Before the Apple Watch: A Brief History

Remember back in the day when the only thing your watch could tell you was the time? No phone calls. No GPS. Nothing. But let’s keep in mind that when watches were in their infancy, these things were really high tech. 8,000 years ago, some brilliant person decided to make sun dials for people’s wrists, and since that first wearable, we’ve been getting techier with time. Over at Mr. Porter, they tracked some of the biggest timepiece advancements in designer history.

1. Watches went from pockets to wrists. In the 17th century, pocket watches were the way to go. But in 1903, wristwatches got a major advance. Wire lugs attached the face to the strap in a whole new, sleek way. Louis Cartier’s watch is known as the world’s first to flaunt this timeless design.

2. The first waterproof watch was luxurious. These days, it’s kind of expected that your watch is waterproof, but Rolex released the first waterproof piece in 1926 — it was called Oyster. To prove it, endurance swimmer Mercedes Gleitze swam the English Channel wearing a gold Rolex around her neck.

3. The pedometers in your fitness gadgets are old news. Pedometers were first counting the steps of President Thomas Jefferson in 1788, but they really picked up steam in 1965.

4. Digital watches were kind of a big deal. In 1969, Seiko unveiled their 35 SQ, which was the first-ever electronic quartz watch. People loved it so much, mechanical watches got old fast. Hamilton’s first LED watch in 1970 was priced at $2,100 — sound familiar, Apple Watch buyers?

5. It’s been a long time coming. It’s hard to look at a “vintage style” digital watch and think, “Wow, that’s pretty high tech,” but at the time, it totally was. 30 years from now, we’ll probably be telling time with wrist implants that glow from under our skin, and we’ll be thinking, “Apple Watch! Who wants to have to wear their electronics? That’s so 2015.”

What’s one old-fashioned watch feature that you love? Let’s talk time in the comments!

The easiest way to update your style this summer? Add a few extra-trendy accessories to your wardrobe staples and last-season essentials. While we're all for investing in the aforementioned timeless pieces, high price points don't always make sense for bold trends that are meant to be fun, not permanent. That's where Amazon comes in. If you know where to look (and we do), practically all the biggest trends can be found on the mega-retailer, making summer style accessible at every price point. Even a t-shirt and jeans can be transformed by slipping on acrylic rings (a major must-have right now), grabbing a bag in a summery new hue, and adding a cool pair of sunglasses. To upgrade your closet for the season, simply add a few of these playful picks to your cart.


Vintage Acrylic Rings ($14): Funky acrylic rings are everywhere right now, and there's no harm trying out the bold trend when they're so affordable.

Colorful Resin Rings ($10): For a slightly more subtle approach to the acrylic ring trend, these pretty colors are easier to style for everyday wear.

JW Pei Pouch Bag ($68): Combine a pastel palette with ruched shoulder style and you've found yourself the perfect summer bag.

Cloud Chain Bag ($30): Chunky chains are another big trend for summer, and the bold strap makes the popular cloud clutch so much easier to carry around.

Acrylic Beaded Bag ($27): Vintage beaded bags can be hard to find, but this adorable style still looks one-of-a-kind. Add to any outfit for a whimsical, summer look.

Vintage Aviator Sunglasses ($14): Vintage-style aviator sunglasses are everywhere right now, and this affordable version makes it easy to join in on the trend.

Driving Rectangle Sunglasses ($12): Tinted lenses are a lot easier to pair with face masks than all-black shades, so it's no surprise fun colors are the must-have style this summer.

Chain Belt ($16): Chain belts are a surprisingly cool way to dress up your athleisure pieces, like biker shorts and unitards.

Shower Slides ($17): Forget dad shoes — puffy slides are the new ugly-cute footwear trend to slip on for errands and workout classes.

Ruched Slides ($25): If you're looking for a less casual, yet still comfortable sandal for summer, ruched slides will check both boxes off for you.

WAYF Terry Bucket Hat ($45): Terry cloth is another emerging trend for spring and summer. Scoop up this cute terry hat version now so you wear it all season long.

Dad Baseball Cap ($10): You can never go wrong with a classic baseball cap. Add a new color to your rotation that goes with the rest of your seasonal hues.

Flower Pearl Necklace ($11): You'll be surprised how quickly you can transform an outfit for the warmer months by simply adding on this playful, throwback necklace.

Bohemian Bead Pearl Necklace ($15): You may have seen mixed metal necklaces everywhere for fall and winter, but this half-pearl, half-beaded necklace has reimagined the trend for summer.

Smiley Toggle Necklace ($24): After a long year, the cheer-y, smiley jewelry trend is a more than welcome addition to our wardrobes. When paired with a pearl chain and toggle clasp, you have the ultimate statement necklace for summer.

Cotton Crew Socks ($17): If you're embracing the socks with sandals trend, these colorful crew socks are the perfect choice. Of course, you can always wear them with your favorite sneakers, but it never hurts to have a fresh batch.

Crystal Bracelet Watch ($45): This retro-style watch will immediately elevate your outfit (without the investment required by most watches). Pair it with chunky gold bracelets for an even bolder look.

Tortoise Claw Clip ($12): Of all the Y2K trends returning for this season, claw clips may be the most sophisticated and functional of them all. Keep one handy to clip back your hair whenever you need.

Mini Acetate Clips ($10): Alternatively, use these colorful mini clips for a fun way to pull back shorter hair (or your outgrown curtain bangs) or experiment with more Y2K hair styles.

Tag us with all your summer fashion on Instagram!

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

As 1923 comes to a close, you might be wondering, What should I watch after 1923? Well you've come to right place because on the latest episode of Yap City, Brit + Co hosts Kayla and Chloe (that's me!) chat about the best Western TV shows to add to your watchlist. From When Calls The Heart for romance fans to Billy the Kid for Tom Blyth lovers, these shows can't be missed.

Here are the best Western shows to watch after you finish 1923 season 2.

What should I watch after 1923?

There are plenty of TV shows any 1923 fan will love (beyond 1883 and Yellowstone of course!), and Brit + Co hosts Chloe and Kayla dive into all the Western, romantic, and sci-fi shows you can stream right now. Keep reading for 5 of our favorites.

5 TV Shows To Watch After You Finish '1923' Season 2

Emerson Miller/Paramount+

Landman — Stream on Paramount+

In this Taylor Sheridan show, crisis executive Tommy Norris is fighting to secure his company's spot in the oil business during a fuel boom. Easier said than done. 1923 fans, keep your eyes peeled for Michelle Randolph!

Landman is on Paramount+ and stars Billy Bob Thornton, Ali Larter, Michelle Randolph, Jacob Lofland, Kayla Wallace, James Jordan, Mark Collie, Paulina Chávez, Demi Moore, Jon Hamm, Andy Garcia, and Michael Peña.

Prime Video

Outer Range — Stream on Prime Video

If you like your Westerns with a side of sci-fi, tune into Outer Range. This show follows the Abbott family, who are trying to protect their ranch while also reconciling their daughter-in-law's disappearance. But things get even crazier when a black void appears.

Outer Range is on Prime Video and stars Josh Brolin, Lili Taylor, Noah Reid, and Imogen Poots.

Hallmark Media

When Calls the Heart — Stream on Hallmark+

1923 fans who can't get enough of Spencer & Alex's romance will want to watch When Calls the Heart, which follows teacher Elizabeth Thatcher as she relocates to the small town of Coal Valley, and faces all kinds of love, loss, and adventure.

When Calls the Heart is on Hallmark+ and stars Erin Krakow, Kevin McGarry, Pascale Hutton, Jaeda Lily Miller, Kavan Smith, Andrea Brooks, Chris McNally, Martin Cummins, Viv Leacock, and Jack Wagner.

David Brown/MGM+

Billy The Kid — Stream on MGM+

Before he became the infamous outlaw, Billy was just a kid who experienced all kinds of heartbreak, fell in love, and got into plenty of trouble. Watch our interview with star Tom Blyth!

Stream Billy The Kid on MGM+ and see Tom Blyth, Eileen O'Higgins, Daniel Webber, and Alex Roe.

Ursula Coyote/Netflix

Godless — Stream on Netflix

Godless is the perfect show for 1923 fans because it reorients the cowboy narrative we're all familiar with. It follows a supposed traitor named Roy who's chased by a gang of outlaws to La Belle, a town nearly entirely governed by women after a mining accident killed almost all the husbands, fathers, and brothers.

Godless is on Netflix and stars Jack O'Connell, Michelle Dockery, Scoot McNairy, Merritt Wever, and Thomas Brodie-Sangster.

Will there be another series after 1923?

Paramount

There are a few more Yellowstone spinoffs on their way! In addition to the new show The Madison with Michelle Pfeiffer, it looks like we're also getting a spinoff about Beth Dutton and Rip Wheeler.

What order to watch Yellowstone 1883 and 1923?

Emerson Miller/Paramount+

If you're new to the Yellowstone universe, you can watch the shows in chronological order or in release order, depending on how you want to experience the story. If you want to watch chronologically (my personal favorite), watch the shows in the following order:

  • 1883
  • 1923
  • Yellowstone

But if you want to watch in release order, watch this way:

  • Yellowstone
  • 1883
  • 1923

Check out even more Western show recommendations with our 17 TV Shows For Yellowstone Fans!

This post has been updated.

If you're ready to jolt your productivity, we've got some quick little tips and tricks for Y-O-U. This list from Ethos3 compiles 33 brilliant ideas from people who know what they're talking about. We've picked out a few of our favorite productivity tips that we want to use in our daily routines, but make sure you check out the whole infographic here. Whether you're facing a big project at work or are a creative looking for inspiration, productivity equals happiness. And these tips will revamp your day and let you spend more time doing the things you love.

Know Your Peak Performance Hours: The genius 30/30 app operates on the idea that highest productivity happens when you focus on a single task, completely uninterrupted, for half an hour.


Keep It Simple: Don't over-commit to long work hours, because you'll just lose inspiration and stress yourself out. Makers stay creative on the daily by scheduling time for hobbies and creative projects.

Creative Space: We're not going to brag, but we're kind of pros on the whole workspace front. From organizational hacks to these workplace essentials we've got everything you need for the most productive office ever.

Sleep Habits: For obvious reasons, we're totally behind the nap idea. And according to this infographic on the sleep habits of creative people, naps are definitely part of the creative process.

Morning Routines: You probably don't want to hear this, but getting up early will give you extra time to get everything done in a more leisurely manner. Don't worry, we've got a few tips and tricks on how to become a morning person.

Make That List: Whether you prefer an app or a good old-fashioned paper to-do list, the mere act of writing things down will inspire you to start checking them off.

Plan Ahead: Take some time on Sunday to plan out your entire week. Write down things that must be accomplished this week and then figure out how to divide it up into manageable pieces.

Make It a Habit: Instead of putting “be creative" on your to-do list every day, just make it a habit by scheduling it in at the same time every day (see Morning Routines!).

Eat Breakfast: How many times do you have to be told not to skip breakfast? It is good for your health and for your productivity, and we've got some amazing breakfast ideas that can be made in no time. There is literally no excuse left.

Feeling inspired yet? Let us know how you use these productivity tips @BritandCo!

(h/t Ethos3)

This article was published in March 2015 and has been updated.

There's just something so alluring about the cottagecore aesthetic. It represents a dreamy return to simpler times when fresh-baked bread was left to cool on windowsills and kids frolicked in meadows for fun.

This romanticized picture of rural life has inspired everything from fashion to home decor and even baby names. These monikers are full of nostalgia and often draw inspiration from nature, literature, and the past.

They're also soft-sounding and reminiscent of the countryside. So, if you're on the hunt for a baby name that feels poetic and peaceful, here are some cottagecore-inspired choices that might just capture your heart.

Scroll to see all the darling cottagecore baby names we adore for 2025!

1. Faye

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The name Faye has a delicate charm that makes it seem as if it were plucked straight from a fairytale. It literally means "fairy" in Old French, too, and calls to mind images of enchanted forests that are home to woodland creatures.

Aside from its more mystical appeal, Faye has roots in Middle English and Latin, where it signifies "belief" and "loyalty." So, along with being a bit whimsical, this pick is perfect for a devoted girl with a free spirit.

2. Jasper

Ksenia Chernaya

Jasper sounds warm and deep, which is why it really fits in with the cottagecore aesthetic. Persian in origin, the name means "treasurer" and also represents a beautiful gemstone.

And historically, Jasper was one of the Three Wise Men who journeyed to Bethlehem, adding some wisdom and tradition. This is a fitting choice for a boy who's strong but still in touch with his soft side.

3. Maisie

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Derived from the Scottish form of Margaret, Maisie means "pearl" and can symbolize your small yet precious baby girl.

This name is sweet and vintage but maintains a playful and modern appeal. Maisie truly feels like the name of a little one who loves picking wildflowers and staying in touch with their surroundings.

4. Lyle

Helena Lopes

Lyle has a quiet allure that suits the tranquil spirit of cottagecore well. This name has Norman French origins, meaning "island" or "from the island," and evokes pictures of nature.

While Lyle might seem soft, understated, and gentle, it's equally strong and sounds like the name of a boy who spends his mornings reading beneath old oak trees and afternoons exploring the world around him.

5. Dahlia

olia danilevich

Graceful and elegant, Dahlia is derived from the Swedish word "dal," meaning "valley." The flower itself is also known for its vibrant colors and intricate petals, which symbolize creativity and inner grace.

Dahlia feels like a great name for a girl who's resilient, loves the environment, and feels most at home in serene settings.

6. Miles

Вальдемар

With Latin and German origins, Miles means "soldier" or "merciful" and balances strength with kindness. It's this juxtaposition that makes the name feel old-worldly and timeless.

Miles is simultaneously refined and approachable, making it ideal for a baby boy who will come to appreciate life's simple pleasures.

7. Rosemary

Bárbara Marques

Rosemary is botanical, harking back to the herb, so it's a pretty irresistible choice for plenty of cottagecore parents. Derived from the Latin "rosmarinus," meaning "dew of the sea," this name is steeped in history, romance, and natural beauty.

It's also been long associated with remembrance and love. As a vintage pick, Rosemary epitomizes the cottagecore lifestyle.

8. River

Emma Pender Photography

Finally, a few names are able to capture the spirit of nature quite like River, which embodies movement and serenity. It's traditionally been more common for boys but is also rising in popularity for baby girls.

River symbolizes growth and change, so it's a wonderful reminder for any child to embrace the journey and go with the flow.

Looking for more baby & parenting advice? Sign up for our newsletter!

Brandon Sklenar has some pretty epic love stories under his belt. 1923's Alex and Spencer and It Ends With Us' Lily and Atlas are two iconic couples in pop culture right now, and I'm adding Violet and Henry from Drop (premiering in theaters April 11) to the list. What starts out as a fun first date turns terrifying when anonymous drops to her phone demand Violet kill Henry before the date's over. Whoa. That's intense.

But despite the fact this is probably the worst first date in recent cinema, Brandon Sklenar and White Lotus star Meghann Fahy's chemistry is so electric that I'll be referring to the movie as a scary rom-com from here on out. Naturally, I have to ask Brandon if he'd ever do a classic rom-com!

Here's what 1923's Brandon Sklenar had to say about starring in a rom-com in Brit + Co's Drop interview. Plus, Meghann Fahy's best dating advice!

Is Brandon Sklenar in a rom-com?

"It's possible. I'm not saying no, but it's possible," he teases. "I'd love to do a comedy at some point. Everything I have in the future is very far from, and very far from romance, but I'd say it's possible. Yeah, never say never."

As far as his dream comedy goes, Brandon tells Brit + Co, "I love Peter Sellers and I love like Chevy Chase movies. I'm like I'm a very physical guy and I'd love to be able to do something just absurd like grounded but completely absurd."

What have Meghann Fahy said about Brandon Sklenar?

The best ensemble comedies and rom-coms always have incredible casts, but I can't imagine a better duo than Brandon and Meghann. They make an incredible team in Drop, and Meghann admits if she found herself in the same situation as Violet, she wouldn't hesitate to tap Brandon in to help her.

"If sh—t went down, he'd be a good guy to be with," she says. "I feel like you got some real survival skills."

"I could do a couple of things, but most of that I learned from my friends of mine who are even gnarlier than me," he says. "I take little credit. I mean, you learn everything from somewhere, right?"

"I mean, I'm pretty good with like hand to hand combat," he continues, before Meghann tells him he's good at intimidation and he quite literally goes, "Grr, scary face. Spooky."

What is a good first date conversation?

But, more often than not, a bad date won't have any danger...just awkwardness. "I think if you're on a bad date and you realize 'I'm probably not gonna end up with this person,' just try to enjoy yourself anyway and make it about just trying to connect with somebody," Brandon says. "Just just get to know somebody for the sake of getting to know someone."

When it comes to ice breaker questions and conversation starters, Meghann loves "a final meal [question] like last meal, appetizer, main, dessert, drinks, sides, the whole bit."

"What did you want to be when you were really little growing up?" Brandon adds. "Dream scenario." (Let the record show Brandon has admitted he loved Batman growing up, and he's a leading fancast for the DCU. I'm totally here for it).

Can't get enough of this duo? Here's What Brandon Sklenar Said About Potential It Starts With Us Movie, and the first look at Meghann Fahy's Sirens on Netflix!

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.