This Week at Brit HQ: Glitz, Glamour and the #GoldRush!

You’ve probably noticed that we’re always looking for an excuse to celebrate here at Brit HQ. Whether it’s Halloween, July 4th or even the 10th Birthday of Mean Girls — we love to dress up, spike sweets and, of course, DIY! That’s why today through Saturday, we’ll be celebrating the golden days of summer. That’s right folks, this week marks our very first Brit + Co #GoldRush.

Curious to know how we’re celebrating #GoldRush? Well, get ready, because we’re adding a Midas touch to all the awesome things you can buy and DIY on the site. Hit the summertime party gold mine with an epic gold cake, gold party favors and more. You can even dig for gold when you shop our exclusive gold collection. (Oh and don’t worry, we’ll be packing the week with every gold pun we can possibly think of — because we know you love ’em as much as we do!)

You might even strike gold if you spot one of our exclusive #GoldRush promo codes on our social channels. (Psst: Promos are just for followers and friends, so connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Google+ and Pinterest to get the scoop.)

Of course, what would a themed week be without a themed photo booth? This DIY photo booth is all about glitz, glam and oh-so-much gold — tutorial to come later this week. Let’s be real here: If you gild it… they will come. (Too far?!)

Did you get all that? Be sure to stay tuned to B+C every day, because we’ll be sharing more golden surprises you definitely won’t want to miss.

Alright, ready, set, go for the GOLD!

With summer comes short sleeves, which means it’s time to show off some bracelets. There are so many styles out there that we love, but today we are focusing on cuffs. Not fisticuffs exactly… but these awesome jewels are worth fighting for ;) Here are 15 cool cuffs for you to rock.

1. House of Harlow Sun Flare Cuff ($58): Fashionable and basically badass. We can see this one having a great time at a Scorpions concert.

2. Volatus Leaf Cuff ($198): Put a leaf on it. A gold leaf that is. Your wrist will look dazzling with this great cuff from Anthropologie.

3. African Jasper Arc Bracelet ($90): Wearing minerals has never looked better.

Lucite Reversible Cuff

Solid Golddancers. Remember that show? Amazing.

5. Eye Dazzler Cuff ($187): We’ll never get sick of triangles, especially when they look this awesome and minty. This one comes from Azalea, a classy San Francisco store. You know how we love SF!

6. Chevron Cuff ($28): Same goes for chevrons. We’ll never get enough. This one comes in multiples colors. Of course we like the mint here, too :)

7. Arena Cuff ($32): Bold, chunky and hip all at the same time. You can thank Madewell for this piece. That store never fails to pull through with the best jewelry.

8. Bold Cutout Stripes Cuff ($7): We LOVE that this cuff gives the illusion of stripes on your arm. So cool. That’s seven bucks well spent.

Wwake Stick Bracelet

A Christmas Story and don’t poke your eye out.

10. Script Name Cuff ($180): Your name on your wrist, just in case you need a reminder. It’s like the Carrie necklace for your arm.

11. Red Lips Cuff ($585): The lip bone’s connected to the wrist bone in this case. And we like it. This one will cost you a pretty penny. But it’s sooo pretty…

12. Honeycomb Cuff ($720): Another beauty to wear on your wrist. It’s not made by bees, but this cuff will keep you buzzing. This bracelet is one of many incredible designs by the designer at MIRLO. Definitely check her out!

13. Adeline Cuff ($110): This one is so versatile, it goes with fancy attire or an old T-shirt.

14. Layered Sleek Cuff ($15): This one gives the bangled look but it’s just one cuff.

15. Glasses Bracelet ($78): Glasses are stylish, so why not wear some on your wrist? Your far-sighted wrist hairs will thank you.

We've been talking about discovering the best drugstore mascaras, matte lipsticks and brow gels, but did you know you're supposed to replace your makeup products annually? This is one of those things TikTok gets right because beauty doesn't have an immortal shelf life. If you're getting the ick thinking about that trusty concealer you've used the last few years, we don't blame you!

Before you start rage or panic-cleaning, I chatted with the experts to understand what to replace — and when you should replace them! After hearing from Shawnelle Prestidge (Makeup Artist and Founder/CEO of PRESTIDGE beauté) and Joey Healy(Advanced Esthetican and Founder of Joey Healy Eyebrow Collection), I feel way more confident with my beauty cabinet. Here's what you need to know!

TL;DR

  • You can find a product's PAO (period after opening) date — AKA expiration date — on the back of the packaging.
  • Mascaras and eyeliners have the shortest shelf lives, and they should be replaced around every 3 months.
  • Foundation and concealers should be replaced once a year.
  • Lipsticks can be replaced once a year, but lip glosses can last up to 18 months.
  • Powder-based products can last a year and a half to two years.
  • Nail polishes are good for up to three years.
  • Fragrances start to break down after five years.

How can someone check the expiration date for their makeup?

Rachel Weeks

How many times have you picked up your order from Sephora or Ulta without looking at every detail of your makeup products? We're guilty of being more concerned about adding something to our routine too so don't feel like you're being called out! If you're not 100% sure how to start being mindful about something's shelf life, Prestidge and Healy want to let you in on a little secret.

"It's actually pretty simple. There's something called a PAO symbol, which stands for 'period after opening.' You'll find it on the exterior of makeup products — sometimes on the product itself but always on the box," he says. Wondering what it looks like? Healy says, "The PAO symbol looks like a small jar with a number followed by the letter 'M,' which stands for months. For example, '3M' means three months, '6M' means six months, and '12M' means twelve months."

Prestidge also adds, "Brands often print batch codes that consumers can input into websites like CheckCosmetic to determine the production date." If you've yet to open your product, Healy says "A good rule of thumb is to assume it will last about twice as long. So, if the PAO says '6M,' the product is good for six months after opening and likely up to twelve months if unopened."

Do some makeup products have a longer shelf life than others?

Tima Miroshnichenko

Based on what Healy shares, it's evident different makeup products have longer shelf lives than others, and there are plenty of different factors that determine why. "Products like mascara and eyeliner, which are used around the eyes and tend to be liquids or creams, typically have the shortest shelf life due to their risk of bacterial growth. You should replace them every three months," he says. Excuse us while we collectively clutch our pearls.

Now that we've caught our breath, we can breathe a sigh of relief because Healy says that's the only products we have to replace a little quicker. "Foundation and concealer, which are also liquids, can usually last up to a year. Lipstick is good for about a year, while lip gloss can last around 18 months," he shares. Still, Prestidge feels you should be especially mindful of liquid and cream products because their shorter lifespans are attributed to "their high water content which fosters bacteria."

For those of us who love other face products, we have an even longer time to replace them. "Powders, like brow powders, bronzers, and blushes, have a much longer shelf life — usually a year and a half to two years," Healy explains. Prestidge says this is because "they contain fewer ingredients prone to bacterial growth." And for good measure, Healy shares we can keep nail polish for "three years before it becomes dry and clumpy," and fragrances for "five years before they start to break down."

What are the top signs it's time to replace makeup?

Element5 Digital

Not always good at keeping track of when you bought your makeup? No worries — there are some key signs you can recognize that your makeup is likely expired. Healy points out you'll be able to see that "the formula may have shifted or separated, or the product may have dried." More often than not, both he and Prestidge agree expired products will often smell rancid. "For example, brow gel can smell musty if it's been sitting unused for a year. If you're unsure, it's better to throw it out," encourages Healy.

Not only that, but Prestidge says to pay attention to your product's color. "If the product's color shifts, it's a a sign it's degraded," she says. Also, your skin will let you know when expired products are irritating it. "If you notice itching, redness, or breakouts after using a product, it might be expired, she alerts.

To avoid this, go an extra step further by using a "label maker to note the purchase date on your products, or keep a record in your phone," suggests Healy. This will help lessen the chance you're using something that's full of harmful bacteria.

What can happen if someone keeps using expired makeup?

Polina Tankilevitch

There are some things we'd love for you to be rebellious about, but using old makeup isn't one of them. Healy feels the same way and says, "Using expired makeup increases your risk of infection and irritation, which can lead to unsanitary conditions and even bacterial contamination."

The last thing we want is for you to get sick because you didn't want to let go of something. While symptoms may not always be as severe — Prestige says you could see allergic reactions, redness, or acne — Healy reminds us that "at the worst, it could result in serious infections that require treatment." This could look like developing styes or pink eye if you're "using old mascara or eyeliner," according to Prestidge.

Plus, your makeup won't give you the look you're going for if it's expired. "Expired products may no longer perform as intended, compromising coverage, color, or longevity," she says. Healy's ultimate advice? "Always be cautious, check for the PAO symbol, and replace products when needed."

Beauty Products You Need To Replace Every 3 Months

Amazon

Lancôme Lash Idôle Volumizing Mascara

If you're going to replace your mascara, you need a comparable alternative that's going to give your lashes the length and volume you're used to having. Be sure to add this one to your cart today!

Amazon

Urban Decay Glide-On Eye Pencil

Knowing that eyeliners go near your precious eyes, you'll want something that has a waterproof and smudge-proof formula like Urban Decay's Glide-On Pencil. You'll get up to 24 hours of wear that'll make you glad you decided to go for this option.

Beauty Products To Replace Every One To Two Years

Amazon

ILIA True Skin Serum Foundation

If you're going to wear foundation, you should opt for something that feels like your skin. The medium coverage feels weightless and has a good dose of niacinamide and allantoin in it to help improve your texture over time.

Amazon

e.l.f. Hydrating Camo Concealer

Get all the benefits of a high quality concealer without the luxury price with this $7 formula. It's hydrating so you're less likely to experience any creasing when you're trying to set it with your favorite powder.

Amazon

Revlon ColorStay Suede Ink Lipstick

Give those lips a boost of color with Revlon's ColorStay Suede Ink Lipstick! You're going to get the best wear out of this no-transfer shade that has powerful pigment that doesn't cost more than $15.

Amazon

NYX Professional Makeup Fat Lip Oil

Want juicy lips that don't feel sticky? You have to get this fat lip oil. You'll get up to 12 hours of wear that doesn't require you to reapply it which sounds like the very thing we could all use.

Amazon

IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Pores Pressed Powder

Headed to an event and want an airbrushed look that makes jaws drop? You'll be hard-pressed not to have this pancake-type powder. It visibly minimizes your pores while also soaking up excess oils.

Amazon

Physician's Formula Butter Bronzer

This yummy bronzer had us at hypoallergenic. It's going to give you a sun-kissed glow that'll make people wonder if you've been vacationing during colder months, but you don't have to share your inexpensive secret if you don't want to.

Amazon

Covergirl Trublend So Flushed Blush

You need a blush that's going to work with your makeup and not against it. Instead of spending a fortune on something you're not sure will work, give Covergirl's Trublend product a spin. You'll get amazing pigment that lasts throughout the day and won't irritate your skin.

Browse our Amazon Storefront for more fun beauty buys!

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

Cheers to our first official gold week! From a gorgeous gold cake to a glitzy photo booth, we’ve had a blast glittering things up all around Brit HQ. To celebrate, we’re ushering you into the weekend with 40 of our favorite projects that are all about sparkle, shine and gold, gold, gold.

1. Gold Rosette Headband: Ever made a rosette out of mylar? It happens to be one of the most versatile DIY things you can make — use a few to bling out a headband, add them to drink stirrers or create an entire wall art installation out of larger ones!

2. Gold Animal Drink Stirrers: When in doubt, you can always turn to a gold animal toy… right? These are a fun and quick way to repurpose plastic toys and will most definitely be Instagrammed by all your friends.

3. Gold + White Candle Holders: We created this set of candle holders for the holidays last year, but they totally work year round. Assemble a bunch to create a DIY centerpiece, and sprinkle in some color to brighten things up.

4. Gold Patterned Cactus Planters: Dearest Spiky Cacti, you are the apple of my eye! Grab gold paint or a gold paint pen, and get to work on a plain ceramic planter to create our own take on this stylish piece of decor.

5. Gold Photo Booth Props: If you missed our gold photo booth popping up on the site throughout the week, then you don’t visit us often enough! All you need is a can of spray paint and leftover props from parties past to create a gorgeous gold theme.

6. Gold-Dipped Leather Feather Earrings: Say that five times fast! Inspired by the seemingly evergreen boho trend, we created a trio of leather feather-shaped earrings, dipped in gold.

7. Chic Gilded Pyramid Rings: Want to walk like an egyptian… on your hand? Okay, admittedly that made zero sense, but we had to figure out a way to incorporate The Bangles into this post. So, there you have it. Pyramid rings FTW.

8. Gold Hex Nut Bracelet: Got a hex nut or 20 taking up room in your junk drawer? Turn ’em into this fetching little bracelet!

9. Glitter-Dipped Mason Jar Mugs: What would make a mason jar mug even more Pinteresting? Dipping it in gold and glitter, of course.

10. Gold Animal Wine Stoppers: This little dino is here to keep your wine fresh and your guests entertained.

11. Gold Confetti Champagne Cake: What would a holiday (especially a made up one) be without an epic cake? ;)

12. Gilded iPhone Cases: Back when those ritzy gold iPhones came out, we took it upon ourselves to create copycat cases. They still look pretty glitzy to us!

13. Fancy Gold Bar Cart: Can’t afford a super fancy bar cart? Take an industrial one and spray paint it! Then feel free to cheers yourself after a job well done.

14. Gold Rosette Cake Topper: We meet again, mylar rosettes! This time, an adorable mini cake bunting is getting the golden treatment.

15. Gold Hair Cuffs: Hair cuffs are back, and they’re actually pretty easy to make! We particularly love the cutout pattern on the one of the right.

16. Gold-Tipped Ballet Flats: Warning: If you make these, you will immediately want to dance your face off upon wearing them.

17. Gold Light Bulb Chandelier: You know what’s extremely meta? Making a hanging light out of light bulbs. #lettherebelight

Clear Gold Chain Collar

You clearly need this.

Gold Dipped Ceramics

If you’ve got an addiction to fresh flowers, you need some vases to put them in! Grab a kit to make a whole bunch of bud vases over in the B+C shop!

20. Gold Star White Russian Cake Pops: White Russian in cake pop form? NOM.

Gold Glitter-Filled Tube Necklace

Inspired by the beautiful netted necklaces by Peppercotton, you can fill these tube necklaces with glitter, confetti, sprinkles or beads.

22. Gold Glitter Heels: These heels were made for dancin’ — as are any pair of kicks made by the ladies of Brit + Co.

23. Gold Desk Decor: More animals! You can use these to hold place cards for a wedding or dinner party or just as decor.

24. Glitter Mousepad: We love the idea of using a crazy sparkly mousepad like this in a super minimalist workspace.

25. Gold Thumbtack Wall Art: Thumbtacks + canvas = awesome textured wall art!

26. Gold-Dipped Bud Vases: For yet another take on the gold dipped vase, try using tall glass vases and wrapping them with yarn. We love this idea for a wedding or holiday party centerpiece. You could also try wrapping it a thick strip of patterned paper for a totally different look.

27. Gold and Green Chevron Bar Set: The green bottles of the world don’t all have to turn into sea glass — transform them into gilded glassware for a different take on the painted bottle.

28. Gilded Polar Bear Bookends: Equal parts morbid and cute, this was created by sawing a toy bear in half!

29. Gilded Pet Bowls: Brit + Co pup Mister Porter is very… luxe ;)

30. Gold Pop-Up Pencil Holder: Guess what we made this out of? An old school straw dispenser! Such a fun desktop throwback.

31. Gold Animal Vases: These vases are pretty absurd, but we still love them.

32. Gold Paint-Splattered Travel Case: Love carting around your essential makeup and accessories, but sick of having a million pouches swimming around in your weekender? DIY this cool case.

33. Gold Leaf Flower Pots: The natural pattern that is created when using gold leaf is what makes us love it — the uneven textures have a vintage vibe we dig.

34. Mylar Rosette Swizzle Sticks: What did we tell you about mylar? It’s SO good.

35. Luxe Gold Tray Table: Looking to try building your own furniture? This simple CB2-inspired DIY is a great place to start.

36. Gold Paper Strip Garland: Step 1. Cut paper strips. Step 2. Sew them in a row. Step 3. PARTY!

37. Gold-Dipped Tote: Add a chic edge to a floral fabric by “dipping” the bottom in gold leather.

38. 5-Minute Cement Coasters: We used a cookie pan to create this quick set of coasters!

39. Gold Studded Weekend Totes: The paint and stud combinations are endless with this one — these would make an awesome set of totes for bridesmaids or even favors for wedding guests.

40. Gold Laurel Wreath: And finally, a crown of laurels. Because you’re an Olympian like that ;)

It’s no secret that I’m a long-standing Trader Joe’s fan. Living walking-distance from my city’s most popular TJ’s store has only solidified my love for the quirky grocery chain, and though I adore their limited-time launches and playful seasonal snacks, there are a few Trader Joe's finds I can confidently crown as staples in my kitchen. These are the go-to’s I look forward to adding to my cart during every single TJ’s grocery run I make, all of which I’d truly feel lost without!

Meredith Holser

Trader Joe's 100% Colombian Instant Coffee

Don’t judge – even this coffee snob drinks instant coffee! I am all about ease when it comes to my morning routine (it truly takes me hours to actually wake up), and Trader Joe’s 100% Colombian Instant Coffee is just the thing to help me expedite getting some good ol' caffeine into my system.

I love using instant coffee because I can prepare it differently based on my mood every single day. I can make a latte by mixing a serving with milk and syrup, or add more water to it to prep a more diluted hot (or iced) coffee that’s not as strong. After months of drinking it, I’ve found that TJ’s instant coffee is just as good-tasting and well-rounded as the espresso drinks or coffees I’d order out at any cafe.

Meredith Holser

Trader Joe's Pure Grade A Maple Syrup

I use this Trader Joe’s maple syrup for a multitude of kitchen creations: coffees, protein smoothies, pancakes, mug cakes, and muffins are the most frequent syrup-infused recipes I eat on a weekly basis. You can even use it for some stellar maple cocktails!

I’m not necessarily picky when it comes to the grade of my maple syrup. As long as it’s sweet, I am into it. If you’re searching for a tasty and affordable Grade A maple syrup, I think this $5 bottle has an exceptional flavor with a nice touch of richness that makes it a perfect fit for most uses.

Meredith Holser

Trader Joe's Unsweetened Non-Dairy Almond Beverage

Another versatile TJ’s product I pick up just about every time I go grocery shopping is their almond milk. I prefer using the unsweetened iteration so I can use it across various recipes. I’ll use it for my morning coffees, mid-day smoothies, cereal bowls, baking adventures, overnight oats, and wherever else it’s needed, really! I’ll even add a tiny splash to my scrambled eggs to keep ‘em moist. It’s perfectly smooth and light, and a true delight to always have in my fridge.

Meredith Holser

Trader Joe's Coconut Cream Greek Nonfat Yogurt

I am a Greek yogurt girly through and through. It makes for a healthy, filling, protein-rich breakfast option that also helps me maintain a semblance of “gut health” amidst my afternoon snacking habits. But plain Greek yogurt is not nearly edible enough for my palate – that’s why I adore TJ’s coconut-flavored yogurt! It has a good amount of sweetness, plus it boasts a tiny bit of texture from coconut flakes. I typically pick up 2-3 cups on my grocery runs so I can enjoy it every other day during the week with granola and frozen berries.

Meredith Holser

Trader Joe's Buttermilk Protein Pancake Mix

I like to prioritize protein in my diet because it keeps me feeling fuller for longer and helps me grow my muscles so I can grow in my yoga and climbing practices. When eating eggs and sausage for breakfast gets all too tiring, TJ’s Buttermilk Protein Pancake mix provides an ideal sweet option that still gives me 10+ grams of protein in a single sitting! It’s super easy to prepare, too. You just have to add a 1:1 ratio of pancake mix to water and make ‘em on the stovetop per usual. I like adding in some cinnamon to up the flavor.

I’ll also use it to make a mug cake when I feel like I need a little sweet treat in the evening – I add it to a mug with just enough water to make the batter extra thick, and then sprinkle some chocolate chips in it before throwing it in the microwave for about 2 minutes. It’s so yummy!

Meredith Holser

Trader Joe's Buffalo Chicken Dip

Oh, I could eat this entire dip in a single sitting. Buffalo anything is truly the key to my heart (and stomach). TJ’s Buffalo Chicken Dip is my go-to workday snack alongside some blue corn tortilla chips. It’s super satisfying (another great protein-rich option), creamy, tangy, spicy, and salty. All the things!

It’s packed with bits of chicken that can also make it a great addition for fuller meals beyond snack time: I’ve slathered some on a tortilla with cheese and cilantro for an easy quesadilla-type wrap, and even added a heaping scoop to plain pasta in lieu of traditional sauce.

Meredith Holser

Trader Joe's Palak Paneer

If you ride or die for Trader Joe’s, you know just how amazing their frozen section is. I was honestly really skeptical to try this frozen Indian dish the first time around, but once I had a taste, I was hooked. I make sure I have at least one in my freezer at all times to come to the rescue on nights I simply can’t bring myself to cook!

It takes about 4 minutes in the microwave to become a super creamy, comforting, healthy meal you can enjoy on its own or alongside some rice and naan (if you wish to go the extra mile). The paneer cooks out wonderfully. I am a chronic over-seasoner for any kind of food I eat, and I've found that adding a pinch of salt and a drizzle of TJ’s hot honey really takes this platter to the next level.

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

My son randomly requested to watch Wednesday last month, and I was surprised at how invested we were in each episode. Those who grew up watching The Addams Family always seemed in awe of little Wednesday Addams' cunning and intuitive nature, so it's fun to see another generation fall in love with her. Since Halloween is next week, I have three last-minute DIY costumes if you want to dress up as the eldestAddams daughter — sans all the spooky things that took place at Nevermore Academy. 😉

1. Wednesday's Homecoming Dress

Netflix

Wednesday Addams caught everyone's eyes in this gorgeous black Tulle dress. I can't get it out of my mind, so that's why it's number one of my list of DIY Halloween ideas! I also think it's the easiest look to pull off because you don't need a lot of things!

Amazon

Black Wednesday Addams Dress

Wednesday never cared to follow the rules at Nevermore which is what made her unintentionally stand out. While the rest of the students were dressed in winter whites and pastel colors, Wednesday broke tradition by showing up in a tulle black dress that fit her personality. It's the very thing that made Xavier Thorpe do a double take even though he was supposed to be focused on Bianca Barclay.

Amazon

Black Closed-Toe Pumps

Complete your look with these black closed-toe pumps that fit Wednesday's personality! I suggest buying a pair of black tights in case you truly want to complete your look.

Amazon

Wet n Wild Breakup Proof Eyeliner

You're going to want to create the illusion of cat eyes with Wet n Wild's Breakup Proof Eyeliner. It's long-lasting and vegan so you'll get to wear something that doesn't harm your eyes.

2. Wednesday Addams' Nevermore Academy Uniform 

Amazon

Nevermore Academy Uniform

It's not 100% spot-on, but this is the closest you'll get to Wednesday's signature Nevermore Academy Uniform. Her take on the traditional wear was unlike what everyone at the school was used to seeing, but that was the point!

Amazon

Black Braided Wig

You'll definitely need Wednesday's signature braided hairstyle for this costume idea! It's one of those things that makes her look unassuming — even though we know she has that adorably dark, sadistic personality! 😉

Amazon

Thing Cosplay Hand

Make sure to carry your own version of Thing if you really want to give people a fright this halloween!

3. Traditional Wednesday Addams Costume

Hulton Archive

If you remember watching 1964 version ofThe Addams Family with your grandparents, you may be fond of Wednesday's more traditional look. Although newer versions haven't strayed far, true fans remember when her outfit was plain black button-up dress.

Amazon

Black Cosplay Dress

Skip the buttons and go for this black cosplay dress that comes with a pair of knee high socks, a Thing pin for your hair, 'poison' stickers, and a witchy necklace!

Amazon

Black Penny Loafers

Once you've slipped into your black dress and added your accessories, step into these penny loafers. They have a slightly chunky lug sole that'll make sure you're comfortable as you stalk your unsuspecting neighbors for the best candy.

If you need more last-minute ideas, we have so many fun DIY Halloween costumes, like Harley Quinn, Gilmore Girls, and couples costumes you can piece together in the next week!

Follow us on Pinterest for even more Halloween ideas!