5 Must-Download Apps: Get the Clueless Closet on Your Phone + More

Lisa Raphael
May 31, 2014

We already handed out the award this week for most addictive new iPhone game (the too-cute TwoDots!) but that’s not all that’s going on on our phones right now. We’re kicking it old school in the best way this week with an app that’s like Babysitter’s Club 2.0, one that lets you be Cher Horowitz every morning and another that promises you’ll never — I repeat — never lose your phone again thanks to a little game you learned how to play poolside back in the day.

1. Mirrow.me: You were probably wondering how an app could turn your closet into Cher’s, but then you knew. And knew you had to download it immediately. Mirrow is a new must-DL that organizes all of the articles of clothing stuffed into your closet. It’ll save you from doubling up on things you already own when you’re out shopping and act as your own personal stylist, suggesting what to wear every AM depending on the weather.

Cost: Free for iOS

2. TapShield: This app puts your safety first and puts your neighborhood watch in the palm of your hand. It got its start on college campuses and is now a safety social network that you can join to report crimes in your area and help first responders get to the scene even quicker.

Cost: Free for iOS and Android

3. CluckCluckApp: Are you the mom who does it all? This app will help the cause and give you and your babysitter or caregiver(s) a direct line of communication. CluckCluck is a super handy way to organize your kids’ schedules. Your kids’ jam-packed, over-scheduled schedules so that you know who’s done what and see what they still have to do.

It’s like Babysitter’s Club 2.0 — it helps you schedule tasks for your kiddies and keep track of everything in one place that you can both access so there’s no miscommunication. Plus, you can easily pay multiple sitters right through the app, too.

Cost: $2.99 for iOS

4. MarcoPolo: We have our eyes and our Indiegogo pledges on trackers that will help you keep all your digital ducks in a row… but what if your stuff could just alert you to its whereabouts? This app lets you program your phone to shout “Polo” when you call out “Marco?!” That is all. And that is enough.

Cost: $.99 for iOS

5. Watchup: We’ve scrolled across approximately 1,000,002 different apps and sites that streamline your news reading experience — organizing the bulletins into bullet points, fleshing out Tweets, summarizing blogs. Enter an app that plays into the anchorman and woman enthusiast among us. Watch news across every channel all in one place and curate your own daily or weekly broadcast.

Cost: Free for iOS and Android

What apps did you download this week? Which of these are you going to give a try? Share below!

What Would A TikTok Ban Mean For Small Businesses?

Amid dire concerns that TikTok threatens U.S. national security, bans against the app have spread like wildfire. Beyond just government devices, some universities initiated bans, with the latest policy talks going as far as to include personal devices as well. Though it’s unlikely that the platform will be completely banned (there are other proposed solutions, like selling the app or amending its data policies) due to free speech, the possibility of a ban raises another concern: the livelihood of small businesses.

TikTok is a central avenue for small businesses to promote their products and services, with special thanks to its algorithm, says Johannes Larsson, Founder and CEO at Financer.com.

“The platform's unique algorithm, which prioritizes content discovery and virality, has enabled many small businesses to reach and connect with potential customers in a way that wasn't possible through traditional social media platforms,” says Larsson. “Since its growth has been exponential throughout the years as a key marketing channel, the ban triggered the markets for sure.”

TikTok also masters the art of connection. Your For You Page knows exactly what you like to see. This gives small businesses the ability to get closer to their audience and reach more success that way, says saysLynzee Krohne, Founder of branding agency LEO + LAINE.

"On TikTok, brands have the freedom and space to be more casual and less branded," Krohne said. "Because of the nature of TikTok, it allows brands to let their guard down a bit and create content that may be a little more rough around the edges—which helps them appear to be much more authentic to their audience."

Jessica Tran, founder of @jtmobiledetailing, says 60% of customers choose her car detailing shop because they saw it on TikTok. Jaz and Sam Sears, owners and operators of@aztaco.king, grew their business from a food cart in a parking lot to two restaurants in less than 6 months, due to their success on the app. Megan Gersch, a web designer and brand identity creator, says around half of her client base comes from TikTok, which often turn into 4 to 5-figure contracts.

This positive growth for small biz is commonly attributed to the app’s distinctive features that connect creators with consumers, such as live video streaming, a virality-driven algorithm, and the ability for users to personalize their daily feeds.

“TikTok has been a great tool for allowing me to connect with my audience on a deeper level,” says Gersch. “There's a special magic that happens with video marketing that you can't achieve with a text or static image post. Your audience gets to know your quirks, your mannerisms, and they start to feel like they know you, even though you've never met. Every time you see a new video from one of your favorite creators, it's like a FaceTime call from a trusted friend.”

In its absence, small business TikTokers would have no choice but to adapt and pivot their marketing strategies, which is not always easy when they’re doing it DIY-style, says Larsson.

“While small businesses may be able to find success on other social media channels, the competition for visibility and engagement is often more intense [than on TikTok], making it harder for them to stand out. The time and effort required to establish a new presence and create content tailored to the specific characteristics of other platforms could be a significant burden on small business owners.”

Small businesses pivoting to other platforms might face different struggles for exposure, due to consumers being very platform-specific, according to Krohne.

"If [TikTok] brands begin to focus their content efforts on Instagram, they’re up against multiple types of content, and competing in a more content-saturated world," Krohne told us. "TikTok mostly has one content offering, and that’s why it’s insanely popular. There’s a difference between platforms. Brands must diversify their content and show up in other places to keep a steady stream of touchpoints to remain top of mind and memorable."

Though Gersch is no stranger to restrategizing, a potential TikTok ban would still impact her business as a web designer and brand creator.

“I've been a marketer for 16+ years, and one thing that I have learned along the way is that you need to constantly test, look at your analytics, and create where the attention is,” says Gersch. “If TikTok goes away, there will be a huge gap in the market that will need to be filled.”

TikTok recognizes the work that small business owners take on in order to find success, which is why the platform has committed $1 million each to the Hispanic Heritage Foundation to elevate entrepreneurship in the Latin community, and Black Girl Ventures to support Black and Brown women entrepreneurs.

“Five million US businesses turn to TikTok to take us inside their world in a fun, authentic way, and as a result, they are reaching new customers, hiring more employees and growing their business,” says Becca Sawyer, Global Head of SMB for TikTok. “By partnering with HHF and BGV and launching virtual workshops, we're strengthening our commitment to build an inclusive and supportive platform where small business owners and entrepreneurs can share their story, find their audience and drive real business results."

We can’t make a solid prediction for the destiny of the beloved app for now, but we do know that it’ll be dearly missed by small businesses and consumers alike if bans (at any capacity) go through.

“I don't want Tiktok to be banned - not only is it an integral part of my business, but I have also been able to connect with so many incredible people that I wouldn't have met otherwise,” says Gersch. “It's my go-to source for inspiration, learning, and even a good laugh.”

Sign up for our newsletter for more takes on current events. Follow us on TikTok to catch exclusive content!

Illustration by Claire Shadomy

tiktoksmall bizsmall businessestiktok userstiktok bantiktok algorithmviraltik toktik tok trendssmall business ownermarketingsocial media marketingsocial mediahispanic heritage foundationblack girl venturesappstechnologytech newssmall business

Trader Joe’s Fans Are Gonna Melt Over This “Cheesy” New Tote Bag Design

If you’re a trueTrader Joe’s fan, you probably already carry your pickle tote bag everywhere. And, of course, you can’t forget the frenzy for the-ever stylish Trader Joe’s mini tote bags! TJ’s is here to shake (or, rather, shred) things up with an all-new tote bag design – and it’s super cheesy.

Trader Joe’s

That’s right – Trader Joe’s latest and greatest tote bag design (which you can shop from end caps near the TJ’s checkout lines) features all things cheese! Any charcuterie, mac and cheese, grilled cheese, and pizza lover will immediately fall in love with it.

Eme Estevez / Dupe

The tote is covered in “charmingly cheesy” illustrations of all the varieties of cheese Trader Joe’s has to offer. They’re perfectly colorful and bold, so you’ll adore looking at it every time you make a grocery trip.

Fans are calling the new design "sooo cuteee" and "un-brie-lieveable." One Instagram user even said, "now that’s a tote worth getting if you are cheeseboard obsessed. 🥳🥳🥳"

Jayda Anderson / Dupe

The bag is certifiably heavy duty, made of 100% cotton, and features reinforced seams with two handles long enough to hang comfortably on your shoulder – perfect for you if you walk to your nearest Trader Joe’s instead of driving there! It measures 18.5 by 13.5 inches to carry all the snacks, frozen meals, and beverages your heart desires.

Trader Joe’s

My favorite part of this new TJ’s tote is that it’s also covered in tons of cheese puns, which are quite “pun-gent,” per Trader Joe’s.

The cheese puns in question? “I’m wheel excited to be here. You cheddar believe it. To brie, or not to brie. I am fondue you. Life’s so gouda.” I’m a firm believer that everyone loves a good pun, so this bag is an instant source of entertainment.

Alexy Almond / PEXELS

The new Trader Joe’s cheese tote bags are just $4 each. I’ll definitely be snagging one for myself and a few more to share with the TJ’s lovers in my life!

Subscribe to our newsletter for more amazing Trader Joe's new arrivals!

food newsgrocery shoppinggrocery storetrader joe'stote bagsfood

9 Black App Creators You Need To Know

In an increasingly digital world, mobile apps change the way we access information, stay connected to friends and family, entertain ourselves, and even manage our mental health and anxiety. Behind every great app is an inspiring fleet of developers who have taken a spark of creativity and turned it into something totally new and useful.

This Black History Month, we’re celebrating some of our favorite Black app creators who have been instrumental in revolutionizing their respective industries. These talented women have used their passion for coding and design to create apps that are both innovative and indispensable.

Aurelia Edwards, Founder of Nailstry

Aurelia Edwards has created the ultimate destination for beauty lovers through her app Nailstry. This exclusive marketplace is tailored to help those aspiring to perfect their press-on nails with unique designs from nail art designers across the country. It doesn't stop there; Aurelia also seeks out opportunities that give back and donates a portion of her sales towards programs like Black Girls Code.

Damilola Awofisayo, Founder of TecHacks

Damilola Awofisay is a young leader making waves in driving the tech industry forward. She is using her coding skills to create apps that address issues such as sign language learning and dyslexia support for students, actively cultivating a more inclusive future of digital innovation. Moreover, she's making STEM more accessible for young women through TecHacks, a nonprofit that brings women and nonbinary individuals together virtually in hackathons.

Dayo Akinrinade, Founder of Wisdom

Dayo Akinrinade is empowering people everywhere with Wisdom, an app that connects users to inspiring advice and a supportive community of like-minded individuals. Through the platform, users can learn from each other on topics ranging from business success to personal wellness in one inclusive setting. Through Wisdom, closed networks are replaced with limitless opportunities for knowledge sharing!

DeShuna Spencer, Founder of kweliTV

Deshuna Spencer translated her passion for storytelling and black culture into creating a platform that celebrated the intersection of the two. She launched kweliTV, a streaming app, features 550 titles from 450 global filmmakers. With almost 50,000 users, kweliTV has earned $800,000 in revenue, 60% of which goes directly back into the film community! This is innovation at its finest; disruption through creativity while still giving back to support others who share this same vision.

Janique Edwards, Co-Founder of EatOkra

Janique Edwards, along with her husband Anthony, are connecting foodies to Black-owned restaurants and culinary experiences through their app EatOkra. Seamlessly streamlining the discovery process, EatOkra is bridging audiences with over 11,000 black-owned eateries across the country.

Kaya Thomas, Founder of We Read Too

Kaya Thomas is a true inspiration! Combining her passions of reading, coding, and writing, she founded We Read Too, an app that enables young people to explore hundreds of books written by authors from diverse backgrounds and featuring characters who look like them. Through this innovative idea, Kaya is bringing equity and inclusion to the literary landscape for children across the globe.

Kimberly Seals Allers, Founder of Irth

Kimberly Seals Allers is an inspiring leader who was driven to make a difference. After her own negative hospital experience, she devoted herself to researching disparities in care for Black and Hispanic women during childbirth. This spurred the creation of Irth, an app designed specifically with these communities in mind so they can have equal access leading up to and beyond their child’s birth.

Simmone Taitt, Founder of Poppy Seed Health

Simmone Taitt is the visionary behind Poppy Seed Health, an incredible app that provides 24/7 on-demand access to midwives, doulas, and nurses for pregnant and postpartum individuals. Driven by her own pregnancy journey, Simmone recognized an opportunity in the tech startup scene to build a community for those embarking on one of life's most beautiful yet challenging journeys: parenthood. The culminating result? A warm digital refuge!

Tanya Van Court, Founder of Goalsetter

Tanya Van Court is the mastermind behind Goalsetter, a personal finance app that has empowered families to help their children realize their financial aspirations. Goalsetter is on an ambitious and compassionate mission. The goal they're setting? Striving for one million Black kids worldwide to open savings accounts!

These are just a few of the creators whose work is transforming industries, connecting communities, and promoting equity within our digital landscape. We hope that they serve as an inspiration to all aspiring entrepreneurs who have bright ideas and big dreams. Be sure to support these incredible Black app creators and the amazing work they’re doing!

techappsapp creatorsblack history monthtech news

6 "Overrated" Hair Products I Won't Buy Again In 2025

I've been thinking about how much money I spent on things I didn't love — like overrated beauty finds — and I have a few hair products that met their untimely fate in my garbage. I wanted to love them because of the brand, but some of them were unnecessary based on price or the formula not agreeing with my coils. Regardless, there are a handful of products I definitely wouldn't buy again this year. And while some of them may work for you, here are all the overrated hair products I just cannot recommend.

Scroll to see all the overrated hair products I definitely regret buying.

Sephora

Overrated Prices

1. Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil

This is one of those hair products where the formula actually works well. I loved how silky it felt on my hands and it provided my hair with amazing shine. However, I also receive the same effect from Carol's Daughter Goddess Strength 7 Oil Blend... without dishing out $30.

My hair's not super picky about oils I use, so I personally don't feel like I need to spend a certain amount just because one brand name is more popular than another.

Sephora

2. Briogeo Don't Despair, Repair! Super Moisture Conditioner

I purchased this conditioner and fell in love with how soft it made my hair. All it took was two dime size amounts worked into my strands for my hair to let me know it truly appreciated it. The problem is that it costs $39.00! It was definitely a splurge at the time I bought it, but I can't see myself spending that amount every other month.

My alternative is 4U by Tia Moisturizing Conditioner.

Sephora

Overrated Performance

3. dae Mirage Mist Leave-In Conditioner

This leave-in conditioner left me wanting more because my hair absolutely hated it. It's meant for all hair types, but it just didn't do anything for mine. Instead of reducing frizz and dryness, my hair actually felt hard after using it. Before you think it was user error, I purposely didn't put anything else on my hair after washing it.

I don't think I need to say it, but my little test resulted in this being tossed in the trash. I'll just stick to my 4U by Tia Curl Refresher Mist Hair Spray if I want an extra boost of hydration and shine.

Amazon

4. Wavytalk Professional Hair Dryer With Diffuser

This is going to be controversial because I've been talking about spending too much money on styling and conditioning products, but I actually prefer the T3 Aire 360 Multi-Styler & Blowout System over this. I have thick natural hair that felt like it was being yanked whenever I used this dryer's comb attachment. I've experienced postpartum hair loss so I'd like to keep as many strands on my head as possible.

Personally, the T3 Aire Multi-Styler & Blowout System cuts my drying time in half while also providing a soothing experience.

Sephora

Overrated Fragrance — Yes, I'm Serious

5. Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-Exfoliation Shampoo

Am I being picky about something like fragrance? Why yes, I am. I'm fully aware that I have allergies and asthma so it doesn't take much for something to trigger an itchy nose or claustrophobic airwaves. Also, at this point I know I probably should just stay away from Briogeo as a whole.

I digress... I tried this shampoo and should've known better than to use something that reminds me of the charcoal face wash I use sometimes. It also smells like it which is a huge turn-off for me. Hard pass on this!

Sephora

6. Gisou Honey Infused Hair Perfume — Floral Edition

I think a part of me liked wasting money last year because this hair perfume gave me the ick last year. I don't even like floral scents so I'm not sure why I decided this purchase would be a great idea. I'm sure someone will love the blend of honey, wild rose, and vanilla, but I did not.

If you tried overrated hair products last year, stop by our storefront to see what I actually recommend using!

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

beautybeauty productseditecomhair

I Rewatched 'Bridgerton' Season 1 & I Have SO Many Thoughts

It was December 2020, right at the height of the COVID pandemic. Everyone was stuck at home in their sweatpants with nothing to do but scroll the never-ending sea of streaming content (or was that just me?). All of a sudden, viewers were swept from their homes to a world of the Regency-era elite. That is, the Shonda Rhimes remix, of course. Since then, everyone, and I mean everyone, has been obsessed with and captivated by the stories of those who walk 19th century Grosvenor Square in London, including myself. It doesn’t feel like it, but Bridgerton has reached its 4 year anniversary, and to celebrate I rewatched the season that started it all.

Here are 13 thoughts I had during my Bridgerton season 1 rewatch while Daphne and the Duke burned for each other.


1. Colin and Anthony have always been the best men on the show.

Liam Daniel/Netflix

The Bridgerton family certainly knows how to raise ‘em. Colin is loyal to a fault and provides unwavering support to his sisters, and Anthony is an all-around genuine man that will go out of his way for anyone he loves. Need I say more?

2. ​Duke Hastings hating his dad is so fair.

Liam Daniel/Netflix

After a second rewatch, I hate the Duke’s dad more. You’re telling me he couldn't care less about his wife in the midst of delivering his child? The man is cold and heartless, and how could you not think so after a second round of viewing when they flashback to little Simon – particularly after gaining a deeper understanding of Simon?

3. Penelope as Lady Whistledown is not so surprising the second time around.

Liam Daniel/Netflix

Excuse my ignorance, but I never saw Penelope dropping her secret that she is the Lady Whistledown, at least the first time around. After a second viewing, all the signs were there, and I was shaking my head at my past self.

4. Is this a feminist show?!

Netflix

We’ve got Sarah giving birth and dying to give a man what he wants, and then having a room full of women saddened by the very event, juxtaposed with a shot of the men cheering. After a rewatch, I have to say, the show portrays strong women all while highlighting the inequalities they faced at the time.

I didn’t catch it the first time around,, but the show truly leans on the women to drive the narrative and I never found myself particularly swayed by any one man. It’s refreshing to see how Bridgerton empowers its female characters, allowing them to challenge societal norms and assert their independence, which makes it feel like a modern feminist take on the past. Go Bridgerton!

5. ​I’ve learned quite a lot from Bridgerton.

Liam Daniel/Netflix

While the show may not be entirely accurate, it had me Googling things non-stop the second time around. I’d like to share my learnings: things get pretty spicy in Bridgerton (it’s a show about courtship after all) so I couldn't help but wonder, did women shave their legs in 1813? Well, I looked it up so you don’t have to, and the answer is no! It wasn’t common at all. Boxing, however, was a thing back then. Who knew? Not me. And Queen Charlotte having a Pomeranian? Totally normal, the real Queen Charlotte had many that she absolutely adored.

6. ​Simon is a man for the woman.

Liam Daniel/Netflix

I love Simon, there, I said it! He is so kind and understanding of Daphne and defended her furiously any chance he got, even during the time of their "fake" courtship, proving he’s everything and more for her. After a second rewatch, the flashback scene of his birth, and his mother’s death, destroyed me – it’s that very scene that reveals he’s burdened by childhood trauma. His guilt-stricken face highlights his determination to never become like his father. In the end, Simon’s struggles show a man who strives not to repeat his past – especially with Daphne. Sigh, Simon it was never your fault.

7. ​Simon and Daphne are a slowburn.

Liam Daniel/Netflix

I’ll admit, I thought there was a lack of chemistry between Daphne and Simon the first go around. After my second time watching, their chemistry is impeccable and they compliment each other so well. I’m actually wondering how I ever thought the way I did beforehand?

8. This season perfectly sets up the forthcoming romance between Penelope and Colin.

Liam Daniel/Netflix

The gestures, the flirting, and the little moments the writers gifted us, oh so well done.

9. ​The world build-up is so critical.

Liam Daniel/Netflix

The first season of Bridgerton so beautifully captures the magical ride fans, unbeknownst to them at the time, are about to take in following seasons. We get acquainted with all of the Bridgerton kids, are introduced to the ensuing rivalry between the Featheringtons and Bridgertons, and last but certainly not least, we learn the rigid societal expectations of the 19th century, particularly through Daphne’s experience of finding a suitor. This season is so critical in laying it all out for viewers.

10. ​This is Eloise’s best season.

Liam Daniel/Netflix

I love Eloise, she says what everyone's thinking and isn’t afraid to stick up to men. Amen, sister. Dare I say her banter with her sisters and others carried this season?

11. ​The writing is *chef’s kiss.*

Liam Daniel/Netflix

The romance that gradually develops between Daphne and Simon allows viewers to not only connect with them, but provides a deeper look into the sibling dynamics within the Bridgerton family. The cherry on top of it all is the chaos of everyone and everything else ensuing while a mysterious gossip columnist generates tension throughout the entire season – what’s not to love?

12. ​There is no way no one caught on to Madame Delacroix.

Liam Daniel/Netflix

The fake accent wasn’t fooling me even the first time around, but I guess kudos to her for not being caught by her important clients.

13. ​Jonathan Bailey. That's all.

Nick Briggs/Netflix

Kidding of course, I really do have something to say – After watching the later seasons he looks comparatively and especially young in the first. Maybe it’s because I’ve also watched Wicked (a few times) recently and he looks so much … older? Bailey was a cutie in the first season, and although he was a hard sell in the first two episodes, he sure did grow on me.

What's the wildest thought you had during a Bridgerton season 1 rewatch? Let us know on Facebook, and read up on the Bridgerton season 4 cast before it hits Netflix!

bridgertonpop cultureentertainment