3 Ways to Make Your Own All-Natural Soda

There are so many unusually flavored sodas and soda syrups out there lately that we decided to try our hand at making a few flavors. It’s surprisingly easy to make—you need is flavored simple syrup and seltzer water or club soda. We made three flavors: basic ginger soda, lemon rosemary soda, and spiced chai soda. Plus, you don’t even need to use the stove for these recipes. You can make the simple syrup in the microwave—it’s a great kitchen hack! Check out the flavors below, and then tell us what flavor you’d make in the comments!

We love the way the steeping sodas look. They should each be steeped for at least 20 minutes. The ginger soda is best when left overnight.

All it takes is a few tablespoons of the syrup, then top off your glass with some ice and seltzer! First up, how to make simple syrup in the microwave.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup water

– 1 cup sugar

Instructions:

1. In a microwave save container (we used a mason jar), heat the water until it’s steaming, but not boiling. (Approximately 2 minutes on high.)

2. Pour in sugar and stir until the mixture turns clear.

If you make multiple soda syrups, you can set up a DIY soda bar for your next dinner party and let guests choose their flavors.

Ingredients:

– 1 batch microwave simple syrup

– juice of two lemons

– 3 sprigs of rosemary, washed

Instructions:

1. Combine lemon juice, rosemary sprigs and simple syrup in your mason jar.

2. Close the mason jar and let steep for at least 20 minutes, preferably longer.

3. Strain rosemary sprigs and any lemon seeds out of the syrup.

4. Chill before adding to seltzer and serving with a rosemary garnish.

Just a few simple ingredients make this tasty syrup. If you need to, fold the rosemary sprigs in half to fit in the jar.

You might not need to strain this syrup, if there aren’t any seeds. You can just remove the rosemary sprigs.

Chill the syrup before serving, and store in the refrigerator if you don’t use it up all at once.

Simply add seltzer or club soda to make the finished drink. You can vary the amount of syrup you use depending on how strong you want the flavor to be.

Ingredients:

– 1 batch microwave simple syrup

– juice of one lemon

– 1 medium-sized piece of ginger root, peeled and sliced

Instructions:

1. Combine lemon juice, ginger, and simple syrup in a mason jar.

2. Close mason jar tightly and let the syrup steep overnight.

3. Strain out ginger pieces and any lemon seeds.

4. Chill before adding to seltzer and serving.

You wan the ginger flavor to be strong, so the smaller the pieces the better. You can also mash them a bit before steeping.

Strain out any ginger and seeds. Beware of splashing!

The longer you leave the ginger steeping, the stronger the flavor will be.

Top with seltzer and serve!

Ingredients:

– 1 batch microwave simple syrup

– 3 black tea bags or 3 tablespoons loose leaf black tea

– 2 cinnamon sticks

– 1 2-inch piece of orange peel

– 2 whole star anise pods

– 4 cardamom pods

– 1/4 teaspoons whole black peppercorns

– 1/2 teaspoon whole cloves

Instructions:

1. Combine simple syrup, tea bags, orange peel and spices in a mason jar.

2. Close jar tightly and let steep for at least 20 minutes

3. Remove tea bags then strain remaining spices.

4. Chill before adding seltzer and serving.

This syrup takes on a beautiful rich amber color almost immediately from the tea.

Be sure to close the jar tightly. If the tea bag strings get in the way, cut them off and simply strain out the tea bags.

You’ll have a lot more to discard with this recipe.

If you don’t want to make soda, you can also add this to steamed milk to make a chai latte.

We love the bright (and natural!) caramel color of this soda.

We used an at-home carbonator made by Sodastream for the seltzer we added to our syrups.

Garnish the drinks with a few of the ingredients for that extra touch.

Cheers! What kind of soda will you be making? Tell us in the comments!

In case it's not abundantly clear by now, it's the season of canned pumpkin recipes, and we're all for putting it in just about everything we eat and drink! But if you thought you had to use fresh pumpkin puree for all those fall recipes, think again. These canned recipes are delicious and perfect for Thanksgiving, whether you're making an appetizer for the fam or whipping up your famous pumpkin pie.

Here are 47 recipes – including canned pumpkin dessert recipes – that use pumpkin from a can.

Brit + Co

Pumpkin Swirl Brownies

Whoever first decided to put pumpkin and brownies together needs some sort of reward. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

The Ultimate Pumpkin Pie

For your next all-Saturday Netflix session, surprise your binge TV-watching buddy with a pumpkin pie that tastes of pecans, cloves and Biscoff spread. It's the perfect thing to accompany your go-to comfort show. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Spiked Pumpkin Hot Chocolate

Everything about this drink sounds like a good idea. Pumpkin? The perfect seasonal ingredient. Hot cocoa? Our favorite cold weather drink. Rum? A tasty (and optional) part of the recipe. Make this hot chocolate for your Halloween party, Friendsgiving, and beyond. (via Brit + Co)

Lifestyle of a Foodie

Pumpkin Pie Cookies

It's a pie. It's a cookie. It's a pumpkin pie cookie! This loaded canned pumpkin dessert recipe is the perfect thing to make and bring to a party. (via Lifestyle of a Foodie for Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

DIY Pumpkin Curry Recipe

If you like to warm up your evenings with curry, swap your usual ingredients for pumpkin puree to make it even more autumnal. This recipe is full of your usual veggies, plus some avocado and coconut milk. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Double Chocolate Banana Pumpkin Bread

Banana bread is already a tasty idea for fall baking, but add in pumpkin *and* chocolate for something that is too good to pass up. Swap the chocolate ganache for chocolate chips if you want, or just add in both. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Paleo Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

This recipe is like your favorite cookies, just a little bit healthier. These cute cookies even look like pumpkins! (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Chocolate Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats

Upgrade this childhood Rice Krispie Treat with a dab of chocolate and a pinch of pumpkin to turn them into something fall-approved. Colorful sprinkles are non-negotiable. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

The Pumpkin Trifecta

One can, three delicious pumpkin desserts? It's not magic. It's just the great pumpkin. Try one at a time over the next month or make all three for your next fall dinner party. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Pumpkin Pie Frozen Yogurt

It's never too cold for fro-yo. With some canned pumpkin and spices, this recipe is only 100 calories and promises to satisfy your October cravings. Count us in! (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Pumpkin Peanut Butter Dog Treats

Let's not forget our pooches. They deserve to gorge on gourd, too. Bonus points if you can find cute, dog-approved cookie cutters for this canned pumpkin recipie. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

French Toast Waffles Canned Pumpkin Recipe

Whoa. Pumpkin, French toast and waffles? This recipe is almost too good to be true. Talk about the ultimate Saturday morning breakfast! (via Brit + Co)

Kezia Lynn / PEXELS

Pumpkin Spice Banana Bread

This easy banana bread is the yummiest excuse to use up ripe bananas and that can of pumpkin puree that's been sitting ini your cabinet for months. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Apple Pumpkin Curry Soup

Get ready for a big spoonful of coziness. All of our favorite fall flavors are floating around this savory and sweet soup that makes for a great dinner anytime you're feeling cold. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Pumpkintini

Who would've thought that you could make a PSL into a cocktail? Genius! (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal

Eating pie for breakfast is not a wise choice. Making your breakfasttaste like pie is. You won't want to go back to normal oatmeal after you try this recipe. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Pumpkin Spice Smoothie

Fall-ify your morning smoothie with a little pumpkin and a little spice. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

One Pot Cheesy Pumpkin Pecan Pasta

If you thought pumpkin couldn't be added to a cheesy pasta, this is proof that it definitely can. Pecans add a little bit of crunch, and while this recipe is already meatless, you can make it with dairy-free cheese to turn it into something magically vegan. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Pumpkin Pie Cobbler

Forget apple cobbler this fall. Try this pumpkin cobbler that's baked… inside a pumpkin. Mind = blown. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

White Chocolate Pumpkin Mousse With Spiked Whipped Cream

Thanksgiving Day already has your oven working overtime. Give it a break by serving up this delicious pumpkin-y no-bake dessert. Not only will it allow your kitchen to take it easy but you also won't be sweating over the stovetop. (via Brit + Co)

Betty Crocker

Pumpkin Donuts

These sugar-covered donuts are made from cake mix and canned pumpkin. Trust us: you do have time to make them. They're just that good. (via Betty Crocker)

Cookin' Canuck

Spiced Pumpkin Yogurt Parfaits

If you're looking for a way to add pumpkin to your morning routine, you found it. Use Greek yogurt and honey granola to make yourself a healthy breakfast. (via Cookin' Canuck)

Cookie and Kate

Pumpkin, Pineapple and Rum Cocktail

At your next soirée, warm everyone up with this sweet and sour cocktail. (via Cookie and Kate)

Willowbird Baking

Pumpkin Cheesecake Pillow Popovers

These pillow popovers will melt in your mouth, filling it with flavors of pumpkin and cheesecake. Our mouths are already watering for this canned pumpkin dessert. (via Willowbird Baking)

Chocolate Covered Katie

Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte

Sometimes, you just need a PSL. Don't want to get out of your PJs to make that happen? This recipe = problem solved. You can make it right in the comfort of you own kitchen, especially if you have your own at-home coffee bar. (via Chocolate Covered Katie)

Life, Love and Sugar

Pumpkin Pie In A Jar

We're sure that everyone has wished for their own personal-sized pumpkin pie at some point in their life. Make that dream come true with these no-bake pies in a jar! (via Life, Love and Sugar)

The Tart Tart

Pumpkin Ice Cream Sandwiches

There isn't much in this world that compares to homemade ice cream. Except maybe homemade pumpkin ice cream sandwiches between homemade chocolate chip cookies. (via The Tart Tart)

Chocolate-Covered Katie

Pumpkin Reeses

While Reeses are delicious all by themselves, replacing peanut butterwith pumpkin is the best idea we've heard all month. You can add a pinch of salt to round out the flavor. (via Chocolate-Covered Katie)

Diethood

Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Wake up to deliciousness and pumpkin pie with these cinnamon rolls. We'll take two… pans. (via Diethood)

Sally's Baking Addiction

Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

If variety is the spice of life, then these cookies are everything. You can easily alter the flavor by using chocolate chips or cranberries or… wait for it… pumpkin seeds! (via Sally's Baking Addiction)

Call Me PMC

Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts

Do you have a strict morning routine? Make these Pop Tarts ahead of time for some pumpkin on the go if you don't have time to make a huge breakfast. (via Call Me PMC)

Averie Cooks

Pumpkin Ice Cream Pie

Realice cream plus canned pumpkin equals a super scrumptious twist on classic pumpkin pie. (via Averie Cooks)

Eva Bakes

Pumpkin and Peach Muffins

Who'd have thought these two orange ingredients would go so well together? You better be snatching up those peaches while you can. (via Eva Bakes)

Delightfule Made

Pumpkin Coffee Cake Donuts

These donuts will pair perfectly with your steaming cuppa. Pair with pumpkin spice tea or a PSL for the ultimate pumpkin experience. (via Delightfule Made)

Desserts With Benefits

Pumpkin-Spiced Walnut Butter

Alright, stop, collaborate and listen. Spice is back with a brand new invention. You've just gotta try this butter on your next bagel. (via Desserts With Benefits)

Bakerita

Pumpkin Crumb Cake

With the crazy baking season, who has hours and hours to spend baking? This cake may look complicated, but it's actually incredibly easy, which automatically gets a thumbs-up from us. Plus, who can resist a crumb topping like that? (Not us.) (via Bakerita)

The Chic Life

Autumn Granola Canned Pumpkin Recipe

This pumpkin-y granola combines lots of flavors to create a breakfast you'll be craving all season long. Swap out some of the ingredients come winter to keep things seasonal. (via The Chic Life)

The Sweet Chick

Maple Fudge Canned Pumpkin Recipe

Hand this fudge out to all of your trick or treaters, and don't be surprised when word on the street gets out that you've got the best treats on the block. (via The Sweet Chick)

Country Cleaver

Pumpkin Caramel Cheesecake Cones

'Tis the season for bonfires, and ice cream cones make the ideal vehicle for a delectable cheesecake treat that can be eaten (quickly!) around the fire. (via Country Cleaver)

Daily Burn

Healthy Pumpkin Pancakes

These pancakes are a fabulous healthy way to refuel after a morning workout. Just go lighter on the syrup, or get your sweetness by adding some semi-sweet chocolate chips in each cake. (via Daily Burn)

Baking a Moment

Pumpkin Creme Brulee

Crusty top, creamy middle, pumpkin taste — now that's a dessert worth breaking a diet for. (via Baking a Moment)

Woman Scribbles

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread

This warm, gooey and chocolatey take on a delicious pumpkin loaf bread is a heaven sent option for those who love combining their favorite fall flavors together. (via Woman Scribbles)

Vanilla and Bean

Pumpkin Maple Pecan Granola With Cranberries

Add a different texture to your pumpkin maple pecan granola with cranberries. Its sweet and crunchy flavor will pair well with morning cereal or yogurt bowls. (via Vanilla and Bean)

Averie Cooks

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

Cheesecake is one of those classic desserts that will probably never go away – not that we want it to. To spice things up, try baking these sweet pumpkin cheesecake bars. (via Averie Cooks)

Bowl of Delicious

Instant Pot Pumpkin Chili

A warm bowl of chili on a crisp fall day is enough to bring a smile to anyone's face, but did you know you could add pumpkin to it? For something that's a little spicy yet savory, make this Instant Pot pumpkin chili for the family this weekend! (via Bowl of Delicious)

Where Is My Spoon?

Chicken and Pumpkin Risotto

We live for comfort foods like this chicken and pumpkin risotto. It's light and flavorful, making every spoonful a delight to taste. (via Where Is My Spoon?)

Barley & Sage

Pumpkin Spice Macarons

Macarons are another fan favorite that deserve their chance to be baked this fall. Bake this pumpkin spice recipe for your upcoming Halloween party! (via Barley & Sage)

Check out our Pinterest and online baking + cooking classes for more canned pumpkin recipe inspiration!

This post has been updated.

There are few things in our daily lives as horrifying as a first date with a stranger. Usually, the best case scenario is you show up to an agreed meeting place, hit it off, want to go out again, and maybe even fall in love. That is, assuming you're not getting catfished and they're not a crazy person. Well, in Meghann Fahy's new thriller, she finds herself on the perfect first date that takes a turn for the terrifying when an anonymous stranger starts tormenting her...and then instructs her to kill her date. Now the question remains: will she follow through, or will this would-be couple make it to dessert?

Here's everything know about Drop, starring Meghann Fahy and Brandon Sklenar.


Watch 'The Drop' trailer now!

The first thing I have to call out about The Drop trailer is that Brandon Sklenar just keeps getting cuter. How is this possible?! He and Meghann Fahy have chemistry the moment he steps onscreen which makes this whole movie concept — you know, that Meghann's character is told she has to kill him — even more intriguing. And Sabrina Carpenter playing in the background? An inspired choice.

I want to believe that both Violet and Henry make it out of the story alive...but things aren't looking too hopeful for either of them.

What is the movie Drop about?

HBO

Drop Plot

In Drop, widowed mother Violet (Meghann Fahy) is literally so relieved when her date with Henry goes well. He's handsome and charismatic, and she's enjoying their time together — until an unknown number starts dropping anonymous instructions to her phone. Now, Violet has to play it cool while following her new contact's instructions or her kids will pay the price. There's just one problem: the final instruction is to kill Henry.

When is Drop coming out?

Drop Release Date

Drop hits theaters April 11, 2025. The Blumhouse film is from Christopher Landon (Happy Death Day, Freaky), is written by Jillian Jacobs and Chris Roach, and is produced by Jason Blum, Michael Bay, Brad Fuller, and Cameron Fuller. The movie's also executive produced by Sam Lerner.

Who's in the Drop cast?

HBO

Drop Cast

The cast of Drop includes Meghann Fahy, Brandon Sklenar, Violett Beane, Jacob Robinson, Reed Diamond, Gabrielle Ryan, Jeffery Self, Ed Weeks, and Travis Nelson.

See The New Drop Poster!

Blumhouse/Universal Pictures

The poster for Drop definitely gets my adrenaline pumping — and I love Meghann Fahy's glam eyeshadow & manicure paired with the terror in her eyes. Because, duh, of course this Emmy-nominted actress can act with her eyes like nobody's business. And the bold red of the graphic design? Chef's kiss.

Check out 10 New Terrifying Fall Thrillers to watch this season!

This post has been updated.

Whether your kitchen is equipped with a teeny 18-inch range or magnificent double ovens (can we come over???), somehow it always seems to be operating at capacity come the holidays. While some things are non-negotiable when it comes to getting a bit of heat, dessert doesn't have to be one of them. This collection of 20 easy Thanksgiving desserts will save the day, allowing you to serve up something sweet without breaking a sweat. That way, you can focus on what really matters: spending time with the people you love. From tasty cakes to pretty pies, you'll love all the no-bake options available to choose from.

Half Baked Harvest

Fudgy Peanut Butter Ice Cream Cake

Chocolate lovers won't be able to get enough of this delicious ice cream cake. It balances salty and sweet *perfectly* and on top of the fact that it tastes great, it looks just as amazing. (via Half Baked Harvest for Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Oreo Turkey Pops

This is a great easy Thanksgiving dessert to get your guests involved in. Simply set up an activity station to kick off the festivities, and by the end of the night, their Oreo turkeys will be ready to shake their tail feathers. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Pumpkin Ice Cream Tart with Speculoos Crust

We totally recommend that you keep a few of these tarts in your freezer at all times. Simply pop them out of their molds and top with a spoonful of whipped cream and sprinkle of pecans as needed. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

White Chocolate Pumpkin Mousse

Ease your day-of Thanksgiving dessert prep with this delish prepared-ahead mousse. (via Brit + Co)

Spicy Southern Kitchen

Coconut-Pumpkin Chiffon Pie

The contrasting textures offered by a chewy coconut crust, silky pumpkin filling, and fluffy whipped cream topping make for one decadent pie. (via Spicy Southern Kitchen)

Diethood

Pumpkin Mousse Ice Box Cake

It’s almost hard to believe that this gorgeous layered creation requires no baking at all. (via Diethood)

The Real Food Dietitians

4-Ingredient Scotcheroo Bites

The only thing you'll need to fire up for this easy Thanksgiving dessert is your stovetop, to make the melty chocolate topping. Otherwise, this recipe is super painless and oh-so tasty. (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Shared Appetite

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Trifle

You'll need to pull out your skillet for this (mostly no-bake) easy Thanksgiving dessert recipe. Trust that the sautéed cinnamon-sugar apples that result will be totally worth it. (via Shared Appetite)

Slim Pickin's Kitchen

Bailey's & Coffee No-Bake Pots de Crème

With only five ingredients, these spiked custard cups can be thrown together in a jiffy. (via Slim Pickin's Kitchen)

White on Rice Couple

Fluffy Cranberry Pie

The pretty pink hue of this pie is bound to elicit a few oohs and aahs from Thanksgiving party-goers. Thankfully, the flavor lives up to the hype! (via White on Rice Couple)

The Edgy Veg

Vegan No-Bake Cookies

Packed with oats, nut butter, shredded coconut, and sunflower seeds, these no-bake cookies are a great healthy option for your easy Thanksgiving desserts. (via The Edgy Veg)

Life With the Crust Cut Off

No-Bake Pumpkin Gingersnap Cheesecakes

Five minutes of prep, four flavor-packed ingredients. We're sold. (via Life With the Crust Cut Off)

Life, Love and Sugar

Caramel Apple Trifles

Fans of cinnamon and caramel — and let’s face it, everyone else for that matter — will swoon over these eight-layer trifles. This is already one beautiful dish, but the fact it's a no-bake Thanksgiving dessert makes us love it even more. (via Life, Love and Sugar)

Forks Over Knives

Vegan Cranberry Pear Tart

An abundance of fruit and nuts goes into making this beautiful, just-sweet-enough fall tart. (via Forks Over Knives)

Belle Vie

Caramel Apple Cookie Dough Bars

Cookie dough fanatics will go wild for these bars flecked with fresh apple chunks and cinnamon chips. (via Belle Vie)

Earthly Provisions

No-Bake Edible Cookie Dough Bites

With a total of 7 ingredients and 10 minutes to make 'em, these bite-sized cookie dough balls make the ultimate Thanksgiving dessert that everyone will be reaching for over and over again. (via Earthly Provisions)

The Recipe Rebel

Caramel Apple-Golden Oreo Icebox Cake

What’s not to love about cream-filled cookies, cheesecake, and caramel apple goodness coming together in one easy make-ahead dessert? (via The Recipe Rebel)

Dessert for Two

Easy Pumpkin Tiramisu

For something that sounds and looks so fancy, tiramisu is actually a snap to prepare. We’re talking only fifteen minutes of prep (plus a few hours to chill). (via Dessert for Two)

Sweet + Savory

Chai Latte No-Bake Mini Cheesecakes

Not only are these chai-spiced treats no-bake, but lining your muffin tin makes them also practically cleanup-free. (via Sweet + Savory)

Vanilla and Bean

No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars

This easy Thanksgiving dessert looks so stunning, it'll fool everyone into thinking you spent way more time on it than you actually did. (via Vanilla and Bean)

We hope these easy Thanksgiving desserts have saved you some time in your holiday plans this year! Make sure to join our newsletter for more recipe inspiration and check out the B+C Baking Bundle of online courses for more ideas!

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

How many times have you heard someone is a toxic person and — aside from therapy speak — what does it mean? According to Michelle English, LCSW, Co-Founder and Executive Clinical Manager at Healthy Life Recovery, "In a therapeutic setting, toxic behavior usually refers to patterns of behavior that regularly cause emotional, mental, or even physical harm to others."

Wondering why people resort to being toxic behavior? English says, "They are frequently the result of unresolved personal issues such as trauma, insecurity, or a lack of self-awareness." Jamie Bennett, LMFT of Mountainside Treatment Center, adds, "Many toxic people do things with the intent of getting a certain reaction – like a bully. If they want to rile you up and you don’t get riled up this changes the dynamic."

Wanna know what signs to look out for when it comes to toxic people? We've got you covered — and we have the tea on when you should finally cut them out!

P.S. Bennett says assertiveness isn't toxic, even if someone's behavior sometimes comes off as pushy or controlling. This just means they're sure of themselves!

Here are the 6 signs of a toxic person — & when to cut them out!

Kaboompics.com

1. They're always being dismissive.

Have you ever been really excited or upset about something only to be met with a dismissive tone from someone you confided in? This person is displaying toxicity which "gradually undermines trust in relationships," according to English. Would you want to keep sharing things with a person if they're always downplaying your emotions? Probably not.

Alex Green

2. Controlling others seems like a sport to them.

English says another way to determine someone is toxic is pay attention to their controlling behavior. It can be something as simple as telling you what to wear or something greater such as forcibly limiting your contact with anyone they think isn't good for you.

Keira Burton

3. They consistently makes excuses for their behavior.

Have you ever let a close friend know certain behavior bothers you only for them to make an excuse for why they keep doing them? Bennett says this counts as "avoiding responsibility for actions." Furthermore, "constantly" doing so or looking to "push the blame onto someone else veers into toxic territory," she adds.

Another way to look at this is if someone is always falling into a pattern of "victimizing themselves," according to Bennett.

SHVETS production

4. They tend to be manipulative.

Manipulation is tricky because it's not always obvious until it's too late. It's kind of like not realizing you were bit by a mosquito until your skin becomes itchy and red. Bennett says this is toxic because there's a knowing that someone can "appeal to a certain person's characteristics or personality traits." This looks like saying or doing something "with the intention of getting a certain reaction," according to her.

Bennett says, "An example may be one partner in sobriety who consistently uses their poor mental health as a reason to not be proactive about finding a job. They do this because they know that the other partner is worried about their loved one relapsing so they use that fear against her."

Liza Summer

5. They never miss an opportunity to gaslight people.

Calling this a "well-known example," English says gaslighting often occurs when someone denies the reality of another person." What would cause someone to do this? Well, a toxic behavior often doesn't want to take accountability for their actions so they'd rather "cause people to doubt their own perceptions," according to English.

Alena Darmel

6. They're always looking for reasons to criticize someone.

The catty behavior on The Real Housewives of New York may be entertaining for TV, but that kind of behavior gets old quickly in everyday life. No one wants to hear why "so and so thinks they're all that" even if it's disguised as humor. English says, "Regardless of their motivation," behaviors like this "can lead to stressful and emotionally distressing situations."

Alena Darmel

cottonbro studio

Is it time to cut that toxic person out of my life?

We live in a society that started prioritizing ending relationships with people as soon as we spot red flags, but English and Bennett don't think this should be our immediate reaction. English says, "The decision to disengage with a toxic person in the relationship will depend on how harsh and serious the relationship is" because "it is often personal."

According to her, if you notice a consistent pattern where the behavior is "damaging your emotional health," it's okay to walk away from that person. Still, she believes "completely cutting [someone] off is often a last option when other approaches to changing the behavior have not worked." Bennett says something similar and notes how to approach different scenarios.

"If it someone you need to communicate with because of a job or family, there are things you can do to protect yourself," she says. She suggests reminding "yourself who you are dealing with" if the person is adept at gaslighting others because "it may be easy to become convinced that you are wrong or something did not happen the way you recall." A phrase she encourages you to tell yourself is, "I know that my experiences are my experiences no matter what."

RDNE Stock project

If you're dealing with an aggressively toxic person, you'll have to "set and reinforce boundaries," Bennett says while English adds that "engaging in therapy to faciliate healthier relationships" may be a next step.

Here's how Bennett suggests navigating communication with someone like this:

  • Set a boundary to end the conversation when you notice toxic behavior such as invalidation of your feelings.
  • Receive support from another person so they can remind you of things you're trying to accomplish

If you're dealing with a friend or spouse, Bennett wants you to remember "you cannot change them" but you're in control of how you respond. English says, "It is important to analyze the whole situation and know when the cost of the relationship is greater than the benefits."

Bennett's last piece of advice is to know when to walk away" by having a "deep awareness for how you are feeling." You can do this by "checking in with your body and thoughts" so you can understand how you "respond to stress," according to her. She says this will give you more "clues on what when it's time to step away!"

Read more of our relationships articles to learn how to navigate tough situations in 2025!

Spring will be here before you know it, and if you're anything like me, you don’t think it’s entirely too crazy to be dreaming of warmer weather right now – especially as we face some insanely cold temperatures. In the vein of embracing big spring energy, I’m already thinking about my warm-weather wardrobe, and the first item on my wishlist is none other than a drop waist dress!

Fitting for everything from beachside strolls to breezy farmer’s market visits, drop waist dresses are such a cute (and easy!) way to look stylish while the sun’s beaming.

Scroll on for the cutest drop waist dresses I’m dreaming of for springtime and beyond!

Anthropologie

Anthropologie The Josephine Smocked Drop-Waist Dress

Covered in colorful blooms, this drop waist dress supplies plenty of fun hues you can use to pair your accessories and shoes with to tie things all together.

Free People

Free People Need To Know Mini Dress

I love all the drama this dress brings. From the oversized, scalloped collar to the whimsical puff sleeves, it's all brought together with a flattering drop waist silhouette. The mini length makes this style undeniably spring- and summer-ready, though you could easily style it for colder weather with tights, tall boots, and a denim jacket!

Anthropologie

S/W/F Sleeveless Drop-Waist Maxi Dress

The exaggerated drop waist on this maxi moment elongates your figure, flattering it to a tee. Plus, the trendy leopard print will earn you major style points! Whether you wear it with sandals or sneakers, you really can't go wrong with this design.

Target

Wild Fable Drop Waist Mini Tennis Dress

The pleating on this pick brings a unique flair to your typical drop waist dress. In my opinion, the details really complete the look, so all you've gotta do is pick out a good shoe, grab your favorite bag, and hit the streets.

Anthropologie

For Love & Lemons Gingerbread Gingham Dress

This gingham is beyond dreamy. This drop waist dress has such a playful retro feel to it, thanks to the bustier-style bodice, open back, and midi length. I'd style it with some kitten heels and bold sunglasses to lean into the throwback of it all!

Free People

Free People Roadhouse Mini Dress

A denim dress will get me every freakin' time. This detailed long sleeve style is truly anything but boring!

Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch Drop-Waist Midi Dress

The duo-tone design of this midi-length drop waist dress breaks up your look perfectly, plus, it provides a bold foundation for having tons of fun with accessories and outerwear layers!

Banana Republic

Banana Republic Crepe Twist-Shoulder Dress

Okay, this chartreuse color is to die for. If you're looking for a drop waist dress that makes a statement, this is it.

Free People

Free People Onda Drop-Waist Tube Midi

For the warmer months where you also want to get a lil' bit of sun on your shoulders, the strapless style of this midi drop waist dress comes in real handy.

Zara

Zara Bows Short Dress

I love that the boat neckline on this dress leans more modest while the mini length lets you show a good amount of leg. Plus, the deep brown color is easy to match with practically any piece you've got in your closet. The bows along the hips are the best part, of course!

Anthropologie

Celandine Strapless Drop-Waist Mini Dress

This mini strapless number is the perfect fit for any upcoming tropic getaway you've got planned. Even if a fancy beach vacation is not on your docket, you can still channel the laidback energy with this pick!

Target

Wild Fable Cap Sleeve Dropped Waist Knit Mini Shift Dress

This sophisticated drop waist dress instantly makes any occasion fashion-forward. I'd wear it with some sleek (and tall!) black boots to seal the deal.

Anthropologie

S/W/F Sleeveless Mottled Drop-Waist Midi Dress

This polka-dotted moment is sure to turn heads towards you, no matter where you take it.

Subscribe to our newsletter to shop more editor-loved styles!

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