Every now and then, a book comes along at just the right time to put life into perspective. That’s why so many of us still have a soft spot in our hearts for titles like The Little Prince or Madeline, which are classic early-age gifts meant to teach us fundamental life lessons. As we settle into adulthood, motherhood, and other grown-up roles, we’re still looking to writers for wisdom, proof we aren’t the only ones struggling with something, or an inspirational boost. Whether you’re getting over a breakup or jumping into a new career, here are five books to help you self-heal and navigate some of the biggest moments of your life.
College and high school graduations are just around the corner, and you may be wondering what to get your favorite Gen Z grads. Luckily for you, we compiled a list of 15 fabulous graduation gifts for every price range that are guaranteed to put a smile on your graduate’s face!
Set of 4 Meal Prep Containers
Who doesn’t love pretty Tupperware? Whether your 2024 grad is a gym rat or a library lover, they will definitely find a good use for these air-tight, leak-proof containers.
Benevolence LA New Beginnings Scented Soy Candle
Send them off with this sweet-scented candle that celebrates their achievements, as well as the next steps ahead of them!
A Hundred Other Girlsby Iman Hariri-Kia
This book is like a modern day Devil Wears Prada, and would make the perfect gift for any grad going into journalism, media, or PR — especially if they’re moving to a big city.
Stanley Quencher H2.0
Hydration is key for anyone, especially a new college student that's running between classes, club meetings, and friend hangs! This tumbler will also keep their liquids cold overnight so they don't have to go down the dorm hall in the middle of the night for a fresh refill.
Dagne Dover Mila Repreve® Recycled Polyester Large Toiletry Organizer Bag
If you're sending off a high school grad to communal dorms, they'll definitely benefit from having a compact toiletry bag like this one. This style is particularly nice since it's made from recycled polyester that resists water and debris.
2024 Daily Planner
Using a planner is such an underrated way to stay organized, whether it's prepping for college coursework or adulting stuff like work events, grocery shopping, and plans with friends. This all-in-one daily planner will help your grad keep their ducks in a row with fields for all of life's details.
Honeywell Mini Cool Mist Humidifier
This humidifier, made especially for small rooms and personal spaces (ahem, dorm rooms!) helps maintain humidity levels between 40-60%, which can help relieve congestion and keep the throat and nasal passages hydrated to prevent sickness. This is crucial for soon-to-be college students who may hang around a lot of different people.
Fresh Sends Flower Bouquet
Flowers are a staple for any major life event, especially a graduation! Fresh Sends is perfect for sending beautiful bouquets for those who live far away, since they ship directly to the recipient's door.
The Beast Mini Blender
This super-effective, high-power portable blender is the perfect size for a dorm room or small apartment, plus it's very aesthetically-pleasing even if it's just sitting on the shelf. It comes equipped with a screw-on lid and straw, too, so your grad can take it on walks and in the car.
Béis The Sport Backpack
Perfect for grads on the go, this bag can hold their water bottle, phone, wallet and so much more when they're trekking across campus.
Loop Quiet Equinox Earplugs
These design-forward earplugs are multipurpose – they block out extra noise for study sessions and sleep time, or even loud parties and concerts! Your grad will appreciate that they come with an easy-to-carry case for keeping them on-hand in unforeseen, noisy situations.
Crush Your Goals Inner Truth Affirmations Deck
For an extra dose of motivation, this 40-count deck of cards will keep them going when times get tough!
Keurig K-Mini Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker
Coffee will always be a part of any new grad's life. Keep 'em caffeinated with this convenient coffee maker that's compatible with K-Cups for everyday ease.
Hoka Clifton 9 Sneakers
Hokas are undoubtedly the cool girl of running shoes, and they will definitely make your grad hit the pavement smiling, no matter if they're stepping foot on their college campus for the first time or making big moves in a new city.
Great Jones The Starting Lineup
This trio of cookware is such a stylish way to give your recipient's post-grad kitchen an upgrade. All three pieces are oven-safe and dishwasher-friendly to make cleanup a breeze.
Find all of the greatest gifts with Brit + Co!
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 with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.
Eating out as a vegan can be a true challenge, especially if you don’t exactly know that what you’re ordering is 100% vegan. Fast food faves like McDonald’s and Taco Bell are secretly packed with vegan items, and Starbucks is no exception. From oat milk coffees to satisfyingly savory snacks, you’ve actually got plenty of plant-based choices when you pull up at your local Starbucks.
Scroll on to explore every vegan Starbucks drink and food item you can add to your order!
Vegan Starbucks Drinks
Starbucks
1. Brown Sugar Oatmilk Cortado
This new-to-the-menu espresso drink combines brown sugar syrup and oat milk to balance out the punchy coffee notes.
Starbucks
2. Latte (Iced + Hot)
You can totally enjoy a latte at Starbucks if you're vegan. Their oat, almond, coconut, and soy milks are vegan, plus many of their syrups qualify as vegan, too, if you want to flavor up your drink. According to this Starbucks supervisor, all of Starbucks "clear" syrups are vegan and dairy-free. Starbucks' regular and white mocha sauces and caramel drizzle are also vegan and dairy-free.
Starbucks
3. Americano (Iced + Hot)
Starbucks' Americanos are just water and espresso, so you don't have to worry about any dairy being in there. Optionally, you could ask for a splash of non-dairy milk and pumps of your fave syrup.
Starbucks
4. Brewed Coffee (Iced + Hot)
Same goes for their brewed coffees, including iced coffee. Easily ask your barista to add in some non-dairy milk and a few pumps of syrup if you desire!
Starbucks
5. Nondairy Salted Caramel Cream Cold Brew
This vegan cold brew drink is crafted with non-dairy cold foam that's flavored with salted caramel – and it's delish!
Starbucks
6. Nitro Cold Brew
A plain nitro cold brew from Starbucks is fully vegan and dairy-free. You can choose to add a splash of non-dairy milk, if you wish your sip to be a bit smoother and creamier.
Starbucks
7. Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso
This one's a classic: shots of espresso get shaken up with ice and brown sugar syrup to create a frothy foam, then the drink is topped off with oat milk to cut the bitterness. It's quite a delectable order, even if you're not eating fully vegan.
Starbucks
8. Starbucks Refreshers
All of Starbucks' fruity Refreshers are vegan. Plus, you can can add lemonade, tea, other flavor inclusions like strawberry and peach to add some extra oomph.
Starbucks
9. Iced Black Tea
Their refreshing iced black tea is certifiably vegan, too.
Starbucks
10. Iced Green Tea
If you prefer green tea, Starbucks' offering is vegan-friendly. If you tend to take your tea a bit sweeter, just order it with however many packets of your preferred sweetener, and your barista will add it in.
Starbucks
11. Lemonade
You truly can't go wrong with a lemonade!
Starbucks
12. Hot Teas
Starbucks' hot teas are totally vegan, too. If you want to make them fancier, ask for an additional splash of your go-to non-dairy milk!
Vegan Starbucks Foods
Starbucks
1. Rolled & Steel-Cut Oatmeal
Now onto the food! First up is Starbucks' oatmeal, which you can fancy up with nuts, berries, and brown sugar. Make sure to order it with water to ensure it stays vegan.
Starbucks
2. Plain Bagel
Surprisingly, Starbucks' bagels are also vegan.
Starbucks
3. Everything Bagel
The plain and everything bagels will work for any vegan eater.
Starbucks
4. Avocado Spread
Plus, you can order your bagel with a side of this delicious avocado spread for a nutritious boost!
Starbucks
5. Spicy Falafel Pocket
This 100% vegan snack pocket is new to the Starbucks menu, but it's already become a fan-favorite amongst vegans and non-vegans alike.
Starbucks
6. Chipotle Almond Dip
You can order the Spicy Falafel Pocket with a side of this fully-vegan Chipotle Almond Dip (AKA Bitchin’ Sauce). Yum.
Subscribe to our newsletter to discover more amazing Starbucks orders!
As the seasons shift and a long-awaited spring finally arrives, a few things are inevitable: the ground is thawing, the birds are chirping, and graduation ceremonies are right around the corner. In traditional practice, whether your graduation is from high school, college, or beyond, a white graduation dress perfectly complements all your robes and cords.
Instead of letting this unspoken dress code inhibit your sense of style and self-expression, lean into it! When you look good, you feel good — let this mantra ring true on your celebratory day with these white graduation dresses. You’ll find a range of styles, prices, lengths, and more to help you find your perfect match.
Image via Lulus
Lulus Cause to Celebrate Midi Dress ($79)
Hell-bent on avoiding an all-white ensemble? Then this beautiful, chiffon midi dress from Lulus is what you need for your big day. Artfully covered in subtle, gold dots, this dress is truly a ‘cause to celebrate!’
Image via Anthropologie
Anthropologie Mare Mare Romper ($168)
Giving the illusion of a dress, this adorable romper is complete with shorts underneath hidden by side panels for both coverage and comfort.
Image via Anthropologie
Endless Rose Crochet Lace Dress ($130)
Yes way, appliqué. The flower overlay is a sweet nod to femininity and the interesting crochet texture that covers this mini dress is sure to make you stand out among others.
Image via Free People
Free People Feeling Bonita Dress ($108)
Effortlessly chic, this cap sleeve midi dress will photograph like a dream in any and all graduation pics. Plus, it’s the perfect addition to pack for all your post-grad travels this summer! Win-win!
Photo via Anthropologie
Tommie Cap-Sleeve Dress ($170)
This simple midi dress if perfect for a graduation, and it even offers plenty of extensive sizing! We also love the cap-sleeve moment for a classy look.
Image via Lulus
Lulus Devoted Lover Midi Dress ($68)
Business in the front, party in the back; this bodycon dress features a high neckline that exudes a professional feel while the low back with a twist detail brings a playful aspect.
Image via Revolve
Amanda Uprichard Evaline Dress ($198)
Amanda Uprichard hit the nail on the head with this beautiful, sleek short-sleeved dress that will leave you wondering how you ever survived without it.
Photo via Free People
Free People Ultraviolet Dress ($148)
If typical dresses aren’t your style, not to worry, Free People has you covered. This polka dot midi dress is sophisticated yet fun with a flair; perfect for saying your farewells to any classmates you may have been crushing on ;).
Photo via Nordstrom
Nordstrom ASTR Off the Shoulder Dress ($90)
Hill House is known for their nap dresses, and for good reason. Constructed from 100% silk, this sleeveless dress lets you wear it, instead of the other way around.
Photo via Nordstrom
Petal and Pup Luelle Dress ($79)
Graduation aside, you need this dress in your closet. Featuring satin material for easy movement, this midi dress is a staple piece that will last through the years.
Photo via Nordstrom
House of CB Tallulah Dress ($209)
This elegant smock dress is comfortable enough for all-day wear, yet has a timeless feel that elevates the look of anyone who puts it on.
Photo via Eloquii
Eloquii Strong Shoulder Dress ($65)
Eloquii’s mission to provide extended sizes in a fashionable manner is evident in this curve-hugging midi dress complete with the fun shoulder detailing.
Reformation Moya Two Piece Set ($248)
This flirty, flouncy two piece set is perfect if you’d prefer to show less skin, and it’s super popular right now - so grab it while you can!!
Image via Showpo
Showpo Vashti Mini Dress ($70)
Showpo’s puff sleeve dress is so cute, you’ll have a hard time not buying it in every color after graduation.
Photo via Eloquii
Eloquii Lace Tiered Dress ($189)
This stunning lace-detailed dress is available in extensive sizes and is sure to be a show-stopper underneath a graduation gown.
Photo via Nordstrom
Nordstrom BP Mini Dress ($49)
A fold-over neckline and slit make this a cute and fun take on a white graduation dress. We think that's it's the perfect mix of classy and cute put together!
Image via Lisa Says Gah
Lisa Says Gah Alex Shirtdress ($148)
Lean into the coquette aesthetic with this lightweight, cotton mini dress, sure to fulfill your grad dress dreams and beyond.
Image via Peppermayo
Peppermayo Loren Midi Dress ($75)
Elegant and affordable, this silky midi dress has details including a ruched chest and a back tie to accentuate your curves in a subtle way.
Image via Madewell
Madewell Plus Tiered Midi Dress ($128)
A sweetheart neckline and button detail make this sleeveless dress perfect for warmer graduation ceremonies, and with size offerings up to a 28, it’s a great fit for all who are interested.
Tag us with your favorite graduation dresses on Instagram and subscribe to our email newsletter for more fashion inspiration!
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.
Jenna Bush Hager's New Book Club Pick Is A Family Drama That "Will Sweep You Off Your Feet"
Jan 10, 2025
What is it about family sagas that seem to make book clubs more interesting? Maybe it's because we know interpersonal relationships can be a little dysfunctional. It could be that we still don't know how to communicate with the people we love the most. Even if we love our parents and siblings, reading about other families' fictional twists and turns gives us a rush of adrenaline.
So it's no wonder Jenna Bush Hager's January book club pick feels like something we can read without putting down. It's full of complicated relationship dynamics, love, and reconciling one's identity with their past. You can say it's the perfect read to kick off your 2025 reading goals!
Learn more about Jenna Bush Hager's 2025 book club pick and fall in love with one character's journey of self-discovery.
Amazon
The Life Cycle of the Common Octopus by Emma Knight
Penn should be excited about advancing her education at the University of Edinburgh, but she can't stop thinking about the secret her parents have been keeping from her. For some reason, she believes she'll uncover it while she's in Scotland because Lord Lennox — her father's friend — is in the area.
Her hunger for the truth leads her to Lord Lennox's estate where she she starts mingling with his family and even discovers love in this moving novel.
Jenna Bush Hager's Thoughts About The Life Cycle of the Common Octopus
Jenna Bush Hager thinks readers will love The Life Cycle of the Common Octopus because "it's a rich novel" with themes of "friendship and motherhood" (via Instagram). It's so good, she's sure "it will sweep you off your feet (via Instagram).
We hope you enjoy reading about Penn's journey in The Life Cycle of the Common Octopus and encourage you to check out Reese Witherspoon's January book club pick next!
Trader Joe’s loves to keep us on our toes when it comes to their new arrivals. We’re constantly monitoring the aisles to discover all the new TJ’s sweet treats and savory snacks they launch – and these 7 new picks for January 2025 are not to be missed! All of these Trader Joe’s products will run you less than $5, which only makes sealing the deal on your grocery bill easier.
From delicious dips to a very enticing new frozen meal, these are the 7 best new Trader Joe’s finds you absolutely need to try in January 2025.
Trader Joe's
1. Teensy Candy Bars
These tiny little candy bar bites ($2.99) resemble Snickers in the best way possible: layers of nougat, caramel, and peanuts are enveloped in a delicious chocolate coating for maximum snackage. We're gonna have to resist eating the whole bag! TJ's even suggests using these bits as decoration for other desserts, like sprinkling some on a scoop of ice cream or baking them into some cookies.
Trader Joe's
2. Olive Tapenade Hummus
Trader Joe's array of dips is simply too good to resist, and this newcomer hummus ($3.49) is no exception! It's a tub of "smooth and nutty" hummus topped with a tapenade comprised of black olives, manzanilla olives, capers, and olive oil to give it a salty effect. It's gonna taste so great as a dip for crackers or as a spread on a Mediterranean pita wrap.
Trader Joe's
3. Organic Concord Grape Jelly
This squeezable grape jelly ($3.49) is nothing short of nostalgic. Trader Joe's says it's "super smooth, joyously juicy, and potently purple," which immediately has us sold on making PB&Js every day now.
Trader Joe's
4. Spicy Chicken Nuggets
Oh, yeah. Bring on the spice with these spicy nuggs ($3.99) that make the perfect easy meal no matter the time of day! Made from all-natural chicken breast and rib meat, breaded with wheat, rice and corn flours, then covered in hot sauce and lightly fried, TJ's has their texture down to a tee. You can easily cook 'em in the air fryer, oven, or microwave before chowing down!
Trader Joe's
5. Crispy Potato & Poblano Pepper Tacos
These halved and fried frozen tacos ($4.99) will totally crush your Taco Bell cravings, since they come together super quickly and contain flavors with mind-blowing authenticity! Each taco is filled with a blend of seasoned mashed potatoes and some "ever-so- slightly spicy" poblano peppers that'll work so well with any dipping sauce, from TJ's salsa to their creamy Jalapeño Sauce.
Trader Joe's
6. Strawberry Mini Hold The Cone!
Just in time for Valentine's Day, Trader Joe's is debuting a new flavor ($3.99) of their classic Hold The Cone! frozen dessert: strawberry! These tiny, chocolate-covered cones are lined with even more "rich" chocolate on the inside, then packed with strawberry ice cream, which TJ's says is crafted with plenty of strawberry purée.
Trader Joe's
7. Caesar Salad Dip
Trader Joe's shoppers have said this new Caesar Salad Dip ($3.69) makes a perfect girl dinner addition– which, if you get it, you get it! The tub starts with a "creamy" base that's then loaded up with Caesar-seasoned sour cream, mayo, anchovy paste, Parmesan, and finely shredded Romaine for the crunch. It's best enjoyed with crackers or veggie sticks to dip, but you could also smatter fried chicken or seared steak in it for some ahh-mazing flavor!
Subscribe to our newsletter to discover more of the best Trader Joe's new items!