Fabric Wrapping Is This Year’s Hottest Trend and We’re Obsessed

Santa’s upped his wrapping game. Knotted fabric gift wrapping is all the rage on Pinterest this year, and this super fun technique is the perfect way to easily wrap that bottle of wine (or any other hostess gift) when you’re en route to a holiday bash. Scroll down for details on how to execute this simple yet impossibly classy technique.

You can find a full tutorial for how to wrap your gifts on Julep, but the DIY is simple: Place the item in the middle of a square piece of fabric laid on a diagonal, fold the top and bottom corners together over the gift, and the tie the two remaining corners together in a knot. For a finishing touch, you can try and align the patterns on the corners, or top it all off with a big pom-pom or gift tag.

Using fabric instead of traditional paper works on so many levels. It’s eco-friendly, and your friends can reuse the fabric for a project or for the next gift they give. And you can totally customize your present by buying the perfect pattern or print to stand out under the tree.

You don’t have to buy your supplies by the yard, either — you could just as easily use a tea towel to deliver freshly baked treats, or a fun scarf to accompany the perfume for your BFF. The point is, you can use anything as long as you can fold it. So what are you waiting for? Get wrapping!

For more holiday ideas, follow us on Pinterest.

Valentine’s Day is all about love, but let’s be real: some gifts just don’t say “I adore you” the way they used to! While romancenever goes out of style, it’s easy for certain Valentine’s Day gifts to feel more like a last-minute grabthan a compassionate, heartfelt expression of love.

If you want to impress your special someone this Valentine's Day, it’s time to retire these 7 “outdated” and overdone gifts that scream predictable.

Scroll on for the 7 “outdated” Valentine’s Day gifts you should definitely skip this year – and what to give instead!

The Glorious Studio / PEXELS

1. Heart-shaped jewelry

Now don’t get me wrong – heart-shaped jewelry can be super cute, but oftentimes, it can feel a little cheesy and predictable for Valentine’s Day.

Instead, consider your Valentine’s personal interests and search for some jewelry that way. Whether it’s sports, animals, or astrology, you’ll surely be able to find something that suits them more closely.

Hassan Ouajbir / PEXELS

2. Huge teddy bears

Those big teddies – or even just the cheap stuffed animals from the drugstore – are not practical whatsoever and tend to collect dust. Unless you know of a very specific plush that your Valentine's been wanting, it’s okay to skip the stuffed animals.

Picjumbo / PEXELS

3. A dozen roses

While red roses can be a romantic gesture, there are so many other flowers to consider. Roses are simply generic AF and very expected – instead, get to the bottom of what your Valentine’s favorite flower is and run with that! From lilies to mums, you could even create your own bouquet with just a little extra effort.

Ksenia Chernaya / PEXELS

4. Fake plants

The same idea goes for fake plants. Why invest in a fake plant when a real one can be so much more meaningful? This way, every time your Valentine goes to water the plant you gave them, they’ll be thinking of you. ❤️

5. Matching gifts

Matching t-shirts, mugs, socks, and the like are honestly pretty cringeworthy, unless you’re really into them. Your Valentine will definitely appreciate a unique gift a lot more this year.

Amazon

6. Cheap chocolates

Cheap chocolates are good for a last-minute gift, but if you want your gift to feel special to your Valentine, please take the extra time (and money!) to opt for a fancier box. They’ll look better and taste better.

Jill Wellington / PEXELS

7. Anything impersonal

All of this goes to say that anything impersonal makes a cliche and outdated Valentine’s Day gift. You don’t even have to go insanely above and beyond for your date this year – just a little extra consideration will definitely make them feel loved.

Subscribe to our newsletter for more lifestyle advice!

Kitchens are already one of the most used rooms in the house, accumulating clutter in all kinds of ways.

In the past, interior designers and homeowners alike tried to compensate for never-ending storage needs by installing upper kitchen cabinets that extended to the ceiling. Now, however, it appears this trend is dying out.

Not only is all that extra cabinetry expensive, but it can also cause kitchens to appear clunky, overfilled, or top-heavy. Plus, they cast shadows and may make the space appear darker and smaller.

This doesn't bode well with the latest home design trends, which emphasize open spaces with a lighter vibe. So, more and more people are opting to install other, more modern storage solutions.

Here's what we know about upper kitchen cabinets — & what's replacing them.

​What's Replacing Upper Kitchen Cabinets?

Wayfair

First, you might be wondering what you'd do with all that empty space on your kitchen walls. Don't worry: it's not just going to remain bare.

Instead, open shelving — like these shelves from Wayfair — has become the go-to decor choice. It still affords you storage space but with a playful twist. This parallels the direction that numerous homeowners have been heading– moving away from their kitchen looking, well, just like a kitchen and infusing more personality into their unique space.

West Elm

Think about it: your living room may have a typical couch and TV, like most homes, but it probably isn't a cookie-cutter replica of anyone else's house. You have knick-knacks, artwork, lighting fixtures, and other furniture that you've hand-picked and curated into your very own collection.

Of course, kitchens will always be used for cooking, and they should remain functional. At the same time, though, many homeowners recognize that if they spend so much of their lives in this room, it should almost be an extension of the rest of their decor, like with these shelves from West Elm!

Amazon

That's precisely why open shelving is taking over. It affords you the ability to customize your kitchen to the max, adding anything from antique dishware, cool cooking tools, and vintage mugs to funky cutting boards or cookbooks as decor.

And by giving yourself the opportunity to decorate on a vertical plane, you're opening up a ton of counter space that might've otherwise felt cluttered and, again, dark due to upper kitchen cabinet shadows.

While this might sound great, you may still be concerned about all those pots and pans that are currently stacked in your cabinets. Luckily, there are other more practical storage solutions you can integrate alongside open shelving.

Wayfair

Pantries are a great option. You can transform a broom closet to store your extra dry goods and cookware. Or, infuse your kitchen with even more character by picking up a vintage armoire and using it as an unexpected pantry.

Your lower cabinets can get an upgrade as well. Many homeowners are opting for deeper kitchen drawers, meaning they can hold more pots and pans, as well as shelves that are tiered and roll out.

Amazon

It's important to remember that everyone's space (and amount of kitchenware) is different, so being thoughtful is key. Consider how much storage you really need, say goodbye to anything that's no longer serving a purpose, and get creative.

One thing is certain: you won't miss having to drag out the stepstool or stand on your tip-toes to access those hard-to-reach upper kitchen cabinets anymore.

If you want more home decor inspo, be sure to sign up for our newsletter!

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

Whether you're celebrating with your significant other for the first time or the tenth, you've probably already given some thought to your Valentine's Day dinner ideas. You'll be hungry by the time the sun sets, whether you've spent the whole day together, or you've just come back from the best date night ever. These recipes are perfect for ending the night on a delicious note or they can serve as your date night — cooking together is a super fun way to spend your time.

You can show your favorite valentine love with DIY Valentine's gifts, pink cocktails, fruit salad, or you can whip up a fancy-schmancy (and romantic) dinner. You can try the same recipe until it's just right, or experiment with a different pick every night of February. No matter what your favorite cuisine is, there's something for everyone.

Here are our favorite Valentine's Day dinner ideas for a date night meal to remember.

​What is a good Valentine's Day dinner?

A good Valentine's Day dinner is anything that is delicious and romantic, and that will change for every couple (or if you're alone!). V Day is always a good excuse to cook up a steak if you and your partner eat meat, but pasta or seafood are also great ideas. Or go for a surf and turf dinner that incorporates all of them. You can also add aphrodisiacs into the menu, but whatever you pick, don't forget dessert!

What is the Valentine's Day menu?

Your Valentine's Day menu is totally up to you and your partners' tastes. You can check out what's local to your area if you want to have a menu that reflects this time of year in your state. In terms of courses, you can opt for dinner and dessert or go all out with an appetizer, entrée, drinks, and dessert.

What to make for a romantic dinner at home?

Here are some popular Valentine's Day foods you can consider making:

  • Steak
  • Seafood
  • Chocolate
  • Pasta
  • Sushi
  • Wine
  • Fish
  • Crème brûlée
  • Strawberries

Sous Vide Steak

Prepare to swoon over this simple sous vide steak. Pair it with a baked potato and steamed veg. (via Brit + Co)

Coffee Rubbed Steak With Chili Lime Butter

Nothing says high class quite like a well-cooked steak. Take it from the pros and cook it medium-rare for the most intense flavor. We love the classic steak and baked potato combo, but feel free to shake things up with a different side. (via Brit + Co)

Spicy Pesto Pasta Alla Vodka

Image via Half Baked Harvest

You know we love vodka cocktails, so we are all about some vodka pasta! It's a 30-minute recipe topped with basil pesto and loads of your favorite cheese and you can add some red pepper flakes for some extra spice if you want. Swap the vodka for broth or water if you don't want to cook with alcohol. It'll taste just as good! (via Brit + Co)

Smoked Salmon Poke Bites

For charcuterie board fans or those of us who'd rather much on apps than have a full-blown dinner, these poke bites are cute, delicious, and have us dreaming of summer. Pickled ginger, avocado, and red onion take this recipe to a new level. Yum! (via Brit + Co)

Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Vegetable Soup

A soup that's delicious *and* features veggies, cheese, and pasta all in one? Count us in. Just put everything in your slow cooker and let it come together while you finish getting ready. (via Brit + Co)

Roasted Salmon Nicoise

This one-pot wonder is great for any day of the week. Salmon, potatoes, olives, and green beans (along with some other delicious ingredients) come together to create a flavorful combo that you'll daydream about until you can eat it again. (via Brit + Co)

Instant Pot Butternut Squash

A healthy, colorful dish like this butternut squash recipe makes for a great dinner recipe for vegetarians and carnivores alike. Plus it makes for an awesome winter comfort food. (via Brit + Co)

Air Fryer Salmon

Air fryer salmon is a great Valentine's Day dinner idea for anyone who works long hours and doesn't want to spend hours upon hours in the kitchen. Plus it's healthier than your other frying options! Not a fan of salmon? Try chicken or potatoes for other yummy options. (via Brit + Co)

Apple-Onion Pork Chops And Cheesy Crushed Potatoes

This recipe from Rachael Ray has some of the most interesting and captivating flavors we've tasted in a long time, and with meat, fruit, dairy, and starches, you're eating a lot of the food groups. (via Brit + Co)

Red Sauce Rigatoni Recipe

All you need for this delicious date night recipe is sausage, canned tomatoes, and pasta. And don't forget your favorite cheese, of course. This is a great option for having a fancy dinner at the dining table or curling up on the couch for a romantic movie. (via Brit + Co)

Charcuterie Board

Image via SocietySocial and QueenBrieCLT/Photography Demi Mabry

There's something so sophisticated and stylish about having a charcuterie board anytime of year, but especially on Valentine's Day. You can make it a red, pink, and white color scheme with fruit, dried flowers, and cheese, or try your hand at a breakfast-for-dinner board with heart-shaped pancakes, berries, and chocolate. (Via Brit + Co)

Instant Pot Indian Butter Chicken

Quick, easy, and delicious, what's not to love about this chicken recipe?! Tomato-y, buttery chicken goes great with flavorful naan and white rice. Sprinkle with cilantro before you serve. (via Brit + Co)

Zucchini Noodles

If you're avoiding regular pasta, try zucchini noodles instead of regular for a healthy take on your favorite dishes. Serve with pesto, olive oil and vinegar dressing, or Alfredo sauce to make a creamy pasta. (via Brit + Co)

Cauliflower And Burrata Valentine's Day Recipe

Photo via Half Baked Harvest

This dish might be geared for summer picnics, but it will also make a great option for your winter nights in. Change up the spices and seasonings depending on what your favorite flavors are, or make a couple different mixes and try them all! (via Brit + Co)

Baked Hot Chocolate Doughnuts

Photo via Half Baked Harvest

Okay so donuts don't technically count as an option for dinner but you can definitely make them for dessert! (Especially if you've already had your fill of lobster tails or pasta). You can even add some espresso to the chocolate glaze for a mocha taste. (via Brit + Co)

Cauliflower Rice Sushi

Not only does sushi make for a yummy Valentine's Day dinner for you and your S.O. but the actual construction of the sushi sounds just as great! Swap regular rice for some DIY cauliflower rice but feel free to keep your favorite fillings and sauces. (via Brit + Co)

Stuffed Avocado

Another great option for a smaller, finger food dinner, stuffed avocados make for a tasty and filling dish. You can also leave out the shrimp to make this an easy meat-free recipe. (via Brit + Co)

Crock-Pot Crispy Caramelized Pork Ramen Noodle Soup with Curry Roasted Acorn Squash

We're huge fans of ramen noodle meals and know this is one Valentine's Day dinner idea that can't be topped. Call us biased, but you'll find it hard not to be once you get a taste of this caramelized blend of pork, open face-egg, and jalapenos. (via Brit + Co)

Slow Cooked Lamb Shanks in Red Wine Sauce

Get your hands messy with this appetizing and flavorful recipe! With ingredients like tomato paste, garlic cloves, and red wine, your taste buds will be satiated. (via Brit + Co)

Creamy Cajun Mushroom Pasta

Looking for Valentine's Day dinner ideas that are healthy and won't put a dent in your budget? Try your hand at this creamy Cajun mushroom pasta! (via Brit + Co)

Puff Pastry Breakfast Egg Tarts

Eating breakfast for dinner seems to stir up our inner little girl, so we're sharing this delish recipe with you! (via Brit + Co)

Chicken Piccata

Chicken is always a pretty safe option when cooking dinner, but this recipe dresses it up into something extra delicious. (via Culinary Hill)

Duck Confit Salad

Make your Valentine something extra fancy with this confit salad. Not only is this Valentine's Day dinner elegant but it also features pomegranates and avocados, so we can't say no. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Strawberry & Cream Croissant French Toast

Photo via Tieghan Gerard of Half Baked Harvest

Whether you're making brunch or having brunch for dinner, this is a great French toast-croissant hybrid. Swap the drizzle of maple with a chocolate drizzle to make it extra Valentine-esque. Serve with white wine or champagne. (via Brit + Co)

Crispy Honey Glazed Chicken Thighs

This recipe will be appreciated by couples who are trying to eat healthier in the new year. (via Brit + Co)

Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork

With classic Cuban flavors, this mouthwatering pork recipe is juicy and moist. Pro tips: Spring for a high-quality meat source from your local butcher or farmers’ market, and marinate the pork overnight to make this top-notch recipe even tastier. (via The Food Charlatan)

Shrimp and Gnocchi With Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce

If you’re both eating garlic, then you won’t have to worry about dreaded “garlic breath” after. Shrimp and gnocchi are already amazing on their own, but put them together for a powerhouse meal that everyone will want. You'll want to grab some red wine to go with this one. (via Damn Delicious)

Beef And Lamb Shwarma Wraps

If you prefer something a little more casual (or just love handheld food), try out these amazing wraps. Make your own tzatziki if you're feeling adventurous. (via Forks and Foliage)

Soul-Warming French Onion Pot Roast

Nothing says love like pot roast. This particular iteration boasts the flavors of onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, fresh apples, thyme, celery, and bay leaf. (via Little Spice Jar)

Strawberry Ravioli With Balsamic and Basil

These naturally pink ravioli are packed with decadent flavors and topped with a balsamic reduction for a sweet and savory combo. Plus considering it's Valentine's Day, we'll take all the pink food that we can get our hands on. (via A Beautiful Mess)

One-Pan Cheesy Spaghetti Pie Valentine's Day Dinner Idea

Permission granted to have your own Lady and the Tramp moment while feasting on this dish. For a healthier version, feel free to sub turkey or chicken for ground beef and whole wheat spaghetti for the refined version. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Slow-Cooker Cassoulet

Don’t fear the cassoulet. It’s not as tricky to make it as you might imagine. Toss it all into the slow cooker for restful meal prep. (via Leite’s Culinaria)

Spinach and Three Cheese Manicotti

Pasta dishes have a certain sensuousness to them, and this indulgent, cheesy manicotti dish cries out for a cozy and lovey-dovey night in. Feel free to use store-bought marinara sauce or make your own. Bring on all the bread and garlic butter. (via The Cooking Jar)

Skillet Chicken Pot Pie

Have a busy Valentine’s Day schedule? Get a head start with this slow-cooker recipe. About a half an hour before mealtime, pop some veggies in the oven to serve alongside the dish. (via Plays Well With Butter)

Creamy Masala Mussels

Mussels are delicate, fleshy, and delicious and lend a hand to any full-bodied sauce. The beer base will require all the bread to sop up every last drop of goodness. (via Drizzle and Dip)

Fettuccine Alfredo Valentine's Day Dinner Idea

Forget lightened-up, pre-made sauces; fettuccine Alfredo is meant to be rich and delightfully naughty. It features Parmesan and heavy cream, and we wouldn’t have it any other way. (via Two Peas & Their Pod)

Butter Candles

Add a little bit of ~mood lighting~ with these candles that are literally made out of butter. They make the perfect addition to any dinner and are like 2023's version of butter boards. (via Brit + Co)

Galentine's Day Sweet Treat Board

If you're celebrating Valentine's Day with your girlfriends, or even going stag, make this colorful and sweet dessert board. You might spoil your dinner but honestly, it's worth it. (via Amanda Wilens)

Paleo Pot Roast

This healthful, Whole30-approved pot roast doesn't skimp on yum factor even though it's made with completely clean ingredients. (via Noshtastic)

Creamy Coconut Lentil Curry

This curry recipe is *bursting* with healthy proteins and fats. Bonus: Your leftovers will be easy to reheat and use up throughout the week. (via The Endless Meal)

Creamy Vegan Tomato Sauce

This plant-based tomato sauce blends cashews, roasted tomatoes, and onions. It is so good, the non-vegans in your life won't mind eating it too. (via Fit Foodie Finds)

Raspberry Almond Crumb Cake

Let this moist raspberry almond crumb cake help set the tone for sexy activities after dinner. It's full of ooey-gooey goodness that'll leave you and your date's mouths watering. (via Cozy Cravings)

For more Valentine's Day dinner ideas follow us on Pinterest and check out our online cooking classes!

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

This article has been updated from a previous post.

Additional reporting by Chloe Williams and Jasmine Williams.

Sometimes a sweet treat just hits differently in warmer weather, and Trader Joe’s (in true Trader Joe’s fashion) just dropped thedessert of the spring and summer. I hear you, I hear you… it’s a tad bit early to start thinking about scorching, sunny days, but trust me: this new $5 dessert will have you yearning for summer the second you see it.

Scroll on to discover the newly-dropped Trader Joe’s find shoppers are calling delicious, yummy, and amazing!

@trader_joes_treasure_hunt

The summery dessert in question is the all-new Blood Orange Mochi Ice Cream, and it’s so dreamy. Featuring dollops of blood orange-flavored ice cream cased in sweet mochi dough, it’s the kind of sweet treat you can easily eat with your hands… and keep eating over and over and over again.

Any Lane / PEXELS

The mochi ice cream is also crafted without any artificial colors or flavors, so you really get the full effect of the rich citrus. Blood oranges are also typically sweeter than regular oranges, making them perfect for putting into desserts.

@traderjoesobsessed

TJ’s fan account @traderjoesobsessed shared the new Blood Orange Mochi Ice Cream with their followers, saying the treat is “tart and creamy” and also “not too sweet.” One commenter that got a taste noted that each ice cream piece is like “a creamsicle's more worldly cousin.” Another person compared the flavor to a Flintstone's Push-Up popsicle.

Well-rounded and nostalgic? Now I have to try this!

Nadin Sh / PEXELS

The Trader Joe’s Blood Orange Mochi Ice Cream can be found on shelves for $4.99. Each box comes with 6 mochi ice cream bites, and what’s even more exciting is the nutrition label says a single serving size is 6 pieces – AKA the entire box. Woah!

Additionally, this sweet snack is kosher and gluten-free.

I’m definitely going to be grabbing several boxes to try – and hopefully manifest an early start to springtime!

What are your favorite Trader Joe's desserts? Let us know in the comments and subscribe to our newsletter to discover even more new Trader Joe's items!

Costco isn't just known for offering a shockingly wide array of products at unbeatable prices. The membership-only warehouse club is also a favorite shopping destination for all kinds of foods.

The infatuation among shoppers arguably began back in 1984. That year, the iconic hot dog and soda combo, which costs just $1.50, was first added to its food court menu, and it's been history ever since.

Today, people don't just frequent Costco; they're loyal fans of the store. So, when certain products disappear from shelves or the food court, outrage can ensue.

These are eight of the most popular foods that Costco has stopped selling, sparking a lot of upset.

Scroll to find out which popular Costco foods you can't find on shelves anymore!

1. Barbecue Beef Brisket Sandwich

Valeria Boltneva

The barbecue beef brisket sandwich is one past food court favorite that was sadly discontinued. It featured shredded brisket smothered in tangy barbecue sauce and topped with sweet coleslaw on a soft bun — similar to the sandwich pictured — for only $4.99.

While it was a hit with a decent amount of Costco members, there wasn't enough consistent demand to keep this sandwich on the menu. It also reportedly required more time and effort for employees to construct than other simpler options.

2. Kirkland American Cheese

Kirkland

You can no longer find Kirkland American cheese in Costco's deli section. This favorite for burgers and sandwiches was removed from stores in 2019, and it's unclear why.

However, some people speculate that the growing demand for other types of cheese, such as sharp cheddar and mozzarella, might've led Kirkland American cheese to become less of a priority. It seems like the above pictured American cheese slices are only available in Australia now.

3. Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels

Auntie Anne's

Costco's cinnamon sugar pretzel was warm, chewy, and popular among shoppers looking for a sweet pick-me-up. But you can't find it at the food court anymore.

The exact reasons for this treat's removal haven't been confirmed, either. Nonetheless, it's thought that cinnamon sugar pretzels got the boot due to a combination of low sales and Costco's shift toward offering healthier menu options.

If you're missing that Costco sweet treat, you can't go wrong with a cinnamon sugar pretzel from Auntie Anne's (pictured above)!

4. Kirkland Signature Turkey Burgers

Costco

Kirkland Signature turkey burgers were a convenient frozen food option packed with protein. In fact, each patty only had 200 calories yet carried 25 grams of protein.

Despite that, the turkey burgers were discontinued in 2018, and the reason remains a mystery. Some fans were so disappointed that they actually started a petition to get the product back in Costco freezers, but the store reportedly hasn't responded.

Instead, you can get a 32-pack of Rastelli’s Antibiotic-Free Turkey Craft Burgers (pictured above), if you're looking for a similar fix!

5. All American Chocolate Cake

Reddit/r/Costco

With multiple layers of rich chocolate cake that could easily feed a group of 20, this product was a go-to for countless shoppers. However, it was surprisingly pulled from shelves in 2020, possibly due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Costco's exact reasoning is still unclear. Thankfully, though, chocolate lovers can now find mini versions of this dessert being sold as cupcakes.

6. Kirkland Signature Light Beer

Reddit/r/Costco

This product was Costco's attempt to enter the beer market. Unfortunately, it didn't quite hit the mark.

Kirkland Signature Light Beer received harsh criticism, with people online saying it "stinks" and has a "rubber smell." So, regardless of the fact that it was sold at a low price of around $0.50 per can, the beer was ultimately discontinued in 2018.

7. Polish Hot Dog

Costco

Despite Costco's Polish hot dog having a dedicated fanbase, it wasn't large enough to sustain this food court item. Low sales pushed it to be taken off the menu back in 2018.

In the wake of its removal, Costco shared a statement detailing how the Polish hot dog was discontinued to make room for healthier options, like the all-beef hot dog.

8. Chocolate-Dipped Ice Cream Bar

Costco

One final ghost of Costco's food court past is the chocolate-dipped ice cream bar. This dessert disappeared from the menu in 2013, but even a decade later, fans are still upset about it.

Sold for just $1.50, it featured vanilla ice cream dipped in chocolate and rolled in toasted almonds. It's believed that the rising costs of dairy and almonds pushed Costco to take it off the menu, and it's unclear if this product will ever make a comeback.

If you're looking for something similar, I'd grab these Kirkland Signature Ice Cream Bars — and they come in a pack of 18!

Looking for more food news? Be sure to sign up for our newsletter so you never miss a thing!

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