Dos and Don’ts of Flirting When You’re in a Relationship

Humans are social creatures. We’re programmed to meet other people and develop new connections, and being in an exclusive relationship doesn’t change that. However, there are some courtesy lines drawn once you’ve made things official with an S.O. — for many people, this means things like deactivating your Tinder profile and actively fighting the temptation to cheat with someone else. There are no definitive lines in terms of how far is too far when it comes to making moves on other people while in a relationship, but Mark Sharp from the Aiki Relationship Institute, a licensed clinical psychologist with a PhD in clinical psychology, tells us that conversations to establish boundaries are essential when it comes to flirting outside your relationship.

“What is important is that couples be honest with each other about their feelings around flirting and are attentive and responsive to each other’s feelings,” Sharp asserts. “If flirting makes a partner uncomfortable, it should probably be toned down, otherwise it is going to have an impact on the relationship.” The tricky part of this conversation is that everyone has a different definition of flirting. One person could be okay with their partner asking someone else to dance, while another might cringe at the idea of their significant other even trading some sexy banter with someone of a gender they’re attracted to. A wink, for example, carries different significance for different people.

“Sometimes understanding the different meanings each person attributes to certain behavior can make it easier for a partner to accept some behavior from their partner,” suggests Sharp. “When they realize that a wink doesn’t mean the same thing to their partner as it does to them, they might be more comfortable with seeing their partner do that with other people.”

Since these definitions of different behaviors are so subjective, it’s important to maintain continual conversation with your partner about what you are and are not comfortable with. Sharp says this conversation should be respectful: It doesn’t help to judge each other for feeling a certain way about a certain behavior. Instead, try to understand where your partner is coming from. And, as always, you want to ensure any criticism — whether yours or bae’s — is coming from a healthy place and not about trying to control the other person’s behavior in an abusive way.

If you approach flirting with this attitude of respect and communication, you and your partner are much more likely to navigate sticky situations gracefully. And besides, since you already agree on your favorite person to flirt with (each other!), you’re off to the right start.

How do you and your boo approach the topic of flirting? Let us know @BritandCo!

(Photos via Getty)

Some men may not like posting their significant others on social media, butAaron Taylor-Johnson definitely isn't one of them. He recently celebrated his wife, Sam Taylor-Johnson's birthday, highlighting what he finds so special about her in his eyes on Instagram. They may have a controversial age-gap relationship, but their marriage is beyond a PR stunt. Frankly, they could give some of us a much-needed lesson in the ways of maintaining a long-term relationship... 👀

Anyway! Here's what Aaron Taylor-Johnson had to say about Sam Taylor-Johnson in his loving birthday tribute!

See the sweet and spicy way Aaron Taylor-Johnson celebrated Sam Taylor-Johnson's birthday!

Cindy Ord/Getty Images

Sam Taylor-Johnson's nearing her golden years as she turned 58 this week! We're sure all birthdays are a big deal, but we especially appreciate the way Aaron Taylor-Johnson praised his wife on Instagram. His caption reads: "💕Happy Birthday gorgeous! ❤️ Love spending every moment with you 💚💛"

Instead of choosing his favorite picture of her, Aaron posted a lengthy carousel of his wife. Pictures include Sam doing an impressive split (we're jealous!), taking photos on a yacht, enjoying a steamy smooch with him, and being highlighted by the sun's golden rays. Aaron even made sure to throw in the classic "sunglasses on vacation" photo that's almost feels mandatory for couples to pose in.

It didn't take long to find Sam's response to Aaron's beautiful PDA post in his comments. "❤️❤️I love you ❤️❤️," is short, sweet, and to the point as she seems to know how cherished she is.

Aside from her husband's grand gesture, Sam has been reposting more "happy birthday" posts on Instagram stories so we think she's happily soaking up all the genuine love in her life. We can only hope our friends and families will commemorate our birthdays in a similar way this year!

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If you've been searching for a fun way to celebrate St. Patrick's Day with your little ones, look no further. Reading a children's book together is a great way to dive into the magic of Irish folklore, shamrocks, and leprechauns.

Here are some of the best St. Patrick's Day books to spark your kiddo's imagination and teach them about the spirit of the holiday.

Scroll to see our favorite St. Patrick's Day children's books!

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1. I'm A Leprechaun by Mallory Loehr

This book by Mallory Loehr and illustrated by Brian Biggs is a charming read for your youngest St. Patrick's Day celebrants. Recommended for ages 2 through 5, it introduces children to the playful world of leprechauns through simple, engaging text and vibrant illustrations.

The story highlights the fun-loving nature of these mythical creatures, who are known for their pranks, hidden pots of gold, and being talented shoemakers. It has an easy-to-follow storyline that's perfect for toddlers and preschoolers.

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2. Lucky Tucker by Leslie McGuirk

If you have a little one who loves four-legged friends, you can't go wrong with Lucky Tucker by Leslie McGuirk. This sweet story follows Tucker the terrier, who is having a rough time on St. Patrick's Day.

Well, that's until he stumbles upon a patch of four-leaf clovers. Little does he know this magical spot is home to a leprechaun who turns Tucker's luck around in the most wonderful way.

This heartwarming tale, fit for kids between the ages of 2 and 5, is perfect for young readers who enjoy fun animal stories and a touch of magic.

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3. Jamie O'Rourke and the Big Potato by Tomie DePaola

Jamie O'Rourke and the Big Potato by Tomie DePaola blends humor and life lessons in a way that captivates young readers. This classic children's book, recommended for ages 4 to 8, follows Jamie O'Rourke, who's known as the laziest man in all of Ireland, with a farm in disarray.

But when Jamie encounters a leprechaun and begins to grow a potato so large it seems almost magical, his luck takes a turn for the better. Yet, as the spud grows bigger, he starts to wonder if the giant gift is more trouble than it is worth.

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4. St. Patrick's Day, Here I Come! by D.J. Steinberg

This lively collection of poems, written by D.J. Steinberg and illustrated by Emanuel Wiemans, perfectly captures the spirit of St. Patrick's Day.

As a follow-up to Kindergarten, Here I Come!, this book uses fun, rhythmic verses to take kids ages 4 to 6 through all the exciting parts of the holiday, like wearing green, playing the bagpipes, and hunting for leprechauns. It has catchy lyrics and vibrant illustrations.

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5. It's Not Easy Being a Leprechaun by Marilyn Sadler

Written by Marilyn Sadler and illustrated by Stephanie Laberis, It's Not Easy Being a Leprechaun is a story about learning to embrace who you are. It's a delightful read for children 3 to 7 years old.

Connor O'Connor, a little leprechaun, isn't thrilled with his role in life and decides to use some magic to try out different jobs, such as being a carpenter, a fairy, and even a king. His adventures lead him to learn an important lesson about self-acceptance and appreciating his own unique qualities.

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6. The Leprechaun Under the Bed by Teresa Bateman

The Leprechaun Under the Bed, written by Teresa Bateman and illustrated by Paul Meisel, is a tale of unexpected friendship.

Brian O'Shea is a solitary leprechaun who enjoys a peaceful life. That's until a human named Sean McDonald builds a house right on top of Brian's underground abode. Despite their differences, a friendship begins to grow.

This humorous and whimsical book, intended for kiddos aged 4 to 8, serves as a reminder that even the most unlikely friendships can blossom.

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7. The Night Before St. Patrick's Day by Natasha Wing

Penned by Natasha Wing and illustrated by Amy Wummer, The Night Before St. Patrick's Day is a fun twist on the classic holiday story.

On the eve of March 17, Tim and Maureen set out to catch a leprechaun by putting up clever traps. Then, they wake up to the sight of green eggs and the sound of bagpipes and realize they actually caught one.

The only problem? They're not exactly sure what to do next. This story is full of surprises and will help get your kids between the ages of 4 and 8 into the St. Patrick's Day spirit.

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8. Patrick: Patron Saint of Ireland by Tomie dePaola

Last but not least, Patrick: Patron Saint of Ireland by Tomie dePaola is a beautifully illustrated book that introduces little ones to the life and legacy of Saint Patrick.

DePaola shares the story of Patrick's noble birth in Britain, his captivity in Ireland, and his eventual return to spread Christianity, founding the first Christian church in Ireland. It even touches on the famous legend of Patrick banishing snakes from Ireland!

This read is a stellar way to help children between the ages of 5 and 8 understand the importance of the holiday and the man behind it.

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

If it weren't for pop culture and society-at-large prioritizing picture-perfect celebrity couplesor the idealistic "happily ever after," I don't think I would've been as obsessed with falling in love as I was during my 20s. I'm not kidding: my single era could've been used as a case study because I spent entirely too much time fantasizing about "Mr. Right" or "Prince Charming." It's probably why I laugh maniacally whenever I see Shrek's depiction of the latter because I know firsthand how awful some self-professed "nice guys" can be.

But I'd be lying if I said failed situationships and relationships didn't make me lament entering the solo phase again. I almost felt — dare I say — ashamed to be "alone." I liken it to being the only person in a crowd who's wearing their underwear over their cute outfit while someone plays the world's smallest violin in the background. It's a feeling journalist Nicola Slawson's all too familiar with, hence her desire to pen a powerful single girls manifesto for anyone who's still learning how to embrace this season of their lives.

Scroll to see author Nicola Slawson's top tips for living your best single life!

Mia Petkovic

What Pop Culture Gets Wrong About Single Women

Did you know that 50% of people who aren't in relationships actually aren't looking for one (via Pew Research Center)? Yet, pop culture still has conflicting ideas about what this looks like for women (think everything from Sex and the City to Dead to Me). However, it seems that finding a new partner to fill a loneliness void seems to be at least one character's goal.

As a journalist and author of Single: Living A Complete Life On Your Own Terms, Nicola's noticed this too."There is this assumption that all single women are miserable and desperate and that our biggest concern is how we can quickly find a man in order to quickly end what people assume is a terrible state to be in," she says.

Sierra White

Guess what she sees that debunks this myth? "...most single women I know live good and full lives and dating is only a small part of their lives. We have so much more going on and being single is not a waiting room," she shares. To further prove uncoupled people aren't curled up in a dark corner crying into a bowl of ice cream, she features insights about singledom in her book.

"Lots of people I spoke to for my book were either taking a break from dating or simply not interested, yet those stories are rarely told when it comes to books and films and TV shows," she points out. But sadly, "single women are often the butt of the joke," according to her.

R Maz

Rewrite The Rules

If you consider yourself to be a content person who has unlimited things to do on a Sunday? I'm so happy you've found your happy little groove, but I'm also rooting for you if you feel you're wondering about aimlessly because you're not dating someone.

Here's what Nicola has to say about this: "I think one of the first things I would say is to let go of the idea that you’re somehow in a waiting room waiting for your life to start if you don’t have a partner." Having been in your shoes, she says "there used to be so many things," she avoided. "...I felt like I should do them with a romantic partner until I realized I was holding myself back," she gently shares.

She's also conscious that "there is this idea that you need to be coupled up in order to be complete." But, no! "...you're a whole person and, in the words of one of my interviewees Bella De Paulo, one is a whole number," Nicola exclaims.

Ebony Forsyth

Navigating Singleness When You're Thinking About Fertility

The conversation about reproductive rights has made some people reconsider conceiving, but others are still open to becoming parents. If you're one of the few people who's worried about your biological clock ticking as a single person, Nicola and I want you to know your feelings are valid. In fact, she says "this is such a tough position to be in" and that she does "understand the pain and feelings of panic that you can feel as you get older and know your fertility must be declining."

Frankly, she acknowledges "it feels like a race against time," but your choices aren't limited. "I would say start researching your options. You can quite easily get a fertility check to see how you’re doing. Plus, thanks to advances in sciences, you can also freeze your eggs," she suggests. She knows "it's not guaranteed to work, but it may help you further down the line."

Also, understand that you don't have to deal with this by yourself. You can "reach out to support groups" like the community Nicola runs for uncoupled people. "It's associated with my newsletter and there are lots of people in the same boat. It can help to feel less alone," she says. Another resource she recommends is the "Stork and I community for those considering solo motherhood by choice (with a sperm donor)."

Cora Pursley

Moving On After A Long-Term Relationship Ends

You thought you and your former sweetheart were destined to be together forever until a bad breakup left you feeling disoriented. Nicola says she understand this feeling because she's "been there" too! But this isn't the time to pretend like you can bounce back like nothing happened.

"Firstly it’s OK to feel absolutely awful - it’s normal actually! It helped when I understood the science behind heartbreaks - there is a reason you feel so bad - which tells us that those going through heartbreak are experiencing similar feelings to those who are going through withdrawal from a drug addiction," she discloses.

The second thing she's sure about is that "your life is not over, but it's OK to take things day by day for a while." I don't remember how long it took to heal, but I was distraught after my last breakup. I thought I'd found the person I was going to marry and have children with so when it was obvious things weren't working out, I cried for a long time. Eventually, I was able to find joy in small things and went on to build a life I love.

And that's what Nicola wishes for you too! "Look after yourself, treat yourself and take it easy. Don’t try and push yourself to be happy and over it before you are," she advises.

Jordan Hunter

Solo Date Ideas To Celebrate Yourself

Solo date ideas are very much a thing I stand behind and does Nicola. "Sometimes I have chosen to completely ignore the day but other times I have embraced it and chosen to celebrate the love I have for myself. One year I took myself out for a meal one lunchtime at a spot I consider I real treat. I then bought myself flowers on the way home," she divulges. TBH, this sounds like my kind of carrying on!

She continues with, "Other things I’ve done on Valentine’s or on my birthday include booking a spa day or going for a massage, going to the cinema — which is one of the easiest solo date ideas as everyone is quiet and doesn’t speak when the film is on so you don’t need to go with anyone anyway — and choosing a recipe you have never tried before (bonus points if it’s something elaborate) and cooking yourself a slap up meal."

Nicola also says a guest writer for The Single Supplement newsletter "once wrote about a three course meal she lovingly prepared for herself because why not? You deserve to be treated, so you may as well treat yourself!"

Yaroslav Shuraev

What Loving Yourself While Single Feels Like

So, what does it mean to be 100% okay with being single? For Nicola, she's been finding new things to admire about herself. "I’ve learned just how capable and resilient I am and I now have the knowledge that I am OK - more than OK - on my own." One of the things that makes me smile is her realization that this "feels like a super power to her" in light of knowing she "used to have such a tendency towards being co-dependent in relationships."

It's evident my younger self didn't see this, but I too relied heavily on former partners for joy, fun, love, and validation. I thought that they were the answers to things that didn't feel right in my life, but that wasn't the case. The awesome thing about growth, however, is the ability to make peace with who you are and things you learned along the way.

To that Nicola says, "If I did find someone, I think I would be in a much healthier place than I used to be. But equally, if I remain single, I now know I can still lead a joyful life that’s full of love."

Check Out Nicola Slawson's "Single: Living a Complete Life On Your Own Terms" Today

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Single: Living a Complete Life On Your Own Terms by Nicola Slawson

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Spring is finally here, and thus, spring fashion is in full swing! Pulling our favorite dresses back out is undoubtedly one of our favorite things to do once it starts warming up, but it also doesn’t hurt to snag a few new ones! Nordstrom just dropped their freshest spring dresses, including tons of plus-size styles that flatter every curve. Whether you're looking for a bold floral print, a classic slip dress, or something in between, these 11 Nordstrom plus-size spring dresses are perfect for every occasion.

Stylishly step into the season with these 11 super chic plus-size spring dresses from Nordstrom!

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Eloquii Knit Maxi Dress

Knit dresses aren't just for winter – this springy number looks just as stylish. The tiered design helps shape your waist in the most flattering way, too.

Nordstrom

City Chic Floral Print Faux Wrap Dress

These colors, though! The wrapped waistline on this floral frock draws you in for a stunning look every time. Style it with your favorite heels for a more formal event, or just rock it with some ballet flats for a laidback weekend vibe.

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City Chic Frill Ruffle Maxi Dress

We adore the ruffles on this maxi moment. The squared neckline is undeniably flattering and femme for springtime!

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Land's End Dobby Smocked Dress

You'll be lookin' like a beautiful blooming spring garden the second you slip this smocked dress on. While fitted up top, it flows down into a breezy midi-length skirt that'll look great with Mary Janes and tall boots alike!

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City Chic Destiny Eyelet Dress

Everyone needs a comfy white cotton dress to sport during spring – it goes with everything! This mini is made with tons of tiny, cute eyelets to keep your outfit breezy and oh-so easy.

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Melloday Printed Shirred Waist Tiered Maxi Sundress

This playful abstract pattern will definitely get heads turning your way this spring. More importantly, this dress' v-neckline and shirred waist flatters your body to a tee!

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Loveappella A-Line Maxi Dress

This bright slip dress makes a great base to layer with the denim jackets and vintage cardigans you want to pull out this season. Don't be afraid of a little color!

Nordstrom

City Chic Pinafore Maxi Dress

Perfect for a daytime picnic, this denim pinafore dress is the ultimate comfy, no-fuss spring 'fit, whether you layer it atop a tank or t-shirt.

Nordstrom

Eloquii Off The Shoulder Dress

Smooth and serene, the cool brown shade of this dress is flattering on every body. The off-shoulder design adds a pinch of sexy energy, while the feel-good fabric hugs your waist perfectly!

Nordstrom

Estelle Mezzanine Cactus Print Long Sleeve Mesh Midi Dress

This mesh midi dress comes complete with a slip lining, so you can ensure full coverage no matter where you're headed this spring! The mock neck and long sleeves make it so sophisticated for the office, happy hour, and beyond.

Nordstrom

Land's End V-Neck Wrap Midi Dress

This elegant floral number can easily be dressed up or down, depending on your mood. For a casual 'fit, rock it with some sleek sneakers or sandals. When you want to dress it up, pair it with some spring heels!

Subscribe to our newsletter to shop more stunning plus-size fashion picks!

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Everyone's favorite social satire series, The White Lotus, has returned for a new season on HBO. Set in Thailand, Season 3 is taking viewers on another dramatic (and sometimes uncomfortable) journey with a fresh group of affluent travelers.

Well, the cast does have two returning stars: Natasha Rothwell as Belinda Lindsey and Jon Gries as Greg. Then some of the newcomers include Leslie Bibb, Carrie Coon, Michelle Monaghan, Jason Isaacs, Parker Posey, Patrick Schwarzenegger, Sarah Catherine Hook, Sam Nivola, Walton Goggins, Lisa Manobal, and Charlotte Le Bon.

One more star, Aimee Lou Wood, has especially stood out to fans. She plays Chelsea and has delivered a captivating performance thus far as Rick's younger girlfriend. Aside from her intriguing portrayal, many viewers have also been fascinated by her unique look — more specifically, her teeth. Aimee, who is British, has confirmed that her teeth are real, and her unique smile is actually something that's affected her career in Hollywood.

Scroll to see what The White Lotus star, Aimee Lou Wood said about all THOSE teeth comments...

The actress, who's 30 years old, detailed how, when it came to theater auditions, she always felt confident. Yet, she'd be "shocked" to get a call back after auditioning for a TV role.

It wasn't until 2009, when Georgia May Jagger, who also has a distinct smile with a gap, became the face of Rimmel London, that Aimee felt more secure in her look.

"All of a sudden, it went from me being goofy to, 'Oh, you're a bit of a model, aren't you?' So I want to thank Georgia May Jagger for representing the buck teeth," she shared with Stylist back in 2020.

Aimee has maintained her British accent on The White Lotus, which makes sense, given the show's premise is about entitled world travelers who encounter dark circumstances or fates. Interestingly, though, she recently discussed her belief that she wouldn't be able to convincingly portray an American character due to her teeth.

"It's the teeth. Like, no Americans have my teeth. They just don't. I'd have to get veneers. Because... I think that genuinely is like one of the things," she revealed to On Demand Entertainment.

But while many celebs have already gone the veneer route, Aimee is proud that she hasn't. It makes her feel "a bit rebellious." Plus, ever since landing her latest role on the show, she's reportedly received "hundreds of messages" from fans who've appreciated seeing unique smiles like theirs on-screen.

"People going, 'Oh my god, you've got teeth like mine. Now I go to school, and people think I'm cool because I look like Aimee.' Instead of it being 'Bugs Bunny' or whatever," Aimee explained.

So, while she battled insecurities about her teeth during childhood, she's definitely become a representation icon for girls and women everywhere.

To see what happens to Aimee's character next, as well as the rest of the cast, you can catch new episodes of The White Lotus on Sundays at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT on HBO and stream on Max.

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