Blackberry Lavender Honeycomb Cake Is the Dessert Your Summer Needs

It’s time to flex those creative muscles and make a stunning, unique cake like no other. We’re talking blackberry, lavender and homemade honeycomb for this decadent three-layer masterpiece. Like most art, no design can be completely replicated, nor can you really make a “mistake.” Swirls of different colored buttercream are painted on like watercolors and the hand-broken shards of honeycomb are arranged like a sugar sculpture. You can’t go wrong with this summery flavor combination. So let’s get baking!

How to Make the Cake

Ingredients:

— 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

— 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

— 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

— 3 whole eggs

— 2 1/2 cups cake flour

— 1 tablespoon baking powder

— 1/2 teaspoon salt

— 1 cup whole milk

— 2 teaspoons culinary lavender

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease and flour three six-inch cake pans and set aside.

First, make the lavender milk. Place the milk in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Gently bring to a simmer, then add the lavender and turn the heat to low. Continue to simmer for five to eight minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool. Once cool, strain out the lavender buds.

Sift together the dry ingredients and set aside. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter until smooth. Add the sugar and mix on medium for three to five minutes, until the sugar and butter are light and fluffy. With the mixer on medium-low, add in the vanilla and eggs one at a time. Stop the mixer and scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl. With the mixer on low, add in half of the flour mixture. Mix until just combined, then slowly pour in the milk. Add the remaining flour mixture and mix until smooth.

Evenly divide the batter between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cakes comes out clean. Let cool on a wire rack for 10 to 15 minutes before removing the cakes from their pans. Cool completely, then level the tops of the cakes with a long serrated knife.

Ingredients:

— 3/4 cup granulated sugar

— 2 tablespoons honey

— 2 tablespoons water

— 1 1/4 teaspoons baking soda

While the cake is baking, make the honeycomb: Place the honey, sugar and water in a medium saucepan. Heat on high until it turns a medium-dark amber color and reaches 300 degrees Fahrenheit on a candy thermometer. Once the honey mixture reaches 300 degrees, immediately remove it from the heat. Working rather quickly, whisk in baking soda.

How to Make Honeycomb

Pour the contents out on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let cool.

Once completely cooled, break the honeycomb into pieces.

Lavender Simple Syrup Ingredients:

— 1/2 cup granulated sugar

— 1/2 cup water

— 1 1/2 teaspoons culinary lavender

Blackberry Buttercream Ingredients:

— 5 cups vanilla buttercream

— 6 tablespoons cream cheese, softened

— 1/4 cup blackberry jam

Make the lavender simple syrup. Place the water and sugar in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Add in the lavender and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes a syrup. Remove from heat to cool, then strain out the lavender buds.

How to Frost the Cake

Next, make the blackberry buttercream. Beat softened cream cheese into 1 1/2 cups of vanilla buttercream. Stir in the blackberry jam until just combined.

Generously brush each layer of cake with the lavender syrup. Place the bottom layer of cake on a cake board or serving dish. Spread on 1/2 cup of blackberry buttercream with an offset spatula.

Place a few extra dollops of blackberry jam on top and gently swirl into the surface of the buttercream to create a ripple of blackberry jam. Repeat with the second layer of cake, then top the second layer of buttercream with the third layer of cake.

Crumb coat the cake with the plain vanilla buttercream, then chill to set in the refrigerator for 10 to 15 minutes. Continue to frost the cake with the vanilla buttercream, starting from the top down. At the bottom of the cake, spread on some of the remaining blackberry buttercream.

Begin smoothing out the buttercream and swirling the vanilla and blackberry buttercreams together to create a watercolor effect. Add more vanilla or blackberry buttercream as needed to create your desired design.

Garnish the top with the honeycomb, fresh blackberries and a sprinkle of lavender.

(Almost) too pretty to eat, right? Let your inner artist go to town and turn any cake into edible art!

Will you be making this cake yourself? If so, we want to see the results! Share photos with the hashtags #britstagram and #iamcreative so we can take a look.

Did you know the colors you are surrounded with can enhance your mood and energy? Think about the color palette in your closet right now. What colors are you most drawn to? Before you freak out if black or gray are your go-to colors for your daily wear (guilty!) maybe after reading this, it will inspire you to step out of your comfort zone and try to work with new colors. What if I tell you that your astrological sign has a designated color palette to support your journey?

Color therapy, or “chromotherapy,” can supplement your well-being. Integrating astrology will also help you pinpoint the colors you are most attracted to and how to become more in tune with yourself. Astrology is a fantastic modality for gauging self-acceptance while also becoming your best self, and color therapy is the therapeutic means to rebalance and power up your goals.

Working with the colors assigned to your zodiac sign can support your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Read on to learn how color therapy works and which color palette best suits your zodiac sign!

Here's how to make color therapy work for your zodiac sign — and feel good doing it!

What is color therapy?

Helena Lopes

Color therapy is a holistic, non-invasive modality used for the body. Historical figures such as Pythagoras (circa 2,500 years ago) applied “color light” therapeutically, while “color halls” were used as a means of treatment in ancient Egypt, China, and India. The modern medical pioneer patron of color therapy was Niels Finsen of Denmark in 1877. He discovered that visible light was how ultraviolet or red light energy could heal wounds, bacterial infections, or scars. Sounds familiar? In this present, infrared light therapy is used for pain relief, improved sleep, inflammation, facials, detoxes, and more. Knowing this, you can see why color and light restores our mind, body, and emotional needs.

There are many ways in which you can work best with color therapy. To implement physical changes, you can update your selection of colors in your clothing, nail colors, makeup palette, or home decor. For the mind and emotional system, you can work with colors through visualization practices like art, meditation, or a color therapy lamp.

How Can Color Therapy and Astrology Work Together?

let mous

Color therapy works by frequency or wavelengths of colors, which can have a physiological or psychological impact on our well-being. Using appropriate colors guided by your zodiac sign can rebalance or harmonize your body’s energy centers. How can color therapy integrate with your zodiac sign? It begins by knowing and working with your Sun sign, granting you more confidence and understanding regarding your direction. It extends our overall vitality and spreads endless radiance in our lives. It fuels our well-being and emits light wherever it touches in the birth chart. In principle, our Sun sign is our destination point, our identity. Now, the Sun Sign is where we can reach that higher level of understanding about our process and how we will experience fulfillment in this life. Incorporating color therapy guided by astrology can help you obtain confidence, and when you feel balanced, you make sound choices.

​How Colors Align With Zodiac Signs

Brit + Co

Observing the astrological signs, they are all categorized within the elemental values. Starting with fire, the signs Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius are placed within this element. These signs hold precedence over the esoteric realm of spirit as they are meant to initiate, inspire, and teach. Fire tones are within the spectrum of golds, reds, and oranges.

The signs Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn reside within the earthy realm. They are supportive, detailed, and persevering in nature. The earth element enables humanity to take a firm stance involving patience or consistency. Deep greens, grays, and navy are colors that hold a grounded energy for these signs.

The signs Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius inhabit the air element. Those who hold this element strongly have the skill to circulate a constant flow of ideas, remain stimulated, and effectively communicate. Air energy guides humanity in the exchange of information, negotiation, and evolution. For clarity, the colors that best support these signs are yellows, pastel blues, or electric blues.

Ending with Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces, these signs embody the water element. Natives with a strong water element are receptive to others' feelings and can be intuitive. They can also conjure creativity, withstand intensity, and dive deep into the world of dreams. Colors such as purples, deep reds, or soft greens can help these signs invoke self-love and confidence.

Colors for Each Zodiac Sign

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Aries (March 21 – April 20)

Personality Traits: Aries is bold, energetic, and daring, often leading the way with confidence and courage. They are natural-born leaders who take on challenges fearlessly.
Chromatherapy Suggestions: Colors like red and orange help Aries channel their energy and passion. These colors promote confidence, courage, and an enhanced sense of purpose to match their bold nature.

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Taurus (April 21 – May 21)

Personality Traits: Known for their patience, determination, and deep connection to nature, Taurus seeks stability and grounding. They are steady and reliable, with an appreciation for beauty and luxury.
Chromatherapy Suggestions: Earthy tones like green and brown are ideal for Taurus. These colors promote relaxation, groundedness, and stability, aligning with Taurus' need for balance and connection to nature.

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Gemini (May 22 – June 21)

Personality Traits: Gemini is versatile, adaptable, and intellectually curious. They thrive on communication and change, with a playful and creative side. Their dual nature makes them curious and full of ideas.
Chromatherapy Suggestions: Bright yellow and light green stimulate mental agility, creativity, and versatility for Gemini. These colors foster communication and mental clarity, enhancing their natural curiosity and adaptability.

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Cancer (June 22 – July 22)

Personality Traits: Compassionate, intuitive, and deeply connected to family and emotions. Cancer nurtures others and seeks emotional fulfillment. They are protectors and caretakers.
Chromatherapy Suggestions: Soft white, silver, and pale blue promote emotional healing, inner peace, and nurturing energy. These colors align with Cancer’s need for emotional well-being and tranquility.

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Leo (July 23 – August 22)

Personality Traits: Leo exudes warmth, creativity, and pride. With their strong sense of self, they seek recognition and joy, and they inspire others with their vitality and passion.
Chromatherapy Suggestions: Gold, yellow, and orange help Leo amplify their natural creativity and vitality, enhancing their self-expression and sense of pride. These warm colors increase confidence and fuel their dynamic energy.

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Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Personality Traits: Virgos are known for their perfectionism, sharp intellect, and organizational skills. They are reliable, practical, and thrive on productivity and efficiency.
Chromatherapy Suggestions: Soft green and blue are ideal for Virgo, promoting balance, healing, and clarity of mind. These colors assist in maintaining a calm and focused environment, supporting Virgo’s need for order and tranquility.

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Libra (September 23 – October 22)

Personality Traits: Libra values harmony, beauty, and fairness. They seek balance in all aspects of life, often striving for peace and cooperation in their relationships and surroundings.
Chromatherapy Suggestions: Pastel colors, particularly light blue and pink, promote peace, harmony, and emotional balance. These soft hues help Libra maintain their sense of equilibrium and enhance their diplomatic nature.

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Scorpio (October 23 - November 21)

Personality Traits: Scorpio is intense, passionate, and deeply transformative. Known for their mystery and depth, they possess great inner strength and are drawn to uncover hidden truths.
Chromatherapy Suggestions: Deep red, black, and maroon channel passion, power, and transformation for Scorpio. These intense colors align with their transformative nature and help them harness their strength.

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Sagittarius (November 21 – December 21)

Personality Traits: Sagittarius is adventurous, optimistic, and philosophical. They love exploring new ideas, cultures, and places and often share wisdom and joy with those around them.
Chromatherapy Suggestions: Purple and deep blue enhance spiritual growth, adventure, and wisdom. These colors stimulate the Sagittarian desire for exploration and wisdom while supporting their boundless optimism.

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Capricorn (December 21 – January 19)

Personality Traits: Capricorn is disciplined, ambitious, and pragmatic. They take a methodical approach to life and are determined to achieve their goals through hard work and patience.
Chromatherapy Suggestions: Earthy tones like gray, brown, and navy support Capricorn’s need for focus, discipline, and groundedness. These colors help them stay on course and maintain a practical mindset.

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Aquarius (January 20 – February 19)

Personality Traits: Aquarius is eccentric, innovative, and idealistic. They value independence and individuality, often challenging the status quo and embracing forward-thinking ideas.
Chromatherapy Suggestions: Electric blue and purple enhance mental clarity, innovation, and independence. These vibrant colors support Aquarius' need for originality and their intellectual pursuits.

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Pisces (February 20 – March 21)

Personality Traits: Pisces is intuitive, empathetic, and imaginative. Known for their dreamy and artistic nature, they deeply connect to the spiritual and emotional realms.
Chromatherapy Suggestions: Soft green, seafoam blue, and lavender promote relaxation, creativity, and intuition for Pisces. These calming colors enhance their dreamlike state and encourage emotional balance and creativity.

​Color Therapy Visualization Technique

Anh Nguyen

Now that you know which color vibrates with your zodiac sign, you can use this visualization technique to connect more with your Sun sign. Color therapy is a powerful tool for balancing energy, emotions, and well-being. By using the healing properties of colors, you can encourage emotional release, relaxation, and revitalization. Each color carries its frequency and vibration, which can help align and support different aspects of your life, from physical health to mental clarity.

This color therapy visualization technique will guide you through grounding, relaxation, and energetic renewal. Connecting with the colors that resonate with you will activate healing energy within your body and mind, clearing away any negative or stagnant energy. It’s a simple yet powerful practice that you can do daily to restore balance and promote a sense of calm and well-being.

Energetic Healing Visualization Technique

Mikhail Nilov

  1. Position yourself comfortably or sit in a lotus position. Place your left hand over your heart area.
  2. Take a deep breath through your nose, then exhale slowly through your mouth. With each breath, feel your body becoming more relaxed.
  3. Focus on the soles of your feet and imagine an energetic pull grounding you, anchoring you in the present moment.
  4. Take another deep breath, feeling a nurturing energy rising from the ground, reaching up to the soles of your feet. Allow this energy to gently move upward, relaxing and energizing your body—feet, calves, thighs, core, shoulders, arms, neck, face, and head.
  5. Imagine a bright, glowing light in the sky above you. This light represents your Higher Self.
  6. See the light spiraling down toward you, entering through the crown of your head and flowing through your body. As it moves, it changes into a vibrant color that resonates with you.
  7. Take another deep breath and allow the colored light to fill your core center. Visualize it growing brighter and expanding with each breath, filling your entire body.
  8. Imagine the light forming a dome or egg-like shape around your body, extending outward, cleansing your physical and energetic space.
  9. Release any tensions, worries, or negative energy, visualizing them fading away into the ground. Trust the process of transformation.
  10. Continue this visualization as long as you need. When you feel light and neutral, place your hands in a prayer position and silently offer thanks.
  11. Visualize the light around you returning to its source, and when ready, gently open your eyes.

This practice can be done 1-2 times daily, ideally in the morning or before bedtime.

Adara Cox

By integrating color therapy with your astrological sign, you can tap into a powerful tool for enhancing your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. These simple yet effective practices allow you to align with the natural flow of your energy and support your unique traits, helping you to feel more balanced and connected to yourself. Whether you choose to surround yourself with the colors that resonate with your sign or engage in visualization techniques, color therapy offers a profound way to nurture your overall health and personal growth.

Remember, your journey toward healing and balance is personal, and using the right colors can be an uplifting part of that process. Take time to explore the colors that speak to you and notice the subtle shifts they create in your life.

Do you wish to learn more about Lumi's work with astrology and her holistic approach? Lumi Pelinku invites you to dive deeper into your journey through an extended reading that can provide tailored insights and inspiration. Click here to book your reading today!

For more astrology advice, be sure to Ask Lumi for advice and follow the conversation on Facebook!

Love is in the air – and, as it turns out, on the shelves at Target! We can always count on Target to have the cutest home decor pieces for every holiday, and right now, their Valentine’s Day decor is making us swoon. Target has everything you need to create a festive and cozy vibe (and for way less $!), whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, a Galentine’s Day party, or happily spending the season solo.

Get ready to fall head over heels for these 13 Target Valentine’s Day decor pieces that’ll help you celebrate the season, all for $10 or less.

Check Out The Best Target Valentine's Day Decor For 2025

Here's a quick glimpse at what's available as part of Target's sweet Valentine's Day decor drop. We are obsessed.

Shop Our Favorite 2025 Target Valentine's Day Decor

Target

Cherry Duo Valentine's Day Figurine

This $5 figurine gives us so much joy. It'd be perfect on your desk, bedside table, or car dash to keep the love flowin' this V-Day.

Target

Metallic Hearts Wall Garland

Got a Valentine's party planned? This $10 wall garland is just the thing your space needs to feel a bit more festive.

Target

Valentine's Day Disco Ball

Everyone needs a dash of disco in their life, and this $10 heart-shaped piece makes that possible. We'd keep this one up year-round!

Target

Valentine's Day XO Love Pillow

It's not V-Day without a bunch of X's and O's! Decorate your space appropriately with this cutesy $5 pillow.

Target

Coffee & Croissant Valentine's Day Figurine

This $5 decor piece would also make a great gift to give your partner, BFF, or just the person that completes you.

Target

Light-Up Valentine's Day Hearts

These heart-shaped lights mimic conversation heart candies in the cutest (and cheekiest!) way with various sayings.

Target

3-Wick Sugared Watermelon Candle

This candle makes the season even sweeter with a delicious sugared watermelon scent.

Target

Featherly Friends 'Toots' Valentine's Day Decorative Object

Target's collection of cute spirited birds is everything. This lil' birdie comes complete with a love letter – ooh!

Target

Red Lips Pillow

Need a smooch? This $10 pillow is just what your couch is craving!

Target

Glass Heart Valentine's Candle Holders

Set the mood at the table with this adorable trio of candle stick holders in the perfect V-Day hues!

Target

Cherub Valentine's Day Figurine

This glasses-wearing cherub would look so cute on your desk during the Valentine's season.

Target

Pink & Red Taper Candle Set

These playful candle sticks come in squiggly shapes and are adorably dotted in tiny white hearts for the holiday.

Target

XO Square Valentine's Day Pillow

Perfect for the sofa or your bed, this plush pillow will last your V-Day decor game for years to come!

Subscribe to our newsletter to shop more seasonal decor!

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

Anthropologie might be known for its dreamy (and oftentimes expensive) fashion, beauty, and home decor finds, but you’d be surprised at the hidden gems you can snag for under $20! I carefully sifted through the retailer’s site and found 15 perfect picks that won't break the bank, especially if you’re craving a quick lil’ splurge from the beloved name brand.

Get ready to shop the best Anthropologie finds under $20!

Anthropologie Clothing Under $20

Anthropologie

Pilcro Corset Sweater Top

This brown strapless top makes a perfect transition piece between winter weather and spring warmth. Just layer up for cold days, then shed 'em when it starts to heat up!

Anthropologie

By Anthropologie Classic Cotton Boyshorts

These micro-length boyshorts were simply made for lounging around on a lazy Sunday.

Anthropologie

The Reegan Seamless Lurex Ribbed Cropped Tank

This adorable $20 tank adds a nice touch of shimmer to any outfit. You can shop it in 4 different colors that'll wear well with most anything!

Anthropologie

The Renna Seamless Long-Sleeve Shrug Top

Whether you wear it for a workout or not, this shrug top feels super chic.

Anthropologie

The Wren Boxer Shorts by Anthropologie: Rolled Edition

These cuffed boxer shorts will instantly elevate your bedtime apparel. They'll be perfect for hot summer nights.

Anthropologie Accessories Under $20

Anthropologie

Mystical Dream Crease-Free Hair Clips

This 4-count of hair clips doesn't leave behind any creasing, so you can easily use them as you do your makeup, or just wear them out and about for a pinch of cuteness (and to tame your bangs).

Anthropologie

Novelty Icon Charm

Anthro's icon charms come in these adorable mushroom and butterfly shapes, as well as a tiny lobster, snail, or fish for $17. Tack one on a necklace chain or DIY your own bag charm – the possibilites are endless.

Anthropologie

Ribbed Over-The-Knee Socks

These sleek over-the-knee socks will work well with tall boots and low-lying loafers alike. They're also shoppable in black for just $10 if you really want to channel your moody (but well-dressed!) 2014 Tumblr self.

Anthropologie

Zodiac Pressed Coin Bag Charm

Flaunt your star sign on your purse or tote with this adorable $20 bag charm!

Anthropologie Beauty Under $20

Anthropologie

Nephthys Foster Lip Balm Trio

This set of three lip balms goes for just $15, so that's $5 a pop to bulk up your lip product collection across your purse, desk, and vanity.

Anthropologie

Vanity Brush

You know your hair brush needs a refresh – this stylish Anthro pick will do the trick!

Anthropologie Home Decor Under $20

Anthropologie

Star Mini Incense Holder

Burn, baby, burn with this cute incense holder that'll fit in with your space year-round!

Anthropologie

Rifle Paper Co. 2025 Wall Calendar

Keep track of the year in the cutest way with this $20 floral calendar.

Anthropologie

Madeline Cocktail Napkins

Happy hour will never be the same after you add this set of 4 cocktail napkins to your bar cart set-up.

Anthropologie

Latte Stoneware Nut Bowls

A set of 6 small stoneware bowls for $20?! I'm sold. They're the perfect size for dipping sauces or any charcuterie accouterment you want to add to your next board.

Subscribe to our newsletter to discover more budget-friendly buys!

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