- Shopping
- Style News
- Trends & Inspo
- Shoes & Accessories
- Best Beauty Products
- Home Decor
- Gift Guides
- Self Care
- Beauty & Skincare
- Nails
- Hair
- Makeup
- Health
- Organization & Cleaning
- Financial Wellness
- A Better Work Life
- Creativity & DIY
- Celebrity
- Celeb Style
- Red Carpet
- Celebrity Couples
- Entertainment
- TV Shows
- Movies
- Books
- Music
- Horoscopes
- Horoscopes
- Ask An Astrologer
- Zodiac Signs
- Food
- Food News & Menu Updates
- Recipes
- Healthy Eating
- Appetizers
- Desserts
- Cocktails
- Travel
- Holidays
- Relationships & Parenting
- Games
- Brit + Co Picks
- Selfmade
- DIY Classes
- DIY Guides
The best part of english classes was discovering new authors because of assigned summer reading. I'd pretend to "complain," but I loved when my mom took me to the public library to find books I'd eventually cherish. From Maya Angelou's pivotal memoir to Barbara Kingsolver's assessment of one family's mission work, I learned women could be powerful wordsmiths.
As much as I love reading contemporary romance books or political thrillers that remind me of Paradise, the following novels are the ones I revisit when my TBR list is too overwhelming!
Read the instant-classic books that introduced me to the most iconic female authors of all time
Amazon
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Pride and Prejudice was the only book that challenged me because it's the true definition of a "slow burn" read. Between you and I, Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy are the blueprint for the love stories found in Bridgerton because their romance wasn't rushed. The familiar strangers-to-lovers troupe is there, but Jane Austen took her time showing the seeds of how things blossomed between them.
Amazon
Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie
What was supposed to be a luxurious train ride turns into murder when the wealthy Samuel Edward Ratchett is discovered dead during a terrible storm. The guests are bewildered because it appears no one could've accessed his door from the outside, but his fatal wounds indicate otherwise. Detective Hercule Poirot is sure one of the guests is feigning innocence, but he'll have to deduce who was skilled enough to commit an undetectable murder.
Amazon
The Color Purple by Alice Walker
I was introduced to the film version of The Color Purple when I was a little girl and it left a memorable imprint on my mind. Starring Whoopi Goldberg and Oprah Winfrey, I believed they were Celie and Sofia for the longest. It's the reason why I devoured Alice Walker's book when I was old enough to read it. Mainly, the themes of sisterhood, sexism, racism, and love painted a vivid picture of life for Black women in the deep South. In their story, readers are sure to find something to relate to.
Amazon
White Teethby Zadie Smith
Zadie Smith's White Teeth outlines a friendship between two people from different backgrounds, showing how life isn't always confined to certain "rules." The things Archie Jones and Samad Iqbal found after fighting together in World War II have a profound effect on their friendship as well as their lives. From falling in love again to producing children who challenge the world around them, these two friends struggle to maintain a lease on the things they thought to be true.
Amazon
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou
Maya Angelou's I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings tells of her upbringing in the south with her brother Bailey. From witnessing the strength of their grandmother to experiencing terror at the hands of a "trusted" adult, Maya learns valuable lessons about tenacity, wit, and kindness at a young age. It's these very things that make her one of the greatest literary minds whose work I've been fortunate to read.
Amazon
To Kill a Mockingbirdby Harper Lee
To Kill a Mockingbird broke me into pieces and stitched me back together after I read it for the first time. It's another book that touches on the limiting beliefs that the South is known for and its effect on those around them. Though beautiful, this region hasn't always been the kindest to Black people as evidenced by a one lawyer's determination to prove the innocence of a wrongly accused man.
Amazon
Oryx and Crake by Margaret Atwood
Margaret Atwood is known for writing dystopian books that paint a somewhat bleak picture of our future. In Oryx and Crake, readers are introduced to "Snowman" who ditched his former name Jimmy once a terrible tragedy changed the trajectory of the world around him. Not only is he alone as the last full being, he's also lost two people he loved dearly. The only thing that keeps Snowman going are Crake's children as he seeks to find the source of the greatest genetic breakdown known to mankind.
Amazon
The Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler
The Parable of the Sower follows Lauren Olamina as she goes from living a protected life to being unable to ignore the realities of those who aren't as fortunate as her. She witnesses how societal and socioeconomic changes affect others, not including the growing calls to pay attention to the climate. As scary as it is, Lauren decides to take a stand to help others and witnesses a rebirth that no one's able to ignore.
Amazon
Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng
I still remember watching Kerry Washington and Reese Witherspoon take on the characters found in Celeste Ng's Little Fires Everywhere during the height of the pandemic. It opened up conversations about motherhood and the choices women make that follow us even when we don't want them to. From confronting cover racism to realizing how a life unfulfilled leads to pushing children to live lives we've always wanted to, the world of Shaker Heights is taken for a wild ride when Mia Warren comes into town.
Amazon
The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver
Last but not least, there's this incredible work of Barbara Kingsolver. I find myself revisiting The Poisonwood Bible because the themes of it feel more relevant than ever. From the blind faith of Baptist preacher Nathan Price to his wife finally finding her voice after their youngest daughter died, neither they or their children leave the Belgian Congo unscathed. Despite their best efforts to adapt, this family learns that their ignorance stemming from a domineering patriarchal household caused them to be chewed up and spit out. That sometimes there's more than one way to find God, love, and justice if we're willing to look.
Subscribe to our newsletter for more spring book finds!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Even if you own endless options, what truly makes a great shoe collection is having the right ones. From classic sneakers to sleek boots, these 8 shoe styles are essential for pulling together any outfit in style and practicality. If you’re looking to build up a versatile shoe lineup, these must-have pairs belong in every closet.
Scroll on for 8 essential shoes worth investing in for every occasion!
1. Classic (& Comfy!) Black Heels
Steve Madden
Steve Madden Irenee Black Leather Heels
A well-fitted pair of heels can instantly elevate any outfit, whether it’s for work, formal events, or nights out.
DSW
Naturalizer Bristol Sandals
The most crucial part about having a pair of go-to heels is that they’re comfortable. Don’t go too crazy with the heel height or settle for straps that dig into your skin! Having a reliable black or nude heel also ensures you can wear ‘em across tons of different occasions.
2. Tall Black Boots
Amazon
QIY Knee High Boots
Tall black boots go with just about anything, so they’re not only stylish, but practical, too! Choosing a pair of tall black boots with a comfy insole and walkable heel height can be really useful for the cooler months.
Free People
Jeffrey Campbell Katrina Pull-On Tall Boots
They look effortlessly chic over skinny jeans, under skirts, or with sweater dresses!
3. Ballet Flats
Rothy's
Rothy's The Double Buckle Mary Janes
Ballet flats are the perfect mix of comfort and femininity, and they’re pretty much the ideal everyday shoe for work and weekends alike.
Quince
Quince Italian Leather Glove Ballet Flats
Ballet flats provide a formal, polished look without the pain of heels and can be worn with anything from office attire to baggy jeans and a graphic tee. A neutral or classic black pair is a closet essential for easy styling!
4. Walking Sneakers
Saucony
Saucony Ride 18 Sneakers
If you like to get your steps in, you might as well do it in sheer comfort!
New Balance
New Balance 530 Sneakers
A supportive pair of walking sneakers is a must for staying active. Whether you're running errands, exploring a new city, or going on a long hot girl walk, the right pair will keep your feet oh-so happy. Look for cushioned soles and breathable materials.
5. Street Style Sneakers
Adidas
Adidas Gazelle Bold Shoes
While walking sneakers are a total necessity, they don’t always work with every outfit due to their more technical-looking designs. That’s why you need a stylish pair of fashion-forward sneaks!
SeaVees
SeaVees Acorn Trainers
Street style sneakers are perfect for casual outfits, and especially for occasions you don’t really feel like wearing open-toed shoes.
6. Cozy Sandals
Teva
Teva Flatform Universal Sandals
Sandals with a lil’ bit of support are crucial – especially for spring and summer. When it’s hot out, you want your feet to be able to breathe without sacrificing comfort.
Chaco
Chaco Townes Midform Sandals
Opt for cushioned soles, secure straps, and soft materials to keep your feet comfortable while still looking cute!
7. Rain Boots
Quince
Quince Waterproof Ankle Rain Boots
We all know that rainy days can quickly ruin your shoes. That’s not until you have a sturdy pair of rain boots to rely on! Waterproof and durable, they keep your feet dry while still looking stylish.
Hunter
Hunter Refined Tall Rain Boots
A sleek pair in black or a fun pop of color can brighten up a gloomy day while protecting your steps from puddles and mud.
8. Slippers
Nordstrom
UGG Tazz Platform Slippers
When you’re stuck at home, a cozy pair of slippers is essential. They provide warmth and such coziness, especially during colder months.
Bombas
Bombas Sunday Mule Slippers
Look for pairs that offer some support for walking around indoors. Choose soft, plush materials for the ultimate cozy experience!
Subscribe to our newsletter to shop more amazing wardrobe essentials!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Some of the most memorable movies in pop culture history debuted in the 2000s, but not all of them have stood the test of time.
Of course, there are plenty of movies from the era that remain beloved classics, yet others feel painfully outdated because of cringeworthy plot lines, themes, or jokes that would leave modern audiences wincing.
Here are 10 movies from the 2000s that haven't aged well (and maybe should stay in the past).
Scroll to see which 2000s movies that definitely didn't age well...
Paramount Pictures
1. What Women Want (2000)
This film follows a charming but egotistical man, played by Mel Gibson, who gains the ability to hear women's thoughts, only to realize they're not as enamored with him as he thought.
While the premise is intriguing, the film relies on outdated gender stereotypes. Moreover, Mel's character is too easily redeemed, particularly by his daughter, who sees him as an absent father until he makes one grand gesture. As if that erases years of neglect.
Beacon Pictures
2. Bring It On (2000)
Bring It On may be a favorite among teens, but a lot of the film's choices don't hold up in hindsight. It's packed with promiscuous portrayals of teenage cheerleaders (and even flashing), casual use of offensive language, and a central conflict about cultural appropriation that doesn't get the depth it deserves.
The rivalry between the predominantly white and Black cheer squads does touch on an important issue. Still, Bring It On doesn't explore the deeper implications.
Touchstone Pictures
3. Sorority Boys (2002)
This plot follows three fraternity brothers who disguise themselves as women and infiltrate a sorority only to (shockingly) realize that treating women like garbage actually hurts them.
Sorority Boys is packed with fat-shaming, misogyny, and crude feminist stereotypes. On top of that, it includes an unsettling subplot where one character unknowingly falls for his own sibling.
Universal Pictures
4. Love Actually(2003)
Love Actually continues to be a holiday go-to watch for many, but it's riddled with problematic ideas about women and relationships. Emma Thompson's character is heartbreakingly mistreated, and she's still forced to endure her cheating husband.
Then, there's the bizarre fixation on Natalie's weight. And overall, the film reduces most of its female characters to love interests. Love Actually barely scrapes by the Bechdel test, with the only meaningful female-to-female exchange being between Karen and her young daughter.
Disney
5. Freaky Friday (2003)
This teen comedy features a mother and daughter who magically switch bodies and are forced to navigate each other's lives. While Freaky Friday felt funny and fresh for its time, one of the more uncomfortable aspects of the film involves covert age gap relationships.
Anna, played by Lindsay Lohan, has a crush on Jake. However, since Anna's mind is trapped in her mother's body, it creates awkward moments where Jake is unknowingly flirting with an adult woman inhabited by a teenager.
Eden Rock Media
6. Waiting... (2005)
This was meant to be a raunchy workplace comedy about the chaos of working in a restaurant, but looking back, much of its humor is cringe-worthy and uncomfortable.
Harassment is treated casually, with multiple scenes featuring male employees hitting on younger female staff members (including an underage hostess). The film also leans on homophobic slurs and misogyny, with many jokes revolving around degrading women.
20th Century Fox
7. John Tucker Must Die (2006)
With over-the-top high school drama and revenge plots, John Tucker Must Die is the epitome of 2000s teen comedy. But even though the movie tries to position itself as a feminist takedown of a serial womanizer, it actually ends up making John Tucker look more desirable.
Similar to Bring It On, many scenes also feel like they're designed for the male gaze rather than female empowerment.
Paramount Pictures
8. Freedom Writers (2007)
Freedom Writers follows a white teacher who steps in to "save" a group of underprivileged students. It falsely suggests that one determined teacher can single-handedly overcome systemic issues like racism and educational inequality as long as they're willing to sacrifice everything else in their life.
Sure, Erin Gruwell's real-life dedication is admirable, but the movie focuses on a feel-good narrative where personal effort alone is enough to fix deeply rooted social issues.
Warner Bros. Entertainment
9. The Blind Side (2009)
This film is one of the most glaring examples of Hollywood's white savior complex. Despite being marketed as an inspiring true story, it reduces Michael Oher to a passive character in his own journey and portrays him as helpless until a wealthy white family takes him in.
The Blind Side focuses far more on Sandra Bullock's character and her supposed heroism than Michael's actual experiences.
Warner Bros. Entertainment
10. The Hangover Part II (2011)
Finally, The Hangover Part II is remembered as a wild comedy hit. Still, it has some problems, most notably when Ed Helms' character, Stu, discovers the woman he slept with is actually a trans woman.
The scene is played for laughs as both Ed and Bradley Cooper's characters react with disgust. It's a tough watch today and serves as a reminder of how many 2000s films used outdated or offensive humor for shock value.
Looking for more pop culture news? Follow us on Facebook!