14 Party-Ready Outfits from the AMAs Red Carpet

Sure, the American Music Awards may have been all about the booty this year (thanks J Lo, Iggy + Nicki), but last night, the recording industry’s most popular artists proved that it isn’t the only asset worth flaunting come your turn to dress up this season (let’s just roll with that pun). Plunging necklines, thigh-high slits, off-the-shoulder cuts and crop tops ruled the largely body-con free red carpet, showcasing slinky, ‘70s-inspired silhouettes that every girl should try this holiday, whether or not you’ve got buns, hun. Get your glam on with these 14 party-ready outfits straight from the best dressed at the AMAs.

1. Fergie: Besides loving Fergie with barely-there makeup, we’re completely sold on her classic black maxi, which sets an extremely (thigh) high standard for the silhouette. Take note: if it’s not equipped with a slit, like this Pink Clove One Shoulder Maxi Dress ($36), it’s simply not Fergalicious enough for the holiday. Style it out with matching metallic accessories from head to toe: chokers, stacking rings and anklets are all fair game.

2. Kate Beckinsale: Kate shows how classy a plunging neckline can be, in part due to the figure-hugging (not skin-tight) fit, pure white hue and her minimal, yet totally impactful accessories. Show off that collar bone in this (bra-friendly) Topshop Cutout Bralet Bodycon Dress ($70) that would look just as posh paired with a rhinestone stunner around the neck.

3. Julianne Hough: Take a cue from Julianne and go for a maxi dress with next-level detail around the plunging neckline. This Forever 21 Caged Maxi Dress ($23) is an all-in-one eye catcher, no statement necklace necessary (though feel free to slip on an arm cuff or two, because why not?).

4. Nicki Minaj: Leave it to Nicki to turn up one of the preppiest cuts a cocktail party as ever seen — the fit and flare dress. A number with mesh cutouts, like this ASOS Petite Exclusive Scuba Skater Dress ($76) adds edge to the pretty silhouette, along with a red carpet-approved arm cuff. Finish the look sweetly with a cat eye and red lip, or do as Nicki does and apply a frosted lipstick and boosted lashes.

5. Taylor Schilling: Taylor is rocking three of our favorite trends: asymmetric hems, a black and white color palette and a pop of color pump. While this look would be easy to build with separates — find a modern white blouse + belt it over a black wrap skirt — a dress always feels more special. Get the same vibe with this ASOS Mesh Asymmetric Hem Body-Conscious Dress ($67) and pair with your most festive pumps.

6. Olivia Munn: We have to give it to Olivia. She went for it in a floor-length sequined dress, and dared to amp it up even more with a statement belt, drop earrings and a plum lip. *Do* go head-to-toe in gold, like this Love Plunge Neck Maxi Dress With Wrap Belt ($76), but *don’t* dress it up any more than it has to. We’re talking zero accessories here, and finished with natural makeup and a negative space mani as to not weight down your floats-like-a-goddess gown.

7. Elizabeth Banks: Our favorite takeaway from Elizabeth’s flirty dress is that metallic details can make the outfit. It’s a style hack that can turn an office-ready dress like this Zara Open Back Dress ($80) into a straight-up stunner. Spark the transformation with a delicate lariat, or take it there with a full-on body chain.

8. Selena Gomez: We’re not the only ones loving that the off-the-shoulder look has gone back to its glamorous vintage roots after its ’90s club kid stint. Selena shows just how chic the look can be with peek-a-boo shoulders and a tastefully bare back. Take the look off the carpet with this H&M Off the Shoulder Dress ($35) with pair it with strappy pumps and impossibly delicate accessories.

9. Jessie J: If you ask us, one of the best looks of the night was not a dress. Jessie J’s fitted pantsuit was an especially posh — and unexpected — take on red carpet style. Stand out from the crowd this holiday season and follow suit with a matching set, or hack the look with a MissGuided Deliana Long Sleeved Wrap Wide Leg Jumpsuit ($48) that gives you the same graceful feel with just one garment.

10. Jennifer Lopez: Sure, J Lo looked a little like a human ballet slipper, but those wrap details around her middle are undeniably cool. Look for a dress that boasts the same kind of criss cross detail like Lashes of London Geo Jacquard Prom Dress With Cross Front ($133) for a more cutting edge take on flashing your midriff.

11. Rita Ora: If you’re over red and green, and even metallics are starting to seem tired around the holidays, Rita’s got a hue for you to hop on. Wow in daisy yellow, especially if the dress in question boasts show-stopping volume, like with a train or the peplum hem on this ASOS Satin Shift ($124). A red lip *will* work with this color, but we’ll defer to Rita and rock a nude lip and impress with a hand chain instead.

12. Kylie Jenner: Lately, Kylie has been the one in the Kardashian koven to steal the show, and she continues her streak here with strappy burgandy gown that’s sooo ’90s it hurts-so-good. While the satin dress is draped flawlessly on Kylie, the color is what matters here. Seek out a similarly goth-inspired hue like on this Keepsake Adore You Cutaway Dress ($168) to keep the night all about you (and not your supermodel sister). And just remember, there’s never any shame in the arm party game.

13. Zendaya Coleman: Zendaya’s not-quite-pajamas, not-quite pantsuit ensemble glistened on the red carpet like a dream. Channel the singer’s shinier-than-thou style with this So Slick Pleated Trouser ($62) that catches the light at every angle. Pair this more fitted trouser with a bustier-style crop top and balance out the slick look with teased out-to-there hair.

14. Lucy Hale: Lucy reminds us that an LBD can be as occasion-worthy as a glittering gown, you just have to find that’s just as fierce. Look for add-ons that make it feel more one-of-a-kind, like the beadwork on this Topshop Gem Embellished Skater Dress ($160). Here’s your chance to go super bold with the makeup: brush out those brows and pucker up with your vampy lip shade of choice.

What AMA look is your favorite? Will you be channeling it this holiday season? Tell us about which stars are inspiring your party-ready get ups in the comments below.

(photos E! Online)

Alright, this was definitely an interesting Halloween makeup tutorial to do for y’all, but it had to be done! There seems to be a handful of pop culture-inspired opportunities to rep this look on Halloween. From Bey’s awesome sad streaks in her “Why Don’t You Love Me” music video to the repeated "Girls will cry and girls will lie" in Sabrina Carpenter's "Lie to Girls," you can pretty much turn anything into a sad version as long it’s done well. Whether you are going for a scary or gory look — BTW, you can totally switch out the black liner here for a red one to make this bloody eye makeup (Max Mayfield anyone?) — you’ll still look pretty. Sad, but pretty.

The Best Cry Makeup Ever

Brit + Co

See how good this looks?! Let's get into it.

Prep: Flawless Face + Smokey Eye

Brit + Co

Follow this tutorial to get your base makeup started. Add a pretty dramatic smokey eye. Layer up the eyeliner on both your upper and lower lash line — you’re going to need the extra pigment to help get those sad little makeup streaks to fall down your pretty little cheeks.

Step 1: Concealer

Brit + Co

Normally I say keep it light on the concealer so it does not get cakey or look too heavy. In this case, you are going to be adding water and messing with the under eye area more than normal, so you want to go a bit more dramatic in this department. Apply an upside-down triangle shape and then blend in with a brush.

Step 2: Visine

Brit + Co

Add a few drops of Visine to your lower lash line. Be sure to start off by focusing on one eye, because you want to take the next step immediately so you don’t lose the Visine drop.

Step 3: Smear

Brit + Co

Use a thin makeup brush to gently encourage your eyeliner to bleed in the same pattern that the Visine drops are falling down your face.

Step 4: Highlight

Brit + Co

Add a pop of deep silver metallic shadow to the inside corners of your eyes. This is going to give the highlight and dimension we want, but it'll maintain more of a moody vibe.

Step 5: Repeat

Brit + Co

Go through these same four steps on the other eye! Easy peasy.

Brit + Co

Get your acting skills on and have fun with this pretty cry baby look! Play your go-to sad tunes to really get into the mood.

Brit + Co

So. Sad. (But so pretty!)

Check out more Halloween ideas on Pinterest and our Halloween page.

This post has been updated.

Every year since I was old enough to choose my Halloween costume, I've gone with my current fictional character hyperfixation. We're talking Amy March from Little Women, Lucy from Narnia (twice), Belle from Beauty in the Beast (three times), and even Eurydice from Hadestown. So I know a good pop culture Halloween costume when I see it.

New York Comic Con 2024 was filled with people who love movies, TV, and comics — and who know how to put together a good costume. This past weekend I saw everything from Disneybounds (a catchall term for easier, streetwear version of iconic costumes) to cosplays involving lights and smoke. And I catalogued them all away because they make incredible Halloween costume inspo. The best news is these are all pretty easy and they're definitely recognizable. So no more having to explain who you are! Here are 17 of the coolest pop culture costumes I saw at NYCC to use for your own 'fits this year.

Glinda & Elphaba from 'Wicked'

Universal Pictures

My jaw literally dropped when I saw two cosplayers in full head-to-toe costumes from the new Wicked movie. And when I say full costume, I mean it — people were having to step around Glinda because her ballgown was so big! If you're not so sure about a full gown, opt for a pink corset and mini skirt for G, or a little black dress for Elphaba, instead.

'The Handmaid’s Tale'

Brit + Co

A white cap and a red cape? Babe, it literally doesn't get easier than this.

'Agatha All Along' Costumes

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

Agatha All Along is Marvel's newest hit show, and as a costume girlie I was so excited to see outfits from the series IRL! I was also shocked at how easy they are to recreate. Billy just wears a sweater and jeans (which you probably already have in your closet), while Agatha opts for a teal trench.

Scarlet Witch's Suit From 'WandaVision'

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

And of course it wouldn't be a comic con without dozens of Scarlet Witches! Wanda Maximoff is such a beloved character, it only makes sense that fans would wear full cosplays, or turn her iconic costume into a sweater & jeans look like I did! If you're feeling crafty like me, I was inspired by @MagicWithMeg's jeans and painted the design on a pair of black jeans. The only thing you'll want to note here is that I made sure to paint white on the base before the red — it made it stand out perfectly.

Obviously, I wore my Scarlet Witch shirt to meet Wanda herself, Elizabeth Olsen.

'Game of Thrones'

Brit + Co

Winterfell will never go out of style! Reuse that red cape from The Handmaid's Tale costume, or go for a leather look. Either way, you'll look very stylish.

Megan

Geoffrey Short/Universal Pictures

One pop culture costume that made me laugh out loud was M3gan from the 2022 flick of the same name. Buying the costume dress will save you a ton of hassle (meaning you can focus on scaring your neighbors), but all you need to recreate it is a khaki mini dress.

Anne and Marilla from 'Anne of Green Gables'

Ken Woroner/Netflix

Anne of Green Gables is one of the stories I hold closest to my heart, and I was so excited to see a duo dressed up as Anne Shirley and Marilla Cuthbert! Especially since it's just an excuse to wear cottagecore dresses all Halloweekend long.

'Everything Everywhere All At Once' Costumes

Allyson Riggs/A24

Everything Everywhere All At Once costumes are so easy to recreate — and this Elvis costume x pink wig combo is simply too iconic to pass up. I'll take any excuse to have a bagel in-hand.

Princess Irulan and a Sandworm from 'Dune 2'

Warner Bros. Pictures

Dune 2 has a lot of iconic duos. Paul and Chani, Feyd Rautha and Baron Vladimir Harkonnen. But the combo I didn't expect to see at Comic Con was Princess Irulan and a sandworm. But now I need this tan dress and chainmail ASAP.

Harry Potter and Hermione

Brit + Co

I also saw plenty of Hogwarts students during my time at NYCC, and Harry and Hermione are always a great choice for a Halloween costume. Grab some Wizarding robes — after you figure out your house of course.

Troy and Gabriela from 'High School Musical'

Disney Channel

Troy and Gabriela might be the easiest couples's costume of all time. An East High jersey and a red mini dress are all you need! (Microphones not needed, but encouraged).

Glen Powell in 'Twisters'

Universal Pictures

White tee? Check. Cowboy hat? Check. Tiny, adorable dog? Check. My friend, you've got yourself a Twisters Halloween costume!

Cinderella

Jonathan Olley/Disney

The 2015 Cinderella rewired my brain, and seeing someone show up to Comic Con in Lily James' gorgeous blue ballgown rewired it all over again!! If the full gown is too much, try our easy DIY Cinderella outfit instead!

'Star Wars'

Brit + Co

Dressing up as a Jedi really just means wearing the most comfy Halloween costume ever. Just grab some leggings and wrap some fabric around your body and you've got an easy Rey costume for the holiday.

Baby Yoda

Disney

And in the Star Wars of it all, I also saw a baby dressed up as Grogu and I couldn't handle the cuteness! This onesie is a must.

The Powerpuff Girls

Amazon

While I saw someone rock a Powerpuff Girls tee, you can also grab a matching set in blue, green, or pink to make this costume more screen-accurate.

A Camp Half-Blood Student From 'Percy Jackson & The Olympians'

Matthias Clamer/Disney

I'd definitely consider Percy Jackson'sCamp Half-Blood my home away from home, and if you snag this camp shirt, you can wear it all the time — not just on Halloween. Grab some cosplay armor and your favorite pair of denim shorts and you can be a camper ready to fight evil!

Check out 65+ Last-Minute Halloween Costume Ideas Perfect For Procrastinators for more!

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One thing every girl needs in her wardrobe is a good, reliable black dress. It's that comfort piece that can carry you through so many seasons, events, and milestones. Whether you're headed to a wedding, a funeral, a bridal shower — truly, you name it! — a classic black dress has you covered.

However, not every black dress is THE black dress. Since there are so many out there, I scoured through hundreds of dresses to find the best of the best — and the ones that are the most loved by fellow shoppers! So, keep reading to see which black dress should be your next trusty purchase!

Ann Taylor

The Scoop Neck Sheath Dress

This is a quintessential little black dress! Between the scoop neck and the knee-length skirt, you could wear this just about anywhere! I definitely see this as your next office siren slay, but I wouldn't blame you if you pulled it out for date night, jury duty, or anything in-between!

J.Crew

J.Crew Fitted Knit Mockneck Dress

A mockneck dress is so perfect for transitional seasons like fall! It covers just enough, while still allowing you to layer your outfit appropriately for the weather. I especially love that this J.Crew dress could easily be worn on your stroll through the farmer's market, or in your next boardroom meeting.

Dôen

Dôen Ischia Dress

If you ever wondered what my most worn item of clothing was, then here you have it! This Dôen dress genuinely makes me want to get dressed every morning — I'm not even kidding. It's an easy outfit to throw on and not have to think about, plus it's insanely comfortable! I honestly feel like I'm wearing pajamas, and I'm sure it'll easily become your most worn piece of clothing as well!

Reformation Arabella Dress

Black midi dresses are a great way to create a solid, comfortable, and cozy outfit for the fall and winter. You just need to accessorize it well with a coat, belt, boots, and slouchy bag. This one from Reformation is super well-loved by many, and I can see why. It's great quality — and it's actually one of their lower-priced items! Score!

Nordstrom

Reformation Mayve Black Dress

A little, cutesy mini dress is all a girl really needs in her wardrobe. Well, that and some adorable accessories to go with it! A mini dress with a matching bag and boots combination is one of my favorite looks in the fall, because it's just so fashionable, and so easy to style.

Target

Wild Fable Women's One Shoulder Maxi Slip Dress

Target never lets me down, so I'm not surprised they have a fantastic black dress for us to pick from today! I love this elegant neckline — it's so sleek and sophisticated! This dress sizing goes up to a 4x, making it a great option for a wide range of bodies, too.

Madewell

Madewell Ruffled One-Shoulder Midi Dress

I can totally picture this little ruffled number at a Friday night wedding! It's a flowy, feminine look that would pair so well with some black heels, silver jewelry, and a sleek low bun. It gives you something elegant to wear with enough movement to totally take over the dance floor throughout the night.

Free People

Free People Butterfly Maxi

I love a good patterned dress, and I've seen this one all over social media lately! It went pretty viral for being extremely flattering, and I've seen it look good on so many different body types. I'm currently been debating picking this one up, and seeing all the rave the reviews for it makes me convinced!

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Somerset Maxi Dress

This dress from Anthropologie has a ton of reviews, so it's safe to say that it is definitely a popular "little black dress" contender. I love how elevated yet casual this dress is at the same time — it gives you so much versatility! You can style it up with heels, or even style it down with sandals, depending on the occasion. The velvet is also fabulous given how perfect it is for the fall transition into winter — it'll be here before we know it!

J.Crew

J.Crew Collection Lace-Trim Slip Dress

This screams "date night dress" loud and clear! I love how sexy and mature this black dress is, complete with lace trim, spaghetti straps, and sleek satin. Grab your strappiest heels and a red lipstick to make it a night to remember!

Anthropologie

Significant Other Long Sleeve Dress

This dress is for all my ladies on the hunt for a modest dress option this wedding season! This long sleeve, maxi dress is a great option — and has plenty of reviews to prove how incredible it is! Personally, I would pair this dress with some statement, sparkly heels to go with the matching clutch as pictured above. You'll be sure to shine in this stunner.

Ann Taylor

Ann Taylor Boatneck Pleat Front Belted Sheath Dress

This is another fantastic, classic black dress. I'd throw this on for a big presentation in front of the C-levels at your office, or accessorize á la Blair Waldorf for a preppy everyday look. Either way, you're sure to look gorgeous!

Reformation

Reformation Rayana Dress

I love having one good, reliable wedding guest dress that can be used just about every time. It seriously helps divert the impending stress of buying a new dress every time you get invited to yet another wedding. Trust me: the invites just keep coming as you get older. This dress is that perfect option, giving you something silky, luxurious, and flattering to wear every time!

Nordstrom

Zoe and Claire Midi Dress

This under-$100 dress is well-loved over on Nordstrom for being insanely versatile and insanely affordable. It could take you straight from the office with its professional and chic cut, right into dinner with the girls after work. I'd pair this with a trench coat and flats, or with heels and a clutch!

Reformation

Reformation Petite Mini Dress

Okay, Kacey Musgaves, we see you! The country star's collection with Reformation has been a hit all over social media, and this dress has been all I'm thinking about for the past couple weeks since it dropped. The coquette, cottagecore style has me in an absolute chokehold this fall and winter.

Amazon

Memoriesea Black Dress

This black dress has over 1,400 reviews singing its praises for how form-fitting and flattering it is. It's seriously ideal for so many different body types, because the slinky and stretchy fabric will accentuate your body and make it look fabulous! I think this is the perfect for any occasion, from a nice date night to a fall wedding.

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We've been talking about discovering the best drugstore mascaras, matte lipsticks and brow gels, but did you know you're supposed to replace your makeup products annually? This is one of those things TikTok gets right because beauty doesn't have an immortal shelf life. If you're getting the ick thinking about that trusty concealer you've used the last few years, we don't blame you!

Before you start rage or panic-cleaning, I chatted with the experts to understand what to replace — and when you should replace them! After hearing from Shawnelle Prestidge (Makeup Artist and Founder/CEO of PRESTIDGE beauté) and Joey Healy(Advanced Esthetican and Founder of Joey Healy Eyebrow Collection), I feel way more confident with my beauty cabinet. Here's what you need to know!

TL;DR

  • You can find a product's PAO (period after opening) date — AKA expiration date — on the back of the packaging.
  • Mascaras and eyeliners have the shortest shelf lives, and they should be replaced around every 3 months.
  • Foundation and concealers should be replaced once a year.
  • Lipsticks can be replaced once a year, but lip glosses can last up to 18 months.
  • Powder-based products can last a year and a half to two years.
  • Nail polishes are good for up to three years.
  • Fragrances start to break down after five years.

How can someone check the expiration date for their makeup?

Rachel Weeks

How many times have you picked up your order from Sephora or Ulta without looking at every detail of your makeup products? We're guilty of being more concerned about adding something to our routine too so don't feel like you're being called out! If you're not 100% sure how to start being mindful about something's shelf life, Prestidge and Healy want to let you in on a little secret.

"It's actually pretty simple. There's something called a PAO symbol, which stands for 'period after opening.' You'll find it on the exterior of makeup products — sometimes on the product itself but always on the box," he says. Wondering what it looks like? Healy says, "The PAO symbol looks like a small jar with a number followed by the letter 'M,' which stands for months. For example, '3M' means three months, '6M' means six months, and '12M' means twelve months."

Prestidge also adds, "Brands often print batch codes that consumers can input into websites like CheckCosmetic to determine the production date." If you've yet to open your product, Healy says "A good rule of thumb is to assume it will last about twice as long. So, if the PAO says '6M,' the product is good for six months after opening and likely up to twelve months if unopened."

Do some makeup products have a longer shelf life than others?

Tima Miroshnichenko

Based on what Healy shares, it's evident different makeup products have longer shelf lives than others, and there are plenty of different factors that determine why. "Products like mascara and eyeliner, which are used around the eyes and tend to be liquids or creams, typically have the shortest shelf life due to their risk of bacterial growth. You should replace them every three months," he says. Excuse us while we collectively clutch our pearls.

Now that we've caught our breath, we can breathe a sigh of relief because Healy says that's the only products we have to replace a little quicker. "Foundation and concealer, which are also liquids, can usually last up to a year. Lipstick is good for about a year, while lip gloss can last around 18 months," he shares. Still, Prestidge feels you should be especially mindful of liquid and cream products because their shorter lifespans are attributed to "their high water content which fosters bacteria."

For those of us who love other face products, we have an even longer time to replace them. "Powders, like brow powders, bronzers, and blushes, have a much longer shelf life — usually a year and a half to two years," Healy explains. Prestidge says this is because "they contain fewer ingredients prone to bacterial growth." And for good measure, Healy shares we can keep nail polish for "three years before it becomes dry and clumpy," and fragrances for "five years before they start to break down."

What are the top signs it's time to replace makeup?

Element5 Digital

Not always good at keeping track of when you bought your makeup? No worries — there are some key signs you can recognize that your makeup is likely expired. Healy points out you'll be able to see that "the formula may have shifted or separated, or the product may have dried." More often than not, both he and Prestidge agree expired products will often smell rancid. "For example, brow gel can smell musty if it's been sitting unused for a year. If you're unsure, it's better to throw it out," encourages Healy.

Not only that, but Prestidge says to pay attention to your product's color. "If the product's color shifts, it's a a sign it's degraded," she says. Also, your skin will let you know when expired products are irritating it. "If you notice itching, redness, or breakouts after using a product, it might be expired, she alerts.

To avoid this, go an extra step further by using a "label maker to note the purchase date on your products, or keep a record in your phone," suggests Healy. This will help lessen the chance you're using something that's full of harmful bacteria.

What can happen if someone keeps using expired makeup?

Polina Tankilevitch

There are some things we'd love for you to be rebellious about, but using old makeup isn't one of them. Healy feels the same way and says, "Using expired makeup increases your risk of infection and irritation, which can lead to unsanitary conditions and even bacterial contamination."

The last thing we want is for you to get sick because you didn't want to let go of something. While symptoms may not always be as severe — Prestige says you could see allergic reactions, redness, or acne — Healy reminds us that "at the worst, it could result in serious infections that require treatment." This could look like developing styes or pink eye if you're "using old mascara or eyeliner," according to Prestidge.

Plus, your makeup won't give you the look you're going for if it's expired. "Expired products may no longer perform as intended, compromising coverage, color, or longevity," she says. Healy's ultimate advice? "Always be cautious, check for the PAO symbol, and replace products when needed."

Beauty Products You Need To Replace Every 3 Months

Amazon

Lancôme Lash Idôle Volumizing Mascara

If you're going to replace your mascara, you need a comparable alternative that's going to give your lashes the length and volume you're used to having. Be sure to add this one to your cart today!

Amazon

Urban Decay Glide-On Eye Pencil

Knowing that eyeliners go near your precious eyes, you'll want something that has a waterproof and smudge-proof formula like Urban Decay's Glide-On Pencil. You'll get up to 24 hours of wear that'll make you glad you decided to go for this option.

Beauty Products To Replace Every One To Two Years

Amazon

ILIA True Skin Serum Foundation

If you're going to wear foundation, you should opt for something that feels like your skin. The medium coverage feels weightless and has a good dose of niacinamide and allantoin in it to help improve your texture over time.

Amazon

e.l.f. Hydrating Camo Concealer

Get all the benefits of a high quality concealer without the luxury price with this $7 formula. It's hydrating so you're less likely to experience any creasing when you're trying to set it with your favorite powder.

Amazon

Revlon ColorStay Suede Ink Lipstick

Give those lips a boost of color with Revlon's ColorStay Suede Ink Lipstick! You're going to get the best wear out of this no-transfer shade that has powerful pigment that doesn't cost more than $15.

Amazon

NYX Professional Makeup Fat Lip Oil

Want juicy lips that don't feel sticky? You have to get this fat lip oil. You'll get up to 12 hours of wear that doesn't require you to reapply it which sounds like the very thing we could all use.

Amazon

IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Pores Pressed Powder

Headed to an event and want an airbrushed look that makes jaws drop? You'll be hard-pressed not to have this pancake-type powder. It visibly minimizes your pores while also soaking up excess oils.

Amazon

Physician's Formula Butter Bronzer

This yummy bronzer had us at hypoallergenic. It's going to give you a sun-kissed glow that'll make people wonder if you've been vacationing during colder months, but you don't have to share your inexpensive secret if you don't want to.

Amazon

Covergirl Trublend So Flushed Blush

You need a blush that's going to work with your makeup and not against it. Instead of spending a fortune on something you're not sure will work, give Covergirl's Trublend product a spin. You'll get amazing pigment that lasts throughout the day and won't irritate your skin.

Browse our Amazon Storefront for more fun beauty buys!

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

The perks of having an older sister means I've been able to ask her all my more embarrassing questionsgrowing up. My whole life, we've chatted about everything from periods to sex to giving birth. Then one day, right before I graduated high school, she gifted me a book that changed everything: Nancy Redd's Body Drama: Real Girls, Real Bodies, Real Issues, Real Answers. It not only helped me understand my body more, but it also helped soothe some of the insecurity I had before my postpartum body developed into what it is today.

I eventually gifted Body Drama to someone else, but I never forgot about how beneficial it was, and I always thought there should be more work like it out in the world. As it turns out, Nancy Redd wasn't done normalizing bodies and questions bout sexual health — the author and Wirecutter journalist just released The Real Body Manual: Your Visual Guide to Health & Wellness! Not only is it a great resource for those who are looking for answers to more specific health questions, but it's something I continue to revisit on the days my insecurity dampens my mood!

I chatted with Redd to understand more about her work — and I came out understanding even more about myself and how I want to help raise the future generation.

The Difference Between 'Body Drama' And 'The Real Body Manual'

Amazon

If you've had the pleasure of sticking your nose in Nancy Redd's Body Drama, you're familiar with how well-researched and thorough it is. In that regard, The Real Body Manual is no different — but Redd highlights it's still a "totally different book." She says, "The world has changed dramatically, and we're talking so much more about bodies, and we see a lot more bodies."

Despite seeing all those "real" bodies on TV and otherwise, women — and people in general — still don't feel great about themselves. According to a 2022 study, 32% of teens had a negative opinion about their acne, while 31% weren't comfortable with their weight. Meanwhile, another study shows that 80% of women have referred to themselves as "fat."

To combat troubling statistics like those, Redd hopesThe Real Body Manual can help. "I think we're all operating with not enough information about the world we live in, and I think the more information we can receive in a safe, educated, medically-accurate space, the better," she explains.

Centre for Ageing Better

Redd also really wanted to write a book that taught both her son and her daughter about their changing bodies — and she feels this is the perfect time for everyone to come together and learn about the way bodies not only look, but function. She likens these lessons to learning about world geography. "We don't just need to know about the small town we live in. We need to know about the state, country, the world-at-large," she stresses. And she thinks The Real Body Manual can help you "learn about your own body, your friends, and the people in society you live with."

If you look at the group of friends I have today, everyone doesn't have the same body shame. One of my friends is a little taller and curvier than I am while another is shorter and rounder. I dealt with acne-prone skin and dark spots while my best friend Cookie didn't really struggle with that. It's honestly rare that everyone will look the same — and that's okay! But learning about what's going on with all of us helps bridge our experiential gaps and creates better shared understanding.

And with that in mind, here are the 4 things I learned about my body — and all bodies — when chatting with Nancy and reading The Real Body Manual.

1. Understanding Your Body Doesn't Have To Look Like Everyone Else's

MART PRODUCTION

I grew up during a time where certain body types were celebrated more than others in media, and it had a negative effect on how I perceived my own body. I believed I wasn't supposed to have stretch marks because video vixens didn't, and became horrified when I discovered them in middle school as a slender girl. Not only that, but I didn't really develop curves until after I gave birth which made me feel like an outlier in my community.

Recent studies found there's a link between teens aged 16-18 years old developing body dysmorphia and social media...which doesn't sound surprising. And while there are countless body positive accounts that also exist — and I really do promise I'm not saying to completely ditch your socials — sometimes you have to take a step away from it (and other influencers) if it's having a negative impact on your self-esteem.

"Some bodies naturally look like those in music videos. I think separating that from being able to find love or have purpose in your life — they're completely separate things," Redd insists. She breaks things down even further by explaining why you not looking a certain way doesn't discount you from enjoying life. "Some people are born with the ability to be tennis stars, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't pick up a tennis racket because you're not Serena Williams."

The main point she drives home is that "every person can have a great time with their bodies" which is why The Real Body Manual reads like an encouraging, evidence-based love letter to readers.

2. Loving Yourself Is A Choice

Anna Tarazevich

Just like I had to make the decision to fully accept the body I have, it's something Nancy says everyone has the ability to do. "It's literally a choice," she says before one of her kids quickly pops into our convo. In a tender moment, she asks her child, "Hello, do you love your body?"

This brief encounter circles back to the reason why The Real Body Manual matters — it opens up these conversations with our kids, offering a tangible resource for others. I know I try to have more conversations like this with my son, and I've even encouraged him to hug himself when he needs a little dose of self love.

"The things that matter — having purpose in life, feeling love, being a good community member — don't have much to do with whether you have hyperpigmentation, freckles, cellulite, etc.," she says. "The more you know from the beginning of your journey that bodies look different, the easier it is for you to accept [yourself]. But if the only bodies you're seeing are sexualized in pornography, videos, and magazines, you don't have a real basis."

It's one of the biggest reasons she intended for The Real Body Manual to be a visual guide.

3. Your Naked Body Is Beautiful

cottonbro studio

"I really like showing people what the body actually looks like for the most part," Redd says. Yeah, that's right — The Real Body Manual features real people's bodies, not just illustrations. In doing so, she says, "Everyone can see someone who resembles them." It doesn't matter if you're heavy-set, a person with different sized breasts, or anything in-between. The point is that you'll be able to find yourself somewhere in The Real Body Manual.

My mother told me how little information her own mom shared with her about bodies. Because of that, my mom always stressed that she wanted my sister and I to have access to whatever information we needed. She wanted us to be informed, and never inhibited by her own lack of comfort over a topic. But not all parents feel comfortable sharing with their kids.

Redd says, "I don't think it was done with malice. I think people are just working with whatever they have which is not a lot." She further notes people have chosen to refer to genitals as "down there" for both men and women instead of saying the proper term for them for their autonomy. I'll be honest — growing up in a religious background often means sexual shame was attached to very normal things like breasts and penises.

Not everyone was on board with me telling my toddler he has a penis instead of saying "pee pee" — or not talking about it at all, if we're being honest. But I wanted him to feel comfortable with what he was born with, and to know that his dad having the same anatomy is normal. "We just don't use the proper names for things which increases this shroud of secrecy about it. We aren't taught health literacy," Redd says.

4. 'The Real Body Manual' Is A Must-Have For Pre-Teens, Teens, And Adults

Yan Krukau

Funnily enough, Redd informs me that October is actually Health Literacy Month, making all this really round out. We should know what's going on with our bodies, whether it's the proper terminology, what changes we're going through, what we can look like. Ignorance only makes our experiences more confusing and harder — especially when we're young and probably have a million different questions.

She explains that if you ask people specifics like 'How does a period work,' then they may not know the answer. "The same goes for if you ask what's the difference between a freckle and a mole," Redd explains. "It may not seem like these things are a big deal, but when something goes wrong, you need to know 'I need to get this thing checked out.'"

Information is power, and when armed with information about our bodies we can lead safer, healthier lives. Instead of wondering why we don't talk about things enough, Redd decided to take the bull by the horns and talk about them — and she thinks you should talk about them, even (and sometimes especially) when they're uncomfortable. She says, "Any time you feel shame or discomfort discussing your body, that's a sign you don't have enough information."

If you find yourself unable to ask other people questions, but want to start feeling comfortable in your body, I highly recommend that you read both Body Drama and The Real Body Manual because they're equipped with detailed explanations — and helpful imagery — about how bodies actually look, work, and feel.

Buy 'The Real Body Manual' Here!

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The Real Body Manual

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