DIY Astro Guide: What Your Horoscope Means This Week, 4/18/2016

As the spring temps start heating up, so does your love life. While you’ll want to proceed with caution before making things “officially official” with your boo, don’t let retrograde prevent you from expressing your true feelings. Beware of your competitive side all this week as you suddenly feel an urge to come out on top in the workplace. Play fair and square, and the results are guaranteed to be in your favor. Rock a Coachella-inspired look in the office with these boho style essentials + scroll down to see what the stars have in store for you in this week’s AstroStyle horoscope.

With Pluto’s annual cycle in retrograde underway, you’ll have plenty of time to reevaluate your professional career. If the past few months have been all work and no play, then it might be time for you to move on to bigger (and better!) opportunities. Or better yet, ask for a promotion, so that you can earn the paychecks that you deserve.

Read This: Feeling stuck? Check out these 10 TED talks for some major career inspo that will make you want to change the world.

Taurus: April 20 – May 20

Live a little, Taurus! After months of hard work and back-to-back-to-back-to-back deadlines, it’s time to treat yo’self to a little rendezvous in the tropics. Let loose and have fun on a Friday night for once by going out for drinks with your squad. If personal development is your jam, then sign up for some workshops that will fuel your creativity.

Read This: Bring the tropics to you with these 17 essentials for a DIY margarita bar. We’ll take two blood orange margs, please! (via Eat Drink Love)

Gemini: May 21 – June 20

See the world through rose-colored glasses by devoting the next few weeks to your personal fitness and health. Embrace only positivity from here on out by letting go of any drains (read: bad seeds) in your life who are sucking out all your energy. Try out a two-week cleanse, enlist in a personal trainer or go on a hike with an extra scenic view — the sky’s the limit, Gem!

Read This: Contrary to popular belief, eating healthy does not have to be a snooze. Check out how you can adopt a healthier lifestyle with this fresh produce meal plan. It’s a total game changer. (Photo via Brit + Co)

Cancer: June 21 – July 22

And just like that, it feels like a huge weight has been lifted off your shoulders. While retrograde normally puts all of your relationships into question, this go-around, you’re ready to communicate and get things out in the open. No midnight text message rants here! Not coupled up? Put yourself out there by going on triple dates and making an effort to smile at any super good looking strangers.

Read This: It happens to the best of them. Here’s how to tell if your guy is stuck in “guyland.” (Photo via Getty)

Leo: July 23 – August 22

Put an end to your creativity slump with a little home decor challenge that would put HGTV to shame. Hit up Pinterest for some crazy innovative decorating ideas, and then get to it! Between adding a charming gallery wall and trying out some game-changing feng-shui, it won’t be long before Chateau Leo is up and running.

Read This: When life gives you lemons, refresh your living space with playful wallpaper. Check out these 17 gorgeous spring wallpapers that aren’t floral. (Photo via Make My Lemonade)

Virgo: August 23 – September 22

You know what they say, Virgo: Travel is the only thing that makes you richer. Turn your daydreams into a reality by surfing the web for any last-minute deals that could have you sipping tropical cocktails in paradise as soon as early May.

Read This: But, first things first: Bookmark these six must-read travel tips for every vacation. It’s better to be safe than sorry. (Photo via Getty)

Libra: September 23 – October 22

Changes are a comin’, Libra! It’s time to air out any baggage on the homefront in the most non-confrontational way possible. Whether a living arrangement just isn’t working out for you, or you really, really want to turn your family of two into a happy family of three by adopting a dog (or cat!), honesty is the best policy from here on out.

Read This: Can’t decide between a dog, a cat and a pet rabbit? Don’t fret, we’ve got the best pet for you according to your zodiac sign. (Photo via Getty)

Scorpio: October 23 – November 21

When relationship drama has got you in a never-ending downward spiral, make an effort to just step away from it all and work on YOU. If commitment means deciding between a bold pink lippy and a Kylie Jenner-inspired pout, then you’re so down. There’s nothing like some fresh ink or a new ‘do to give you life once again.

Read This: This just in: Granny-chic is so in. We’ve got 12 ways to rock pastel + gray hair this season. (Photo via @xander.photography)

Sagittarius: November 22 – December 21

Resist the urge to go on any spending sprees that will leave you with buyer’s remorse. Did you really need those designer sunnies when you already have two pairs on standby? Make a vow to spend less by only investing in things that will enhance your spring/summer capsule wardrobe. Feeling thrifty? Try DIYing your very own creations for a fraction of the price — this goes for both furniture and clothes.

Read This: Gear up for weekend two of Coachella with this tutorial that shows you how to turn curtains into your fave new festival season dress. Really! (Photo via Kurt Andre)

Capricorn: December 22 – January 19

Blame it on graduation season, but you’re feeling more nostalgic than ever about change. With longtime projects coming to an end and big cross-country moves on the horizon, it’s time to raise a drink to new beginnings. Be open to trying out new hobbies and dating new people (in new cities!), and who knows what summer will bring. Success is bittersweet, Cap!

Read This: New to Tinder? Check out what happened when this writer messaged guys on Tinder using only Kimmy Schmidt quotes. We couldn’t make this stuff up if we tried! (Photo via Brit + Co)

Aquarius: January 20 – February 18

Hit the recharge button by giving up your various devices for a 36-hour cleanse that will leave you feeling more refreshed than ever. Even self-proclaimed social butterflies deserve a break from the constant hustle and bustle every now and then! Cuddle up on the sofa with a glass of vino and a long overdue facial for some much-needed “me” time that will leave you feeling as good as new.

Read This: Dream reads and a stylish decor update? We’re so down. Look no further than these 13 reading chairs paired with the perfect books to cuddle up with this weekend.

Pisces: February 19 – March 20

Adventure awaits you, Pisces! Give the small town life a break by venturing out to foreign lands for both work and pleasure. If you can temporarily relocate to the country of your dreams, (hello, France), then why not take that wild crazy chance?!

Read This: Speaking of travel, you’re going to be surprised to learn that this kind of travel is 2016’s #1 summer vacation. (Photovia Getty)

What are you planning to do this week? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to check out your full AstroStyle horoscope!

You'd think someone with acne-prone skin wouldn't buy viral beauty finds without doing thorough research, but I'm not above trying to recreate all the latest makeup trends at home. All this did was remind me that everything isn't for everyone — and that's okay! Well...it's not okay I fee like I wasted money, but at least I know what to stay away from. And now I'm here to help you figure out what to avoid as well!

Even though this products didn't work for me, that doesn't mean you can't or shouldn't use them. These are just my least faves of the year — take 'em or leave 'em!

Here are all the overrated beauty finds I wish I wouldn't have bought

Amazon

1. MILK Hydro Grip Primer

I should've known better than to buy this again, but I wanted to see if my skin would react better to it. The first time I tried to use this, I broke out along my jaws in tiny, red bumps. They were itchy and eventually turned into dark spots that took me over a year to get rid of.

Instead of letting that be the red flag that kept me away from this beauty find, I decided to use it in place of my trusted e.l.f. Cosmetics Power Grip Primer I've been relying on. Two things happened:

  1. It created a beautiful base for my makeup.
  2. I didn't break out, but my faced still felt itchy.

I even switched my makeup brushes and checked to make sure other makeup products weren't expired. The culprit continued to be this primer so it's made it to my overrated list.

Amazon

2. KORA Organics Kakadu Plum Vitamin C Serum

I was initially sent this to test, but I decided to buy it myself to see if I truly like it. While it was easy to add to my skincare routine lineup, I realized I actually didn't need to spend $70+ for an effective Vitamin C serum. The only difference between this serum and the one I truly love are their colors and textures.

This one has a slightly yellowish-orange tint to it while being a little thicker compared to the Timeless Skin Care Vitamin C serum I use. The latter is thinner and 100% transparent, plus the odor is slightly stronger. However, both of them aid in smoother skin, smaller pores, and a healthy glow.

I honestly wouldn't buy this one again just because I can get the same benefits for a lesser price.

Amazon

3.NYX Cosmetics Fat Oil Lip Drip

This is a controversial take, but I honestly didn't love the NYX Fat Oil Lip Drip. Although I love the color payoff, it was too sticky for my liking. I saw reviews that mentioned this, but I've purchased lip glosses other people didn't love that worked for me in the past. However, the reviews are telling the truth: the stickiness takes away from what could've been a great formula.

I'll just stick to my Tower 28 Lip Softie Hydrating Lip Treatment in Ube Vanilla!

Amazon

4. L'Oréal Voluminous Panorama Washable Mascara

I know people love this beauty find because it is great. I just didn't think the hype was enough to convince me to buy it again because my essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara gets the job done for $5. I will say I love the washable feature of L'Oréal's version, but it's still not enough to make me willingly spend over $10 for it.

As great of a product as this is, it's overrated to me because of the price tag.

Sephora

5. Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Medium Coverage Foundation

Sigh...it's so hard for me to admit this, but this Haus Labs foundation has become my most overrated beauty find of 2024. It's not that it doesn't work for a few hours, but my skin prefers tinted moisturizers more than anything. I talked about it briefly on TikTok, but skin tints feel like you're not wearing anything on your face.

I'm always really oily after wearing this foundation for a few hours, but I can get extended wear out of the Danessa Myricks Yummy Skin Tint I've been wearing. I like to think it's because it has vegan collagen, ceramides, and cactus extract in it whereas this foundation has ingredients like fermented arnica in it.

Both do a great job of calming inflammation, but something about this foundation makes my skin think it's incredibly dry.

Visit our Amazon Storefront for a list of beauty products we do love!

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

Studio McGee has spent the last decade inspiring us with a blend of accessible and elevated designs, creating beautiful and totally livable spaces. In her 2025 Home Decor Trends report, Shea McGee emphasizes that home decor trends evolve gradually over time, and I couldn’t agree more. Unlike the fast-paced world of fashion, where trends shift every season, these design moves develop organically over time, and that's good for your wallet and taking your time to create a space you love. Get inspired to refresh your home in 2025 with a few new accents, from embellishments like fringe to maybe a little western or seaside art.

Here are Studio McGee's 2025 Home Decor Trend Predictions, with a few surprises!

Photo: Shade Degges | Design: Studio Mountain

Romantic Silhouettes

Take Romantic Silhouettes, for example. This is a trend we've seen steadily gain traction over the past few years. Think curvy furniture, delicate floral prints, and soft blush hues — when curated thoughtfully, these elements can become timeless staples in your home.

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

Watch Shea's take on designing your home for 2025!

Photo: Michael P.H. Clifford | Design: A1000XBetter

Western Cowboy

This is a design trend that totally surprised me, but I'm so happy to see it in the mix. Elements like leather furniture, rustic accessories, equestrian art, even wood walls, shown in this office designed by A1000XBetter, are making an impact in 2025 and beyond. But Shea notes that you can take this trend literally or just be inspired by the look. You can also mix it with other styles to personalize it for you. Add romantic pillows or ruffled tablecloths like McGee & Co. x Loeffler Randall Gardenia Ruffle Border Tablecloth – things you love that make it yours vs. based solely on one trend.

Gavin Carter| Design: House of Rolison

Saturated Colors

Shea predicts that rich hues like deep browns, oxblood red, and earthy greens will continue to dominate home decor colors going into 2025. House of Rolison's bathroom brown is an excellent example of this beautiful trend.

courtesy of Stewart-Schafer

Pattern Drenching

Embracing a single pattern and drenching an entire room in it — from walls to pillows, headboards, and curtains — is a surprise trend for 2025. This maximalist approach, which has been quietly gaining traction, draws inspiration from Arts and Crafts designers like William Morris and has been in and out of vogue since the Victorian era.

McGee & Co.

Embellishments

This is a trend you can easily DIY to add an extra layer of charm to your decor. Think playful details like fringe accents —beautifully shown in McGee & Co.'s Philippa Settee — along with tassels, pleats, ruffles, and rope. It’s all about embracing texture and whimsy, so have fun with it!

McGee & Co.

Seaside Inspiration

Coastal decor has long been an influence in design and you can be inspired by it in many forms, from shell accents to beach-inspired artwork like McGee & Co.'s Distant Coastline art to textured seagrass baskets and jute rugs. Even the soothing hues of the sea — think soft blues, sandy neutrals, and gentle greens — can inspire your 2025 spaces.

Check out the full list of Studio McGee 2025 Design Trends!

Check out our online newsletter for more 2025 home decor inspo!

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

If there’s any holiday where you’re encouraged to take shots, it’s New Year’s Eve. But, that doesn’t mean you should limit your NYE party beverages to champagne. These sparkly, glittery and all-around enticing shots are sure to please and won’t induce any bad-idea hangovers from too manytequila drinks. You can let your resolution ideas start when the calendar reads 2025. Meanwhile, cheers to enjoying these shots you’ll actually want to make (and take) this New Year’s Eve.

The 14 Best New Year's Eve Shots To Throw Back For 2025!

Brit + Co

Apple Cider Shooter

That caramel vodka you bought on a whim once can finally be put to good use with this spiked apple cider shooter. Whip it up as a shot or a large punch that will last all night long. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Root Beer Float Shooter

This soda shop classic gets an adult upgrade with ROOT, a traditional alcoholic Native American tea. And tea is healthy, right? ;) (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Rainbow Shots

Meet your new party trick! All five of these shots come out of one shaker. Prepare to amaze your guests with your bartending skills this NYE. (via Brit + Co)

Sprinkle Bakes

Champagne Chantilly Shooters

Be sure to add these cake-inspired shooters to your after-holiday to-do list to start 2016 with a little bit of deliciousness. (via Sprinkle Bakes)

Feast + West

Champagne Jell-O Shots

Turn your champagne into a shot! If you’re hosting a large party, these are a way more affordable option than a case of champagne. (via Feast + West)

Dine and Dish

Blackberry Gin Shooters

This shooter is *almost* too pretty to drink. Plus, we can all pretend that the blackberries are doing you some good. (via Dine and Dish)

A Year of Cocktails

Butternut Rum Lifesaver

A shot that tastes like candy is a sweet way to start your year off right. (via A Year of Cocktails)

Holly's Cheat Day

Tipsy Spritzer Shots

Not every shot needs to be super strong. If you’re looking for something you can enjoy throughout the night, this sweet, bubbly and tart “spritzer” shot is low in alcohol content and big on flavor. (via Holly’s Cheat Day)

Bubbly Nation Creations

Sparkling Jello Jigglers

Swap out champagne for the grape juice in this recipe to make a fancy, adult version of a JELL-O jiggler. Sprinkles and edible gold stars required. (via Bubbly Nation Creations)

Broma Bakery

Champagne Jello Shots

Awww, Jello Shots are all grown up in this festive recipe. They have a nice flavor that won’t leave you wincing afterwards. (via Broma Bakery)

The First Year

White Chocolate Champagne Cheesecake Shooters

This shot is delicious enough to be dessert. Top yours with edible glitter sprinkles to get even more festive. (via The First Year)

Cookin' Canuck

Cranberry Kamikaze Shots

NYE calls for a fancier drink than a go-to beer or wine. Ring in the new year with cranberry kamikaze shots that look pretty and taste delicious (via Cookin' Canuck)

Tablespoon

Banana Split Shooters

This shot requires five ingredients that'll send your taste buds soaring. I mean, what could be better than taking a shot of something that tastes like dessert? (via Tablespoon)

Something Swanky

Sparkling Cider Jello Shots (Non-Alcoholic)

If you want to be extra careful not to induce a hangover when you wake up in 2024, your best bet are these sparkling cider jello shots. They're made with unflavored gelatin, distilled water, cider and your choice of berries, cherries, or gummies! (via Something Swanky)

Looking for more NYE recipe or drink ideas? Check out Brit + Co on Pinterest and check out our New Year's Eve dinner ideas for more inspiration.This post has been updated.