everyone was all, “OMG YES, another medal for Simone!” Then they were like “HOLD UP, IS THAT RED WHITE AND BLUE SPARKLY EYELINER?!?!” And that’s when we knew we were dealing with a legit hero here.

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on cloud 9 💙☁️ @zacefron

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3. When She Met Her Hollywood Crush, Zac Efron: Simone is such a big Efron fan that she’s even admitted to having a life-size cutout of him in her room. In August, it happened — the pair met, and it was ADORABLE. Naturally, the affection was mutual: Zac, like us, had been losing his mind over how good she was in Rio before they’d ever met.

4. When the Final Five Had More Fun at the VMA’s Than, Like, Anyone Else: Not only did Simone and the crew get to present Beyoncé with her Best Female Video award, but she ALSO got to schmooze — and take selfies — with her fave celebs, such as Kim Kardashian.

5. When Channing Tatum Fan-Girled Over Her and She Was Chill AF. I mean, of course he freaked out. She’s the COOLEST.

6. The Final Five at the White House:After the Olympics were over, the Obamas held a celebration for all of the US Olympics athletes at the White House, and NATURALLY the Final Five had to try to school Barack on the splits. ALL THE SOBBING TEAR EMOJI.

7. When She Went on Set for Pretty Little Liars: In case you haven’t realized it yet, Simone is all of our long-lost BFF. Her fandom of PLL pretty much seals it, but unlike you and me, she actually got to visit the set, watch them film and hang out with the cast. It’s yet to be revealed if she indeed filmed her own cameo, but we’re gonna go ahead and say yes because, hello, dream come true.

8. When She Announced a MUCH-Deserved Break from Gymnastics: Obviously we’re not stoked to have LESS of Simone in our lives, but when she told Sports Illustrated that she’d likely be taking about a year off from competing, we were happy to know that she was taking some time to take care of herself and enjoy life, which she so clearly is.

What’s your favorite Simone Biles moment from the year? Let us know over @BritandCo!

(Featured photo via Alex Livesey/Getty)

Finding gifts for the person you're closest to can be the absolute hardest thing to do, especially when there are so many things that would make great gifts for him. If you're shopping for the main man in your life this season – whether you call him your dad, husband, fiancé, boyfriend, partner, or your preferred pet names – of course you want to find a gift that shows him just how much he means to you. Just remember that the key to the perfect gift is simply that it comes from you. These stunning gift ideas will help you say "this made me think of you."

Our 50 favorite gifts for men for 2024:

Target

Epson EpiqVision Mini EF22 Portable Smart Laser Projector

Make movie nights even more epic with this mini portable projector. The Dolby audio sound is AMAZING and the full HDR picture quality is perfect, plus you can project as big as a 150-inch screen! Watch his (and your) favorite movies, shows, sporting events, Oscars?, gaming, and more anywhere, indoors and out. It comes with a Google TV setup with access to more 10,000 apps, including favorites like Netflix and Prime. It's super simple to set up and a great way to bring in a screen wherever you want. No additional supplies needed! Also it comes in a bunch of cool colors. This is a splurge gift that's totally worth it and will make cozy nights at home even cozier. We love it!

Amazon

RVCA Commonwealth Snapback

This flat-brimmed baseball cap replaces those older, worn-out styles you know your man has been hoarding. The green corduroy fabric on this gift-worthy hat will grace his head perfectly for every season!

Apple Watch SE

Get him motivated to reach his fitness goals with features like fitness tracking and heart rate monitoring, plus he can send a text, take a call, listen to his favorite music and podcasts. You can customize the watch faces and bands to his liking too. It's the perfect gift for the active guy!

Amazon

Every Man Jack Mens Amber + Sandalwood Body Set

This gift set is filled with an ideal assortment of gifts for him. From body wash, shampoo, deodorant, and face wash, your man will have everything he needs to feel fresh – plus, having a good-smelling guy around is the real gift for you that keeps on giving.

Nike

Nike Air VaporMax Flyknit

Be his biggest cheerleader as he reaches his 2025 fitness goals in these best-selling Nikes, made with sustainable materials. We are loving this vintage green.

Target

VANKYO Leisure D30T Mini Wi-Fi Projector

Bring the cinema home to your movie buff with a sleek projector setup for your own private screenings and viewing parties!

Sunswell

Sunswell The R&R Pant

Made from recycled materials for rigorous wear, the Sunswell R&R pants are bound to be a staple in your man's year-round wardrobe.

Amazon

Cosori Pour Over Coffee Maker

This sturdy coffee maker will be a total hit for the caffeine-loving guy in your life. The layered stainless steel filter allows for a rich, creamy flavor in every sip, plus the decanter is holds a whole 34 ounces of brewed coffee to help him wake up!

Amazon

Stanley Stainless Steel Shot Glass and Flask Gift Set

This durable drinking set complete with a flask and shot glasses will be his new BFF for sharing on camping, fishing, or hunting trips. Top it all off with a brand-new bottle of whiskey to complete the gift for him.

Creem

Creem Magazine Subscription

For the music-loving man in your life, a subscription to Creem (the coolest rock 'n' roll mag) will really impress. The publication's covered plenty of classic names in the industry – as well as newer bands – so he's sure to soak up plenty of new knowledge about the scene. There's a handful of annual subscription tiers for the mag starting at just $79.

Amazon

Thermajohn Thermal Shirt

Whether he's hitting the slopes or is braving the cold winter weather to run errands with you, this warm thermal base layer tee will swarm his upper half in comfort, flexibly moving with his each and every move.

Herschel

Herschel Little America Backpack Pro

For his outdoor adventures or social gatherings, outfit him with a cool backpack (literally, this one is insulated) that he can fill with his favorite snacks and beverages.

Ties

Ties The Scientist Sock Pack

Whether it's a stocking stuffer or a smaller gift, a playful set of socks is both practical and personal.

Tie Bar

Tie Bar Navy Travel Tie Storage Case

This tie storage case means business, just like your man does. If he travels for work often, he'll appreciate that you're looking out for his formal-wear.

Amazon

Marlowe. Coffee Bar Soap

This manly bar soap is infused with coffee beans and cocoa butter butter that help tackle even the worst bouts of sweat and body odor. It's definitely long-lasting, too, so he can smell lovely all night long.

Taylor Stitch

Taylor Stitch The Workhorse Jacket

This jacket will hug his bod in the most stylish way, all while keeping him comfy throughout the season's cold weather.

Williams Sonoma

Breville Precision Brewer 12-Cup Drip Coffee Maker with Glass Carafe

For the early risers and coffee-obsessed, a programmable coffee maker means he can wake up to the smell of coffee every day (and no longer has to use wasteful pods for an instant brew).

Mark & Graham

Mark & Graham Italian Leather Desk Set

Whether he's going to work, outfitting a permanent at-home office, or heading back to school, a personalized desk set like this luxe leather one will please the most studious types of guys.

Nordstrom

Ugg Beckett Fleece Robe

If your man loves a cozy night in just as much as you do, a soft robe to lounge around in will make the ultimate gift for him.

Mejuri

Mejuri Flat Curb Chain Necklace

Once you've reached long-term status with your guy, gift him a signature gold chain he can flex for years to come.

Pangaia

Pangaia 365 Heavyweight Hoodie

For the hoodie-obsessed, Pangaia's signature sustainable sweatshirts (and sweatsuits!) are best-in-class.

Etsy

Custom Soundwave Art Print

From a first dance song to the one you always blast together in the car, every guy has their favorite tune. Memorialize it for your music-loving man with this custom art print.

DUER

DUER Performance Relaxed Taper Denim Jeans

A good quality, fresh pair of denim is gonna set him (and his style) so right for the new year. These jeans feature a stretchy fabric that'll allow wear for practically any occasion.

Mark & Graham

Mark & Graham Leather Poker Set

Outfit his next game night with a poker set that's sure to impress and easy to bring on the go for weekend trips and group hangs.

New Balance

New Balance 9060 Sneaker

Secure your status as the greatest of all time by copping him that stylish pair of sneakers he's been eyeing.

Amazon

Polaroid Now 2nd Generation I-Type Instant Camera + Film Bundle

If your man is into photography and all things nostalgia, consider surprising him with a retro Polaroid camera set. We bet you'll be his favorite muse.

Manly Bands

Manly Bands The Forged Ring

This sleek wedding band stands up to tough, hands-on jobs with a carbon fiber construction, unlike traditional rings. The inner part is actually made from a Jack Daniel's whiskey barrel, making the perfect personalized touch for gifting the guy who loves a drink.

Uncommon Goods

New York Times Custom Football Book

This isn't just any coffee table book, but one that true sports buffs will actually want to devour – with clippings from his team's history, glory days, and highlights.

Still trying to figure out the perfect gifts for him? Subscribe to our email newsletter for more gift guides!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others and earn commissions, but we always offer genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated. Former reporting by Kaitlyn Ingram and Lauren Black.

Since I just harped on all the dreary, outdated shoe trends for 2025, it's only fair I give you all the options you should wear in the new year! I also heard you when you said to let people wear what they want... Since I try to be a girl's girl, I want to give you as many exciting shoe trends that'll align with your personal style as well.

Instead of solely relying on my own wits this time, I reached out to Stitch Fix stylish Jessica Sockel; fashion expert and principal of The Curio, Maggie Gillette Sowislo; personal stylist Sarah Brandt of Shop the City; and Rusty Hall, CEO of Mephisto USA. Here's what stylists and fashion experts have to say about all the best shoe trends for 2025!

Scroll for all the 2025 shoe trends your feet — and outfits — will love!

Steve Madden

1. 'Mocha Mousse' Kitten Heel Boots

Don't fight it — this style is back and better than ever. "We have all seen that Pantone has named 'Mocha Mousse' [color of the year], cementing that brown has surpassed black as the go-to neutral," Brandt muses. As for why she believes kitten heels boots will be a popular style in 2025, she believes it's a "super wearable" choice "for the colder weather months."

Check 'em out:Steve Madden Stasia Taupe Suade Kitten Heel Boots

Thursday Boots

2. Elevated loafers and flats on par with 'Quiet Luxury'

Did you really think we were done with quiet luxury? This is a trend that "focuses on classic design and high quality materials," according to Hall. After the success of, well, Succession, people aren't ready to let this trend go — and I don't blame them! Hall says, "We’re seeing a movement away from runway and status brands of the past several years, and instead, consumers have been drawn toward the echo of vintage style."

Hall also feels like people are looking to add comfort instead of "overabundance" to their wardrobes. He explained that after the pandemic, "comfort has prevailed as a predominant factor in shopping for footwear." You'll want to steer clear of gaudy designs with this shoe trend, instead reaching for "shoes with premium construction and materials" that don't have "noisy logos."

If you want a little bit of height, Sockel says "chunky loafers became a go-to for achieving the 'Prep School' aesthetic." She also saw that "ballet flats were a top request, with 38% of shoppers seeking ways to style them."

Check 'em out:Thursday Boots Penny Loafers

Dolce Vita

3. Low profile sneakers

This year saw the rise of the 'errand' or everyday sneaker. Hall says, "In contrast to the chunky sneaker silhouette, low-profile sneakers have been trending in 2024, and expect to see that trend continue in 2025."He adds that they're "defined by the upper confirming closely to the foot and lack of support around the ankle" making them "exceptionally versatile".

Both he and Brandt agree that the "iconic Adidas Sambas" are the driving force behind this with the latter adding, "But as they can be hard to come by, I’m seeing some alternate sneakers take the stage — particularly the Adidas SL72, and Onitsuka Tigers, especially the Mexico 66s."

If you need inspo for how to style them! Hall has a couple of tips because "the timeless low-profile look isn't going anywhere." He feels pairing them with "bell bottoms or flare-legged jeans" because they "create a long, clean line."

Check 'em out:Dolce Vita Notice Stitch Sneakers

Dolce Vita

4. Colorful shoes

The world already feels like a mess sometimes — why not be bold and have fun with your outfits?! While you continue leaning into the red and burgundy shades that continued to trend this year, Hall feels that "turquoise, fuchsia, and yellow tones will brighten up this spring from the past couple of seasons of neutrals."

Another outfit tip he has is to "opt for white and soft ecru shades in the rest of the outfit" as this will "help these bold colors speak for themselves."

Check 'em out:Dolce Vita Kanika Mid Heels

Net-a-Porter

5. T-Strap Shoes

If you're still watching The Great Gatsby, you may be familiar with what Gillette Sowislo calls the "new shoe profile." In other words, she feels they're "an update on the Mary Jane trend we've been seeing for a few seasons."

We couldn't get enough of the revival of this that trend so it's going to be exciting to see you and other shoppers rock them with your 2025 outfits. Honestly, Sowislo is sure that "this versatile design can be found in flats, heels, and wedges."

Check 'em out:Manolo Blahnik Assala 105 Leather Point-Toe Pumps

Dansko

6. Wooden Platform Shoes

Wooden platform shoes are having their comeback moment; more notably clogs. Sowislo says, "Since Chloe designer Chemena Kamali decked out the front row of her show in matching wood-bottomed platform sandals, the trend for boho-inspired shoes has risen. These can look like the playful platforms she debuted or be a more practical pair of everyday clogs."

Sockel added, "Looking ahead, we [Stitch Fix] predict a shift toward heeled shoes—think chic booties, clogs, and sandals—that pair seamlessly with oversized jeans and a simple tee for an effortlessly polished Easy Street look."

Check 'em out:Dansko Professional Clogs

Subscribe to our newsletter for more 2025 style inspo!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Architecture Digest's Open Door video series is a juicy peek inside the homes of celebs — and we’re a bit obsessed. From Emma Roberts' cozy, book-filled retreat to Kendall Jenner's serene and chic abode, these tours aren’t just about stunning interiors; they also give us a rare glimpse into their at-home personalities. Live with Kelly and Mark hosts Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos’ recent upper East Side tour had me gushing, but also with a few pauses, like huh? Their five-story home felt like a love letter to their relationship as much as an example of their impeccable style. Here are 10 surprising moments from their beautiful AD house tour!

Scroll down to see all the surprising moments from Kelly Ripa & Mark Consuelos' house tour!

Eyeball Art

Architectural Digest | Art by Marc Quinn

The series of painted photographs by artist Marc Quinn outside Kelly and Mark's bedrooms were one of the bigger surprises. They feature a close-up and enlarged image of their three kids' eyeballs. "They don't live here anymore, but it still feels like they're still with us," says Mark. I'm not an empty nester yet, but I can't tell if he's joking here or not. "I can stare at my kids' eyes forever," adds Kelly. SAME.

TVs Behind Mirrors

Architectural Digest

As someone who really dislikes the look of TVs in any room except a room dedicated to bingeing, I love all of the hidden TVs in their bedroom (shown above), living room, and Mark's man cave.

Escargot Toothpicks

Architectural Digest

This actually has a sweet story behind it, and as an escargot/snail lover, this gift is actually pretty cute. The home was designed with AD100 Hall of Fame interior designer William Sofield, known for his modern luxury style, and he gifted this to them because their son loved escargot, surprisingly at age 9 (at the same time when Sofield was designing the home).

The Dark Cave (on The Fifth Floor)

Architectural Digest

The first surprise moment was Mark's Bar 5, which is where the tour begins. The dark interior was a bit of a surprise until you see the rest of the house in its luxe and neutral palette. It's called Bar 5, Mark notes, because it's on the fifth floor of their forever home, so basically the opposite of a man cave!

They Share A Bathroom!

Architectural Digest

Few couples would choose to share a bathroom and closet if they could afford a place with more than one. That was one of the more endearing parts of their tour. This couple still really loves each other and it's SO cute to see. Even with kids out of the house, they choose to share a bathroom and closet because it brings them closer. #relationshipgoals!

I Want To Be Where People Aren't Pillow

Architectural Digest

Is Kelly Ripa actually an introvert? She spends her time writing at the desk in their bedroom and a split second reveals this cheeky needlepoint pillow. I love their sense of a humor, which really shines through in this video.

Lazy Susan Dining Table

Architectural Digest

I have a soft spot for round dining tables — I feel like they naturally encourage everyone to be part of the conversation. For Kelly and Mark, their dining table has a special feature: it actually turns 360 degrees like a Lazy Susan. Amazing!

Translucent Cabinetry

Architectural Digest

Kelly notes that their translucent cabinetry keeps them honest and forces them to be organized. When Mark talks about the decision-making that went around cabinet pulls, I felt SO seen. Every decision in my home came pretty easily except choosing the cabinet pulls! It felt ridiculous, but I labored over this major (minor?) renovation choice.

The Living Room Trap Door

Architectural Digest

Finally, the hilarious comment from Mark about trapping guests in the living room with a sliding door had me LOL. They are truly adorable and silly. Take a peek inside this totally fun and heart-tugging tour!

Watch Kelly Ripa & Mark Consuelos' Full House Tour Here!

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