3 Genius Ways to Update Your Denim Using *Only* Glue

“Out with the old, in with the new” doesn’t have to be your style motto this fall, especially when it comes to your jeans. It might seem like there are more news styles to try than ever (modern flares, ’90s-inspired straight legs, cropped everything) but let us remind you, it barely takes any effort to update the ones you already have, whether they were your last-season faves, worn-once wonders or thrifted pairs. All you need to make it happen are supplies you most likely already have in your DIY kits. As for what to do to make those blues feel new again? We’ve got the inspo right here.

We challenged the babes in our office to come up with creative ways to hack their old denim, and for this first post in our three-part DIY Denim Challenge, the gals pulled out a truly secret weapon when it comes to a wow-worthy jeans makeover. See three genius ways you can update your jeans using *only* glue.

Maddie’s Patched Jeans Hack

The Inspo

“I’ve been seeing patched jeans everywhere these days. Since they’re so easy to make, I figured it would be a great excuse to repurpose all the patches I’ve recently collected. I think the beauty of patched denim is that every pair could be different and personal — like repurposing old Girl Scout badges that mean so much to someone. I decided to put my patches on distressed boyfriend jeans that added to the ‘90s vibe I was going for.”

How to DIY Jeans With Patches

If your patches have iron-on adhesive on the back, use an iron to adhere them to your jeans according to their instructions. If your patches do not have an iron-on adhesive on the back, then apply E6000 glue to the back of the patch and place wherever you like on the denim. Press down hard to fasten and let them completely dry before you wear.

The Result

“I LOVE the way my jeans turned out. If I wear them to work, I’ll probably style them with simple heels or ankle boots and an oxford shirt. On the weekends, they’re definitely going with a Birkenstocks and a basic tee.”

Beth’s Pearl Jeans Hack

The Inspo

“I love pearls, so I wanted to jazz up some jeans with them but still keep it subtle and delicate, so I kept the pearls really tiny and spaced out. “

How to DIY Jeans With Pearls

1. Lay out your flatback pearls on a paper plate.

2. Dip a toothpick or a long, thin tool into fabric glue. Use it to pick up the back of the pearl. Then, place each pearl on the jeans, pressing gently to secure. I did alternating rows of two and three pearls all the way down to the bottom but left a little room at the bottom so I could cuff the jeans. Let them dry overnight.

The Results

The jeans came out so cute! Honestly even cuter than I imagined. They seem very wearable to me; I would buy them if I saw them in a store. I would wear them with a plain white or black shirt with no accessories (the pearls on the jeans are all you need) and bright lipstick and I’d be set. I really like how they look!

Ashley’s Plaid Jeans Hack

The Inspo

I noticed that I had one too many flannel shirts from my cold winters in Colorado and wanted to repurpose them into something trendy for SF. I love the comfy-chic look of boyfriend jeans and wanted to give them a wintery twist by having the pops of flannel peek out from the distressed areas.

How to DIY Jeans With Plaid

1. Rip the distressed patches of your jeans so that they open up into holes for the plaid to pop through.

2. Cut squares out of your plaid shirt large enough to cover the holes in your jeans.

3. Turn your jeans inside out. Apply a generous about of fabric glue around the edges of the hole and affix the patch, pressing down to secure onto the jeans. Let jeans dry inside out for a few hours.

The Results

Now I’m ready for fall in San Francisco! I’m planning to style my plaid patchwork jeans with staples like a solid tee, ankle boots and my leather jacket.

What’s your favorite way to DIY your old jeans? Tell us in the comments below and check back next Monday for the second part of our DIY Denim Challenge!

Denimis essentially seasonless, but come fall and winter, we’re reaching for jeans and jackets like it’s a full-time job. Gone are the days of shorts and skirts – and even your favorite pair of leggings won’t cut it once the temperatures dip. It’s officially time to trade in your years-old skinny jeans for trendier denim pieces that’ll instantly lift your looks! Let these denim trends guide your every style move.

This season erases everything you thought you knew about jeans. They're no longer the uncomfortable, restricting silhouettes of years past – this year’s most popular denim styles are all about comfort. I’m talking baggy silhouettes and wide-leg styles that not only feel good on the body, but provide a unique shape to your outfits that you’ll have tons of fun playing with.

Baggy Jeans

Hollister

Hollister Low-Rise Dark Wash Super Baggy Jeans

I simply cannot escape the baggy jeans trend. After experiencing the sheer comfort of this pair from Hollister, I don’t see myself reaching for high-waisted, skin-tight styles any time soon.

Meredith Holser

The low waist aspect of this pair in particular provides an elongating effect to my torso, and I love wearing them with basic tops. They honestly feel like I’m wearing sweatpants, but don’t look lazy at all.

Urban Outfitters

BDG Ozzy Loose Jean

If it’s a relaxed fit you’re looking for, these loose jeans from BDG are it. They have a straight leg that’s reminiscent of vintage denim styles, so they’re super timeless and easy to wear with just about anything. I know what you may be thinking – baggy jeans aren’t necessarily flattering around the bum. And while that is true, everyone’s going crazy for this low-key style. You can definitely up the baggy look by going all-out with layers and accessories.

Super Wide Leg Jeans

Free People

Levi's Ribcage Wide-Leg Jeans

I’m a big believer that wide leg jeans look good on everyone. Their natural flared effect can help shape out your waist, adding to an hourglass look. They have a very laid back feel to them that looks truly iconic alongside some statement boots!

Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch High Rise Wide Leg Jean

Though you can shop wide leg jeans in all sorts of waist heights, I think high-rise styles are the most flattering of them all. This Abercrombie & Fitch pair comfortably (but snugly) hugs your waist and hips before falling into a more relaxed fit around your legs.

Huge Cuffs

Free People

We The Free Final Countdown Cuffed Low-Rise Jeans

Want that off-duty model look? Cuff it. Jeans with exaggerated cuffs are everywhere this season! They’re perfect for drawing attention to the bottom half of your outfits, so there's no excuse not to rock these with your favorite fall shoes!

American Eagle

American Eagle Stretch High-Waisted Stovepipe Cuffed Jean

The cuffing in question also works in a two-toned denim look that’s super easy to achieve. I love that this pair from American Eagle still boasts a simple, familiar silhouette, but has a unique style twist in the cuffs. I’d wear them with some fall-esque clogs and an oversized flannel up top.

Deep, Dark Washes

Gap

Gap Mid Rise '90s Loose Jeans

If I had to sum up the dark wash denim trend in one word, it’d be ‘sophisticated.’ The deeper, almost-black blue color is definitely less casual than a light or medium wash would be, so I think they’re perfect for elevating a still-cozy outfit.

J.Crew

J.Crew Denim Trouser

You could even wear them to the office with the right silhouette and matching garments – these loose-fitting denim trousers could become a total main character moment when paired with ballet flats, a belt, and a tailored cardigan.

Denim Barn Jackets

J.Crew

J.Crew Denim Barn Jacket

Moving away from pants territory, denim jackets will always be a proper fit for fall. Right now, barn jackets (also referred to as chore jackets or barn coats – they’re all the same style) are having a moment, taking on denim in the cutest way. This J.Crew jacket is the perfect final piece for layering on top of sweaters and flannels, and it would even look chic worn with a pair of jeans in a coordinating wash!

Free People

We The Free Denim Barn Coat

This Free People jacket boasts a contrasting corduroy collar that can add a bit of spice to your looks. The oversized, loose fit gives that cool-girl effect that works well with more form-fitting garments like dresses or skirts. I think this is a definite staple that you can wear year after year!

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Tourism can be a blessing for the economy of many cities around the world, but it often comes at a price. Destinations like Venice and Bali are iconic for a reason — they’re unique, breathtaking places that lure travelers from around the globe. But when a travel destination becomes too popular, it risks losing its charm and overcrowding can strain infrastructure, inflate costs for locals, and disrupt the peace and quiet of small, serene towns.

Here are 12 destinations that have struggled with overtourism. The good news? Many are implementing smart strategies to balance tourism with sustainability. Planning to visit? Consider booking during the off-season for a more authentic and enjoyable experience or try these hidden gems.

Pixabay

Venice, Italy

Cruise ships and swarms of tourists have overwhelmed this picturesque city, leading to overcrowded canals, damaged infrastructure, and skyrocketing prices. The local population is dwindling as Venetians leave due to the city’s unsustainable tourism boom. Last spring, in an effort to manage the influx, the city put into effect an entry fee for day-trippers and has limited cruise ships docking its shores.

Oleksandr P

Bali, Indonesia

Once an idyllic paradise, Bali now suffers from traffic congestion, environmental degradation, and overcrowded beaches. The island’s resources are strained under the weight of mass tourism, but there are efforts underway to promote sustainability like putting a moratorium on new hotels.

Willian Justen de Vasconcellos

Machu Picchu, Peru

Overtourism has led to erosion and damage to this ancient Incan citadel. A quota system and mandatory guides are helping preserve this popular South American destination.

Darren Lawrence

Tulum, Mexico

Once a tranquil paradise known for its pristine beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and eco-chic vibe, Tulum has become a cautionary tale of overtourism. The surge in popularity, fueled by Instagram-worthy scenery, has brought overcrowding, environmental strain, and rising costs. The Guardianreported that locals are being pushed out by developers and despite the thinking that tourism helps local communities, poverty nearly doubled between 2015 and 2020. Local ecosystems, including fragile mangroves and coral reefs, are threatened by unchecked construction and pollution too. The local ruins have implemented stricter rules like no food or drink to limit trash and environmental impact from tourists.

Jimmy Teoh

Santorini, Greece

Instagram fame has turned this once-serene island into a tourist hotspot. Narrow streets are perpetually clogged, and locals are struggling with soaring costs of living due to tourism demand. The government has since capped the number of daily cruise ship visitors to keep overtourism at bay.

Chait Goli

Cinque Terre, Italy

Known for its colorful cliffside villages and breathtaking coastal views, these once-quiet fishing towns now see millions of visitors annually, way more than they can handle. To combat issues like congestion and cruise ships, local authorities have introduced visitor caps and encourage sustainable travel to protect Cinque Terre’s charm.

Rudy Kirchner

Reykjavík, Iceland

Is there anyone not going to Iceland these days? A small country with breathtaking landscapes, Iceland has been overwhelmed by tourists flocking to Instagram-famous sites like the Blue Lagoon and Diamond Beach. It's best to travel during the off season (November to April) and travel to lesser known spots like the Sturlungalaug hot spring.

youseflns

Maya Bay, Thailand (Phi Phi Islands)

This iconic beach, popularized by the DiCaprio film The Beach, suffered ecological devastation from hordes of visitors and anchored boats. Coral reefs were destroyed, and the beach was closed for years to allow recovery. It has since reopened after a huge revitalization project, but they have introduced visitor caps.

Pixabay

Kyoto, Japan

Traditionally quiet streets of this ancient capital city now teem with tourists during peak season. An increase in litter from tourists has required the city to install more trash bins to handle the crowds, and peaceful geishas are often chased down for photos. To mitigate the problem, Kyoto is considering running special buses to popular sites to reduce overcrowding, and temples and shrines are encouraging visitors to come early in the morning.

Prabin Sunar

Mount Everest, Nepal

The ultimate challenge for adventurers, Mount Everest has experienced overcrowding on the slopes and at base camps, leading to dangerous conditions, with litter and human waste piling up on the mountain. Permits are now harder to get, and stricter regulations for climbers are being enforced.

Mateusz Popek

Dubrovnik, Croatia

The Game of Thrones effect brought an influx of fans to this medieval city. Overcrowded streets and cruise ship arrivals have made it difficult to appreciate its beauty. The local government is taking steps to limit daily visitors and impose stricter cruise ship regulations.

Helena I

Lisbon, Portugal

Short-term rentals dominate the housing market now, thanks to affordable flights and the digital nomad craze. This has led to skyrocketing rents and displaced locals. Historic neighborhoods are inundated with tourists, making them less charming too. Everything from public transport to waste management struggles to keep pace with the influx. I went in December and it still felt a bit like Disneyland. Douro Valley and Madeira might be more favorable destinations any time of year.

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When it comes to clothing, there's nothing more empowering than a good-fitting pair of jeans. And I'm not just talking good, I'm talking these-jeans-were-literally-made-for-me good. As a midsize gal who once exclusively shopped in the plus size section, I know how hard it can be to track down that quality in jeans. Luckily, I've done the research through lived experience (and lots of shopping) and found a handful of brands who've absolutely mastered making on-trend jeans for gals with curvier proportions. Scroll on to see 11 downright flattering pairs of plus size jeans, all perfectly eligible for year-round wear to boost your confidence and complement your personal style.

Levi's

Levi's 501 Original Fit Women's Jeans

Levi's 501 jeans silhouette is the literal blueprint when it comes to denim. They're utterly timeless, and thankfully, very flattering. With a high waistline and straight legs, they're also really easy to wear any way you like. This medium-wash pair in particular will fit closer around the waist and hips before flaunting a looser fit along the legs. The material they're made of boasts a gentle stretchiness to move with you perfectly! Available in sizes 16-24.

Old Navy

Old Navy Extra High-Waisted Sky-Hi Wide-Leg Jeans

One major quality I look for in plus size jeans is a high waistline, because I've found it fits my body best and helps smooth out my tummy. This pair from Old Navy features an extra high waist which is balanced out by wide legs, creating a silhouette that favors bodies that might be more top-heavy. The coolest part is the colorblocked design that'll absolutely turn heads wherever you wear 'em. Available in sizes 00-30.

Gap

Gap High Rise Barrel Jeans

Gap also has tons of plus size jeans to pick from! Barrel jeans are hot right now, and no one should be left out of the trend. This style is shoppable in a wide size range and four different denim washes to help you find your perfect pair! This one is especially comfy since the legs are meant to be very drapey and loose. The waistline is definitely more fitted, and the hem of these jeans tapers inward to create a playful shape that can work stylish wonders with your body. Available in sizes 24-35.

Good American

Good American Always Fits Good Legs Straight Jeans

Good American's plus size jeans are really unique in that they follow a versatile one-size-fits-four sizing chart and always flaunt a gap-proof waistband. The material they're made of has 100% stretch that "ensures optimal flexibility and unrestricted movement." You'll find that the mid-rise waistline and straight leg styling will work with a variety of outfits and garments, making these a great pair to rock year-round. Available up to size 32.

Madewell

Madewell The Plus '90s Straight Jean

These jeans are made from a stretchy material that still retains some rigidity for shaping your body, but not restricting it. They are fairly fitted through the hips and thighs but boast a higher back rise for a "curve-enhancing lift." I really enjoy the darker wash on these, too. It feels perfectly formal for in-office days or date nights, but can easily be styled for casual outings. Available in sizes 14-24.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch Curve Love Low Rise Baggy Jean

Abercrombie & Fitch's Curve Love line is a total godsend for curvy and plus size people. The bespoke fit "eliminates waist gap with additional room through the hip and thigh," and while you may feel weary about rockin' a low-rise pair, I'd argue they're the comfiest silhouette you could ever rock, since the waistband won't dig into your stomach. The baggier fit around the hips and legs is helpful on lazy days, too, all while still making you look put-together. This style comes in so many different washes and lengths. Available in sizes 23-37.

Old Navy

Old Navy High-Waisted OG Loose Utility Jeans

The vertical seaming on these jeans can help shape your body and supply a nice elongating effect for your legs. The waistline sits at the belly button while the fit is only semi-fitted through the hips and thighs. These also have a slight stretch to them, thanks to 1% spandex. Available in sizes 00-30.

American Eagle

American Eagle Stretch Super High-Waisted Straight Jean

American Eagle also brings the range when it comes to plus size jeans. If you're on the hunt for a solid everyday pair, these straight-leg jeans are it! They're crafted from a mid-weight structured denim material with "just enough stretch" for everyday comfort. The medium wash is perfect for pairing with anything from blazers to t-shirts, though they also come in two lighter colors. Available in sizes 000-24.

Free People

We The Free CRVY Gia Wide-Leg Jeans

These designed-for-curves jeans have an additional 2-inch difference between the waist and hips to accomodate for larger, curvier bodies. The high waist-wide leg combo is ultimately super flattering since it can help balance out your figure. I'd absolutely wear these with my fave sweater and ballet flats for fall time! Available in sizes 28-35.

Levi's

Levi's Classic Bootcut Jeans

Another staple in the Levi's jeans vault, this bootcut pair is especially laidback. They have a hint of stretch that's perfect for sporting every day, and the vintage-inspired silhouette is totally on-trend for this season. Levi's says they're their "softest jeans ever." Available up to size 26.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch Curve Love High Rise Cropped Wide Leg Jean

Cropped jeans are especially fun to wear with boots, so you can show off your best footwear. These A&F jeans also follow the brand's Curve Love guidelines, being made with additional room along the hips and thighs. The material is equal parts drapey and rigid to help shape your bod. Available in sizes 24-34.

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Christmas cookie decorating is holiday tradition for us here at B+C, so we were so stoked to find this recipe for paleo cookies that adds a healthy twist to this classic holiday dessert. These sweet treats will shine among the rest of your Christmastime tablescape, and they are super easy to make. Plus, they'll pair well with just about any Christmas dessert. Just combine your paleo-friendly ingredients to prep the dough, let it sit overnight, then bake for ten minutes! The best part about this recipe is of course, all of the fun holiday-time shapes you can cut. Consider this recipe your go-to for healthy cookies, though, since you can make them year-round in any shape you like. Let's get to decorating!

Ingredients for Paleo Christmas Cookies

Brit + Co

For the cookies:

  • 1/2 cup grass-fed salted butter, softened
  • 6 tablespoons raw honey
  • 2 eggs, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
  • 3 cups almond flour
  • 1/2 cup coconut flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

For the frosting:

  • 6 tablespoons coconut butter or coconut manna
  • 1/4 cup cacao butter
  • 1-2 tablespoons honey
  • Plant-based food coloring
  • Vegetable-dyed sprinkles, for topping*
* Look for vegetable and fruit-dyed food coloring and sprinkles in natural grocery stores or online, and avoid artificial colors to keep these cookies Paleo friendly!

How to Make Paleo Christmas Cookies

Brit + Co

  1. Add the softened butter and honey to a large mixing bowl. Cream the mixture together using a handheld mixer until it is smooth. Add in the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract and whisk until they are well combined. Pour in the almond flour, coconut flour, and baking soda, and continue mixing until the batter has come together smoothly.
  2. Separate the dough into two, and place each one on top of a piece of plastic wrap. Roll each dough into a ball, then flatten to a thick disk, cover completely with the plastic wrap, and place in the refrigerator to firm up for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  3. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Remove one of the dough discs from the refrigerator, unwrap the plastic and place the dough on top of a piece of parchment paper, then top it with another piece of parchment paper. Use a roller to flatten out the dough to about 1/4 to 1/2 of an inch thick. Work quickly with your favorite Christmas cookie cutters, and use a thin spatula to lift the cut cookies onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  4. Bake the cookies in the oven for 10 minutes. Let them cool for a few minutes, then place on a wire rack for further cooling. Gather the leftover scraps back into a ball in the plastic wrap or parchment paper and place it back in the refrigerator, while working with the other piece of dough. Do this in batches to keep the dough from getting too warm and so you don’t overcrowd the baking sheet.
  5. While the batches of cookies are baking, use a small saucepan to lightly melt the coconut butter and cacao butter together over low heat on the stovetop. Remove the pan from the heat when the ingredients have just melted together. Stir in the desired amount of honey, then set aside to cool and thicken up slightly. If you are using food coloring, add in the desired amount into the frosting mixture (1-2 teaspoons of green or red should do the trick). If you plan on only using white frosting, only use a small amount of honey, as it can make the frosting an off-white or light brown color.
  6. After the cookies have completely cooled, decorate them with the frosting and sprinkles as desired. If you don’t have any professional piping tools, an easy fix is to place the frosting in a plastic sandwich bag and remove all the air when sealing the top. Cut a tiny tip off one corner of the plastic bag, then gently squeeze and pipe over the cookies. Use one plastic bag or piping bag for each color of frosting. Top with corresponding sprinkles and enjoy!

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Recipe development and photography by Sarah Anderson.

Heaping plates of Christmas cookies are synonymous with the holidays. It seems that nearly every country around the globe has their own variation on the holiday classic. In fact, some of these regions have been making their version of Christmas cookies for literal hundreds of years.

If you’re looking for a way to reconnect with your heritage, or maybe just want a little baking inspiration, check out our picks for the yummiest Christmas cookies from around the world.

The Noshery

Mantecaditos con Guayaba

These may look like ordinary thumbprint cookies, but these almond shortbreads from Puerto Rico are filled with a special guava marmalade. (via The Noshery)

Broma Bakery

Meringues

French meringues are a classic crumbly egg white cookie with a chewy interior. These get an extra European twist with the addition of Nutella. (via Broma Bakery)

Pretty. Simple. Sweet.

Alfajores

Deeply flavored dulce de leche, a caramel made from whole milk commonly found in Spain and many Latin American countries, is the key ingredient in these super pretty sandwiched Christmas cookies. (via Pretty. Simple. Sweet.)

Fancy Peasant

Melomakarona

These Christmas cookies that hail from Greece get their sweetness from a generous soaking of fresh honey! (via Fancy Peasant)

Very Eatalian

Baci di Dama

The name of this Italian treat translates to “lady’s kisses” — how adorable is that? These bite-sized cuties are made with ground hazelnuts and filled with a dollop of dark chocolate. (via Very Eatalian)

Cooking Classy

Linzer Cookies

These Austrian Christmas cookies are typically made with raspberry jam, but feel free to get crazy with a filling of your choice. Plus, the gorgeous windowpane look will make them a prize takeaway at your next cookie exchange. (via Cooking Classy)

Olivia’s Cuisine

Basler Brunsli

If you’re hanging out in Switzerland around Christmas time, you’ll definitely see these chocolate treats around. They’re often described as Swiss brownies due to their deliciously chewy texture. Perfect with a cup of eggnog or coffee! (via Olivia’s Cuisine)

Cilantro Parsley

Buñuelos

These tender miniature fritters from Mexico are a mix between a donut and cookie. Whatever you want to call them, they’re delicious. (via Cilantro Parsley)

Chef Lindsey Farr

Apricot Kolachys

The Hungarians definitely know what’s up when tart apricot jam gets wrapped in a blanket of flaky pastry. They’re a bright spot on a cold Christmas day. (via Chef Lindsey Farr)

Life, Love and Sugar

Cutout Sugar Cookies

In the United States, a plate of these festively decorated sugar cookies is just what Santa ordered. (via Life, Love and Sugar)

Saveur

Polvorones

You’ll find these simple pecan shortbread cookies all over Mexico around this time of year. The coating of powdered sugar and canela, a type of Mexican cinnamon, really bring the flavor to the next level. (via Saveur)

A Healthy Life for Me

Pignoli

These Italian Christmas cookies are made of a chewy almond base and topped with pine nuts. (via A Healthy Life for Me)

Fancy Peasant

Kourabiedes

These Greek Christmas cookies feature a buttery biscuit topped with mass amounts of powdered sugar. (via Fancy Peasant)

Does your family have a traditional cookie recipe for the holidays? Tag us @BritandBo in your Instagram photos and let us know!

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

Lead image via Pretty. Simple. Sweet.