The 1 Hack You Need to Know to Give Short Hairstyles Life

Misty Spinney
Feb 09, 2016

I’ve been styling above-the-shoulder short hair on myself for a while now, and if you’re anything like me, there are usually two types of styling sessions you’re used to. One is the gather-up-your-products-and-tools-and-bunker-down kind — you know, the time-consuming sesh you need to make sure short hair looks just right. The other is, well, wake up and go. If you’ve let your bedhead do the talking a few more times than you’d like to admit, try this hairstyling hack the next time you wanna sport an elegant style that’s quick and easy: backcombing. It’s an approach that will add long-lasting lift to your rotation of go-to hairstyles that you can complete in a matter of minutes. In other words, this done-in-minutes technique will give your hair life. Short-haired girls, add this to your bag of beauty tricks ASAP.

Prep: Center Part + Back Comb

Part your hair in the center or wherever you feel comfortable. Follow this backcombing tutorial to add texture to your hair that will help hold your hair in place as you style it as well as give you extra height.

Step 1: Begin Dutch Braid

Start with one side of your hair and pick up a section starting at your part. Begin your Dutch braid, pulling hair into the braid by crossing strands under each other instead of over each other. As you go, pick up new pieces of hair and incorporate into the braid. You’re essentially making a Dutch French braid, but you’re only adding hair into the braid from the section of hair that is along your hairline, not the other side of the braid.

Step 2: Finish Dutch Braid + Pin in Place

Once you get to the end of the braid, pull the braid behind your head and pin in place with a couple bobby pins.

Step 3: Braid the Other Side + Pin Hair All Around

Repeat the braid on the other side and then pin in place behind your head. Depending on the length of your hair, you may need to pin up the middle section of your hair in the back to bridge the gap between the two braids you already pinned. To do this, simply use a cross pin technique: Place a bobby pin over the section you wish to secure and then use another bobby pin over it in an “X” shape to keep it in place and to make it look cute ;)

Step 4: Loosen + Texturize

Now use your fingers to gently pull the strands of your braid apart to loosen and add more texture to your braid.

Then go around your hair and pull out little strands of hair from what you pinned in place. This will create a slightly disheveled messy finish, and that is exactly what you’re going for!

To finalize this look, you will use the end of a rat tail comb, or you can use the end of a thin makeup brush if you don’t have one (but seriously get one if you don’t)! Place the end of the comb or whatever device you can use inside the braid and carefully pull out strands of hair.

The back is simple, messy and pretty!

Pretty from all angles!

Five steps, 10 minutes and you have a super simple look that can be paired with jeans and t-shirt or take it up a notch and rocked with your fancy pants! Point is, this look is versatile and universal. Yay for short-haired gals, although long haired-ladies can easily make a couple adjustments to make this look work for them as well. Remember these are just guidelines, not rules! Have fun and be creative.

Tag us in your Insta photos so we can see what you create!

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8 "Outdated" Hairstyles That Aren’t Doing You Any Favors In 2025

Hair trends come and go, but some of them should remain frozen in time forever. It's not that we think you'll be making a major faux pas, but we want to see you look your best! There are so many cute hairstyles that will suit your face much better than a mullet would, but that's not the only trend you should bury in the sands of time! Here are the outdated hairstyles what you should avoid at home, at the salon, and really anywhere right now.

Scroll to see the 8 outdated hairstyles it's officially time to retire for good!

Brit + Co

1. Deep Side Parts

Coming in at #1 on our "outdated" list are deep side parts. They used to something we admired on everyone from Amy Winehouse to Katy Perry, but now they remind us of the questionable choices we made in our early 20s.

cottonbro studio

2. Space Buns

Princess Leia may look great wearing her space buns in the Star Wars franchise, but we think you shouldn't bring them into 2025. The last time someone on our team wore them was between 2018 or 2019, so that should say a lot.

We don't say this often, but let's wear hairstyles that don't revert us back to our grade school days.

Brit + Co

3. Side Braid

Unless you're trying to relive your childhood days or want to mimic Blake Lively's character in It Ends With Us, this outdated hairstyle shouldn't be on your list of favorite looks to wear. There's other braided styles you can wear that are way more stylish anyway!

Brit + Co

4. Super Visible Highlights

Whether you're getting microlinks or a sew-in, wearing super visible highlights in 2025 is truly outdated. It's one thing to switch up your style, but it's another to let the world know how much you love a good contrast by letting your hair scream it from the mountaintops.

Keep your color of choice seamless this year if you decide to get a color service.

Brit + Co

5. '60s Up-Do

There's a time and place for everything, including updos that resemble what was popular during the '60s. If you must wear this style, go for a more modern take that doesn't feel as stiff. You might want to update your bangs too.

Brit + Co

6. Wand Curls

When's the last time you heard someone mention this once popular style? Chances are you haven't because it's a reminder of how long it took to achieve overly done curls. Depending on the size you wanted, you could spend anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour on this style. Oh, and it was mandatory to wear the accompanying glove that came with the 'wand' or else you risked burning your fingers!

No thank you!

Brit + Co

7. Barbie Bleach

Remember when it was a cardinal sin to show up to the beach without "effortlessly wavy" hair? It seems more people are moving away from that and embracing 'messy' buns and the beauty of textured hair. It's one thing if you hair naturally looks like this, but it's another if you try to make your hair conform to this style just because it's "on trend."

Newsflash: you don't have to force your hair to do something it doesn't want to! (And not everyone has to look like Serena van der Woodsen!)

Brit + Co

8. Millennial Pouf

Oof, how can we forget the millennial pouf? This was one of our go-to hairstyles that we swore we'd always wear. Little did we know how much we'd avoid it once we graduated from college.

It's not the most annoying style, but we're throwing this one in the "outdated" bag so we can't even pretend we're going to start wearing it again.

Want to know what else is "outdated?" Revisit the nail trends you shouldn't be wearing in 2025!

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Trader Joe’s Mini Tote Bags Are Rumored To Return Next Month – In 4 Adorable Spring Colors!

Trader Joe’s always knows exactly how to get us excited for new products – and this time, it’s rumored that the grocer is bringing back their viral Mini Canvas Tote Bags in four brand-new colors that are all perfect for spring! Speculated to hit stores sometime next month, you’re not going to want to miss this TJ’s drop.

Here’s everything you need to know about the return of Trader Joe’s Mini Canvas Tote Bags for spring 2025.

@traderjoesobsessed

Trader Joe’s fan account @traderjoesobsessed first circulated the rumor that the Mini Canvas Tote Bags are set to return to Trader Joe’s this spring.

“Rumor has it that the pastel mini canvas bags will be here in April. Usually, they do release these on a Wednesday. How excited are you for these colors? I can’t wait to customize them!” the caption reads.

Another source, @zuncola, hinted that the totes could hit stores as early as April 8 or 9.

@traderjoesobsessed

It appears there will be four different colorways in this season’s Mini Canvas Tote Bag drop: pink, blue, green, and purple. But they’re not your ordinary pinks, blues, greens, and purples – per the rumors, they’ll come in pastel hues that all look stunning. From carrying your quick grocery hauls to toting each and every picnic essential you’ll need this spring, these bags get it all done in sheer style.

Trader Joe’s

In the past, the Trader Joe’s Mini Canvas Tote Bags have been a limited-time item that garnered plenty of attention from shoppers, even sparking a massivefrenzy inside stores with customers racing to snag their own tote. Some TJ’s locations have also placed a buying limit for bags like these, typically 1 per customer. Based on the reception of the rumors for this year, you’ll likely want to plan when and how you’re going to get your hands on one.

Instagram

Tons of Trader Joe’s fanatics sounded off in the comments of @traderjoesobsessed’s post about the rumors of the Mini Canvas Tote Bags’ return:

“Stoppppp no way!! 😱😱” one person wrote.

‘Yes! These will make great bags for Easter gifts,” another said.

“Looks like I need to buy camping gear cause I'll be in that line before sunrise 🤩,” one more fan commented.

Reddit

In previous years, the Mini Canvas Tote Bags went for $2.99 too $3.99, and we expect this pastel-filled drop to cost about the same.

Reddit

Though there’s no official release date for the mini totes, they’re speculated to hit shelves sometime in April 2025, possibly the 8th or 9th. Stay tuned here for more updates!

Subscribe to our newsletter to stay on top of all the best Trader Joe's news!

This post has been updated.

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18 Flattering Gray Bob Hairstyles For Every Face Shape

We get it — you've probably been eyeing the scissors all year, looking to refresh your gorgeous gray hair with a new hairstyle...and wondering if anyone will be able to tell if you cut a few inches off yourself. While we can't tell you that you should become an at-home stylist unless you're 100% confident of your skills, we can share some super cute haircut inspo with you! From cute bobs with bangs to a longer 'lob,' these gray bob hairstyles styles will be give you a "new look, new me" feel as you head into 2025!

Scroll down for all the best gray bob hairstyles to show to your stylist at your next salon appointment!

A Chic Gray Bob 

Ivan Samkov

Go for the classic style by asking for this exact cut at the salon. This shape makes everyone looks amazing and is probably one of the most versatile gray bobs that can inspire your next trip to the salon. To maintain it, you'll want to protect your hair with a scarf at night. During the day, make sure you use a heat protectant before curling it with one of your flat irons.

Getty Images

This blunt hairstyle looks SO good with glasses, too! Pair it with a statement lipstick, and you're really making some stylish moves!

A Gray Lob

Bobs can be as short or long as you want as evidenced by this longer 'lob.' This is for the person who doesn't want to have hair like Rapunzel, but still wants to maintain some of their length. If you ever want to go for a shorter look with this style, all you have to do is pin curl the ends of your hair.

MART PRODUCTION

I love how this cut cascades with naturally curly or wavy hair!

Anastasia Shuraeva

I mean, look how flattering this is!

Getty Images

Plus, this slightly shorter length can really add some body to the ends!

A Bob With Bangs

Getty Images

Listen, a bob and bangs are a match made in heaven. I don't make the rules — it just works beautifully! If you're looking to really frame your face, this is a really great option! And look at how it makes your gorgeous features stand out even more!

A Perfectly Curled Under Gray Bob 

Getty Images

Then again, you can keep it short and simple with this perfectly curled gray bob. Whether you consider yourself bold or not for rocking this style, it's one of those looks that'll stand out if you add a beautiful balayage to it.

Did we just give you an idea? We think so!

Getty Images

And with the round glasses to boot? Yeah, this woman screams, "I look good, and I cannot be stopped!"

Kampus Production

This look can also add a lot of softness to your aura, too. Really love how it hugs her face here!

A Shorter Gray Bob With Side Bangs

Moe Magners

The best thing about shorter hairstyles are their ability to highlight someone's features. If you have an oval face with high cheekbones, this style will amplify them. Not only that, but you'll have fun parting your hair to create side bangs.

Tip: Use a small flat iron to create depth without over-curling your hair.

Moe Magners

Look at how this cut angles perfectly with her face! So sleek!

A Stacked Or Graduated Bob 

Antoni Shkraba

Another chic bob to wear is a stacked or graduated bob. Similar to the stylish woman in the picture, we imagine this hairstyle is for the woman who loves letting her personality shine through whatever she's wearing. We're jumping the gun, but this is one of those hairstyles you'll have fun planning outfits around.

Getty Images

I just love how this frames and elongates her face! The hairstyle makes her look refreshed and young, giving features like her eyes a chance to really shine!

A Gray Wavy Bob

Vlada Karpovich

This is the perfect length and shape to make your natural curls or waves shine. You won't even have to worry about curling your hair with this style because it doesn't require you to. If you're not sure what to use on your hair, we recommend using products from Sienna Naturals to help with the overall health of it.

Rene Terp

This hairstyle adds so much movement to your look!

Anastasia Shuraeva

You don't have to have such exaggerated waves, either. Some subtle waviness to your gray bob hairstyle is just enough to add that beautiful movement!

A Fully Curly Bob

Getty Images

Curly hair don't care? A gray bob hairstyle is PERFECT for you. This look says you're fun, fabulous, and ready to have a good time. Plus, it's yet another look that goes oh-so well with your statement glasses — the perfect chic look, if I do say so myself!

Follow us on Pinterest to find even more hair inspo!

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Prime Video’s Steamy Remake Of This Reese Witherspoon Classic Just Got Cancelled

The only thing better than spending two hours with your favorite fictional characters? Spending 7 hours with them! Cruel Intentions (you know, the 1999 classic starring Reese Witherspoon, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Ryan Phillippe, and Selma Blair) turned 25 last year, and Prime Video released a brand new TV show inspired by the movie. The series featured a fresh twist that will keep even the most dedicated Cruel Intentions fan on their toes — but unfortunately the show was cancelled after just one season.

Here's everything you need to know about Prime Video's Cruel Intentions TV show — including why you should watch it despite its cancellation.

Why was Cruel Intentions cancelled?

Prime Video hasn't made an official announcement about why the series was cancelled, but per Variety, Cruel Intentions didn't make it onto the Nielsen Top 10 Streaming charts. Plus it only got a 24 percent Rotten Tomato score. Cruel indeed.

Where can I watch Cruel Intentions TV show?

Cruel Intentions Release Date

All eight episodes of Cruel Intentions dropped on Prime Video November 21, 2024. That means you can watch them all in one sitting (and then watch them again...and again). Is there anything better than watching a new TV show with a cranberry cocktail? I think not.

Did they remake Cruel Intentions?

Jasper Savage/Prime Video

Cruel Intentions Plot

Yes, the Cruel Intentions TV show is a remake of the 1999 movie! This new adaptation takes place at a prestigious college in Washington, D.C. Step-siblings Caroline Merteuil and Lucien Belmont are determined to stay on top of the food chain — especially after a dangerous frat hazing threatens to eliminate the school's Greek Life. The best way to keep the sororities and fraternities on campus? Seduce the most unexpected sorority sister: Vice President's daughter Annie Grover.

Who's in Cruel Intentions?

Jasper Savage/Prime Video

Cruel Intentions Cast

Prime Video's new Cruel Intentions is full of standout actors, and I can't wait to see their moment in the spotlight! The cast includes:

  • Sarah Catherine Hook as Caroline Merteuil
  • Zac Burgess as Lucien Belmont
  • Savannah Lee Smith as Annie Grover
  • Sara Silva as Cece Carroway
  • John Harlan Kim as Blaise Powell
  • Khobe Clarke as Scott Russell
  • Sean Patrick Thomas as Professor Hank Chadwick
  • Brooke Lena Johnson as Beatrice Worth

The original Cruel Intentions movie stars Sarah Michelle Gellar, Ryan Phillippe, Reese Witherspoon, and Selma Blair. Selma told Variety on October 24 that even though she hadn't been asked to join the series, she'd love to make an appearance. "Maybe there will be a cameo or something," she says. "I’m excited to see it.”

Let us know on Instagram what you thought about the Cruel Intentions TV show, and check out the March TV shows you absolutely can't miss this month.

This post has been updated.

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These 24 Green Cocktails For St. Patrick's Day Are Full Of Luck

St. Patrick's Day means green is queen. We're talking green recipes, green outfits, and green cocktails! Now that you've got the recipe for pot of gold cupcakes, it's finally time to find the perfect green drink for St. Patty's day to pair them with! With our list of green cocktails, you'll be full of luck come March 17.

Find every spirited cocktail worth celebrating here – from Grasshoppers to green margaritas, we're here to make sure your St. Patty's is nothing but fun!

What is the most popular drink for St. Patrick's Day?

Denys Gromov / PEXELS

Green beer, Guinness, and green cocktails made with creme de menthe and Irish cream are the most popular drinks to have for St. Patrick's Day. You'll see celebrations chock full of themed foods and drinks, especially green in color. We love a good cocktail, so enjoying a green spirit like the ones listed is our favorite way to party!

What do Irish people drink on St. Patrick's Day?

RDNE Stock Project / PEXELS

Among a tall pint of Guinness, Irish people typically indulge in local ciders, Dublin Mules, Irish whiskey shots, and Black and Blacks for St. Patrick's Day.

What is the most popular cocktail in Ireland?

Arina Krasnikova / PEXELS

For many, the Irish Maid is one of the best cocktails in Ireland. It's made with quality whiskey, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Other popular cocktails include the Irish Espresso Martini, Irish Eyes, and Irish Sour.

Green Beer

We had to go there. This is one of the easiest and most quintessential American-Irish drinks. (via Brit + Co)

Cucumber Gin Slushie

Brit + Co

This green slushy makes our hearts soar since you only need 6 ingredients for the recipe. This is one of the best St. Patrick's Day cocktails you can make if it's hot outside on the holiday. (via Brit + Co)

St. Patrick's Day Green Shots

Sarah Anderson

Okay – this green cocktail is actually a dessert shot, but we had to include its yumminess. You'll build a chocolatey Oreo base on the bottom before layering on the boozy pudding. (via Sarah Anderson for Brit + Co)

Pickleback

Kurt Andre

Green pickle juice and bacon bourbon in a salt-rimmed glass is all you need for a green shot to remember. (via Brit + Co)

Mezcalima Lime Cocktail

Brittany Griffin

This citrusy margarita is a great addition to your St. Patrick's menu. It's got ginger beer, so it's a good option for anyone who isn't a fan of thick, sweet drinks. If you desire a sweet sip, whip up some simple syrup to mix in. Mix in some addition green food dye to up the color! (via Brit + Co)

Midori Lemonata

Brit + Co

Don’t let the green color of this drink scare you. This St. Patty's cocktail tastes just like melon-flavored lemonade – with a boozy kick, of course. (via Brit + Co)

Shamrock Sour Cocktail

Pizzazzerie

Adding a little bit of Irish Whiskey into your drink makes it St. Patty's Day-appropriate, like this version of a whiskey sour from our collection of St. Patrick's Day recipes! (via Pizzazzerie for Brit + Co)

Avo-Keto Margarita

Don Julio

Just because you may be going low-cal doesn't mean you shouldn't be able to St. Patrick's party with the rest of 'em. This keto-friendly margarita earns its green hue from fresh avocado. (via Don Julio for Brit + Co)

Cucumber Gimlets

Brit + Co

Forget normal glasses — you can drink right out of a cucumber with these green cocktails! All you need to scoop out the inside is a melon baller, then you're all set to fill to the brim with gin and Sparkling Ice. (via Brit + Co)

Matcha Gin Sour

Takes Two Eggs

Prep this appealing matcha-based cocktail for all the green on the 17th. Think of this creative recipe as your #1 St. Patty's sip! (via Takes Two Eggs)

Key Lime Margarita

Barley & Sage

Take this classic margarita to the St. Patty's hang, and your buds will be hooked. This is a great option for when you want to serve green drinks that don't have Guinness or Irish cream. (via Barley & Sage)

Luck Of The Irish Sunrise

First Light Whiskey

Shake 2 oz First Light Whiskey, ½ oz blue curacao, ½ oz orange juice, and ¼ oz simple syrup with ice, then garnish your festive green sip with cherries and a brown sugar rim. This delicious drink will definitely keep the party going. (via First Light Whiskey)

Grasshopper Cocktail

Culinary Hill

Whip up this dessert-y green drink using just three ingredients: green creme de menthe, creme de cacao, and cream! Finish your St. Paddy's cocktail off with delicious chocolate shavings! (via Culinary Hill)

Bali Squeezed Mocktail

Chef Bai

Just because you're not drinking drinking, doesn't mean you can't sip on something delicious for the holiday. Get in the St. Patrick's spirit with this green cocktail that's full of nutrients from superfood supplements and coconut water. (via Chef Bai)

Spicy BLT Green Bloody Marys

Heather Christo

What's better than a bloody Mary? A themed bloody Mary with bacon, of course! Sip this green drink for an unforgettable St. Patrick's. (via Heather Christo)

Frozen Mint Lemonade

The View From Great Island

A slushy, minty limonana is only St. Patty's-approved when rum is added to the blender. All your pals will love these green cocktails. (via The View From Great Island)

Classic Mint Julep

Salt & Lavender

Throw back a sip so refreshing, you'll immediately want a second one. And that's totally accepted to amp up the St. Patrick's party! (via Salt & Lavender)

Taffer's Grasshopper

Taffer's Browned Butter Bourbon

To make this creamy green cocktail, shake 1.5 oz Taffer's Browned Butter Bourbon, 1 oz crème de menthe, 1 oz crème de cacao, and 1 oz crème over ice. Strain into your go-to martini glass, then top everything off with a generous amount of shaved dark chocolate. Yummm! (viaTaffer's Browned Butter Bourbon)

Cucumber Gimlet

Leite's Culinaria

Add a splash of cucumber juice to a gin classic, and your tastebuds will be in luck for St. Patrick's Day. (via Leite's Culinaria)

Vodka Limeade Punch

Crazy For Crust

Mix up a pitcher of this easy green punch for a breezy bartending duty. Tons of green lime and fresh mint leaves means there's no pinching to be had! (via Crazy For Crust)

Moscow Mule Push Pops

What Should I Make For

The warm weather will be in full spring mode come St. Patty's, meaning it's time to bust out your freezer pop molds for a cooling boozy treat! These sweet popsicles draw inspo from the classic Moscow mule. (via What Should I Make For)

Sweet Liberty's Grasshopper 2.0

Sweet Liberty

This unique green cocktail reimagines the ever-popular St. Patty's Grasshopper in the tastiest way. To make it, shake .75 oz Tempus Fugit crème de menthe (colored with green dye), .75 oz Giffard crème de cacao, .5 oz Del Maguey ‘Vida’ mezcal, .25 oz Branca Menta, 1 barspoon of absinthe, and 1.25 oz heavy cream over ice. Strain into a glass filled with crushed ice and grate some dark chocolate over top! (via Sweet Liberty in Miami Beach, FL)

Mint Matcha Latte

Chef Bai

This matcha drink is luckily super healthy for you! Enjoy this green drink recipe on its own, or spike it with Irish cream for a nice buzz. (via Chef Bai)

Cucumber Margarita

The Endless Meal

Tequila, triple sec and lime join cucumber to form a refreshing green cocktail. Everyone at the party will adore this fun refreshment! (via The Endless Meal)

Tweet us your favorite green cocktails @BritandCo and follow us on Pinterest for more!

This article has been updated.

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