How Blake Lively Dresses like a French Girl (for Under $200!)

It seems like no one is above being enamored with French girl style. Even Blake Lively, a maternity style muse + messy braid goddess herself, is dazzled by them. And like the rest of us, she’s trying to put her finger on their elusive je ne sais quoi by decoding exactly how to dress like a Parisian export.

A new post on her website Preserve tagged “French Connection” asks the same questions *we* always have on the tip of our tongues regarding the matter: “Do French women really wake up with that ready-to-wear bedhead? How do they make the Breton stripe so eternally chic? And do they actually shamelessly snack on bread, cheese and sweets, without ever stepping into a gym? Unfair.” Unfair indeed, but at least Blake and co offer shoppable solutions to feeling more like these mythical babes: a collection of nine French girl-inspired styles all under $200.

These perfect-for-spring styles have the effortless mark of a French girl all over them, from the subtly sexy scoop back of the red striped Brynn Maxi ($145) to the baby-soft silk of the collard Elvie Top ($180). The “chic” plays out in more structural pieces like the ruffled A-line Myla Skirt ($120 — a way to hit on the French style + ‘60s revival trends with just one piece) and with understated jewelry like a twisted metal cuff and a glimmering druzy wrap bracelet. Excuse us while we start holding out breath for Blake to make an appearance in these styles, ideally while debuting her newborn girl James (?) in a Breton striped onesie. Is that too much to ask?

What are your go-to French girl-inspired pieces? Tell us in the comments below.

(Featured photo via Stephen Lovekin/Getty)

Transitioning your home from winter to spring doesn't have to take a huge effort or budget. A few throw pillows here, a flower vase there can make your home look fresher, more inviting while reviving how you feel about your space. Whether you want to hop on the vintage decor trend or bring in fresh Danish pastels, we have some spring decor swaps that will help sprinkle a dose of happy into your home. First, plan your budget and look around your space. What pieces don’t give your home that spring joy you crave? Stow them away for the season and they’ll be like new again in the fall! Now enjoy the things that truly refresh your space.

Shop Spring Home Decor Here!

ban.do Stacked Citrus Vase

These sweet citrus designs are the perfect pop of color for your spring table or home office!

Folkulture Throw Pillow Covers

The scalloped design on these 18x18 cotton covers are a playful way to dress up your sofa or bed.

Studio McGee x Threshold Natural Wicker Table Lamp

Give your indoors an outdoor vibe with these charming woven table lamps.

Etsy Wavy Wall Shelf

Brighten your walls with brightly colored pastels. These shelves are great for holding books, picture frames, plants and more.

H&M Floral Throw

Spring is still a transitional season with chilly mornings and nights. Swap your winter throws for this fun floral pattern.

Scalloped Multi Border Decor Braided Jute Collection

Pop this jute rug in your bathroom, on your porch, in your kitchen -- anywhere you need a little statement piece.

Poster Store Botanical Gallery Wall

Customize a gallery wall that suits your style -- this site creates one for you or pick and choose your faves.

Lyla Monogram Trinket Dish

Even a new trinket dish on your dresser can bring a little joy to your morning. This monogrammed one makes a great gift for spring birthdays!

H&M Pleated Paper Table Lamp

This pretty-in-pink table lamp is a great way to bring in soft, spring color into your home -- get two for symmetrical bedside tables or go solo on a desk or console table.

Wicker Planter Storage Baskets

These cute and affordable planters are a fun way to freshen up your entry or kitchen -- add plants, cloth napkins, magazines, even mail.

Jungalow x Opal Cotton Sheet Set

We love designer Justina Blakeney's style and here she gives us a colorful canvas on which to layer all our bedding.

Elin Ceramic Knobs

Add new knobs to end tables for an easy spring refresh.

Anthropologie Fruit Candle Holder

These whimsical candle holders cheer up your decor and are perfect for all your spring entertaining.

Chasing Paper x Jenni Yolo Peel-And-Stick Wallpaper

Peel-and-stick wallpaper makes it easier to upgrade your walls with stunning prints. Try it in a bathroom or kitchen or create an accent wall in your bedroom for this vintage-inspired look by DIYer Jenni Yolo.

Anthropologie Gingham Curtains

We never met a check we didn't like. Gingham is a classic spring look that always feels happy and carefree!

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

Header image via Etsy

You'd think someone with acne-prone skin wouldn't buy viral beauty finds without doing thorough research, but I'm not above trying to recreate all the latest makeup trends at home. All this did was remind me that everything isn't for everyone — and that's okay! Well...it's not okay I fee like I wasted money, but at least I know what to stay away from. And now I'm here to help you figure out what to avoid as well!

Even though this products didn't work for me, that doesn't mean you can't or shouldn't use them. These are just my least faves of the year — take 'em or leave 'em!

Here are all the overrated beauty finds I wish I wouldn't have bought

Amazon

1. MILK Hydro Grip Primer

I should've known better than to buy this again, but I wanted to see if my skin would react better to it. The first time I tried to use this, I broke out along my jaws in tiny, red bumps. They were itchy and eventually turned into dark spots that took me over a year to get rid of.

Instead of letting that be the red flag that kept me away from this beauty find, I decided to use it in place of my trusted e.l.f. Cosmetics Power Grip Primer I've been relying on. Two things happened:

  1. It created a beautiful base for my makeup.
  2. I didn't break out, but my faced still felt itchy.

I even switched my makeup brushes and checked to make sure other makeup products weren't expired. The culprit continued to be this primer so it's made it to my overrated list.

Amazon

2. KORA Organics Kakadu Plum Vitamin C Serum

I was initially sent this to test, but I decided to buy it myself to see if I truly like it. While it was easy to add to my skincare routine lineup, I realized I actually didn't need to spend $70+ for an effective Vitamin C serum. The only difference between this serum and the one I truly love are their colors and textures.

This one has a slightly yellowish-orange tint to it while being a little thicker compared to the Timeless Skin Care Vitamin C serum I use. The latter is thinner and 100% transparent, plus the odor is slightly stronger. However, both of them aid in smoother skin, smaller pores, and a healthy glow.

I honestly wouldn't buy this one again just because I can get the same benefits for a lesser price.

Amazon

3.NYX Cosmetics Fat Oil Lip Drip

This is a controversial take, but I honestly didn't love the NYX Fat Oil Lip Drip. Although I love the color payoff, it was too sticky for my liking. I saw reviews that mentioned this, but I've purchased lip glosses other people didn't love that worked for me in the past. However, the reviews are telling the truth: the stickiness takes away from what could've been a great formula.

I'll just stick to my Tower 28 Lip Softie Hydrating Lip Treatment in Ube Vanilla!

Amazon

4. L'Oréal Voluminous Panorama Washable Mascara

I know people love this beauty find because it is great. I just didn't think the hype was enough to convince me to buy it again because my essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara gets the job done for $5. I will say I love the washable feature of L'Oréal's version, but it's still not enough to make me willingly spend over $10 for it.

As great of a product as this is, it's overrated to me because of the price tag.

Sephora

5. Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Medium Coverage Foundation

Sigh...it's so hard for me to admit this, but this Haus Labs foundation has become my most overrated beauty find of 2024. It's not that it doesn't work for a few hours, but my skin prefers tinted moisturizers more than anything. I talked about it briefly on TikTok, but skin tints feel like you're not wearing anything on your face.

I'm always really oily after wearing this foundation for a few hours, but I can get extended wear out of the Danessa Myricks Yummy Skin Tint I've been wearing. I like to think it's because it has vegan collagen, ceramides, and cactus extract in it whereas this foundation has ingredients like fermented arnica in it.

Both do a great job of calming inflammation, but something about this foundation makes my skin think it's incredibly dry.

Visit our Amazon Storefront for a list of beauty products we do love!

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

As much as we love sweaters, coats, and scarves, there is just something so special about finally breaking out your spring dresses. They're breezy! They're romantic! They're fun! A delicate, vivid dress is the perfect reflection of the way that spring makes us feel after a very long winter, and we are ready to break out all the 2024 trends, from maxi dresses to mini dresses and everything in between.

Take a gander at our favorite spring dresses for the season!

By Anthropologie Sleeveless Draped-Back Asymmetrical Slip Midi Dress

This asymmetrical spring dress is the ultimate piece for donning to dinner parties, dates, girls nights, and even the farmer's market! The bright floral motifs just make sense for the season, and the silky construction of this design lets your look breathe all day long. This midi is a slip-on dress only, meaning no extra buttons or clasps for you!

MINKPINK Florence Linen Ricrac Midi Dress

This solid blue dress gets some quirky, playful charm from the contrasting zig-zagging trim on top, which is just the thing your wardrobe needs for springtime. You can have all the fun with this midi dress, since it fits like a glove with a back zipper and a flexible, stretchy bodice!

Free People Ultraviolet Dress

This spring dress is business in the front, but a total party in the back. The back half secures in place with a gorgeous bowtie and elastic crossing straps for an even strappier effect. The cap sleeves are stretchy and super cozy, hugging your figure with a gentle elastic that moves every which way. And let's hear it for those spring sunflowers!

Gap Fit & Flare Cami Mini Dress

Give us florals upon florals – they're just so fun for this season. This Gap dress is dotted in blooms and bouquets of all colors, so it can easily be worn with the other garments in your closet. The cami neckline is delicate, but secure, adjusting to your perfect fit with two very sturdy adjustable straps.

Tach Georgette Linen Dress in Pink

This gorgeous midi-length dress is saturated in a perfect springtime pink color. The bowties that surround the front graciously recall the coquette aesthetic, which amps up all things girly just in time for spring!

A New Day Maxi Sundress

This tiered maxi dress is the most 'spring' of them all. The fresh light green color is reminiscent of the season's blooms, and it's bright enough to stand out from the crowd. It features an open back design that lets air flow freely, keeping your spring look cool as ever.

Moon River Smocked Bodice Cotton Midi Dress

This adorable midi dress is smocked to the gods! The smocked bodice flows all the way down to your natural waistline, giving it a romantic drop-waist effect. This spring dress would be an amazing wear for date nights!

Lush Flirty Pairing Green and Blue Color Block Ribbed Cutout Dress

The fitted high waist on this dress style accentuates your body's natural shape in the best way. What's more is this pick is doused in saturated blue and green colors to match the sunny days of spring! Pair it with your nearest "It" girl sneakers or multicolor pumps – it can easily be dressed up or down!

Reformation Delanie Dress

This mini dress from Reformation features a halter neck design, which is so easy and breezy for taking on the spring heat. The top is definitely more fitted than it is at the bottom, so you can move about with tip-top comfort. This red and white print highlights tiny little tulips, but you can also shop it in 3 other colorways.

NA-KD Chiffon Drawstring Mini Dress

Why buy spring flowers when you could simply wear them? This mini dress is very much a frolicking in the field style, and we're 100% here for it. The abundance of ruching lets you play freely with your new floral 'fit.

Free People Dahlia Embroidered Maxi Dress

This bright yellow style makes for a quintessential chill-girl outfit for the spring. Pair it with some ballet flats, put some cute clips in your hair, and celebrate the season of spring dresses!

Los Angeles Apparel Heavy Rib Spaghetti Mini Dress

You cannot go wrong with wardrobe basics. This pick comes in 12 colors, so the right match for you is out there. Throw on a t-shirt over this fitted spring dress, or slip into a sheer cardigan for a more flirtatious 'fit.

& Other Stories Flowy Puff Sleeve Midi Dress

Please give us all the florals this season. This pick is a solid choice for all-around springtime activities because it fits comfortably. Wear it to Sunday brunches, farmer's market visits, and lazy afternoons of laying out in the park.

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Lead image via NA-KD.

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

This post has been updated.

Studio McGee has spent the last decade inspiring us with a blend of accessible and elevated designs, creating beautiful and totally livable spaces. In her 2025 Home Decor Trends report, Shea McGee emphasizes that home decor trends evolve gradually over time, and I couldn’t agree more. Unlike the fast-paced world of fashion, where trends shift every season, these design moves develop organically over time, and that's good for your wallet and taking your time to create a space you love. Get inspired to refresh your home in 2025 with a few new accents, from embellishments like fringe to maybe a little western or seaside art.

Here are Studio McGee's 2025 Home Decor Trend Predictions, with a few surprises!

Photo: Shade Degges | Design: Studio Mountain

Romantic Silhouettes

Take Romantic Silhouettes, for example. This is a trend we've seen steadily gain traction over the past few years. Think curvy furniture, delicate floral prints, and soft blush hues — when curated thoughtfully, these elements can become timeless staples in your home.

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

Watch Shea's take on designing your home for 2025!

Photo: Michael P.H. Clifford | Design: A1000XBetter

Western Cowboy

This is a design trend that totally surprised me, but I'm so happy to see it in the mix. Elements like leather furniture, rustic accessories, equestrian art, even wood walls, shown in this office designed by A1000XBetter, are making an impact in 2025 and beyond. But Shea notes that you can take this trend literally or just be inspired by the look. You can also mix it with other styles to personalize it for you. Add romantic pillows or ruffled tablecloths like McGee & Co. x Loeffler Randall Gardenia Ruffle Border Tablecloth – things you love that make it yours vs. based solely on one trend.

Gavin Carter| Design: House of Rolison

Saturated Colors

Shea predicts that rich hues like deep browns, oxblood red, and earthy greens will continue to dominate home decor colors going into 2025. House of Rolison's bathroom brown is an excellent example of this beautiful trend.

courtesy of Stewart-Schafer

Pattern Drenching

Embracing a single pattern and drenching an entire room in it — from walls to pillows, headboards, and curtains — is a surprise trend for 2025. This maximalist approach, which has been quietly gaining traction, draws inspiration from Arts and Crafts designers like William Morris and has been in and out of vogue since the Victorian era.

McGee & Co.

Embellishments

This is a trend you can easily DIY to add an extra layer of charm to your decor. Think playful details like fringe accents —beautifully shown in McGee & Co.'s Philippa Settee — along with tassels, pleats, ruffles, and rope. It’s all about embracing texture and whimsy, so have fun with it!

McGee & Co.

Seaside Inspiration

Coastal decor has long been an influence in design and you can be inspired by it in many forms, from shell accents to beach-inspired artwork like McGee & Co.'s Distant Coastline art to textured seagrass baskets and jute rugs. Even the soothing hues of the sea — think soft blues, sandy neutrals, and gentle greens — can inspire your 2025 spaces.

Check out the full list of Studio McGee 2025 Design Trends!

Check out our online newsletter for more 2025 home decor inspo!

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

If there’s any holiday where you’re encouraged to take shots, it’s New Year’s Eve. But, that doesn’t mean you should limit your NYE party beverages to champagne. These sparkly, glittery and all-around enticing shots are sure to please and won’t induce any bad-idea hangovers from too manytequila drinks. You can let your resolution ideas start when the calendar reads 2025. Meanwhile, cheers to enjoying these shots you’ll actually want to make (and take) this New Year’s Eve.

The 14 Best New Year's Eve Shots To Throw Back For 2025!

Brit + Co

Apple Cider Shooter

That caramel vodka you bought on a whim once can finally be put to good use with this spiked apple cider shooter. Whip it up as a shot or a large punch that will last all night long. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Root Beer Float Shooter

This soda shop classic gets an adult upgrade with ROOT, a traditional alcoholic Native American tea. And tea is healthy, right? ;) (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Rainbow Shots

Meet your new party trick! All five of these shots come out of one shaker. Prepare to amaze your guests with your bartending skills this NYE. (via Brit + Co)

Sprinkle Bakes

Champagne Chantilly Shooters

Be sure to add these cake-inspired shooters to your after-holiday to-do list to start 2016 with a little bit of deliciousness. (via Sprinkle Bakes)

Feast + West

Champagne Jell-O Shots

Turn your champagne into a shot! If you’re hosting a large party, these are a way more affordable option than a case of champagne. (via Feast + West)

Dine and Dish

Blackberry Gin Shooters

This shooter is *almost* too pretty to drink. Plus, we can all pretend that the blackberries are doing you some good. (via Dine and Dish)

A Year of Cocktails

Butternut Rum Lifesaver

A shot that tastes like candy is a sweet way to start your year off right. (via A Year of Cocktails)

Holly's Cheat Day

Tipsy Spritzer Shots

Not every shot needs to be super strong. If you’re looking for something you can enjoy throughout the night, this sweet, bubbly and tart “spritzer” shot is low in alcohol content and big on flavor. (via Holly’s Cheat Day)

Bubbly Nation Creations

Sparkling Jello Jigglers

Swap out champagne for the grape juice in this recipe to make a fancy, adult version of a JELL-O jiggler. Sprinkles and edible gold stars required. (via Bubbly Nation Creations)

Broma Bakery

Champagne Jello Shots

Awww, Jello Shots are all grown up in this festive recipe. They have a nice flavor that won’t leave you wincing afterwards. (via Broma Bakery)

The First Year

White Chocolate Champagne Cheesecake Shooters

This shot is delicious enough to be dessert. Top yours with edible glitter sprinkles to get even more festive. (via The First Year)

Cookin' Canuck

Cranberry Kamikaze Shots

NYE calls for a fancier drink than a go-to beer or wine. Ring in the new year with cranberry kamikaze shots that look pretty and taste delicious (via Cookin' Canuck)

Tablespoon

Banana Split Shooters

This shot requires five ingredients that'll send your taste buds soaring. I mean, what could be better than taking a shot of something that tastes like dessert? (via Tablespoon)

Something Swanky

Sparkling Cider Jello Shots (Non-Alcoholic)

If you want to be extra careful not to induce a hangover when you wake up in 2024, your best bet are these sparkling cider jello shots. They're made with unflavored gelatin, distilled water, cider and your choice of berries, cherries, or gummies! (via Something Swanky)

Looking for more NYE recipe or drink ideas? Check out Brit + Co on Pinterest and check out our New Year's Eve dinner ideas for more inspiration.This post has been updated.