12 Ways to Rock a Blazer like a Fashion Girl

Just like Olivia Pope, our closets are filled with power blazers to take on the day and with cozy cardigans for couch-cuddling (and wine-guzzling) nights. From amping up an elegant gown to sporting it as a dress (we mean, did you see Rihanna and Emma Watson rocking them at the BFAs?), we found 12 new ways to rock our trusted coverup, inspired by some of our favorite fashion bloggers.

1. As a Dress: We’re taking a cue from Rihanna’s jaw-dropping BFA look and rocking this structured piece sans pants. A longline blazer in snowy white ($67) is a chic alternative to a boardroom-ready LBD. Seriously, we’re swooning over that asymmetrical hem. (via Atlantic-Pacific)

2. Keep It the Same Hem Length: Follow every fashionista’s advice and tailor your clothing to fit you, just like Kate Middleton does to rock outerwear as dress coats. (via Lucky Mag)

3. Add Structure to a Glam Gown: You could grab a faux fur stole or coat to add a traditional layer of warmth to your evening wear, or you could throw on a satin collar tuxedo blazer, wrap a belt around your waist and be effortlessly Parisian chic at your black tie affair. (via Harper’s Bazaar)

4. For the Perfect Balance to Feminine Details: Go for the feminine-masculine juxtaposition with this contrast-cuffed blazer and a lacy pencil skirt for a look that channels Kardashian. (via Neon Blush)

5. Add a Layer of Texture to a Neutral Outfit Palette: Frugal fashionistas know to be on the lookout for pieces in timeless silhouettes and classic neutrals. Each garment of this outfit is exactly that. (via Carolines Mode)

6. Zhush Up a Pair of Mom Jeans: We didn’t think it was possible either, but mom jeans are *back* and you can add a modern twist on a pair of high-waisted jeans with a chic cape blazer ($102), statement necklace and punchy heels. (via Style Pantry)

7. Balance Out a Bold Print: Sometimes gloomy weather calls for a pair of loud leopard pants. Rock the pajama trend by topping it with a structured blazer for the right balance between relaxed and ready for business. (via Studded Hearts)

8. All Over Shine: Is there anything rose gold that we don’t love? Float into the room with a billowy gossamer maxi skirt, basic v-neck tee and a rose gold blazer, clutch and strappy sandals for a modern-day Grecian goddess look. (via What Courtney Wore)

9. Layer the European Way: There’s a reason why we adore French women’s style choices: They focus on quality pieces that will last year after year and go with basically any outfit. (via Glamour)

10. Rock the Sporty Chic Look: The athleisure trend has taken over European street style, and we’ve gladly welcomed the comfy pieces into our closets. (via Harper’s Bazaar)

11. Add Elegance to Edgy Pieces: Black ankle boots and ripped skinny jeans never looked so chic. (via Who What Wear)

12. Add Major Color Contrast: Pieces from opposite ends of the color spectrum play well together, so grab your boyfriend’s tee, tuck it into a pair of cuffed jeans and add a black blazer, pumps and clutch for a minimalist look. (via Badlands)

How do you style your blazer? Tell us in the comments.

Now that you've successfully Konmari'd your closet and picked up a few of your fave fall trends, it's time to keep it real — Parisian real. Because a French girl's wardrobe effortlessly intersects all that we desire in our closets: functionality, versatility, and timeless sophistication. Scroll on to shop a curated collection of French girl fashion essentials that are sure to make you feel la vie est belle.

The Black Blazer: AYR The Coup Blazer ($395)

The Low Block Heels: Tamara Mellon Fellini ($595)

The Camel Coat: Sézane Scott Trench ($305)

The Wrap Dress: ELOQUII Velvet Wrap Dress ($110)

The Black Flats: Everlane The Day Glove ($115)

The High-Waisted Jeans: Paige Cindy High-Rise Slim Ankle Jeans ($219)

The Silk Shirt: Mango Silk Shirt ($120)

The Leather Jacket: Italic Niki Leather Moto Jacket ($495)

The Leather Shoulder Bag: Clare V. Clem ($345)

The Striped Marinière Top: Veronica Beard Jean Lyon Top ($178)

The LBD: Zara Swiss Dot Dress ($40)

The Oxford Shirt: Grayson The Hero Button-Down ($158)

The Silk Scarf: Madewell Silk Bandana ($25)

The Cashmere Cardigan: White + Warren Essential Cashmere Cardigan ($260)

RELATED: Out of Office: What to Bring on Your Italian Wine-cation

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"What would you do if your entire family, and your hometown, set you up to find love?" That's the question Ashley Williams poses in the first Small Town Setup trailer, coming to Hallmark+ in 2025. And if anyone has the answer, I have no doubt it's Hallmark — if anyone knows about warm, cozy, and sappy romance it's them! Even if you're not a huge reality dating show fan (or if you couldn't stop watching Reese Witherspoon's Love in Fairhope) this is one January TV show you won't want to miss.

Here's everything we know about Hallmark's dating show Small Town Setup, hosted by Ashley Williams.

'Small Town Setup' puts you right in a Hallmark movie.

All six episodes of Small Town Setup premieres on Hallmark+ on Thursday, January 2, 2025, and is hosted by Ashley Williams, who you'll recognize from movies like Falling Together and Two Tickets to Paradise as well as How I Met Your Mother.

Just like your favorite Hallmark movies are all about finding love, Small Town Setup focuses on singles coupling up. The show will follow a single who "has made it in the big city, but has yet to find love." And their concerned parents (definitely a Hallmark trope and an IRL trope...) get the whole neighborhood involved in finding three potential matches.

"When the singleton arrives home for a visit, they are presented with dating options curated by their hometown. After three dates, will they find love in their hometown? Or head back to the big city? All is revealed at a big town hall event, full of heart, warmth, and a few laughs along the way."

Okay, getting the entire town involved in my love life sounds crazy, but the whole community coming together for a town hall event sounds exactly like the kind of sweet and sappy event my life needs. (Listen!! Dating as a 20-something in the city is harder than I expected...)

Throughout the trailer we see our singles looking for love around their hometown, going on small town dates, and finding connection in the most unexpected places. Yeah...I'll be tuning in — especially since Small Town Setup is totally giving Gilmore Girls.

Check out the 11 New January 2025 Movies Viewers Will Adore — and you'll want to add to your calendar ASAP!

Tourism can be a blessing for the economy of many cities around the world, but it often comes at a price. Destinations like Venice and Bali are iconic for a reason — they’re unique, breathtaking places that lure travelers from around the globe. But when a travel destination becomes too popular, it risks losing its charm and overcrowding can strain infrastructure, inflate costs for locals, and disrupt the peace and quiet of small, serene towns.

Here are 12 destinations that have struggled with overtourism. The good news? Many are implementing smart strategies to balance tourism with sustainability. Planning to visit? Consider booking during the off-season for a more authentic and enjoyable experience or try these hidden gems.

Pixabay

Venice, Italy

Cruise ships and swarms of tourists have overwhelmed this picturesque city, leading to overcrowded canals, damaged infrastructure, and skyrocketing prices. The local population is dwindling as Venetians leave due to the city’s unsustainable tourism boom. Last spring, in an effort to manage the influx, the city put into effect an entry fee for day-trippers and has limited cruise ships docking its shores.

Oleksandr P

Bali, Indonesia

Once an idyllic paradise, Bali now suffers from traffic congestion, environmental degradation, and overcrowded beaches. The island’s resources are strained under the weight of mass tourism, but there are efforts underway to promote sustainability like putting a moratorium on new hotels.

Willian Justen de Vasconcellos

Machu Picchu, Peru

Overtourism has led to erosion and damage to this ancient Incan citadel. A quota system and mandatory guides are helping preserve this popular South American destination.

Darren Lawrence

Tulum, Mexico

Once a tranquil paradise known for its pristine beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and eco-chic vibe, Tulum has become a cautionary tale of overtourism. The surge in popularity, fueled by Instagram-worthy scenery, has brought overcrowding, environmental strain, and rising costs. The Guardianreported that locals are being pushed out by developers and despite the thinking that tourism helps local communities, poverty nearly doubled between 2015 and 2020. Local ecosystems, including fragile mangroves and coral reefs, are threatened by unchecked construction and pollution too. The local ruins have implemented stricter rules like no food or drink to limit trash and environmental impact from tourists.

Jimmy Teoh

Santorini, Greece

Instagram fame has turned this once-serene island into a tourist hotspot. Narrow streets are perpetually clogged, and locals are struggling with soaring costs of living due to tourism demand. The government has since capped the number of daily cruise ship visitors to keep overtourism at bay.

Chait Goli

Cinque Terre, Italy

Known for its colorful cliffside villages and breathtaking coastal views, these once-quiet fishing towns now see millions of visitors annually, way more than they can handle. To combat issues like congestion and cruise ships, local authorities have introduced visitor caps and encourage sustainable travel to protect Cinque Terre’s charm.

Rudy Kirchner

Reykjavík, Iceland

Is there anyone not going to Iceland these days? A small country with breathtaking landscapes, Iceland has been overwhelmed by tourists flocking to Instagram-famous sites like the Blue Lagoon and Diamond Beach. It's best to travel during the off season (November to April) and travel to lesser known spots like the Sturlungalaug hot spring.

youseflns

Maya Bay, Thailand (Phi Phi Islands)

This iconic beach, popularized by the DiCaprio film The Beach, suffered ecological devastation from hordes of visitors and anchored boats. Coral reefs were destroyed, and the beach was closed for years to allow recovery. It has since reopened after a huge revitalization project, but they have introduced visitor caps.

Pixabay

Kyoto, Japan

Traditionally quiet streets of this ancient capital city now teem with tourists during peak season. An increase in litter from tourists has required the city to install more trash bins to handle the crowds, and peaceful geishas are often chased down for photos. To mitigate the problem, Kyoto is considering running special buses to popular sites to reduce overcrowding, and temples and shrines are encouraging visitors to come early in the morning.

Prabin Sunar

Mount Everest, Nepal

The ultimate challenge for adventurers, Mount Everest has experienced overcrowding on the slopes and at base camps, leading to dangerous conditions, with litter and human waste piling up on the mountain. Permits are now harder to get, and stricter regulations for climbers are being enforced.

Mateusz Popek

Dubrovnik, Croatia

The Game of Thrones effect brought an influx of fans to this medieval city. Overcrowded streets and cruise ship arrivals have made it difficult to appreciate its beauty. The local government is taking steps to limit daily visitors and impose stricter cruise ship regulations.

Helena I

Lisbon, Portugal

Short-term rentals dominate the housing market now, thanks to affordable flights and the digital nomad craze. This has led to skyrocketing rents and displaced locals. Historic neighborhoods are inundated with tourists, making them less charming too. Everything from public transport to waste management struggles to keep pace with the influx. I went in December and it still felt a bit like Disneyland. Douro Valley and Madeira might be more favorable destinations any time of year.

Cure your wanderlust in 2025! Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for more travel ideas!

Heaping plates of Christmas cookies are synonymous with the holidays. It seems that nearly every country around the globe has their own variation on the holiday classic. In fact, some of these regions have been making their version of Christmas cookies for literal hundreds of years.

If you’re looking for a way to reconnect with your heritage, or maybe just want a little baking inspiration, check out our picks for the yummiest Christmas cookies from around the world.

The Noshery

Mantecaditos con Guayaba

These may look like ordinary thumbprint cookies, but these almond shortbreads from Puerto Rico are filled with a special guava marmalade. (via The Noshery)

Broma Bakery

Meringues

French meringues are a classic crumbly egg white cookie with a chewy interior. These get an extra European twist with the addition of Nutella. (via Broma Bakery)

Pretty. Simple. Sweet.

Alfajores

Deeply flavored dulce de leche, a caramel made from whole milk commonly found in Spain and many Latin American countries, is the key ingredient in these super pretty sandwiched Christmas cookies. (via Pretty. Simple. Sweet.)

Fancy Peasant

Melomakarona

These Christmas cookies that hail from Greece get their sweetness from a generous soaking of fresh honey! (via Fancy Peasant)

Very Eatalian

Baci di Dama

The name of this Italian treat translates to “lady’s kisses” — how adorable is that? These bite-sized cuties are made with ground hazelnuts and filled with a dollop of dark chocolate. (via Very Eatalian)

Cooking Classy

Linzer Cookies

These Austrian Christmas cookies are typically made with raspberry jam, but feel free to get crazy with a filling of your choice. Plus, the gorgeous windowpane look will make them a prize takeaway at your next cookie exchange. (via Cooking Classy)

Olivia’s Cuisine

Basler Brunsli

If you’re hanging out in Switzerland around Christmas time, you’ll definitely see these chocolate treats around. They’re often described as Swiss brownies due to their deliciously chewy texture. Perfect with a cup of eggnog or coffee! (via Olivia’s Cuisine)

Cilantro Parsley

Buñuelos

These tender miniature fritters from Mexico are a mix between a donut and cookie. Whatever you want to call them, they’re delicious. (via Cilantro Parsley)

Chef Lindsey Farr

Apricot Kolachys

The Hungarians definitely know what’s up when tart apricot jam gets wrapped in a blanket of flaky pastry. They’re a bright spot on a cold Christmas day. (via Chef Lindsey Farr)

Life, Love and Sugar

Cutout Sugar Cookies

In the United States, a plate of these festively decorated sugar cookies is just what Santa ordered. (via Life, Love and Sugar)

Saveur

Polvorones

You’ll find these simple pecan shortbread cookies all over Mexico around this time of year. The coating of powdered sugar and canela, a type of Mexican cinnamon, really bring the flavor to the next level. (via Saveur)

A Healthy Life for Me

Pignoli

These Italian Christmas cookies are made of a chewy almond base and topped with pine nuts. (via A Healthy Life for Me)

Fancy Peasant

Kourabiedes

These Greek Christmas cookies feature a buttery biscuit topped with mass amounts of powdered sugar. (via Fancy Peasant)

Does your family have a traditional cookie recipe for the holidays? Tag us @BritandBo in your Instagram photos and let us know!

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

Lead image via Pretty. Simple. Sweet.