7 Ways to Wear Your Short, Sequin Dress After the Holidays

You spent weeks hunting down the right dress to rock at your New Year’s Eve bash, but once the shiny, happy holiday has come and gone, you might be thinking, “What to do with that standout frock?” Sequin-studded stunners are fab and all, but they aren’t exactly the easiest to strut around in during daylight hours. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try — these glittery bad boys are *too* good to put back into the closet just yet. Luckily, with a little creativity and sartorial know-how, you can keep the party dress party goin’ anytime, anywhere. These seven super simple outfits look to closet basics and clever layering to give a festive getup new life. Here’s how to wear your New Year’s Eve dress after the holidays.

Short and sequin-flecked might not fly at the office, but it puts a totally unexpected twist on your off-duty duds. Grab your favorite pair of boyfriend jeans and turn that frock into a top by tucking it in and layering it under a cropped jacket. Team it up with slide-on flats and finish the look with a laid-back beanie.

Glamorous Flash Forward Sequin Mini Dress ($68), Free People Paris Jacket ($198) + BDG Cuffed Rib-Knit Beanie ($19), M.i.h. Phoebe Slim Jeans ($250)

A glitzy t-shirt dress gets casual with an overall dress in tow. It’s the perfect way to bring a little glam factor to a tried-and-true piece. Toss on a set of slip-on high-top sneakers and get cozy with a wooly kimono coat. For days when you need an extra warm boost, throw a pair of fleece tights and a longline cardigan into the mix.

Lashes of London Mini Dress In Two Tone Sequins ($117), Madewell Denim Jumper ($128), Just Female Wood Kimono Coat ($165) + Sam Edelman Margot Calf Hair Slip-On High Top Sneakers ($80)

Whether you decided to go big or keep things more on the mellow side this holiday season, layering a wool midi skirt on top of your party dress will instantly take your look down a whole new route. A shimmery stunner becomes a striking, strappy top that’s perfect for date night or drinks with the girls, while a sophisticated, long-sleeve dress transforms into a fab finishing touch for a nine-to-five getup.

Antik Batik Appoline Mini Dress ($375), Babaton Johan Skirt ($145), Cities in Dust Turquoise Dagger Door Knocker Earrings ($60) + Dr. Martens 1460 Boots ($140)

Show ’em that your mad style skills don’t stop once the ball drops. Team up this season’s subtle, yet hot-right-now separates — turtlenecks and flares — and layer them under a striking glitter-flecked dress. Seal the sartorial deal with a pair of snakeskin ankle boots and a long-line wrap coat for good measure.

MLV Carmen Matte Sequin Dress ($280), J.Crew Tissue Turtleneck ($35), Madewell Flea Market Flares ($135) + Aska Troy Boots ($340)

Give your go-to bodycon an ultra casual treatment by tossing it on with the most comfortable pieces in your closet: A classic tee, sleek leggings and an oversized sweater. Simply slip off the sweater and zip up a pair of ankle boots for a night-out look that’s funky, not fussy.

Everlane Cotton Drop Shoulder Tee ($22), River Island Leather-Look Coated Biker Leggings ($60), Ecote Riley Patterned Maxi Sweater ($89)

Who says your workweek wardrobe has to be boring? Send your office style into high gear by incorporating a glimmery gold dress into your on-duty rotation. Wear it over a long-sleeved bodysuit to give your getup a hint of mid-century flair. A sleeveless jacket and obi belt put on a polished finish that’ll rival even the most classic of jackets. In the shoe department, go androgynous with a slick set of patent loafers.

Vince Camuto Sleeveless Sequin Sheath Dress ($188), For Love and Lemons Kate Bodysuit ($131), Topshop Belted Sleeveless Jacket ($90) + BCBGMAXAZRIA Runway Obi Belt ($68)

Laid-back never looked this good thanks to pieces from across the style spectrum coming together into one cool off-duty ensemble. The shimmery turtleneck dress becomes a high-shine skirt *and* an ultra glam top, with a zip-front plaid shirt that will showcase the right amount of sparkle up top and below the belt. A badass bomber jacket is the cool girl’s cardigan equivalent and will keep you feelin’ cozy straight through spring.

H&M Sequined Dress ($129), Madewell Flannel Zip-Front Popover Shirt ($80), New Look Bomber Jacket ($63) + Zara Flats With Fringe ($50)

Show us how you’ll be getting more wear out of your NYE dress by tagging us on Instagram @britandco!

Kicking off the new year with a new intention is a great way to set your mind to reaching your life goals. Jan. 1 is a classic marker for changing old habits, refreshing your outlook, going for what you really want, and resetting your health and wellness routines and there's so much good in all of that. But where to start?

This list will help you uncover new year resolution ideas, big and small, that fit into your life goals. Whether you're looking to advance your career, build new relationships or nurture existing ones, act on your values, or simply start healthier habits, this list of 70 new year resolution ideas will spark your creativity and inspire you to get started on something fulfilling.

We dug into our archives for new year resolution ideas for a healthier, happier, more productive you. Sticking to a resolution for 365 days can be tricky though so here's some advice:

  • Create a realistic plan. Focus on key goals that are most important to you. Sure, we might want to do most of the things on this list but what do you really want to accomplish in 2024? Be specific and make a clear plan on how you'll get there.
  • Break up your goal in small steps. If something feels too overwhelming, consider breaking it into smaller tasks that you can more easily accomplish.
  • Stay accountable. Give yourself monthly goals and let friends know what you're trying to do so they can cheer you on and provide support.
  • Track your progress. Use a planner, notebook, or app to track your progress for more motivation.
  • Stay positive. You can achieve anything with a positive mindset. But sometimes life throws us some curveballs. If you slip, move on and keep going. You can do this!
  • Reward yourself. Treat yourself to small rewards at the end of each month once you've accomplished something toward your end goal.
  • Visualize success. Visualizing what you want out of your resolution will help you stay committed and motivated along the way.
Now that you know how to stick your new year resolutions, take a look at our list of 70 new year resolution ideas for inspiration going into 2024. Happy new year to you!

Host Regular Friend Dinners

Photo by fauxels

Commit to making a monthly or bi-monthly dinner date with the friends you love most. Life can get in the way, but these are the memories you'll always value in life. Take turns hosting and turn it into a dinner club. Here are quick and easy dinner ideas to try out throughout the year!

Start Journaling Like Emma Watson

Photo: British Vogue/YouTube

Journaling can help you put things into perspective and get more in touch with your emotions. It can also help you sleep better by putting your thoughts on paper first! In British Vogue's In The Bag, Emma Watson explains how important journaling has become in her life. Here's what Emma has to say about her journaling practice.

Create An Inspiring Vision Board

Photo by cottonbro studio

Vision boards are one of the most effective tools that you can use to build your business, nurture your romantic life, and reach your creative goals. The process can bring clarity to your thinking, focus to your plans, and can leave you with a curated visual + tangible reminder of the life you want to build. Here's how to get started to create your own vision board for 2024.

Eat Breakfast In Bed More Often

Photo by Ngakan eka

We're so quick to look at our phones and jump out of bed and hit our laptops. Rather than make breakfast in bed a once-a-year type of activity, turn it into a common practice. You'll connect better with your partner and yourself. Here are easy breakfast recipes to eat in bed throughout 2024.

Create A Morning Ritual

Photo by Blue Bird

A morning ritual that doesn't involve working the minute you wake up can clear your mind, calm your nervous system, and prepare you mentally and physically for the day. Some morning ritual ideas: a skincare routine, a bike ride, a nature walk, journaling, drinking tea, reading a book, and more. Decide what would help you start your day on the best foot.

Become A Plant Lady

Photo by Blue Bird

Plants can clean the air you breathe, boost your mood, and increase your creativity. Embrace plants in your decor and bring the outdoors in! Make it a resolution to learn more about how to care for them.

Take A Yoga Challenge

Try our at-home yoga challenge or join a new studio, many of which have challenges for new members at a discount. Yoga can help improve digestion, mood, stress levels, and more.

Give Daily Compliments

Photo by Guilherme Almeida

Licensed psychologist Dr. Lauren Hazzouri says you can actually learn more about yourself and create more positivity around you by taking notes about what you see in others. Here are her thoughts on why heartfelt praise is so powerful and five super solid sentiments you can aim to share every day.

Delegate The Things You Don't Want To Do

Photo by Polina Zimmerman

Uncover the things that are taking up your time that you don't want to do and get support. Maybe it's cleaning your apartment or tasks at work that can be automated or maybe it's getting your laundry delivered. Delegate the tasks you don't love so you can focus your time on the things you do love.

Get Organized, One Day At A Time

Photo: Shutterstock

Overwhelmed by the clutter in your home? Dedicate each month to a new decluttering project. Bedroom Closets January, anyone? Donate or sell what you don't use and build an organizing system you can stick to. Here's more pro advice for decluttering your space.

Open Your Mind To New Stories

Want to read more books? Set out a plan to read the books you missed in 2023 and plan for the books you want to read in 2024, depending on your schedule. Maybe it's a book a month that you share with others, near and far?

Train For An Organized Run

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Want to get back on a running schedule? This is a great goal to try if you want to achieve a 5K, 10K, or even a marathon. New to running? Check out our running tips for learning to love it.

Make New Friends

Photo by ELEVATE

Is there a new acquaintance you want to know better? Or feeling like you're missing out on a community? Maybe you've just moved to a new city. Nurture new friendships in 2024 with these friendship tips.

Reconnect With Old Ones

Photo: Brit + Co

Reach out to old friends this year and reconnect in a more meaningful way with these thought-provoking questions to get to know your friends better. Make it a resolution to reach out to one old friend a month!

Plan Regular Dates With Your S.O.

Photo by Ron Lach

Connect with your partner one-on-one with these date night ideas for the whole year.

Flirt With Confidence

Photo by Katerina Holmes

Single? No problem. Try online or IRL dating but before you do learn to flirt with confidence. Practice makes perfect!

Judge Less, Communicate Better 

Learn to communicate better by communicating to understand versus judge. We can all use better communication skills these days with people inside and outside our bubble.

Eat Healthy Most Of The Time

Photo by Akshata Bablad

Try Whole30 this January to uncover any allergies or an intermittent fasting schedule to lighten your load (and sleep better!). Whatever you do, do in moderation (indulging once in a while is OK!) and pick up healthy habits that you can sustain throughout the year.

Find A Job That Appreciates You

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio

Feeling burnout or stuck in a job rut? Use your MBTI to find your next career move, and then start finding the job you want!

Become Better Friends With Your Siblings

Photo:Thirdman

Become better friends with your siblings by having a conversation that runs deep, no matter what difficult things you've faced in the past.

Start An Exercise Routine You Love

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Exercise doesn't have to be a chore. Find a sport or activity that gives you the workout you need while also boosting your mood, expanding your friendship circle, and bringing you joy every day.

Eat More Veggies With Better Cooking Skills

Here are 10 sneaky ways to get more veggies in your diet. Remember, they should make up half your plate! Learn how to cook vegetables more flavorfully too! Salads for breakfast, perhaps?

Eat Less Meat For You And The Planet

Beef production accounts for most of the greenhouse gas emissions of the entire food production industry, and leads to deforestation and loss of biodiversity, significant contributors to climate change. Vegetarian diets tend to have fewer calories and less fat too, and vegetarians have a lower risk of heart disease so you'll do good by you and the planet!

Make Drinking Water More Fun

Photo: Yaroslav Shuraev

Stay hydrated with more water in your 2024, whether you flavoring it a la TikTok, shopping the latest water bottles for on-the-go hydrating, or simply cutting back on soda and sugary drinks. All good things!

Do The Work To Get More Sleep

Photo: Anna Nekrashevich

Make an effort to ditch the devices before bedtime, design a bedroom ideal for sleep, and follow these tips to fall asleep faster. Sleep with a partner? Try the Scandinavian sleep method for better co-sleeping.

Improve Your Gut Health

Photo: Ella Olsson

Try an anti-inflammatory diet if you have a hard time getting rid of belly bulge or have health issues related to gut health. You'll feel and look better through 2024 and beyond!

Take Care Of Your Sexual Health

Photo:Bellesa Boutique.

Here's a reminder that you need to take care of your sexual health to ensure a healthy overall wellbeing. Sexual health includes self-esteem, personal attractiveness, competence, as well as freedom from sexual dysfunction, sexually transmitted diseases, and sexual assault/coercion. It goes beyond testing for STIs and fertility and rather encompasses just as many mental components as physical ones.

Quit Smoking

Photo by Maria Orlova

Add as much as a decade to your life and avoid a slew of health problems by quitting your smoking habit, even if it's just socially. Make a point of asking your doctor the best plan for you. We know this is a tough one -- and totally not unique -- but your health matters and this is a big one to reach your fullest potential!

Cook More At Home

Photo by Sarah Chai

You'll save money and eat healthier by reducing your restaurant and takeout budget. You may also find that you enjoy cooking! Check out Brit + Co's Cooking Classes, plus try our delicious recipes!

Learn A New Language

Photo by Leeloo Thefirst

Download Duolingo, Babbel, Rosetta Stone or take a language course in person at a community college or community center. You might even want to find a local person who speaks the language you want to learn and meet for coffee once a week for IRL practice!

Manage Your Time Better

Photo by Vlada Karpovich

Start the new year with a new planner and these time management tips, like time blocking.

Improve Your Public Speaking Skills

Photo by Mikhail Nilov

Get over your fear of public speaking with these public speaking tips. Find ways to practice your new skills at work, at networking events, even weddings!

Volunteer For A Cause You Care About

Photo by Liza Summer

Build connections, improve your resume, even volunteer to travel to do good work for your community and help those in need.

Pay Off Credit Card Debt

Here are 7 ways to get out of debt, including credit card debt, this year.

Learn How To Invest

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Women are still not investing at the rate that men are. Let's close the investing gap for good. Here's our ultimate beginner's guide to investing in the stock market. Try our free Investing 101 course and check out Nicole Lapin's The Money School, where our favorite finance pro shows you how to make your money grow and we mean really grow. You'll learn things like: how to create a budget, how to save for big life goals, how to buy a house and car, how to invest in the stock market and retirement accounts. This is truly the masterclass for all things money!

Launch A Side Hustle Or A Business

We're all about following your passion at Brit + Co and if you've had an idea for starting your own biz now is the time to take that first step. First, get over your fear of failure with these seven tips, then write out your business plan. Need a little motivation? Check out Brit + Co's Selfmade online business course, where you'll meet inspiring entrepreneurs who will help you get to the next level (all while Brit and her "Co" cheer you on!).

Plant A Garden

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio

Gardening has mood-boosting benefits and is a great way to clear your head and get creative. Given it may be snowing outside early in the year you can try an indoor herb garden for starters and come spring plan a bed or two outside for your favorite fruits and veggies.

Take A Creative Class

Learning something new about yourself or the world can be as easy as listening to a podcast, which is the whole premise for our Teach Me Something New podcast. Listen in on our chat with experts on meditation, cooking, mental health and more during your next drive or jog. Get creative too with more than 120 Brit + Co creative classes on everything from cake decorating to coding.

Break Out Of Your Comfort Zone

Photo: RDNE Stock

New Year's resolutions don't have to be full of Don'ts. Brit + Co Founder and CEO Brit Morin started her #GiveItAWeek challenges as a way to break out of her comfort zone and try something new every week of the year vs. one "Don't" all year long. Try dance lessons, take an illustrating class, or change up your running routine to make it more FUN. Good news is a new hobby has restorative benefits for your mental health too.

Start Saving For A Rainy Day

Make 2024 the year to get your finances in order, from setting yourself up on a budget-minded money date to knowing the milestones you should hit by 35.

Break Out Of Your Cooking Rut

Bored by the same meals you've been cooking at home since spring 2020? We got you. Whether you want to cut down on sugar with our Whole30 recipes, use your new Instant Pot to make easy weeknight meals, or save money and eat healthy we've got loads of recipes to help you reach your food goals. Not confident in your cooking skills? Pick up some pro cooking tips from our pal Rachael Ray.

Drink Less Booze

Treating yourself to a Dry January might seem like a good idea right about now and it can mean better sleep, a cleaner gut and a host of other health benefits. You'll save money too and probably boost your productivity like Brit + Co'er Lindsey Graham-Jones experienced when she took a Dry July and B+C editor Meredith Holser tried Sober October. Not sure you can swing it? Try these mocktail recipes that are just as tasty sans the hard stuff.

Hack Your Workout Goals

Research by The Myers-Briggs Company shows that our MBTI personality type preferences affect how we like to exercise and who (if anyone) we like to exercise with. Here’s how knowing where you fit on each of the four dimensions of the MBTI assessment can help you reach your workout goals. Here's our workout playlist too!

Lighten Your Social Media Load

You don't have to go cold turkey like quitting Instagram for a month but cutting back on your online use by even 50 percent can have measurable benefits like better sleep, improved mental health, more QT with the ones you love and more time to focus on your goals, hobbies and creative pursuits (vs. scrolling through the pursuits of others!). Here are pro tips for limiting social media this year.

Write Thank You Notes

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Send a little love to the people who make big and small differences in your year with old-school thank you or gratitude notes. You'll pay positive vibes forward and score greater feelings of happiness and (some studies show) lower levels of depression. Here are more health benefits worth giving this resolution a try.

Start A Spa Budget

Finding the time for self-care can be tough as work and life commitments start to pile on, which is why scheduling a regularly sesh is so needed. Put aside money each month for a regular spa day, or if money is tight try a solo hike or walk to recharge, take 10 minutes a day to treat yourself to meditation, online yoga, an article read, a mini massage or an impromptu call to a long-distance friend or family member.

Advance Your Career

Photo: Antoni Shkraba

Commit to taking a training or certification class to build your skills and advance your career.

Network Better

Photo by Mizuno K

Here's advice for how to network when you're not comfortable networking.

Become A Mentor or Mentee

Photo by Christina Morillo

Have a skill or experience you can share? Find a mentorship program near you to connect with people in your industry. Need a mentor to coach you through your career? Check out these mentor tips or try Selfmade, our business and coaching course for new entrepreneurs.

Seek Out New Challenges At Work

Photo by RF._.studio

In a bit of a career rut? Rather than find a new job, look for new opportunities at work to build new skills, broaden your connections, and feel inspired. It may lead to a new role and promotion too!

Log Off More Often

Photo by Alex Gállego

Create better balance in 2024 by logging off and finding time to do things you love, like creating, reading, and socializing IRL.

Learn To Say No

Stop being a people pleaser and instead be a YOU pleaser by establishing better boundaries without feeling guilty.

Become A Minimalist

Photo: Alexi Almond

Learn how to build a minimalist wardrobe that isn't boring and live a minimalist lifestyle with these minimalist tips.

Reduce Digital Clutter

Photo by Vlada Karpovich

This is a good resolution to break into smaller tasks. Make a plan to reduce your digital clutter by clearing work and personal inboxes, reducing your social media follows and accounts, and organizing photos and videos while backing up your digital files.

Don't Procrastinate On Important Things

Photo by Antoni Shkraba

Procrastination can be your creative superpower but it can also keep you from doing the things you want most in life. Here are tip to stop the procrastination that holds you back.

Start A Gratitude Jar

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Every day in 2024 write down the good things that happened that day and put it in a jar. At the end of the year, read all the good things that happened to you! This is a great activity to do with kids.

Relax More

Photo by Rachel Claire

Is your stress response cycle In overdrive? These 7 stress response tips can help.

Start Therapy

Photo by Polina Tankilevitch

Finding the mental healthcare that fits all your needs can be very overwhelming. The internet is filled with self-proclaimed “mental health experts” and more information on mental health than someone ever could read in a lifetime, so here we help you narrow it down to the truly important deets. After all, if you believe that you could benefit from mental health services, you deserve the best information possible.

Reduce Your Plastic Consumption

Photo by Lisa Fotios

Humans produce more than 350 million metric tons of plastic waste per year, and that number is expected to triple by 2060 if we don't make policy changes. To get a head start, here are the coolest ways to reduce your plastic consumption.

Shop Local 

Photo by Amina Filkins

Give your community the boost it needs (and reduce your dependency on Amazon) by shopping local. You'll get out in the neighborhood, meet new people, and feel good knowing your local businesses have your support.

Learn A New Craft

Photo: Cottonbro Studio

Working with your hands is a great mental workout and inspires your creativity. Learn to sew, knit, make pottery or more at a local community center or via online classes.

Create An At-Home Workout

If working out in the middle of winter seems daunting, make an effort to create a little gym space at home. You'll save money on gym memberships and get in the routine of fitness in the comfort of your own home. Check out how IKEA can help with a new workout collection.

Go Off The Beaten Path

Photo by Nina Uhlikova

Travel to some of the happiest cities in the world and find your happy place by taking the path less taken.

Give To A Farm Sanctuary

Photo by Leah Kelley

Farm sanctuaries protect farm animals who have been injured and rescued from factory farms. Share your time by volunteering or adopt a pet!

Visit Our National Parks

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Visit as many of the 63 national parks in the United States. Here are 11 national parks that are out of this world.

Try Community Theatre

Build connections, create community, and be creative by becoming part of a theatre program. Here are 5 things that an acting class taught me that I use every day.

Write A Book

Photo by Mikhail Nilov

Have a book idea in your head but just not sure where to start? Try our tips for writing a book you'd actually want to read.

Give More Hugs

Photo by RDNE Stock

According to science, a 20-second hug helps reduce stress, relieves your blood pressure, and nurtures a healthy heart.

Focus On The Positive

A healthy mindset will help you achieve any goal, any year. Start with these 40 positive affirmations to boost your mood.

Treat Yourself

Photo by Yaroslav Shuraev

You went a month, a year, a lifetime reaching a goal you set out to do, not sure whether or not you will get there. But you did it. Treat yourself to the little things, a candlit bath, a massage, a pedicure, anything that brings you calm and joy and makes life more fulfilling to you.

You got this. Try putting pen to paper to hold yourself accountable and even try manifesting your goals to get what you want this year and beyond.

What is your 2024 resolution? Share with us @BritandCo, and sign up for our weekend scroll for more inspiration!

Lead image: Guilherme Almeida

This article has been updated from a previous post.

Melissa Barrera's Your Monster might be the perfect unconventional Halloween movie, but the actress actually isn't a huge fan of the holiday. "I'm not a big Halloween person," she told me at the movie's New York premiereon October 24. "Weirdly, I haven't dressed up for Halloween in a long time."

The movie follows Melissa's Laura, who gets dumped after a cancer scare, then finds out her ex has cast another woman in the musical she helped him develop. The cherry on top? When she returns to her childhood home for recovery, she finds a monster living in her closet. Like Lisa Frankenstein, Heathers, and other cult classics before it, Your Monster provides an outlet for female rage — and while I have no doubt it was satisfying to make, it feels almost as satisfying to watch. And we can thank the women involved!

Dominik Bindl/Getty Images

"I feel so fortunate that I got to work with all of them in one front," Melissa Barrera says of director Caroline Lindy and costars Kayla Foster and Meghann Fahy a few days after the premiere. "They're so talented and so generous and so lovely and it just kind of felt like working with friends." Despite the fact the group already knew each other, Melissa was welcomed with open arms. "It was such a safe space, you know, it was so safe and unjudgmental and truly collaborative and it was all about propping each other up all the time."

"Even behind the scenes, there were a lot of women too," she says before exclaiming, "Women in film! It's great because also, it's about female rage. It's a story about female rage. So it makes sense that it would be women that have been through this, that understand what it's like, that know what Laura is going through to tell this story."

Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images

I loved seeing Melissa reunite with the cast and crew at the premiere, but this isn't the first time she's formed a bond with a costar. After the release of Scream 6 in 2023, videos of Melissa and her onscreen sister Jenna Ortega laughing during the press tour went viral — and considering how much the moment reminded me of my relationship with my own sister, I couldn't pass up the opportunity to ask about it.

"I was so sick during the whole press," she says. "We were laughing because I would start choking on my cough, so it was hilarious — or I would start laughing and it would make me cough and then I couldn't stop. So yeah, we were laughing a lot during that press run because I was sick as a dog."

Philippe Bossé/Paramount Pictures

But a relationship with Jenna, and laughing, weren't the only things Melissa went viral for last year. After posting about the Palestinian and Israeli conflict, Melissa Barrera was fired from Scream. Jenna Ortega left the franchise a few days later, citing scheduling conflicts with Wednesday season 2. Earlier this year at the Sundance Film Festival premiere of Your Monster, Melissa revealed how "grateful" she was for the experience because, in the long, run it helped her "finally figure out who I'm supposed to be." And now that we're at a time of year where people are retrospective, she feels even more grounded in herself — because while others are just now reflecting on the year they've had, she's been reflecting since long before January.

"Everybody's kind of like thinking of like, 'What does the future hold? Like, how do we make it better?' And I have been thinking that for a year," she says. "There's people that have actually been on this journey for way longer, and it's them that we should be thanking for our world not being like over with right now, you know? They're the ones that continue to make changes for the better and to fight for better things for all of us."

"I definitely feel like a changed person. I definitely feel like my priorities are completely different than they were a year ago," she continues. "I see the world through different eyes now, I see people through different eyes. I see the industry through different eyes, and I'm so grateful for that. I'm so grateful for everything that I went through, even though it was really hard, I'm so grateful that I lived it and that I survived it, and that I'm stronger for it. And that I know I have a focus of what I wanna keep doing, not just for me and my career, but like, how can I contribute to the industry and to the world to make it better and safer for everyone?"

Vertical Entertainment

And Your Monster is a beautiful contribution to the industry. I was really struck by the idea of not only confronting your childhood monsters, but befriending them. "I want people to come out of [Your Monster] having had a good time, a good laugh, and just feeling good," she says. "Because I feel like a lot of times you come out of the theater feeling so heavy because movies are so dark [but] that's what Caroline wants with her films. She wants to make movies where people can feel safe in the movie theater."

"Second, I hope that people catch on to the layers of the story and how deep it actually is, and Laura's journey, and the metaphors for how repressed we are," she continues. "And I keep saying women, but it's not necessarily just women, anybody can feel that way. And this idea of befriending the monster in your closet is such a life hack. Imagine not being scared of the thing that scared you in your childhood anymore! Like how liberating and how beautiful to actually fall in love with it and to make peace with it and then be able to go through life fearless like that. I wish that for everyone. So I hope that it makes people think and that they wanna re-watch because there's every time that you watch this movie there, you'll see more of the genius that Caroline injected in like tiny little details."

Vertical Entertainment

And for an actress who went to school for theatre and describes it as her "first love" (not to mention the fact she stunned as Vanessa in 2021's In The Heights), she was more than happy to step back onto the stage...kind of. "It was so fun," she says. "Being able to portray that world so accurately too, we had a lot of actual New York theater people come in and do little one-scene things."

"There are people like [Laura's ex] Jacob out there, there's that nervousness, the tension, the excitement, the anticipation, and it's such a beautiful process," she continues. "I love being able to live vicariously through Laura and live out that dream of the Broadway debut. And I think there's such a stigma against theatre and musicals in film, such, like, a rejection that I don't understand because there used to be a time where every movie was a musical and it was amazing! What happened? But to show another side to it through not full face musical, but a little taste of that in a movie that otherwise is a normal movie, I think for me as a theater nerd, as a musical theater geek, it's great to be able to lure people in and be like, 'Look at this beauty, so cool. Maybe go watch musicals!'"

See Melissa Barrera in Your Monster now! Ready to get in a spooky mood? Check out 42 Spooky Halloween Movies To Stream On Your Next Night In for the ultimate movie marathon.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

When it comes to New Year's Eve celebrations, the first thought that probably springs to mind is boozing it up with an NYE cocktail. And while there's nothing wrong with sipping some bubbly (if that's your inclination), those of us who prefer to keep thingsnon-alc may feel like there are no New Year's-appropriate activities for our preferences. We say that nothing could be further from the truth! Whether you're pregnant, abstaining, or just taking a break from the booze, here are 10 fun ideas for ringing in 2024, the sober way.

Attend A Silent Disco

A few years ago, just as the sober-curious movement was gaining steam, companies like Daybreaker brought 6 a.m. sober dance parties to the masses. In a similar vein are remote silent discos – events where you put your headphones on and dance it out to the music of world-class DJs right in the comfort of your own home (or in person, if you feel like venturing out).

A quick Google search will reveal that there are tons of options to shake it off on New Year's Eve, whether remotely or in-person in your city. Because silent discos have an alternative vibe, they're much more sober-friendly than traditional clubs and dance parties.

Make A Tea Bar

Photo by Jill Wellington / PEXELS

If you've ever been to a party where they had aProsecco bar or something similar, you know how fun themed bars can be. Why not make a NA equivalent with a tea bar? We're not just talking about hot water and tea bags... include exciting staples like bubble tea, kombucha, Southern-style sweet iced tea, and more!

Do A Goal-Setting Ritual

Not in the mood to party this year? Celebrate the New Year with some introspection by doing a goal-setting ritual. You can design the ritual in whatever manner you like, but we recommend something along the lines of:

  • Light a candle and sit quietly for a few minutes.
  • Whip out your journal and take inventory of the last year: What were your best memories? What are you grateful for? Where do you think you could've improved?
  • In your journal (we have some killer prompts to start you off), mindfully list out your goals for 2024. They don't have to be New Year's resolutions, exactly, but include small steps you can take in the new year to help you achieve your goals!

Make A 2023 Scrapbook

Before New Year's Eve, head to your local craft store and pick up some supplies for making an old-fashioned scrapbook. Print out some photos from your most treasured memories of the year (we like printing with Walgreens), and gather any magazines you purchased or journal entries you wrote.

You can also look up some news headlines that made an impact on you, and print out the article as well as photos of any notable celebs or politicians who made the news. On New Year's eve, put together a scrapbook of what made 2023, 2023.

Good, bad, or otherwise, the year was one to remember — so create a momento that will help you re-live the past year in the years to come.

Plan A Costume Party

Believe it or not, masquerade balls, dressing up in costumes, and concealing one's identity have a long history in the historical celebrations of Christmastime. So we think a New Year's costume party is a fully appropriate idea for a sober New Year's Eve.

Who needs booze to have fun when you can dress up as whoever you want for a night of merriment and mystery?

Karaoke It Up

Photo by Mikhail Nilov / PEXELS

Another fun party pastime that's fun with or without booze? Singing! Grab some friends for a sober karaoke night either at your house or a private karaoke room. The singing's bound to be better than it would be if you were imbibing... who knows, maybe you'll steal the show with your rendition of "I'm Just Ken."

Cook A Fancy Meal

Whether you're spending the evening with your S/O or your BFF, cook a fancydinner for two. New Year's Eve is the perfect time to get fancy with food, so use this opportunity to ring in 2024 with only the finest cuisine. Don't forget to make a mocktail to go with!

Host A Game Night

Bring all your besties over and host a board game night that's sure to be one for the books. Have everyone bring their favorite game – from Cards Against Humanity to Codenames – for a riotous evening that will remind you that you absolutely don't need booze to have a rowdy night of laughter!

Play 2023 Trivia

Photo by Askar Abayev / PEXELS

Before New Year's Eve, compile a long list of trivia questions about 2023. Alternatively, have a friend do it for you, or do a quick Google search... there are a lot of trivia quizzes out there. On the big night, gather your squad together to see how much you remember about 2023. The results may surprise you!

Host A Murder-Mystery Dinner

Image via Amazon

Murder-mystery dinners are still one of the best ways to facilitate a heart-racing and mind-boggling party. Pick up one of the many murder mystery dinner kits out there and have your besties over for a night of thinking on your toes — to be fair, it's probably best to skip the booze for this idea anyway, for the sake of your mental acuity.

Are you planning a sober New Year's Eve party this year? Tweet us @BritandCo to share your plans, and don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more booze-free hacks and party ideas!

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This post has been updated.

Celebrity breakups are never fun to hear about (hello, Zoe Kravitz and Channing Tatum 😭), but sometimes they seem to give entertainers a boost of personal and creative inspiration. Case in point — Natalie Portman's divorce has given her an almost femme fatale edge. We last saw her in Lady in the Lake, but she recently stepped out with a new hairstyle that's reframed her face!

What new hairstyle does Natalie Portman have?

Natasha Campos/Getty Images for Netflix and Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images

On October 28, Natalie Portman turned heads when she stepped onto the red carpet at the 68th Ballon D'Or Ceremony at Theatre Du Chatelet in Paris. She's traded in the long balayage hair she's been wearing for a shorter dark brown bob that rests slightly below her chin. Though the silk press may be in style, Natalie allowed her curls to shine and seemed to wear eye makeup that mirrors her new hair color.

The actress also shared a pictureof herself next to Aitana Bonmatí and a clearer view of her hairstyle is visible. She didn't mention anything about it, opting to keep the focus on Bonmatí's achievement instead. "Hero 🙌 Congratulations Aitana Bonmatí on your Ballon d’Or award! It was such an honor to be there with you and to celebrate all you’ve done for women’s football." her caption says.

Even if Natalie doesn't care to address this new style, we think it's perfect for her!

When did Natalie Portman announce her divorce from Benjamin Millepied?

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Prior to getting divorced, sources say Natalie tried her best to reconcile things in her marriage to Benjamin. But, it seems like some things — like infidelity — are hard to move past. "She didn’t give up on [her marriage] lightly. But it became pretty apparent toward the end of last year that her heart had gone out of it," one person told US Weekly. Apparently Natalie started noticing a trend in her ex-husband's behavior prior to his bombshell affair because another source told the outlet that the ballet dancer "would sometimes not return home and was taking work trips that didn’t add up."

This ultimately led Natalie to file for divorce, but it was done "quietly," according to PEOPLE's report in March 2024. Not only that, but the news outlet is reporting that the divorce proceedings are officially over! A source said, "It was initially really tough for her, but her friends rallied around her and helped get her through the worst of it." Natalie's apparently "come out the other side of it stronger and is finding joy in her family, friends and work."

Why did Natalie Portman and Benjamin Millepied get divorced?

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Although Natalie Portman didn't 100% address what happened, fans have long speculated that Benjamin's alleged cheating mishap was the cause of their marriage's demise. Page Six reported the couple were struggling to deal with the ballet dancer's romantic interest in the "glamorous young climate activity Camille Étienne." At the time, a source told the outlet Natalie and Benjamin were trying to hold things together. "They have not split and are trying to work things out. Ben is doing everything he can to get Natalie to forgive him. He loves her and their family."

How long were Natalie Portman and Benjamin Millepied married?

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Natalie Portman and her ex-husband Benjamin Millepied were married for 11 years prior to walking away from "happily ever after," (via People). They also have two children together, Aleph (12) and Amalia (7).

We're always sad when couples breakup, but we love to see that Natalie's moving on with her life and showing that she's willing to embrace something new — like her shorter bob!

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Gisele Bündchen is a household name, no matter who her partner is — but it's no secret the supermodel made waves when she split from her football star husband, Tom Brady, in 2022. It's clear she's not holding on to the past, though. After dating Joaquim Valente for the past two years, the couple is officially expecting their first child together! Here's everything we know about Gisele's growing family!

Is Gisele Bündchen pregnant?

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Yes! According to PEOPLE, an inside source told the outlet that the 44-year-old supermodel is officially expecting her third child. This is her first baby with current boyfriend, Joaquim Valente. The source said, "Gisele and Joaquim are happy for this new chapter in their life and they're looking forward to creating a peaceful and loving environment for the whole family."

Who is Gisele Bündchen's boyfriend?

Instagram/gisele

Joaquim Valente is a jiu-jitsu professional at his family-owned studio, Valente Brothers. The 34-year-old continues a decades-long tradition of teaching this martial art to future generations — and his girlfriend!

These two have been linked together since 2022, but didn't start officially dating until June 2023 according to PEOPLE. In 2024, a source also told PEOPLE that this wasn't "a serious love affair," but the tides have clearly turned since then.

In March 2024, Gisele The New York Times, “This is the first time I am seeing someone that was a friend of mine first." She then noted, “It’s very different. It is very honest, and it’s very transparent.” She also was quick to deny that there was any overlap with her ex-husband, stressing that these types of rumors happen "to a lot of women" who "have the courage to leave an unhealthy relationship."

As for the most current state of Gisele and Joaquim's relationship? A source told Page Six, “Their chemistry together has always been there and they have a lot in common. They've been in love for a while." That being said, sources also told Page Sixthat they don't think the pair will get married "anytime soon." Despite Gisele being "thrilled" to welcome another child, her friends tell the outlet that the couple will just "live together for now."

Regardless, we're also thrilled for these two, and we hope their new child brings them so much joy!

How many kids does Gisele Bündchen have?

Instagram/gisele

Gisele Bündchen and Tom Brady have two children together — Bejamin Rein (14) and Vivian Lake (11). According to Page Six, a source says that these two "really like" Joaquim Valente, as he's been living with them in Miami "for a while." We just know these two will be fabulous siblings to the new little one, given the way they show so much love to their parents!

When did Gisele Bündchen and Tom Brady get divorced?

Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue

Gisele Bündchen and Tom Brady officially divorced in 2022. However, according to Page Six, this all started back in 2020 when Tom wouldn't retire from the NFL — and according to a source from PEOPLE, their problems date back as long as 10 years! Regardless, it's clear Gisele's moved on to a new chapter in her life. Good for her!

Has Tom Brady said anything about Gisele Bündchen's new pregnancy?

Instagram/tombrady

While sources told TMZthat Gisele Bündchen told Tom Brady about her pregnancy before the news broke to the general public, other sources told Page Sixthat he only just found out "very recently" — and apparently, he didn't find out from Gisele. Sources explained to Page Six that the ex-spouses "talk when they have to." So I guess this situation didn't exactly qualify as having to talk...

Tom hasn't made an official statement about Gisele's pregnancy, but he did take to Instagram on October 28. The former football star posted an image of the sunset, three hearts, and The Chicks' cover of "Landslide." The Stevie Nicks original is all about the changes life brings, so Tom's seemingly alluding to the changes coming in his own life.

Whatever happens next, we hope that this modern family navigates this new chapter with grace and love!

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