30 Cozy Circle Scarves, Cowls, and Snoods

As the briskness of November settles right in, we’re pulling out all of our favorite wooly hats and scarves, but whose to say we don’t need a little re-up as we near winter? The circle scarf (or cowl or snood or infinity) scarf is here to stay. We turned a few of our sweaters into a DIY circle scarf a couple weeks ago, and now we’re looking to our favorite shops to keep our circle style fresh. Here are 30 cozy scarves for keeping you warm this winter.

1. Miss Pom Pom Graphic Snood ($63): This graphic print is sort of like old school sweater patterns meets a much more modern color palette. We dig the little green trees!

2. Bubble Eternity Scarf ($39): Seriously, how cozy does this scarf look? You could cuddle up in it even in the coldest of climes.

3. Chevron Checker Snood ($60): It’s tough to go wrong with classic patterns like Herringbone, Houndstooth, and Chevron. This would fit just about anyone’s style.

4. Scandi Fairisle Snood ($36): Love the patterns but prefer a more neutral tone? This beige snood (PS snood is a funny word for a circle scarf!) would look right at home in a ski cabin.

5. Esprit Fancy Yarn Snood ($34): The pops of pattern and color at the bottom of this scarf are what take it to the next level. This is a great option for girls who love to wear all black all the time, but are open to just a teeny tiny bit of color.

6. Chill Out on the Town Teal Scarf ($25): This editor has a possibly inappropriate obsession with teal, mint, and turquoise, but what’s not to love about this textured scarf?

7. Xmas Dinosaur Snood ($32): Wait for it — look real close. Those are freakin’ dinosaurs with santa hats!

8. Color Report Cowl ($38): This basic cable knit number is a solid staple piece that will last you through many winters.

9. Geo-Tribal Fluffy Knit Snood ($43): We know we’re not even halfway through this list, but this might win for our favorite one! Love the Navajo-inspired pattern and cozy wool.

10. Dash Circle Scarf ($145): You know when you see a textile and you just want to wear it and use it in any form possible? This is one of those times — imagine this as a dress, a skirt, a tablecloth, or a bedspread!

11. Open Weave Infinity Scarf ($38): We’re all about the airy vibe of this open weave infinity scarf, and we’d love to see it some brighter colors as well.

12. Lucerne Infinity Scarf ($48): Think multi-color knitwear is only for the early 2000s? Wrong! This cuddly piece would add a welcome bit of whimsy to any basic peacoat situation.

13. Pieces Felicia New Snood ($32): This patterns almost looks pixelated, like it was printed on an old school Apple IIC or something, don’t you think?

14. Waffle-Stitch Infinity Scarf ($65): Oh hey, is that a mint-colored scarf? Why yes, yes it is! Inspired by the waffle-knit thermals of your youth, this circle is durable, warm, and a great purse toss-in.

15. Chevron Infinity Scarf ($68): Chevron, our friend, it’s been a while!

16. Color Block Snood ($36): Wait a minute, maybe this one is our favorite. It’s neon in the best way possible, and the color block pattern is right up our alley.

17. Grayscale Color Block Oversized Eternity Scarf ($29): And on the opposite end of the color block spectrum, we have this grayscale option. Love all of the layers and textures we see in these photos.

19. Metallic Print Funnel Snood ($39): We’d have to buy this scarf to be sure, but the metallic pieces on here don’t even look like sequins. They look like itty bitty pieces of faux metallic leather, cut and stitched to give the look of sequins. Awesome.

20. Faux Fur Funnel Snood ($39): What’s cozier than a fuzzy, cuddly, faux fur winter accessory?

21. Sommets Faux Fur Infinity Scarf ($48): For a more subtle approach to the faux fur trend, this layered option is your best bet.

22. Positive Altitude Circle Scarf ($55): Love the bold teal and burgundy stripes on this knit number.

23. Variegated Knit Eternity Scarf ($42): We can have a third favorite, can’t we? All the textures and patterns contained in this gorgeous scarf make us swoon.

24. Fairisle Infinity Scarf ($98): Now that is a vintage-style scarf! The classic patterns associated with winter, the holidays, and ski houses are timeless and, in our minds, always in style.

Misen Cowl

need to find the yarn that made this.

26. Winding Rose ($68): First of all, the scarf looks insanely warm. It also looks like the kind of scarf a modern day Lady Mary (from Downton Abbey) would wear, so we’re obviously into it.

27. Down the Tube Scarf ($75): Not sure if this ridiculously cozy scarf is going to keep this gal warm in spite of the holes in her shirt, but she looks pretty happy.

28. Crochet Cowl Scarf (kr245): Love the look of crochet but intimidated by it? Well, when you don’t feel like DIYing it, you can always buy it! :)

29. Pink and Gray Knit Infinity Scarf ($40): Pink and gray come together beautifully in this extra long infinity scarf.

30. Untamed Faux Fur Infinity Scarf ($90): Finally, this is for a party animal, a wild child, or the person writing this article who happens to be throwing an animal print party this very weekend ;)

Quiet luxury had a beautiful run in 2023, but the mob wife aesthetic has entered the style group chat and is telling everyone their days of embracing side character energy is over. When I think of this trend, I can picture Elvira Hancock from Scarface and Carmela Soprano from The Sopranos in all of their glamorous glory. Also, while she may not have been a mob wife exactly, we can't forget Fran Drescher's style in The Nanny her gaudy and expressive style continues to have impactful influence.

While I'll never suggest your lifestyle has to mirror the mob wife aesthetic, I do have a few tricks up my sleeve that'll help you effortlessly embody it.

Mob Wife Aesthetic — Coats

Alice + Olivia Jarrett Vegan Leather Maxi Coat

The first unofficial rule of this trend is to make sure your winter coats are top tier. You'll want to go for a classic silhouette — similar to this vegan leather maxi coat — that makes a subtle statement. I've found that hunter green coats serve as a great neutral for just about anything in your closet so you can't go wrong with this!

Nasty Gal Raw Denim Oversized Trench Coat

For something that's the perfect mix of casual and edgy, this denim oversized trench coat will get the job done. It's a gentle nod to the mob wife aesthetic that's sure to elevate your outfits.

Nasty Gal Premium Bonded Faux Leather Borg Maxi Aviator Jacket

Should you want something that feels more casual without skimping on style, this maxi aviator jacket is an option you'll love wearing.

Mob Wife Aesthetic — Blazers

Michael Michael Kors Metallic Tweed Jacket

One of the best parts about the mob wife aesthetic are the cute blazers you get to wear. This metallic tweed jacket can be worn with a pair of tailored trousers or straight leg jeans if you're headed to brunch during the day.

ALESSANDRA RICH Zebra-Printed Cotton Blazer

Make a statement with this zebra print blazer! You may even stop traffic because it commands attention.

Alexia Admor Olya Notch Lapel Belted Blazer

Ah, here's another gorgeous green number that lets people know that you're standing on business despite how chic you may look.

Mob Wife Aesthetic — Blouses

Lulu's Black Chiffon Top

Thanks to the mob wives aesthetic, this is the year your closet will have a few more blouses added to it.

Banana Republic Crinkle Volume-Sleeve Blouse

If the thought of wearing chiffon makes you shudder, you can wear this volume-sleeve blouse.

Alice + Olivia Finely Open Back Button Blouse

I'm a huge fan of blouses that have the "business in the front, party in the back" detail like Alice + Olivia's design.

Mob Wife Aesthetic — Skirts

H&M Knit A-line Mini Skirt

Keep it cute and chic with this knit A-line mini skirt.

Vince Leather Straight Skirt (Hickory)

Or, bring the drama with a midi leather skirt that has the mob wife aesthetic written all over it.

Meshki Mura Pleated Mini Skirt (Lemon)

For a playful look, pair this pleated mini skirt with a cute blazer or knit sweater.

Mob Wife Aesthetic — Dresses

Hutch Asymmetrical Lace Mix Slip Dress

This lace slip dress has enough sex appeal for the both of us!

Reformation Felda Dress (Leo)

Whether you're dining at the most popular Italian restaurant in town or heading straight to a blues club, this dress falls in line with the mob wife aesthetic.

Reformation Irisa Dress (Grand Dame)

I can see it now — you wearing this dress with a cute cardigandraped over your shoulders.

Mob Wife Aesthetic — Tights

Calzedonia Tulle 40 Dernier Lace Ruffle Thigh Highs

I highly recommend that you consider pairing these tights with the above Reformation Irisa dress!

Spanx Plush Tummy Shaping Tights

However, you can a touch of mystery to your mob wife aesthetic by wearing tights that aren't sheer.

Wolford Josey Tights

Your expressive outfit won't be complete without these leopard print tights from Wolford!

Mob Wife Aesthetic — Earrings

Ana Luisa Tia Medium Gold

Bring on the gold hoop earrings!

Merjuri Easy Huggie Hoops

If you have multiple ear piercings, Merjuri's gold hoops are a quaint accessory that's still on par with this fun trend.

Kendra Scott Mikki Pave Huggie Earrings in Gold

Another option is to wear a pair of small hoop earrings that are encrusted with gems.

Mob Wife Aesthetic — Bracelets

Baublebar Melissa Cuff Bracelet

Let your wrist do the talking with Baublebar's gold cuff bracelet.

Abott Lynn Mini Heart Birthstone Bracelet (Gold)

Wear your heart and birthstone on your wrist!

Ross-Simons 18kt Gold Over Sterling Jewelry Set: Three Bolo Bracelets

Break out this 18kt gold bracelet set for during date night.

Mob Wife Aesthetic — Boots

Dolce Vita Gyra Boots (Black Leather)

Three words — sexy knee high boots.

Jessica Simpson Brykia Boot (Malbec)

If you have a Merlot-colored coat at home, wear it with this pointed-toe boot.

Gianni Bini x Nastia Liukin Parker Crocodile Embossed Leather Tall Boots

Crocodile embossed boots are the thing to wear if you still want to turn heads in a toned down outfit.

Mob Wife Aesthetic — Heels

Christian Louboutin So Kate Patent Pointed-Toe Red Sole Pump

The mob wives aesthetic is practically begging for you to have at least one pair of significant black pumps.

Public Desire Legacy Gold Croc Barely There Pointed Toe Stiletto Heels

However, glamour is on the other line and it wants you to throw caution to the wind by wearing gold heels.

Sam Edelman Hazel Pointed Toe Pump (Brown Brahma)

If the rest of your outfit is starting to feel like quiet luxury, slip into these brown and cream patterned pumps to wake it up.

How do you feel about the mob wife aesthetic?

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

Lead image via HBO

This post has been updated.

When it comes to New Year's Eve celebrations, the first thought that probably springs to mind is boozing it up with an NYE cocktail. And while there's nothing wrong with sipping some bubbly (if that's your inclination), those of us who prefer to keep thingsnon-alc may feel like there are no New Year's-appropriate activities for our preferences. We say that nothing could be further from the truth! Whether you're pregnant, abstaining, or just taking a break from the booze, here are 10 fun ideas for ringing in 2025, the sober way.

Attend A Silent Disco

A few years ago, just as the sober-curious movement was gaining steam, companies like Daybreaker brought 6 a.m. sober dance parties to the masses. In a similar vein are remote silent discos – events where you put your headphones on and dance it out to the music of world-class DJs right in the comfort of your own home (or in person, if you feel like venturing out).

A quick Google search will reveal that there are tons of options to shake it off on New Year's Eve, whether remotely or in-person in your city. Because silent discos have an alternative vibe, they're much more sober-friendly than traditional clubs and dance parties.

Make A Tea Bar

Photo by Jill Wellington / PEXELS

If you've ever been to a party where they had aProsecco bar or something similar, you know how fun themed bars can be. Why not make a NA equivalent with a tea bar? We're not just talking about hot water and tea bags... include exciting staples like bubble tea, kombucha, Southern-style sweet iced tea, and more!

Do A Goal-Setting Ritual

Brit + Co

Not in the mood to party this year? Celebrate the New Year with some introspection by doing a goal-setting ritual. You can design the ritual in whatever manner you like, but we recommend something along the lines of:

  • Light a candle and sit quietly for a few minutes.
  • Whip out your journal and take inventory of the last year: What were your best memories? What are you grateful for? Where do you think you could've improved?
  • In your journal (we have some killer prompts to start you off), mindfully list out your goals for 2025. They don't have to be New Year's resolutions, exactly, but include small steps you can take in the new year to help you achieve your goals!

Make A 2025 Scrapbook

Brit + Co

Before New Year's Eve, head to your local craft store and pick up some supplies for making an old-fashioned scrapbook. Print out some photos from your most treasured memories of the year (we like printing with Walgreens), and gather any magazines you purchased or journal entries you wrote.

You can also look up some news headlines that made an impact on you, and print out the article as well as photos of any notable celebs or politicians who made the news. On New Year's eve, put together a scrapbook of what made 2024, 2024.

Good, bad, or otherwise, the year was one to remember — so create a momento that will help you re-live the past year in the years to come.

Plan A Costume Party

Brit + Co

Believe it or not, masquerade balls, dressing up in costumes, and concealing one's identity have a long history in the historical celebrations of Christmastime. So we think a New Year's costume party is a fully appropriate idea for a sober New Year's Eve.

Who needs booze to have fun when you can dress up as whoever you want for a night of merriment and mystery?

Karaoke It Up

Photo by Mikhail Nilov / PEXELS

Another fun party pastime that's fun with or without booze? Singing! Grab some friends for a sober karaoke night either at your house or a private karaoke room. The singing's bound to be better than it would be if you were imbibing... who knows, maybe you'll steal the show with your rendition of "I'm Just Ken."

Cook A Fancy Meal

Whether you're spending the evening with your S/O or your BFF, cook a fancydinner for two. New Year's Eve is the perfect time to get fancy with food, so use this opportunity to ring in 2025 with only the finest cuisine. Don't forget to make a mocktail to go with!

Host A Game Night

Brit + Co

Bring all your besties over and host a board game night that's sure to be one for the books. Have everyone bring their favorite game – from Cards Against Humanity to Codenames – for a riotous evening that will remind you that you absolutely don't need booze to have a rowdy night of laughter!

Play 2024 Trivia

Photo by Askar Abayev / PEXELS

Before New Year's Eve, compile a long list of trivia questions about 2024. Alternatively, have a friend do it for you, or do a quick Google search... there are a lot of trivia quizzes out there. On the big night, gather your squad together to see how much you remember about 2024. The results may surprise you!

Host A Murder-Mystery Dinner

Image via Amazon

Murder-mystery dinners are still one of the best ways to facilitate a heart-racing and mind-boggling party. Pick up one of the many murder mystery dinner kits out there and have your besties over for a night of thinking on your toes — to be fair, it's probably best to skip the booze for this idea anyway, for the sake of your mental acuity.

Are you planning a sober New Year's Eve party this year? Tweet us @BritandCo to share your plans, and don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more booze-free hacks and party ideas!

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.

You may be bundled up in every sweater and coat you can get your hands on this season, but that doesn't mean your winter style can't be fun. IMO, this is the perfect time to go haywire with metallics by rocking all the best metallic styles you can stand. Plus, you'll want to wear something shiny to pair with your Valentine's Day outfit this year!

Whether you're you're rocking silver heels, or looking to start small with some silver jewelry, this trend is definitely one to get into. Here are 45 pieces of silver jewelry you can get right now!

Silver Necklaces

Anthropologie Sparkling Tennis Necklace

This sparkling tennis necklace proves that silver jewelry is far from basic.

Kendra Scott Elisa Pendant Necklace

All you need is a simple knit sweater and a pair of bootcut jeans to complement this silver pendant necklace.

Anthropologie Double Layer Herringbone Necklace

Herringbone necklaces are a classic staple that works with all holiday outfits.

Mejuri 5mm Curb Chain Necklace

This necklace from Mejuri is perfect for layering, but it's bold enough to make a statement on its own.

Dazzling Rock Collection 10mm Round White Freshwater Pearl & Diamond Infinity Pendant

The unique crossing design atop the pearl in this necklace pendant grants it a truly unmatched charm. It's intricate and simple all at the same time, allowing for easy pairing with any outfit or other pieces of silver jewelry.

Pendant Zodiaco Sagittarius

Show off your star sign with this sweet, simple zodiac necklace.

Brilliant Earth Zodiac Engravable Tag Pendant

Looking for something similar, but just different enough from the round zodiac pendant? Look no further than this adorable zodiac tag necklace.

Anthropologie Book Locket Necklace

Book lovers need thoughtful gifts they can appreciate — like this book locket necklace.

Gorjana Compass Coin Necklace

Let this Gorjana Compass Coin Necklace guide you to your best look yet.

Brilliant Earth Mountain Range Diamond Pendant

Love the great outdoors? Show off your natural passions in style with this pendant.

Silver Earrings

Baublebar Reagan Earrings

Take a break from crystal drop earrings and sport Baublebar's embellished version instead. Trust me — you'll love the effect statement silver jewelry has on your confidence.

Mejuri Pressed Flower Two-Tone Large Stud Earrings

Wearing silver doesn't mean you can't mix metals. These two-toned earrings let you play around with your accompanying accessories!

Brilliant Earth Moon Stud Earrings

Simple and chic, these moon studs go perfectly with any look.

Alexis Bittar Crumpled Silver Small Post Earrings

But, there's also power found in wearing small silver post earrings.

SHASHI Estelle Earrings

Just when you thought silver jewelry couldn't get bolder, these crystal drop earrings showed up on the scene.

Brilliant Earth Cultured Pearl Threader Earrings

Threader earrings give all the goodness of a drop earring with all the contemporary chicness.

Jenny Bird Florence Earrings

Hoop earrings are the easiest way to add an extra dose of 'oomph' to your OOTD. Besides, the polished silver will give your ears a bit of shine as you go to and from your intended destinations.

Gorjana Rose Huggies

Huggies are a great way to ease yourself into the world of hoop earrings.

Mejuri Charlotte Bold Huggies

If you want huggies that are a little more bold, well...it's literally in the name!

Baublebar Chiara Pavé Hoop Earrings

Go all out with these silver tone earrings. Featuring glass stones, they're the perfect accessory for that in-office holiday party you've been invited to.

Gorjana Tanner Hoops

Absolutely loving these hammered hoops for a little extra texture.

Sif Jakobs Earrings Elisse Lungo Cinque

Elevate your silver jewelry stash by buying this stunning pair of drop earrings. They're exude opulence and will be the star of any holiday party you attend.

Jenny Bird Aurora Ball Stud Earrings

Inspired by the idea of flying saucers? I totally get it.

Madewell Puffy Heart Statement Earrings

Throw these silver heart earrings on when you're running errands. They'll elevate your winter cozy style in less than 30 seconds.

Sif Jakobs Earrings Livigno

Not a hoops girl? These circular Sif Jakobs earrings can blend in or standout, depending on how they're styled, so you get a similar effect.

Mejuri Pyra Medium Hoops

These hoops from Mejuri are perfectly classic with a modern twist. Love!

MEJURI Puffy Charlotte Hoops

These mini sterling silver hoops may be on the smaller side, but they still make a bold statement.

Silver Rings

David Yurman Cable Collectibles Stack Ring

Stack your silver jewelry on your fingers starting with David Yurman's collectibles ring.

Local Eclectic Moonstone Decco Ring

If some guy said your aura's moonstone just 'cause he was high, then this is the ring for you! 😉

Dazzling Rock Collection 0.05 Carat Round White Diamond Flower Marquise Illusion Set Ring

Fall in love with this ring's unique diamond setting that can be worn for formal occasions and in your everyday. The floral-inspired design will adorn your finger with an alluring aura!

Tory Burch Miller Stud Ring

Tory Burch's brand has become synoynmous with effortless style that has a unique twist.

Gorjana Parker Link Ring

Loving the chain look? The Parker Link Ring can really tie it all together for you!

Gucci Sterling Silver Trademark Heart Ring

If this piece of sterling silver jewelry makes you sing, "Gucci this. Gucci that," I won't judge you.

Mejuri Wave Ring

Take your typical silver ring and give it a (literal) twist!

Mejuri Croissant Dome Ring

Croissants are always a good option — even if you can't exactly eat this one. 😗

BEN ONI Cody Cuban Link Ring

This gender-neutral ring works for anyone. It's sleek and constructed into a stackable ring that features Cuban links. There's nothing sexier than that.

Ippolita Classico Hammered Statement Dome Ring

Don't want anything flashy on your finger? Rock this hammered dome ring.

Monica Vinader Riva Diamond Hoop Ring

Monica Vinader has cracked the silver jewelry code by creating a design that's simple and elegant.

Mejuri Oval Gemstone Signet Ring

This ring speaks for itself — simplicity is stunning elegance.

Dazzlingrock 0.05 Carat Round Ring

This ring comes complete with a gorgeous floral design and set of diamonds that makes it the most ideal choice for occasions like Valentine's Day. It's expertly crafted and will pair well with the other silver jewelry you plan to wear.

Silver Bracelets

Kendra Scott Addison Stretch Bracelet

If you're not already thinking about it, pair this bracelet with Kendra Scott's Elisa pendant necklace!

Sif Jakobs Bracelet Ellisse

Let this silver-tone, chunky chain bracelet sit pretty on your wrist!

Local Eclectic Chunky Stainless Steel Curb Chain Bracelet

If you wanna go bolder than the Sif Jakobs bracelet, then this is a great choice to stand out.

Gorjana Parker Link Bracelet

Looking for a less chunky link bracelet? And one that can match your Parker Ring, too? We got you. 😇

Anthropologie Assorted Chain Bracelets

The girlies need options...it's me. I definitely need options, so I'm eyeing this silver assorted chain bracelet set.

MEJURI Puffy Charlotte Cuff Bracelet

Available in four sizes, MEJURI's silver cuff bracelet is has a memorable design that's easy to wear.

Silver Watches

BREDA Virgil Metal Watch

If it's time to replace your wristwatch, step your game up with this silver metal watch.

VANNA Claire Sandstone & Jade Watch

Having small wrists doesn't have to be a disadvantage. You can easily rock this dainty silver watch without worrying about it slipping down your wrist.

Versus Versace Colonne 45MM Two Tone Stainless Steel Bracelet Watch

Why buy a regular watch when you can a two-tone one that doubles as a bracelet? It's a piece of silver jewelry that works smarter, not harder.

FOSSIL Stella Three-Hand Date Stainless Steel Watch

FOSSIL knows how to create lovely designs that stand the test of time — pun intended.

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

Lead image via Mejuri.

This post has been updated.

As fun as Trader Joe’s snacks and desserts are, there’s one aisle you definitely should not skip – and that’s their plant section. Trader Joe’s is constantly stocking up on blooms like orchids and monsteras, all of which are easy to take care of once they make it home from the store.

Any houseplant lover knows the easiest of all easy houseplants is the famed pothos. I can water mine (I have about 5 pothos plants) once every two weeks, and they will. not. die. Right now, Trader Joe’s is selling pothos for cheap – but not just any pothos. They currently come along with a stunning hanging pot that you’ll instantly want to put up in your home.

Scroll on to discover more about this unique Trader Joe’s plant find!

@traderjoesobsessed

That’s right – Trader Joe’s shelves now include disco ball hanging planters. I repeat: disco ball hanging planters! The sphere-shaped pot is covered in reflective disco tiles that’ll certainly make your living room feel like a dance club. The best part is that pothos plants naturally look amazing when they’re grown hanging, so you can watch this baby flourish all year long.

@traderjoesobsessed

TJ’s fan account @traderjoesobsessed recently spotted the disco ball hanging planters at their local Trader Joe’s and shared the new find with their Instagram followers. Tons of them chimed in about their excitement for the product in the comments!

“I need this now😍,” one person commented.

“The way I gasped when I saw this 😍🪩,” another said.

“I bought one today and totally love it👍,” someone else commented.

“I suddenly need to buy more plants,” one more person wrote.

Several shoppers in the comment section noted that they were able to track down the disco ball hanging planters pretty easily, while others reported that they haven’t seen them in their stores quite yet. This is your sign to keep an eye out on your next TJ’s trip!

Reddit

@traderjoesobsessed reports that the disco ball hanging planters go for $12.99 in stores. Their affordable price makes them such a great gift for yourself or a loved one, plus the sparkles on the disco ball are perfect for livening up your space for a New Year’s refresh.

Run to TJ’s soon – I know I will!

Subscribe to our newsletter for more Trader Joe's news!

By now, you may be able to recognize signs of gaslighting or other toxicbehaviors, but do you know how to take everything you've learned and become a super compatible couple? According to experts, there are a few key things super compatible couples rarely argue about — even with whatever faults each person brings to the relationship table. While the topics these couples avoid may not surprise you, the reason why they're able to avoid them might. But first, let's talk about what makes couples more compatible than others.

Dr. Brooke Keels, Ph.D., LPC-MHSP, LPC-Supervisor, Chief Clinical Officer at Lighthouse Recovery, has this to say: "Couples are compatible when they share similar values, goals, and know the best way to communicate with each other." Notice she didn't say these couples are just alike.

More so, she explains that "it's about how well they handle differences, whether they can support each other through tough times, and how they connect emotionally." Dr. Keels adds, "when there’s respect, trust, and a good balance of give-and-take between them?" Dr. Keels believes this gives couples a better chance "to be in sync."

Scroll down to see the topics you'll rarely hear compatible couples arguing about!

RDNE Stock project

1. Long-term goals like marriage aren't often a cause for concern.

Have you ever dated someone that made you wonder what you saw in them once you pay attention to certain red flags? You may have found yourself arguing with them about everything from religion to reproductive health, leaving you feeling dizzy afterwards. But Dr. Keels says compatible couples are more likely to be aligned on "whether they want the same things out of life."

Her examples include:

  • Relocating for careers
  • Family planning
  • Finding somewhere to settle down in general (i.e. apartment, condo, different state, close to family, etc.,)

"This common ground lessens the chance of fighting over these big topics," Dr. Keels reiterates.

Vlada Karpovich

2. There's a lesser chance arguments about weekend activities occur.

We're no strangers to indecisive moments where we couldn't agree about what to do on the weekends with our partners, but Dr. Keels says compatible couples don't always run into this issue. "When you enjoy similar activities or have overlapping hobbies, you're more like to find ways to unwind together, rather than feeling disconnected or frustrated by each other's choices," she adds.

While it varies from couple to couple, you and your partner may enjoy the following:

  • Buying tickets to watch the latest college basketball or football game
  • Going to a 'Paint and Sip' class for fun
  • Having a mini outdoor picnic
  • Visiting a national park if it's on your couple's bucket list
  • Spending a day at a local arcade

The possibilities are endless, but all that matters is that "this mutual understanding makes spending time together feel natural and fun," according to Dr. Keels.

Mikhail Nilov

3. Communication styles aren't causing a daily disruption.

Some people have a more direct way of communicating while others may be passive or even passive-aggressive. Less arguments aren't happening because compatible couples communicate the same however. "When they both understand each other's communication style — whether it's direct or more subtle — it helps avoid misunderstandings and frustration."

Here's a couple of examples:

  • If you're having a bad day that has nothing to do with your partner, they don't take it personal when you prefer some alone time.
  • If your partner says something they perceived to be a joke, but you didn't, you're less likely to immediately accuse them of being insensitive. Instead, there's a higher chance of asking what they mean by something and expressing why you didn't like it instead of arguing.

Compatible couples "know how to express their feelings and needs in a way that the other person can easily understand" which makes "it easier to resolve issues calmly," according to Dr. Keels.

Alex Green

Are couples better (or more compatible) because they don't have a lot of arguments?

Well, no. That's actually a stretch because everyone has arguments. "Even compatible couples can argue about everyday things like chores or schedules. No matter how well they get along or how "in sync" they are, little annoyances can still pop up here and there, and cause some tension between them," Dr. Keels shares. "The difference," she points out, "is that they're usually better at handling these moments and keeping them from turning into bigger problems."

The other thing she's seen couples argue about is money. "It's such a common stress point because everyone has different habits and priorities when it comes to spending or saving," she says. But, guess what? "Compatible couples tend to approach the conversation with more understanding and a willingness to find a compromise," she continues.

If you feel like you and your partner aren't on the same page, it may not be time to break up just yet. We've learned that that it can take time to effectively communicate with a romantic partner or understand them. Compatibility is great, but it's not an indicator that a relationship will be smooth sailing!

Keira Burton

How can I have healthier disagreements with my partner?

Like we said, getting to a point where you and your partner aren't consistently hurting each other's feelings during disagreements takes time as well as skill. No one's born knowing all the answers so don't think your relationship is over because you're still figuring things out.

Dr. Keels says one way you and your partner can work on the kind of disagreements you're having is by "knowing how to communicate/compromise." Look, we heard your sigh and know it's probably the antithesis of how you feel. We struggled with compromising, but you don't get far in life thinking that everyone else has to bend to your will all the time.

"Even if they don’t see eye to eye all the time, healthy couples listen to each other's perspectives, and look for solutions that work for both of them. It’s not about 'winning' the argument and getting to say who's right, but finding common ground so they can move forward together," adds Dr. Keels.

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Also, "staying respectful event when things get heated or when you're upset" is a way to have a productive arguments, according to Dr. Keels. What happens is that "healthy couples avoid yelling or saying hurting things during disagreements," she says. This means no cursing or raising voices to the point your next door neighbors feel they have to call the police to do a wellness check on you.

"Instead, they just focus on the real problem and stay calm, which helps them work through the issue without hurting each other and the relationship," Dr. Keels says. And in the event you and your partner can't find common ground in a given moment? She highly suggests you "take breaks or pause when things get too heated."

Couples who do this "know when to step away and cool off before continuing the conversation," she adds. There are times where it's difficult to have a proper conversation when you're anxious or angry, so it's always better to revisit the topic.

Dr. Keels agrees and says, "This gives them a chance to cool down first so they can properly think things through, and think of a solution that works for both of them without saying anything they might regret."

Visit more of our relationships articles to find more advice about navigating friendships and love.