Here’s What the UK’s “Brexit” Means Right Now

Elizabeth King
Mar 29, 2017

On June 23 last year, citizens of the United Kingdom voted to leave the European Union. Today, the UK’s prime minister Theresa May officially triggered the “Brexit,” which leaves a two-year countdown until the UK will be out of the EU.

The campaign to leave the EU was led by far-right factions, and has been largely described as xenophobic and anti-immigration. British novelist Kazuo Ishiguro described the decision as “a fight for the very soul of Britain,” and he’s not really exaggerating. The debate over the Brexit possibility revealed deep divisions within the UK… in a way that probably sounds familiar on this side of the pond too.

At the federal government level, the effort to get Britain out of the EU was championed by Nigel Farage, leader of the UK Independence Party (UKIP), an ultra right-wing political party. Farage even had a pro-Brexit, anti-migrant poster reported to police by a member of the Unison union because he felt it inspired racial hatred, violating British law.

Others quickly pointed out that Farage’s Brexit advertisements looked a lot like propaganda used by the Nazis during the Holocaust.

Racism was also a common theme among those in the general population who supported Brexit. The Independent reported in October, less than four months after the vote, that racist hate crimes in Britain had gone through the roof following the country’s decision to leave the EU. Hannah Moustafa, a 20-year-old Muslim woman who wears a hijab was verbally assaulted by an elderly man on the bus who told her, “We had enough of your kind, take that off your head or join Isis,” the Independent reported. Official numbers showed a 41 percent increase in “racially or religiously aggravated offences” the July following the Brexit vote, compared to July of 2015.

The day after the vote, John Cassidy wrote for the New Yorker that the EU was never very popular with “ordinary people in the UK,” pointing to a disconnect between working class people and the more cosmopolitan, business-minded ideals represented in the EU. The day after the Brexit vote, the New York Times described those who voted to leave the EU as “angry, confused and deeply distrustful of elites.”

There are multiple significant reasons why Britons want to leave the EU, but there remains nearly half the nation’s voters who wanted to stay. There was a concerted counter-effort to Farage and his colleagues, whose campaign was called Britain Stronger in Europe.

The campaign to remain in the EU was largely based on claims that the British economy, and jobs in particular, would be more secure if the country stayed in the Union. Economics observers agreed. The Economist wrote in October 2016 that Brexit would damage not only the British economy, trade, and finances elsewhere in the EU but more broadly in the Western world.

After the vote, many who voted in favor of leaving the EU expressed instant regret. The vote to leave shocked the UK as much as the rest of Europe, and many who voted for the Brexit never thought it would come to pass. Ironically, the percentage of those who came to regret their vote to leave totaled four percent by October of last year, according to the Economist. The vote to leave the EU was decided by a very narrow margin of 51.9 percent in favor of leaving, and 48.1 percent against.

Despite the risks, Britain is now on its way out. Former prime minister David Cameron stepped down following the Brexit vote, leaving the UK in the hands of current prime minister Theresa May, who supports the Brexit.

Today, a letter written by May was delivered to the EU, triggering a two-year countdown to the time Britain will be fully divorced from the Union.

In her speech to Parliament, May called this day “an historic moment,” the full and long-term consequences of which remain to be seen. Britain is the first nation to ever make use of Article 50, a portion of the Lisbon treaty which allows any member of the EU to leave.

The UK will now enter exit negotiations with the other members of the EU. Politics and contemporary history lecturer with King’s College London Dr. Andrew Blick tells ABC News that the UK will undoubtedly have to pay a fine when they leave the EU, but the sum will be determined during negotiations.

Not only does UK face tough negotiations with the EU, but also internal strife that has resulted from the Brexit. Scotland, a country in the UK that voted 55 percent in favor of remaining in the EU, is seeking independence from the UK so that they may remain in the Union. According to the New York Times, Scottish Parliament voted 69 to 59 on Tuesday demanding a new referendum for their independence from Britain.

With approximately half of the nation’s citizens angry and hurt over the decision and at least one Home Nation looking to leave the UK itself, it’s clear that Britain and Europe will be changed forever.

What do you think about Brexit? Let us know on Twitter @BritandCo.

(Photos via Carl Court/Getty, Policy Exchange/Flickr + Sinn Féin/Flickr)

25 Thoughts I Had While Rewatching "Gilmore Girls" At Lorelai’s Age Instead Of Rory’s

Like many autumn-loving millennials, I grew up watching Gilmore Girls religiously, and I'm not embarrassed to say Lorelai and Rory had a major influence on my formative years. While my GG viewing journey began in my beachy Florida hometown, dreaming of small-town Connecticut vibes where it’s inexplicably always fall, I continued watching via reruns — and eventually Netflix — for the next two decades.

However, this year something shifted. Suddenly, I didn’t relate to Lorelai and Rory in the way I used to. Situations where I was previously 100% on their side (ahem, Mitchum), I see things more clearly (except the yacht situation — that was never cool, Rory!). Which makes sense, as my first viewing was around Rory’s age...and I’m now 32, Lorelai’s age at the start of the series. I’ve always heard that wisdom comes with age, so here are 25 thoughts I have rewatching Gilmore Girls as an adult.

Having A Baby At 16 (& Raising Her On Your Own) Is Huge

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It’s actually a pretty big deal — not just a funny one-liner. During my first viewing, it felt like teen pregnancy was everywhere in pop culture, and I didn’t fully comprehend why some characters made a big deal over Lorelai’s age while others just laughed along. But as a newly minted 32-year-old, I couldn’t imagine having a 16-year-old child right now! Let alone raising one very well from the time I was just 16 myself! Definitely impressive of young (and adult) Lorelai!

Lorelai Was Right To Turn Chris Down

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As a hopelessly romantic teen who desperately wanted a cute boyfriend, I thought love was all you needed. And I was extremely confused by Lorelai’s rejection of Chris’s proposal in the first season. He said he loved her and wanted to be a family — shouldn’t that be enough? But alas, he wasn’t ready for a commitment, and Lorelai knew it. Trusting your gut is a big part of growing up.

Max Medina Wasn’t *That* Great

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I always thought Max’s proposal was incredibly romantic. He did exactly what Lorelai wanted — 1,000 yellow daisies (definitely more than 1,000 TBH) and had a beautiful speech prepared, which he delivered….over the phone? It’s honestly pretty strange that he wasn’t there in person. Proposals are so personal, and his just felt disconnected. It’s no wonder Lorelai had trouble making up her mind!

Emily And Richard Aren’t As Mean As Lorelai Makes Them Out To Be

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Sure, they can be harsh and difficult, and they're clearly still hurt over the past. But so are Lorelai and Rory, whether or not the show wants to admit it. But this is life and all humans are flawed, and Lorelai isn’t the victim that I always believed she was.

Lorelai And Rory Are SO Codependent

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I always thought their relationship was perfect, but it’s honestly not too healthy for either of them. We know Lorelai’s emotional growth is stunted due to having to be an adult from a young age, but maybe their relationship explains why Rory isn’t as well-adjusted as she should be either.

Richard’s Attack On Dean Wasn't Malicious

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For years, I thought Richard was such a jerk for this, but as an adult...I can see his intentions are in the right place. We're all the sum of who we spend the most time with, so the company we keep is important. However, his delivery probably could’ve waited until after dinner.

Naming A Baby After Yourself Is Pretty Bad*ss

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Though it’s mentioned in the show a few times — often played as a joke or a quirky character trait — I kind of love that Lorelai went for it and named her baby Lorelai, too. Men have been doing this for years, and I wish more women would as well. It’s such a cool, forward-thinking choice, especially for a young girl in the 80's!

Pride Is Great...Unless You Let It Hinder Your Life

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Another example of Lorelai playing the victim: When she wanted a bank loan, Emily knew that Lorelei would need a co-signer and showed up for her despite their differences, without intentionally making her feel bad. Instead of accepting the help, Lorelai assumed her mom was out to get her (?) and almost cost herself the opportunity to get some much-needed funding, all because of her relentless insistence of doing it all on her own. The lesson? Don’t be so shortsighted and quick to assume.

Christopher Somehow *Always* Makes The Worst Decisions

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In season 2, he wasn’t being romantic by giving Lorelai the pearl necklace for her graduation, and I refuse to see this gesture as such. He was still dating Sherry, and that totally sent mixed signals.

A little later, when Christopher and Lorelai finally give it a go for real, he finds out Sherry is pregnant and decides to marry her instead. Let me just say...there's no universe where this was the right thing to do! Besides breaking Lorelai’s (and Rory’s!) hearts, he entered into a loveless marriage, doing a disservice to both Sherry and Gigi.

Paris Was On To Something With Her Quest To Uncover The Dark Side Of Small Towns

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This was played for laughs, and as a tween in 2001, I thought it was ridiculous. However, in today’s climate...it’s not too difficult to imagine the dark side of a small town — despite how charming and idyllic it may look on the surface.

Emily’s Desire To Find A Maid She Likes Is *Sorta* Fair

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Yes, she’s not warm and fuzzy, but Emily Gilmore knows what she wants. I once thought she was a mean dictator, but her monologue in relation to the lawsuit clears it up: If you’re paying for a service, you demand that service (i.e. coach vs first class on a plane). If someone is working in your home, it’s all the more important to get the chemistry and personality fit right, as opposed to a traditional office environment.

Logan’s Family’s Opinion Of Rory Wasn't Too Far Off

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Although Logan’s family’s disapproval of Rory when they meet her at dinner is unexpected, it’s definitely not as out of the blue as I originally thought. Logan’s family knows Richard and Emily well, and they’re likely well aware of Rory’s career aspirations, which is the main point of contention. Although Logan’s mother and grandfather are extremely clear about this, Rory can’t get past thinking it’s a class issue. I will never not cringe at hearing her exclaim “but I’m a Gilmore?!?!” Whether we like it or not, compatibility of lifestyles and goals play a huge role in whether a couple has a successful future together — Logan’s parents were just looking out for him, misguided as they may have been.

Michum’s Offer For An Internship Was Thoughtful

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Rory initially rejects this very generous offer for a fantastic opportunity that will help further her career ambitions, all because she believes it wasn’t extended for the right reasons (out of guilt over the dinner). Mitchum’s response “So what? Life is full of opportunities….” is so spot on. It doesn’t matter why — just take advantage of what’s in front of you! Maybe if Rory wasn’t so uncomfortable using her connections, she would have been a more successful journalist.

So Maybe Mitchum Was A Little Right About Rory

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I so clearly remember being confused by how the Mitchum internship went down. But she’s Rory, how could she *not* have what it takes?! But now, as a college grad who successfully completed 14 internships during undergrad and has worked in communications for almost a decade, I completely understand where he’s coming from.

If you rewatch these episodes, you’ll see the light as well. In the scene right before Mitchum has the talk with Rory, he’s running an editorial meeting and she’s sitting in. He mentions the paper can find students (like Rory, who writes for the Yale Daily News) at local colleges (like Yale) to freelance for the paper, and Rory stayed silent. That was her moment to impress him by raising her hand and volunteering, and it was also the moment when he decided she didn’t have what it takes to be a journalist. Looking at it now, she was very clearly missing the drive; the “not knowing if she could speak up because she’s just an intern” schtick? Any budding journalist would have raised their hands so quickly for a shot at a byline on a real paper.

While all of Rory’s growth at the paper was great — learning names, getting coffee orders correct — she was essentially growing into a secretary, not a journalist. And there’s nothing wrong with that, but it’s a very different skillset.

TL;DR she didn't have what it takes, he knew it, and he did her a favor (as she tried to do with the ballerina, however harsh it was.)

Rory’s Harsh Ballet Review Was Actually Symbolic

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Shortly after Rory returns to Yale, she’s tasked with reviewing a ballet performance. She hates the performance and decides to eviscerate the ballerina in her review, only feeling guilty *after* the she’s confronted. By the episode’s end, Rory realizes that truthful reviews are important and it’s better that the ballerina finds out now so she can pursue something else instead. This make sense, but for some reason Rory can’t seem to connect her harsh review with Mitchum’s, despite very recently being on the receiving end of a well-meaning (but harshly received) review. Effectively, Rory became the Mitchum, illustrating that she’s grown thicker skin and isn't afraid to hurt feelings when she needs to.

Luke Telling Rory That He And Lorelai Are Engaged Was...Off

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I wanted our girls to make up as much as the next serial rewatcher, but this was not it. Luke inserting himself in the middle of Rory and Lorelai during their fight and telling Rory that they’re engaged is so misguided and inappropriate. And then proceeding to flip out at Lorelai, because their fight is inconveniencing him? Let’s add Luke to the list of emotionally immature characters on this show.

Lorelai Planning The Entire Wedding In One Day Is SO Unrealistic

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As a tween this seemed normal, but as an adult who just spent two years (!) planning their own wedding, I can confirm it’s totally unrealistic.

Also, getting married in a church is an absolutely bizarre choice for someone who isn’t at all religious (as we learned in Sookie’s baptism episode). And why would she pick out Luke’s tuxedo, without him even trying it on?

I get that weddings are inherently “girly” and not Luke’s thing, but your partner should have some involvement in the planing process (at the very least, maybe get their opinion on the venue and tux?!). These are big financial decisions that should not be made alone (she put down non refundable deposits and booked dates before checking with him). I love Luke & Lorelai but upon rewatching, they were never on the same page — which is so evident here.

Dave Rygalski Was A Pathological Liar

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I used to think he was the perfect guy, and it took me a long time to see the light. Never forget how he jumped through all those hoops for Lane! But as an adult who has dealt with *many* too-good-to-be-true suitors, it’s shocking how easy it was for him to lie to Mrs Kim. I genuinely think Dave is a pathological liar, and definitely not someone you want to be with forever, which brings us to…

Zack Was Actually A Great Guy

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Truthfully, I always thought he was a loser who was obsessed with everything being “so rock and roll.” But he was actually always totally real and upfront about who he was, which is something that Mrs. Kim was able to respect despite their differences.

Richard Was The Real Villain Of Emily’s LASIK Surgery

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I fully expected to feel like Lorelai was in the wrong during my most recent rewatch (although she’s no angel here — you're mom can’t see, stop complaining and help her out!), but the real villain here is Richard. Who leaves their wife for a business trip after a botched eye surgery? He’s back at the firm by this point (a global company) and could have easily had someone else step in to take the meeting instead.

Rory Dropping Out Of Yale Wasn't The Worst Thing Ever

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As a teen, this seemed crazy. Why would Rory give up on her dream and throw her life away?! But as an adult who, like Rory, went through personal trauma during her college years, took time off, and eventually went back and finished school, I see things differently now. Success is not linear, and everyone’s path is different. When you’re that focused, it’s even more important to take a breather and recalibrate.

Mrs Kim’s Parenting Skills Shine When Lane And Rory Both Face Setbacks

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I love Rory and Lorelai’s relationship (it’s so similar to mine and my own mother’s!), but they didn't respect each other’s opinions when they disagreed. From Lorelai freezing Rory out after she wanted to give up and take time off of Yale (again, just a semester — and so not a big deal!) to Rory refusing to hear out Lorelai’s side and listen to her advice, this feels off for two people who love each other so much. Especially when juxtaposed with Lane’s and Mrs. Kim’s drama on-going in the same episode.

At the end of season 5, Lane also wanted to give up on her dream (being a drummer in Hep Alien) and move back home, but Mrs. Kim surprised us all by stepping up and proclaiming, “So you’re giving up? Then you are not the daughter I raised!” And she proceeds to help Lane and the band go on tour across the East Coast. Even if it’s not the vision Mrs. Kim had for her only daughter, she’d rather have a happy daughter than a miserable one who accepts defeat.

Lane and her mother always had a different dynamic than the other mother/daughter duos on the show. While they’re not as close as Rory and Lorelai, Mrs. Kim always had her daughter’s respect. It’s interesting how Lane and Rory both experienced setbacks and wanted to give up their dreams, but Mrs. Kim ultimately stepped up while Lorelai lost touch with her daughter for months.

Season 7 Christopher Was A CATCH

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Younger me hated Christopher for coming between Luke and Lorelai (really though, that was all Lorelai), but Christopher achieved excellent character development over the course of seven seasons. He truly gets Lorelai, from planning the perfect date to involving her in his life in a real way, which Luke was never able to do. They may not have been endgame but he was great for that moment in time.

The Abortion Convo...Er, Lack Thereof

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Lane gets pregnant at 22, and she explicitly says she isn’t ready for the baby and that there’s so much more she wants to do first before kids. Lane is a small town girl, so she may not have known her options, but she has a worldly best friend who’s sexually experienced, well-traveled, and Ivy League educated.

So what wonderful advice does Rory give her friend in distress? She assures her that she will be a GREAT mom and to stop worrying. This is uncomfortably tone deaf, and a real way that Rory failed Lane as a friend and fellow woman.

In a later conversation, Zach and Lane both agree that they’re broke, totally unprepared, and that “this baby sucks.” But they just decide to suffer through it and don’t discuss any other options.

As a teen with limited life experience, this made sense during my first viewing. But as an adult woman in a post-Roe v Wade world, I’m floored this storyline was ever approved without even the slightest mention of the A-word.

Judging Sherry Was Way Harsh

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Personally, I cringe every time Lorelai and Rory bring up the point that “mani-pedi-twice-a-week Sherry” can’t possibly be a good mom. I know she’s supposed to be the villain who “stole” Christopher from Lorelai —only for us to later see things through Christopher’s POV only — but these characterizations did not age well. Realistically, Sherry is a career-driven woman who screwed up and married a guy who’s an absent father to both of his children — and she finally decided to put herself first.

Looking for more Gilmore Girls hot takes? We've got you covered on everyone and everything to loving Paris and Logan...to not loving Rory. 😉

This post has been updated.

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9 Best-Smelling Body Washes That’ll Have People Asking, “What’s That Amazing Scent?”

The best part of taking a shower, other than getting clean, of course, is all the delicious scents. From shampoo and conditioner to body scrubs, nothing truly compares to a good-smelling body wash. I recently discovered Lush’s amazing Sticky Dates shower gel, and I don’t think I can ever go back to bar soap now. These best-smelling body washes smell just as great in the shower as they do outside of it, and are sure to earn you tons and tons of compliments – all while treating your skin so nicely.

Check out our top picks for the best-smelling body wash below!

Lush

Lush Sticky Dates Shower Gel

This shower gel from Lush is undeniably sweet-smelling. I think it smells like straight-up dessert – I had to fight off the intrusive thoughts to eat it when I was in the store checking it out (don't judge, okay?). It lathers up luxuriously, and always feels nourishing and hydrating on my skin. It's formulated with organic date syrup, sandalwood oil, and orange juice to properly cleanse off your bod. I already know I'm going to buy a bigger bottle once my sample size one runs out!

Promising review: "The scent of this body wash is sooo mouthwatering. I love the light lather and the soft scent left on the skin after rinsing off. Definitely worth the hype!"

Target

Saltair Seascape Serum Body Wash

You won't be able to stop sniffing this heavenly body wash. It smells spot-on to a dreamy island getaway! I love this formula in particular because it's crafted with hyaluronic acid, which helps add even more moisture to the skin. Extra points to this body wash since the bottle's so cute!

Promising review: "Oh man. Boy do I love this scent. Reminds of the fresh smell of the sea when I visit the Carribbean Islands. Im just in a trance when I'm in the shower."

Amazon

OUAI St. Barts Body Cleanser

If there's one thing OUAI absolutely nails, it's their scents. From their hair oil to shampoo, I fall in love with the products over and over again after every use. Their body wash is no exception, especially this one in the scent St. Barts. You get a little bit of every note: floral dragonfruit, orange blossom, and tuberose, plus a nice gourmand dose of and Baltic amber that feels oh-so sophisticated. The formula is made with jojoba oil, which expertly hydrates the skin, deep down. Dreamy!

Promising review: "I’ve been using the OUAI Body Cleanser for a few weeks now, and it has become a staple in my shower routine. The first thing that drew me in was the scent—it’s light, fresh, and lingers subtly on the skin without being overpowering. It makes showering feel like a mini-spa experience."

Amazon

Nécessaire The Body Wash

For a fancy(ish) body wash that smells downright divine, reach for this one from Nécessaire. It's packed with eucalyptus, which is uber-refreshing for a nice wake up call in the AM! The body wash is boosted with plenty of lipid-rich oils and niacinamide, which can help strengthen the skin's natural barrier.

Promising review: "I have very sensitive skin but I also really like things that smell good! After reading reviews I decided to give this a try. My skin didn’t react to this at all (yay!!) and the smell is great! Super relaxing and perfect for after a long day. The bottle came well packed inside its own box - this was great because it didn’t leak or anything. The bottle is also really big so I think with cleaner ingredients & great smell it’s worth it!"

Target

Olay Cleansing & Firming Body Wash

If you're in love with clean scents, this body wash from Olay delivers. Not only does it smell so fresh and so clean, it's heavy on skincare benefits. The formula includes collagen and a vitamin B3 complex that nourishes for "beautiful, healthy-looking skin."

Promising review: "My new go-to body wash! I so love the smell! I felt so luxurious and soft after each use!"

Sephora

L'Occitane Cleansing & Softening Shea Shower Oil

Though it's not technically a body wash, this shower oil still lathers up gorgeously to cleanse your skin. Its main ingredients are shea oil and shea butter, which nourish the skin like no other, leaving it as soft as can be. Dry skin-havers will fall in love with this one!

Promising review: "Ten stars. One of my absolute favorite shower indulgences. This smells amazing. A warm, soft musk scent that lingers long after your shower is over. It leaves my skin feeling brand new, so soft and super smooth. I absolutely love going to bed with this scent on my pajamas and even waking up the next day to get dressed and still feeling so soft and smelling pretty. Not a strong scent whatsoever. A very soft, musk like skin scent."

Amazon

Aesop A Rose by Any Other Name Body Cleanser

You've likely never smelled a body wash like this one before. It combines notes of rose petal, cardamom, and black pepper for a punchy, yet floral-heavy scent. The aroma can come off as super saturated upon first impression, so a little goes a long way.

Promising review: "I love the Aesop products because I have very dry skin and am allergic to perfume soaps. After many trials and errors with other products this was recommended and I love it ! Worth every penny. Wish it also came in travel size because the hotel soap bars don't measure up."

Target

Dove Shea Butter & Vanilla Pampering Body Wash

Forget all the frills and fancy stuff – sometimes a basic vanilla scent works the best! This gentle body wash is friendly on all skin types and boasts the perfect balance of shea butter and warm vanilla for an uplifting shower experience each time. Your skin will look instantly cleaner, fresher, and more moisturized!

Promising review: "My favorite body wash!! It smells amazing and is so affordable. The scent really lingers."

Amazon

Method Pure Peace Body Wash

If I had to compare this body wash to anything, it'd be Glossier's signature Glossier You perfume. It smells sooo good. The mix of floral peony and pungent pink salt just work together so well! The clean formula is gentle on the skin and always leaves it feeling noticeably soft and moisturized.

Promising review: "One of the standout aspects of this body wash is its formula. It’s paraben- and phthalate-free, which is reassuring for those with sensitive skin or anyone conscious about the ingredients in their skincare products. The wash lathers well, providing a luxurious feel while gently cleansing without stripping the skin of its natural moisture. My skin felt clean and hydrated after use, which is a big plus."

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

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'It Ends With Us' Is Finally On Netflix (And It's Already At No. 1)

Few books have made an impact on BookTok like Colleen Hoover's It Ends With Us. The story follows a woman named Lily who is intrigued by a new relationship with Ryle (Justin Baldoni), but an encounter with her first love Atlas (Brandon Sklenar) — and the reminders of her past that Atlas carries — complicates everything. This movie based on a bookis one to remember.

We had high hopes for this summer movie, and when it was announced that Justin Baldoni would develop the film in 2019, we knew the story was in good hands. Baldoni won us over with his role as Rafael in Jane The Virgin, and his feature directorial debut Five Feet Apart made us cry our eyes out.

If you're a Colleen Hoover fan, keep reading for everything you need to know about It Ends With Us. Check out the rest of this year's 2024 movies too!

Is It Ends With Us streaming?

Sony Pictures Releasing

Yes, you can now watch It Ends With Us at home! The movie is finally on Netflix, but it's also available to rent or buy on Amazon Prime. That means you can watch the movie while reading up on all the cast drama without shame.

Is Ryan Reynolds involved in It Ends With Us?

Sony Pictures Releasing

Yes, Blake Lively revealed Ryan Reynolds helped write one of It Ends With Us' most memorable scenes. "The iconic rooftop scene, my husband actually wrote it," she tells E! News."He works on everything I do, I work on everything he does. So his wins, his celebrations are mine and mine are his."

Lively also says that Reynolds showed up in the movie in another unexpected way: through his clothes! "I have a few of my husband's shirts and socks randomly in the movie," she tells People. She also wears her own boots in the birthday party scene, and her own Louboutins in the bar.

"I have some of Gigi Hadid's sweaters in the movie," she continues. "She has this line, Guest In Residence, but also she would run out and I would be like, 'I want this one' because of all the really cool patterns and whatnot, and she’d be like, 'I have that. You can wear mine.'"

Watch the It Ends With Us trailer now!

Sony Pictures Releasing

The way I IMMEDIATELY slapped my hand over my mouth at the first notes of "My Tears Ricochet" from Taylor Swift's Folklore. What a song choice for the first trailer! And then to have Ethel Cain's "Strangers" lead the second trailer makes me want to cry! This is the one trailer we have been waiting for all year, and it totally captures the emotion, heart, and drama of the book.

When is the It Ends With Us movie coming out?

Sony Pictures Releasing

It Ends With Us premiered in theaters August 9, 2024. With so much color, plus the fact Blake Lively's Lily runs a flower shop, a summer release is perfect! Because of the writers' strike and actors' strike, production on the film paused over the summer of 2023, meaning the movie got delayed from its original February 9 (then June 21) release date.

Who plays Lily in the It Ends With Us cast?

Sony Pictures Releasing

Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni (who also directed) star in the film as Lily and Ryle, respectively. On April 20, 2023, it was announced that 1923 star Brandon Sklenar would join the duo as Atlas, and on May 1, Jenny Slate joined the cast as Ryle's sister Allysa. Hasan Minhaj joined the film on May 25 as Alyssa's husband Marshall.

Baldoni also posted a TikTok confirming that after an open casting call, they found Isabela Ferrer for young Lily!

Fans were initially unhappy with Blake's casting, because in the book, Lily is supposed to be in her early 20s. But author Colleen Hoover explained a bit of the intention behind the casting with TODAY, explaining that the "new adult" genre at the time favored characters in their early 20s — and that the point of the book is its message, not its cast or costumes.

“As an author, we make mistakes,” she says. “There’s no 28-year-old neurosurgeons, you know? You go to school for 15 years. And so to make corrections to what I messed up in the book, we aged the characters up somewhat...I love that there’s discourse surrounding it, I do. I think that people are going to be very pleased. I’m very pleased.”

What is It Ends With Us about?

Amazon

It Ends With Us follows Lily Bloom after she moves out of her small town to start a flower shop in Boston. When she meets Ryle on a rooftop and quickly falls head over heels, it seems like fate. That is, until she comes face-to-face with her first love Atlas. It's a story of strength, deep-rooted relationships, and identity that made waves on social media.

Where was It Ends With Us filmed?

Sony Pictures Releasing

It Ends With Us filmed primarily in New Jersey. The first set images from It Ends With Us are from a scene that takes place between Lily and Ryle. While Baldoni is wearing a simple black sweater, Lively is wearing two different shades of pink over a brown dress. I love the way costumes highlight all the ways characters are different, and this is the perfect example!

On January 6, 2024, Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni were finally spotted in Jersey City again. While the costumes have gotten some backlash, I really love the texture and visual interest in this patchwork jacket + jeans combo! It feels creative and bright — just like Lily :).

And on April 30 we FINALLY got the first official images from the movie. The colors are just as bright and yet still have some emotional weight behind them to match the story. I'm particularly obsessed with this Blake Lively look — I'm a sucker for a jeans + tank + cardigan combo.

Is Colleen Hoover making a movie out of It Starts With Us?

Sony Pictures Releasing

We might have just gotten a movie adaptation of It Ends With Us, but fans are already hoping for a sequel movie based on It Starts With Us! There's no word on the potential sequel, but star Brandon Sklenar is totally down to return.

"I would love to do it, I really would, I would love to do it," Brandon Sklenar told Access during New York Fashion Week. "I hope we can get it together because I think the fans deserve it, and I'd just love to tell more of Atlas' story and get into his past a little more. Yeah, it would be beautiful if we can do it. I would love to."

Who else is working on the film?

Sony Pictures Releasing

Lively, Baldoni, Hoover, Steve Sarowitz, and Andrew Calof all served as executive producers, while Alex Saks, Christy Hall, and Jamey Heath produced. Hall also wrote the script for the film.

Follow us on TikTok and Twitter for the latest entertainment updates, and check back here for new info on It Ends With Us! Feel free to rewatch all of Blake Lively's movies too ;).

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

This post has been updated.

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The 10 Best Romantasy Books I Couldn't Stop Reading In 2024

I lost track of how many romantasy books I read this year because I threw myself at as many fictionalized characters as I could. Reading became a wonderful form of fun, escapism that I absolutely needed after this year decided to play tennis with my emotions. And while I may have been a bit delulu to read as many romantasy books as I have, there were so many that I just couldn't put down. They sparked my imagination, they gave me something to look forward to, and no matter how bad things felt I always knew there was a rich fantasy land I could dig into page after page. So what were the books that drew me in the most? I'll gladly tell you!

All the best romantasy books that made my heart skip a beat this year!

Amazon

1. Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros

How many times is too many to mention Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros? Wait, don't answer that question. Instead, let's focus on how genius this body of work is. It's our introduction to Basgiath War College, Violet Sorrengail, Xander Riorson, dragons, and evil schemes.

If you haven't read this book yet, make sure to start NOW because Onyx Storm releases next month!!! It's the third book in the Empyrean series and it's guaranteed to be a great read.

Amazon

2. Immortal Dark by Tigest Girma

Morally gray characters? Check. Intoxicating vampires? Check. Secrets that alter reality? Also, check. Immortal Dark has everything you'd expect in a romantasy except you'll find yourself questioning what you've learned about protagonists and antagonists because even the 'good' people are compelled to commit terrible things.

Amazon

3. Deep Is The Fen by Lili Wilkinson

Deep Is The Fen scratched an itch I didn't know I had with it's tale of how dark magic and lies can harm everyone. Merry's convinced stopping her best friend Teddy from joining the Toadmen is her only mission, but she'll soon discover there's an ancient evil that's been calling the shots and isn't ready to give up its throne.

Amazon

4. The God and the Gumiho by Sophie Kim

If you want to laugh and cry, The God and the Gumiho is one of the romantasy books you should read. It trails Kim Hani, a powerful Gumiho, and Seoka, a god full of tricks and bitterness, as they reluctantly work together to stop an evil demon from destroying the city they now reside in. It's the perfect enemies-to-lovers troupe that breaks your heart in the end.

Amazon

5. The Wren in the Holly Library by K.A. Linde

It starts off with a semi-botched robbery that leads to a world of magic, except skilled thief Kierse doesn't realize it until she's in the alleged monster's lair. In fact, he'd already sensed her presence long before she knew she was being watched. By then, it's too late and she finds herself immersed in an ancient feud that's about to reach its breaking point.

Amazon

6. A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J. Maas

Feyre might be High Fae now, but her troubles are far from over in A Court of Mist and Fury. For one, she's linked Mr. High Lord of the Night Court although she's supposed to be marrying Tamlin. The issue is that she's not 100% sure if that's the right choice even though she initially lived with the latter after the events of A Court of Thorns and Roses. She'll have to decide where she truly wants to be, but not before making yet another bargain that'll affect more people.

Amazon

7. Zodiac Rising by Katie Zao

What's not to love about an exclusive boarding school that harbors magical secrets? That's another question I'm not excited to answer because Zodiac Rising shaped up to be an intriguing read that also gives readers a history lesson. Since the loss of the 12 zodiacs, their Descendants they've been living in the shadows to protect their identities.

However, evil appears again when one of the most notable students at the boarding school loses their life. Now, four unlikely students will have to become uneasy allies in order to save the world as they know it.

Amazon

8. Curse of Shadows and Thornsby LJ Andrews

Elise Lysander may be the king's niece, but she's all about rebelling. From gambling to trying her hardest not get married, she'd rather do the opposite. However, her uncle knows how to get under her skin by reminding her how sick her dad is. Thus, she decides to see how life will look by Legion Grey's side. He's the most aggravating man she's ever know, but he also pushes all the right buttons. But the closer they get, the more danger they find themselves in.
When the throne is completed eradicated, Legion's shows his true identity and crushes Elise's heart in the process. With magic and lies looming in her future, she'll have to decide which path she'll take.

Amazon

9. Forged in Blood by Sadie Kincaid

Orphaned Ophelia Hart's passion for reading and making sure no one has to suffer the uneasy fate she has pushes her in the direction of becoming a social worker. She has no idea how that's going to happen, but she's determined to find a way to help other children.

When she's suddenly gifted with the chance to go to Montridge University, she gleefully accepts the offer. It sounds like a dream come true until she meets three of the Ruby Dragon Society's members who want to make her life miserable. They're also vampires which adds to their sinister nature.

She's never believed in fantasy before, but Ophelia changes her tune when the inevitable keeps happening. Also, she's pretty special too and it seems that Professor Alexandros Drakos knew it before she did.

Amazon

10. Court of Vines and Vipersby Emberly Ash

Veyka Pendrago is stuck with the knowledge her closest loved ones are scattered beyond her reach as evil closes in on Annwyn. Faced with the task of becoming queen of a kingdom who is ready to judge her at every turn, she must do all she can to prove she's worthy while keeping her power hidden deep within her.
It's another seductive read that leaves you wanting more.

Which romantasy books have you read this year? Let us know and visit our Amazon Storefront for our favorite 2024 reads!

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

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'The Summer I Turned Pretty' Season 3 Will Have 3 Extra Episodes

What's your favorite The Summer I Turned Pretty episode? The series (which stars Lola Tung as Belly, Gavin Casalegno as Jeremiah, and Christopher Briney as Conrad) has had standout moments since its premiere in 2022. And so far, my favorite scenes in both seasons 1 and 2 happened during episode 6.

Belly and Conrad's heartbreaking conversation on the dock against Billie Eilish's "When The Party's Over" instantly became my favorite scene of the show, only to be topped by their fight on the beach & the house party while Taylor Swift's "Snow on the Beach" plays during season 2. And it looks like every episode of The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3 is going to be a favorite based on Jenny Han's latest update.

Here's what Jenny Han had to say about the new The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3 episodes.

Every moment in 'The Summer I Turned Pretty' season 3 will matter.

Erika Doss/Prime Video

After revealing season 3 will have 11 episodes, as opposed to 7 or 8 like the first two seasons, Jenny Han recently wrote on Instagram (via US Weekly), “One thing I’ll say about season 3 of [The Summer I Turned Pretty] … there are no filler episodes.”

The last decade of streaming has seen television seasons drop from around 22 episodes to 10 or under, resulting in the loss of those filler episodes. You know, where the characters are just hanging out and the audience gets to know more about their personalities. Do these episodes move the plot along? No. Are they valuable in helping to understand the characters? Absolutely!

However, there is something to be said for the idea that every moment should matter. One lesson I took away from my creative writing classes in college is that if you can remove a detail from a story and nothing changes, then it didn't need to be there! And it definitely sounds like every moment in the upcoming The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3 episodes will have a purpose.

"I'm just very excited to be back with everyone and to be able to step back into Belly's shoes, I'm super excited," Lola Tung told Brit + Co in February.

'The Summer I Turned Pretty' season 3 might not be the final chapter.

We haven't gotten word on whether The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3 is going to be the final season of the Amazon Prime show (there are only three books), but it looks like we could be seeing more of our favorite characters either way!

“This show is going to continue to be a huge centerpiece for us," Vernon Sanders, Amazon and MGM Studios' head of television, told Deadline in September 2023. "We absolutely have plans to continue building it. Jenny’s got great vision for where she wants to go with all of it, but we’re already hard at work developing complementary pieces."

I would love to see a spinoff, whether it's about Belly after the third book ends, or about Taylor and Steven! "Jenny’s got some exciting surprises. So we’re thrilled about a Season 3, and she’s got a vision for more."

Vernon also spoke about how the show has become a intertwined with Taylor Swift's music, and even debuted a few unreleased Taylor Swift songs! "We have been so delighted and humbled by having had this relationship over the course of the last two seasons, and they have been incredibly lovely — and, believe it or not, incredibly easy to work with," he says. "Jenny credits Taylor Swift as the music she was listening to as she was writing these books. It’s just always been infused in how she’s thinking and feeling and what is authored into the show itself. So, to have Taylor’s music, and as you said, unreleased music in the show, I think is beyond incredible."

Check out 5 Details From The Summer I Turned Pretty Ending That Reveal Who Belly Ends Up With In Season 3 👀.

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