Rock This DIY Color-Blocked Ballerina Swimsuit All Summer Long

Irene Fucci
May 24, 2017

Ballerina style is officially everywhere right now, from the perfect sleek bun to feminine ballet shoes, so it’s not surprising that ballerina-inspired swimsuits are one of the hottest looks of spring/summer 2017. I mean, how can you resist the appeal of ruffles, blush pink hues, wrap bodices, romantic lace-up details, and bows? We just can’t. But since finding great, affordable options on the market is not as easy as you may think, we decided it was time to brush up on our basic sewing skills and create our own color-blocked ballerina-inspired one-piece. Read on to give this feminine trend a try.

Materials and Tools:

Instructions:

1. Wearing your swimsuit, spot a point under your belly button and mark it, then take the swimsuit off and draw a horizontal line as shown below.

2. Cut the swimsuit in half, following the line.

3. Cut the swimsuit bottom on the sides as shown below to create this flat, open shape.

4. Use the pink shape you just created as a template to trace its outline on a piece of black fabric.

5. Use the fabric scissors to cut, but remember to leave one inch of seam allowance. Once you’re done, fold in half.

6. Join the right and left edges together as shown below. Pin and sew.

7. Double fold the bottom edges and pin it in place. Then sew, using your sewing machine.

8. With your bottom piece facing right side in and your top part facing right side out, slide the top through the waist and pin so that the waist of the bottom piece and the bottom edge of the top piece meet. Pin all around the entire waist and sew.

Wearing your swimsuit, spot a point under your belly button and use a tailor’s chalk to mark it. Then take the swimsuit off and draw a horizontal line all around, as shown in the picture above. Next, cut along the line, then cut the bottom piece on the sides as shown above to create a flat, open shape. We’re going to use this as a template — take your black elastic fabric scrap and trace the pink shape outline using the tailor’s chalk.

Take your fabric scissors and cut, but remember to leave one inch of seam allowance. Once you’re done, fold in half. Join the right and left edges together as shown above, then pin and sew. Next, double fold the bottom hems, and pin and sew using your sewing machine to create some crisp edges. Last but not least, with your bottom piece facing right side in and your top part facing right side out, slide the top through the waist and pin so that the waist of the bottom piece and the bottom edge of the top piece meet. Pin all around the entire waist and sew. Voilà, you’re done!

The simple silhouette and dusty pink hue would do any ballerina proud.

Have you ever DIYed a swimsuit or bikini? Show us your projects by tagging us on Instagram + using the hashtag #iamcreative, and follow us on Pinterest for more DIY style inspo!

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7 Airy Linen Dresses For Those Sweaty Summer Days

I don't know if it's bad luck, but I definitely wear my linen dresses — even the white ones — way past Labor Day. As long as the sun is shining and the air is warm, you will usually catch me in one of these comfortable, breathable, and obviously adorable little pieces. Another great thing about linen is that it generally will never go out of style, so don't be afraid to invest in some pieces that will be a part of your wardrobe forever. There are so many great options to choose from, but here are seven linen dresses that make the perfect summer (or any warm weather) outfit.

Abercrombie & Fitch

The A&F Emerson Linen-Blend Puff Sleeve Mini Dress

You guys, I'm not even kidding when I say this is the best dress I own. As a broad shoulder girly, the neckline is SO flattering. Plus, the material is thick and durable, but still breathable for a hot summer day. I own this in black which allows me to dress it up for dinner or wear it to work, but this vibrant pink — and the several other colors and patterns — is so cute for the summer time. At $60 (was $80), this is a steal!

J.Crew

J.Crew Squareneck Midi Dress In Linen

I need to be wearing this dress with a spritz in my hand ASAP. This dress is a J.Crew best seller for a reason — it makes the perfect warm weather staple. This design is so simple, yet with the help of some fun accessories, this dress can be a hundred different outfits. You can shop this dress in white, red, or black for $178.

Zara

Zara Linen Blend Midi Dress

You can never go wrong with a little slit in the summer. This linen blend dress is simple, yet elegant — perfect for any vacay dinner or date night. Throw on some cute sandals and chunky earrings and hit the town in this little green number. Plus, the tie-up back gives you easy adjustment depending on your chest size. Make this your next summer dress for $36 (was $49).

Madewell

Madewell Square-Neck Mini Dress in 100% Linen

Great, I'll take 10 of them! No seriously — this dress is fabulous, the square neckline is just perfection, and stretchy chest area make this dress fit anyone like a glove. You can get this dress in white for a classic summer look, or it's also available in a light blue. If you're a tall girl, this style shows off your beautiful long legs. You can also get it in a wide range of sizes for $93 (was $110).

Abercrombie & Fitch

The A&F Emerson Strapless Linen-Blend Maxi Dress

Oh my god, the color of this dress is everything! I also appreciate a strapless dress in the summertime to show off my tan lines — there's something so luxurious and indulgent about it. This piece is so simple, which means room for you to customize with accessories. Although it's true to size, always be careful about sizing with strapless! A perfect linen staple for $72 (was $120).

Abercrombie & Fitch

A&F Linen-Blend Shell Mini Dress

There's something about a dress with an open back that always gets me. It makes for a fun little surprise you wouldn't expect from looking at the front of the dress — and it's a great excuse for an updo. This piece would be perfect for any more professional setting like work, happy hour with your fave coworkers, or lunch with the in-laws. You could be its next prideful owner for $42 (was $70).

H&M

H&M Linen Slip Dress

I cannot think of anything more summer appropriate than a linen slip dress. It's lightweight, super comfortable, and you can dress it up for a fancy dinner, or literally use it as a bathing suit cover up. Everyone needs a slip dress as part of their summer capsule closet. Add this one from H&M to yours in white or black for $55!

Subscribe to our newslettermore summer shopping tips like this!

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25 Thoughts I Had After Watching 'The Family Stone' For The First Time

The Family Stoneis all over TikTok right now, with people dissecting left and right whether the 2000's Christmas movie actually good or actually bad. Until now, I actually hadn't seen this Sarah Jessica Parker and Rachel McAdams throwback film — and TBH, I was desperate to weigh in on the discourse, especially after watching the weirdness that was Love Actually (sorry not sorry!). But with the likes of Diane Keaton, Luke Wilson, and Claire Danes in this cast, it has to be pretty good...right? After streaming this 2005 film on Disney+, here's what I thought.

Here's everything I thought after watching The Family Stone for the first time!

20th Century Fox

1. Why won't Meredith sleep in her boyfriend's bed at his parents house?

While I could understand if Everett's parents didn't want them staying in the same room (sort of), I genuinely am so confused why Meredith makes that call on her own. Is she worried about being respectful? About seeming respectful? Do they genuinely not sleep together? A very confusing choice all-around.

2. Yeah, I mean Meredith is a little awkward for sure — but like WHY is she so uptight?

Anyone would get nervous to meet their potential future in-laws, but Meredith is definitely taking this to a different level. It feels like she's totally shut down, or something. I mean, I guess she had a bad experience with Amy back in the city, so maybe she's worried the holidays will end up the same? Regardless, I'm super uncomfy watching just about every exchange.

3. Why do they all act weird when she wants her privacy on the phone?

Okay, even though Meredith is acting a little weird, I don't think it's that weird that she would wanna take a phone call alone. They act like she just told them to buzz off when she asked for space to answer the phone.

20th Century Fox

4. I love how close this family is, but they're incredibly judgmental!

Listen, I'm all here for a quirky, close family dynamic. I have a kooky family of my own where my siblings and I all speak the same feral language! But these folks seem to take their closeness and use it to alienate and shut out others. It explains why Meredith is having such a hard time connecting!

5. Everyone was very nonchalant about Elizabeth breaking Meredith's nice shoes — I would be pissed!

I don't care if they were Louboutins or the latest Target special — if a child (and particularly one I'd never even met before) recklessly broke my shoes without a care in the world, I would be very upset. It's honestly off-putting that nobody in the family seemed to react to Elizabeth's inconsiderate behavior, and instead chose to look at Meredith like SHE was weird for being peeved.

6. It's honestly so weird how everyone keeps making light that they’re all talking about her?!

Ben literally told Meredith that they're all talking about her behind her back...who does that?! It would be one thing if there were lighthearted jokes and jests leading up to that, but the vibes are clearly bad already. Why make it worse?

20th Century Fox

7. IMO, Meredith's not “shouting” to be rude — she’s trying to be inclusive of Thad because he's hard-of-hearing!

The whole family keeps acting like Meredith is a jerk for speaking up and emphasizing things to Thad, but honestly I think she's just trying to keep him included in the conversation in the way she knows how. Maybe instead of silently judging and letting her look foolish, Everett (or literally anyone else around) could gently explain how to best communicate with his brother?

8. Meredith may be awkward, but she lights up when she talks about her life with Everett!

Amy said that Meredith never stops talking, but it seems like she loves to gab when she's talking about the person she loves: Everett. What's wrong with sharing that with people? So what if she's a little robotic — it's the liveliest she's been the whole time!

9. “I can see you beginning to look at me like they do” :(

Aw, this made me so sad for Meredith!

10. Ben is being so creepy, TBH...

"I had a dream about you," um...okay?! Why are you so clearly trying to mack on your brother's girl?!

20th Century Fox

11. Sybil may be “nice” but she’s incredibly overbearing — look at how she treats Amy about Brad!

In one of the greatest musicals of all time (Into The Woods), Little Red sings that "nice is different than good" — and that couldn't be more true here. Sybil seems nice and friendly, but really she's pretty overbearing and judgmental towards all her kids. I mean, truly who brings up that who daughter lost her virginity to in front of a total stranger unsolicited like that? She was clearly trying to manipulate Amy into fitting the mold she made for her.

12. There are clearly a LOT of strings attached with Sybil

Seriously though, this woman is a tough nut to crack. I mean, she rushed to conclusions about Meredith, making it very clear she's not "the one" for Everett to him and everyone else. It seems like she would be incredibly tough to please in any circumstance, let alone the one where you're picking your life partner (and requesting the family diamond).

13. Meredith keeps trying to be thoughtful, even though this family is awful to her.

Offering to make Christmas breakfast for everyone, even though this family continued to haze her to the point where she didn't even feel comfortable sleeping under their roof, was honestly really kind and thoughtful of Meredith. I don't know if I'd have that kind of grace and resilience in a similar scenario.

20th Century Fox

14. This race and sexuality conversation is SO CRINGE I AM CRYING WHY WHY WHY!

Oh my god, please make this end. I know I've been pretty apologetic for Meredith this whole time, but woof. This was uncomfortable and awkward and problematic. She definitely has a LOT to learn — even for 2005.

15. “I love the gays! Gay people!” Okay, me...

Honestly, tattoo this quote on my forehead.

16. Everett is being such a weirdo about the ring and Julie and everything — like what a WEIRDO!

I know he had a nice little evening wandering around with his girlfriend's sister, but it really seems like this man is ready to blow up his whole life so quickly. Like, Julie was so clearly uncomfortable by him asking her to wear Meredith's engagement ring, but he literally forced her to anyway! WHO does that?

20th Century Fox

17. Julie is honestly sus too...

I get that feels can come outta nowhere, but Julie was very clearly into Everett like...the whole time. There wasn't really any hiding that.

18. Meredith is an incredible gift giver — WOW!

Honestly, if someone gave me that photo of my dying mother, I would be beside myself. That is a gorgeous gift, and I hope to be half the gift-giver she is.

19. Meredith could really stand to tone down the "Karen" behavior

This family put her through a lot, but I am really starting to be over her victim mentality. You put your foot in your mouth multiple times, girly. Apologize and move on!

20th Century Fox

20. "Isn’t there anybody that loves me?!” is incredibly hilarious.

The way Meredith says this so earnestly is just too good.

21. Rachel McAdams slipping in the eggs is incredible

I can only imagine how many takes it took to get this scene! I would have been cracking up the entire time. 10/10 physical comedy across the board!

22. Is Brad the only normal guy (and person) in this story???

Okay, I know we're supposed to think he's some boring doofus or whatever, but Brad honestly seems really nice. He very earnestly shows up for Christmas morning (you know, the major freakin' holiday) to impress Amy, bringing a gift and being there throughout all the madness. Even when things get crazier and crazier, Brad doesn't bat an eye. A keeper, for sure.

20th Century Fox

23. TBH only this weirdo family could deal with the girlfriend swapping

Can you imagine? Like can you ACTUALLY imagine? I couldn't! These people are so strange.

24. Poor normal Brad being sucked into all this...

It seems like Brad is fully "in it" by the end. Best of luck to Brad!

25. Okay, so yes I did still cry!

As the weepy softy that I am...of course I cried. It's beautiful that these weirdos still celebrate and love each other after everything — including the passing of their mother. I mean, come on! Can you blame me?!

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8 Summer Essentials Everyone Should Have In Their Wardrobe

Summer is officially here! That means swapping out the raincoats for cover ups, and sneakers for sandals. Whether you're at the beach or on a rooftop bar, you will always look cute with the right summer essentials. Though the warm weather welcomes all kinds of clothing, I can confidently say that there are a few staples that everyone should include in their wardrobe. These 8 summer basics are total must-haves to building the cutest outfits this season.

Free People

Free People Dream Weaver Maxi

Every summer calls for at least one (preferably more) reliable flowy maxi dress. You can be going to a wedding or a picnic in the park with your girlfriends, and a long colorful dress will suit any occasion! Make a statement this summer with a maxi dress that makes you want to frolic in a field. A few good places to look for the perfect flowy dress are Free People, Anthropologie, and Nordstrom. Don't be afraid to make an investment in a maxi dress, because they will never go out of style.

You can find this Free People dress in sizes XS-XL for $168.

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Round Drop Earrings

Gold accessories complement a tan complexion like no other. Be bold this summer with some chunky statement earrings to level up any outfit! Even a plain tank top and some jeans will look extra-chic with a statement jewelry piece like these gold earrings. You can find endless styles out there, but I love the durability Anthropologie's jewelry offers.

Add a pair to your summer essentials for $44.

J.Crew

J.Crew Étienne Oversized Shirt

I cannot stress the importance a button-up top has to offer. Bonus points if it's comfy and oversized! You can style a button-up top for literally anything. Wear it to dinner, to the office, or even as a beach cover-up! The thin material these shirts are meant to bear and beat the summer heat. Plus, they encompass the chic Euro girl style everyone wants. You can quite literally find them everywhere, but I would highly recommend the Étienne Oversized Shirt from J.Crew.

Find this pick in in endless colors and sizes at J.Crew for $98.

Levi's

Levi's Essential Racer Tank Top

Three words: white tank top. Arguably the most important basic in your wardrobe, everyone needs the perfect white tank. I personally love a ribbed tank with thicker straps, so I can wear a bra underneath my top. There are so many options on the market right now, so finding the perfect fit for you is crucial. It’s important to remember: a good quality top will last you a lifetime.

This Levi's tank is available in sizes XXS-XXL for $20.

J.Crew

J.Crew End-on-End Cotton Boxer Short

I don’t know if it’s just me, but my Instagram feed is filled with blue and white pinstripe shorts. So, something tells me it’s a comfy short summer. Bye, jean shorts! You can opt for a casual boxer shorts vibe or lean into the athletic vibe with some cute Adidas shorts. I'm in love with these J.Crew bottoms for running errands.

Get yourself a pair for only $33 (was $40).

Zara

Zara Balloon Hem Dress

Little black dress? Never heard of her. It’s time to embrace a playful white dress this summer season. Whether you’re going out to drinks or to the beach, a flowy white dress is effortlessly cute. This will be a rotating staple in your closet that can be dressed up with heels, or casually with sandals. You can find the perfect LWD like this one at Zara. Some more cute options can be found at J.Crew, Reformation, Aerie, American Eagle, and Lulus.

Shop this style from Zara for $40.

Nordstrom

Nordstrom Carolina Slide Sandal

It is the summer of sandals, people! We are embracing the chicness and practicality of a slip-on shoe this season. Give your feet as much love as the rest of your body when it comes to sun exposure. These are the perfect pairing for a skirt, but can also dress up a pair of jeans. There are endless ways to style a pair of sandals. You may opt for a chunkier sole for more support, or keep it dainty.

These sandals could be yours for $70.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch Twist Set Top + Mid Rise Sarong Maxi Skirt Set

The easiest way to look effortlessly put together this summer is with a matching set. Not only do they look amazing, but they make figuring out what to wear a breeze. I love a good set for any event this summer, like a concert or birthday party. Plus, it's 2024 – matching sets are not limited to workout clothes anymore. We are hitting the town with our matching patterned top and bottoms. Personally, I'm a big fan of the long skirt-small top combo, like this one from Abercrombie & Fitch.

Add the top and bottom to your wardrobe for $110.

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Lead image via Zara.

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Glen Powell Had The Perfect Response To Sydney Sweeney's Bikini Body Shamers

Sydney Sweeney just went viral for clapping back at internet trolls trying to body shame her, but the comments are just as incredible. ICYMI, after some bikini pics of Syd leaked (of the actress in her own backyard, BTW. Creepy!!), an unfortunate slew of hate comments decided to comment on her body. And like the true boss she is, Sydney responded, not with a notes app commentary, but by posting a video of herself training for the new Christy Martin movie.

From Glen Powell to Madelyn Cline, here are the best celebrity comments on Sydney Sweeney's latest Instagram video.

Sydney Sweeney's video of training for her Christy Martin biopic totally speaks for itself.

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A post shared by Sydney Sweeney (@sydney_sweeney)

Sydney Sweeney's new Instagram video features the actress boxing and training for her new role, and it doesn't even have a caption — she doesn't need it! The video and photo montage speaks for itself, but that didn't stop her friends from showing her major support in the comments.

"You’re such a bad—ss. This movie is gonna be 🔥," Sydney's Anyone But You costar Glen Powell commented, while Outer Banks' Madelyn Cline simply said, "I truly love it here."

"The thing is these people would never say it in person," Isabela Merced, who starred with Sydney in Madame Web, said. "Too scared. But if they ever did? best believe it’s hands 😘" while Lili Reinhart commented, "It’s always wild to see people publicly out-themselves as pieces of sh—t with comments like that. You look incredible and your dedication to your project is very inspiring 💪🏻❤️."

Quinta Brunson simply left a fire emoji in the comments. (Which, TBH, is exactly how I feel about this whole scenario.)

And Sydney can't wait for fans to see the movie.

Sydney Sweeney has already teased what to expect from the Christy Martin biopic, and can't wait for movie lovers to see how she rose to the self-proclaimed "challenge."

“I grappled and did kickboxing from 12-19 years old," Sydney told Deadlinein May. "I’ve been itching to get back into the ring, train, and transform my body. Christy’s story isn’t a light one, it’s physically and emotionally demanding, there’s a lot of weight to carry. But I love challenging myself.”

That challenge definitely includes physical workouts (did you SEE the video above?!) but it also expands to emotional work too. “Over the past few months, I’ve been immersed in training to bring to life the story of an incredible woman — a true champion who fought battles both inside and outside the ring," Sydney writes in another Instagram post. "Her journey is a testament to resilience, strength, and hope, and I’m honored to step into her shoes to share her powerful story with you all. more to come soon."

We can't wait to see you kick butt Syd! In the Christy Martin movie AND in The Housemaid ;).

Read up on Sydney Sweeney, Jude Law, and Ana de Armas Fight For Survival In Their New Insane Thriller to hear more about Syd's upcoming projects.

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These $4 Trader Joe’s Holiday Cookies Have An Insane Cult Following: “I look forward to these every year!”

If you’re into all things Trader Joe’s, you probably already know what Joe-Joe’s are. Even if you’ve never heard of ‘em, you do know ‘em: they’re essentially TJ’s very own dupe for Oreos. They feature a classic layer of sweet cream sandwiched between two crisp cookies. In years past, they’ve come in all sorts of flavors like Vanilla Creme, Peanut Butter, and Pumpkin Spice.

Right now, the Joe-Joe’s flavor of the moment is centered around the holiday season, and its return has Trader Joe’s shoppers going bonkers, whether they’ve been enjoying it for years or have only just discovered it.

Read on to learn more about this highly-coveted, must-try Trader Joe’s holiday item!

Trader Joe's

The Joe-Joe’s in question are none other than the Candy Cane Joe-Joe’s. They are currently sold in two iterations: regular and gluten-free. According to the Trader Joe’s website, a box of the gluten-free ones go for $4.49. The regular version isn’t currently listed online, but has been available in stores for $4 for a hot minute.

The Candy Cane Joe-Joe’s feature two chocolate sandwich cookies and a peppermint-flavored creme that hosts tons of tiny candy cane pieces for a bit more crunch. Trader Joe’s calls them the “perfect seasonal variation” on classic sandwich cookies.

@traderjoesnew

Seasoned Trader Joe’s shoppers truly don’t play around with their Candy Cane Joe-Joe’s. There are plenty of people who’ve truly granted this product cult status!

One super fan recently took to Reddit to share their love for the holiday cookies – they’ve been enjoying them for a whopping 16 years!

“My FB memories just showed me that 16 years ago today I fell in love with my favorite TJ's product, Candy Cane Joe Joe's,” they wrote in the thread. “Every year I buy at least 5 boxes, eat 1 during the holidays, and stash the rest for the rest of the year. I only have one box so far this year and I need to get more!”

Reddit

“I've consumed at least 2 boxes of these every year since 2007,” another Reddit user wrote in a separate thread. I’m sold.

“I gain 3 lb every December because of these,” one more Redditor said.

Trader Joe's

The Candy Cane Joe Joe's are everything I love about the holidays. They have plenty of chocolate, but enough peppermint to balance out the bite. Plus, desserts are just huge in my household this time of year.

Whether I’m enjoying them solo with a cold glass of milk or adding them to my Christmas charcuterie board to share with the fam, I just know they’re going to be a hit.

As another Reddit user put it: ““They are so good. [It's] impossible to enjoy regular Oreos now.”

Trader Joe's

Cravings going crazy? Trader Joe’s most recent seasonal drop for the holidays includes so many more candy cane-themed items. Catch the Candy Cane Joe-Joe's Ice Cream (!), Candy Cane Green Tea,Candy Cane Baton Wafer Cookies, Dark Chocolate-Covered Peppermint Joe Joe’s, Dark Chocolate Dipped Candy Cane Marshmallows, and even the Candy Cane Body Scrub (and more!) in stores for a limited time.

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