A Shoppable Guide to Kardashian Vacation Style

When it comes to celebrity style, there are few Hollywood glamazons that manage to capture our attention more than the Kardashian ladies. What can we say: We’re transfixed with their every (sartorial) move. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not always all about Kim and her red carpet antics. In fact, we just recently declared Kourtney Kardashian our newest style icon, largely due to her fuss-free approach to getting dressed. Don’t fret if you didn’t get a chance to snag Kendall Jenner’s affordable gingham bikini; we’ve got you covered with a shoppable guide to nine of the Keeping Up With the Kardashians stars’ most scorching hot looks to inspire your next seaside adventure.

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Neon in Costa Rica, on my app.

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1. Channel your own tropical paradise. What’s neon tangerine with cheeky cutouts all over? All signs point to the scandalous one-piece Kourtney wore during a stint in Costa Rica. We would never want to leave either.

Get the Look: Sun-kissed skin? Check. Kardashian genes? Check. A fluorescent orange bathing suit that calls for sunset views and perfect beach waves? Girl, you know it. Brit + Co Pick: Melissa Odabash Ibiza Cut-Out Swimsuit Fluro ($230)

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2. Go girly with ballerina-inspired swimwear. It was Kendall Jenner’s Lisa Marie Fernandez bikini that got err’body talking in Cannes. Between the bubblegum pink hue, the femme ruffles, and retro silhouette, this It girl gets our seal of approval.

Get the Look: ICYMI: Ballerina-inspired swimwear is still having a moment. Direct your attention to this pretty-in-pink high-waisted bikini from Reformation that will have you perfecting your pliés in record time. Brit + Co Pick: Reformation Camino Bikini Top ($78) + Mandalay Bikini Bottoms ($78)

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PalmSprings Girls Trip on Keeping Up tonight!! #E

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3. Coordinate with your sisters (or BFFs). When in Palm Springs with your sister #squad, a little outfit coordination is in order. Kourt’s effortlessly chic summer getup consisting of a sultry crop top and high-waisted frayed Bermuda shorts makes us want to book a Roman holiday stat. Her glam-tastic shades don’t hurt either.

Get the Look: Whether you’re frolicking in the sand or gearing up for date night on the boardwalk, this off-the-shoulder shirt offers up major slayage. Pare it down with your favorite cutoffs for the daytime before subbing in some tie-waist pants (and ankle-strap steppers) come after-hours. Brit + Co Pick: Wilfred Adelisa T-Shirt ($30)

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legally blonde vibes 👙

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4. Girls just wanna have fun. When you’re a Kardashian (or Jenner), you can’t take yourself too seriously. These babes let loose with their LegallyBlonde-inspiredmetallic bikinis in mermaid hues.

Get the Look: Vacationing on a yacht in the South of France? What, like it’s hard? Consider yourself in business now that you’ve got an itty-bitty shimmery metallic pink bikini in your possession. Brit + Co Pick: Monki Metallic Bandeau Bikini Top ($29) + Metallic Tanga Bikini Bottoms ($16)

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night life ✨

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5. Embrace pajama dressing to the max. Upcoming GNO? We thought you’d never ask. These ladies are about to run this world with their luxurious PJ sets that are definitely too stylish for a snooze fest.

Get the Look: When a neck-plunging slip dress reads too much, dial it down with a pair of Staud’s elegant evening-ready sleek bottoms that can be tossed over your bikini during the daytime or teamed with a bangin’ bodysuit and retro hoops for rooftop sips. Brit + Co Pick: Staud Pietro Pant ($150)

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6. Toss black cutoffs on with everything. Who wears short shorts? This Kardashian does… and quite flawlessly, might we add. K brings forth the jungle fever a la her tough-girl cutoffs and sultry crop top that are just tasteful enough for playtime with the kiddos.

Get the Look: You can count on these black frayed hem moto shorts being in heavy rotation this summer. Rev these bad boys up with a tattered rocker tee or slip ’em on with a string bikini top and pool slides for a look that says “bow down betches.” Brit + Co Pick: Topshop MOTO Frey Hem Kiri Shorts ($52)

7. Don’t leave the house without a glam AF pair of shades. No ifs, ands, or buts about it, boo. Besides, have you ever seen anyone from the Kardashian/Jenner camp venture out in public without rock-star shades? Nah.

Get the Look: Keep smiling ‘cuz yo future is so bright, especially now that you’ve got stunner mirrored sunglasses in your possession. The marbled frames and blue mirrored lenses will look like a million bucks cruisin’ down the boulevard or soaking up rays in Santorini. Brit + Co Pick: Diff Eyewear Rose Black/White-Blue Mirror Polarized Lens ($85)

8. Rock a goddess-inspired maxi skirt poolside (and beyond). Take it from the lip kit queen herself: Nothing commands attention quite like a maxi skirt with a deep side slit. Dare we say it — we’ve never seen Kylie look so radiant.

Get the Look: Extra, extra! We’ve uncovered a lookalike striped maxi that will play matchmaker to ALL your tropical crop tops and OTS blouses. Just add pom-pom strewn gladiators and a straw Panama hat for a look that reads Grecian princess. Brit + Co Pick: Nasty Gal All the Stripe Reasons Maxi Skirt ($50)

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multitasking MAMACITA

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9. Test-drive a Baywatch-inspired one-piece. Ow, ow! The eldest Kardashian (and mother of three) proves she’s still got it with her haute Baywatch-inspired bathing suit and cover girl bod. Mamacita is right.

Get the Look: This just in: Kourtney’s Insta-famous “Mamacita” one-piece can be yours. Head over to Private Party to snag one of their signature SoCal-bound swimsuits — but hurry, they won’t be up for grabs for long. Brit + Co Pick: Shop Private Party Mamacita Swimsuit ($99)

Which of the Kardashian sisters’ style will you be replicating this summer? Follow us on Pinterest for more celebrity style inspo!

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

Finding gifts for the person you're closest to can be the absolute hardest thing to do, especially when there are so many things that would make great gifts for him. If you're shopping for the main man in your life this season – whether you call him your dad, husband, fiancé, boyfriend, partner, or your preferred pet names – of course you want to find a gift that shows him just how much he means to you. Just remember that the key to the perfect gift is simply that it comes from you. These stunning gift ideas will help you say "this made me think of you."

Our 49 favorite gifts for men for 2024:

Amazon

RVCA Commonwealth Snapback

This flat-brimmed baseball cap replaces those older, worn-out styles you know your man has been hoarding. The green corduroy fabric on this gift-worthy hat will grace his head perfectly for every season!

Apple Watch SE

Get him motivated to reach his fitness goals with features like fitness tracking and heart rate monitoring, plus he can send a text, take a call, listen to his favorite music and podcasts. You can customize the watch faces and bands to his liking too. It's the perfect gift for the active guy!

Amazon

Every Man Jack Mens Amber + Sandalwood Body Set

This gift set is filled with an ideal assortment of gifts for him. From body wash, shampoo, deodorant, and face wash, your man will have everything he needs to feel fresh – plus, having a good-smelling guy around is the real gift for you that keeps on giving.

Nike

Nike Air VaporMax Flyknit

Be his biggest cheerleader as he reaches his 2025 fitness goals in these best-selling Nikes, made with sustainable materials. We are loving this vintage green.

Target

VANKYO Leisure D30T Mini Wi-Fi Projector

Bring the cinema home to your movie buff with a sleek projector setup for your own private screenings and viewing parties!

Sunswell

Sunswell The R&R Pant

Made from recycled materials for rigorous wear, the Sunswell R&R pants are bound to be a staple in your man's year-round wardrobe.

Amazon

Cosori Pour Over Coffee Maker

This sturdy coffee maker will be a total hit for the caffeine-loving guy in your life. The layered stainless steel filter allows for a rich, creamy flavor in every sip, plus the decanter is holds a whole 34 ounces of brewed coffee to help him wake up!

Amazon

Stanley Stainless Steel Shot Glass and Flask Gift Set

This durable drinking set complete with a flask and shot glasses will be his new BFF for sharing on camping, fishing, or hunting trips. Top it all off with a brand-new bottle of whiskey to complete the gift for him.

Creem

Creem Magazine Subscription

For the music-loving man in your life, a subscription to Creem (the coolest rock 'n' roll mag) will really impress. The publication's covered plenty of classic names in the industry – as well as newer bands – so he's sure to soak up plenty of new knowledge about the scene. There's a handful of annual subscription tiers for the mag starting at just $79.

Amazon

Thermajohn Thermal Shirt

Whether he's hitting the slopes or is braving the cold winter weather to run errands with you, this warm thermal base layer tee will swarm his upper half in comfort, flexibly moving with his each and every move.

Herschel

Herschel Little America Backpack Pro

For his outdoor adventures or social gatherings, outfit him with a cool backpack (literally, this one is insulated) that he can fill with his favorite snacks and beverages.

Ties

Ties The Scientist Sock Pack

Whether it's a stocking stuffer or a smaller gift, a playful set of socks is both practical and personal.

Tie Bar

Tie Bar Navy Travel Tie Storage Case

This tie storage case means business, just like your man does. If he travels for work often, he'll appreciate that you're looking out for his formal-wear.

Amazon

Marlowe. Coffee Bar Soap

This manly bar soap is infused with coffee beans and cocoa butter butter that help tackle even the worst bouts of sweat and body odor. It's definitely long-lasting, too, so he can smell lovely all night long.

Taylor Stitch

Taylor Stitch The Workhorse Jacket

This jacket will hug his bod in the most stylish way, all while keeping him comfy throughout the season's cold weather.

Williams Sonoma

Breville Precision Brewer 12-Cup Drip Coffee Maker with Glass Carafe

For the early risers and coffee-obsessed, a programmable coffee maker means he can wake up to the smell of coffee every day (and no longer has to use wasteful pods for an instant brew).

Mark & Graham

Mark & Graham Italian Leather Desk Set

Whether he's going to work, outfitting a permanent at-home office, or heading back to school, a personalized desk set like this luxe leather one will please the most studious types of guys.

Nordstrom

Ugg Beckett Fleece Robe

If your man loves a cozy night in just as much as you do, a soft robe to lounge around in will make the ultimate gift for him.

Mejuri

Mejuri Flat Curb Chain Necklace

Once you've reached long-term status with your guy, gift him a signature gold chain he can flex for years to come.

Pangaia

Pangaia 365 Heavyweight Hoodie

For the hoodie-obsessed, Pangaia's signature sustainable sweatshirts (and sweatsuits!) are best-in-class.

Etsy

Custom Soundwave Art Print

From a first dance song to the one you always blast together in the car, every guy has their favorite tune. Memorialize it for your music-loving man with this custom art print.

DUER

DUER Performance Relaxed Taper Denim Jeans

A good quality, fresh pair of denim is gonna set him (and his style) so right for the new year. These jeans feature a stretchy fabric that'll allow wear for practically any occasion.

Mark & Graham

Mark & Graham Leather Poker Set

Outfit his next game night with a poker set that's sure to impress and easy to bring on the go for weekend trips and group hangs.

New Balance

New Balance 9060 Sneaker

Secure your status as the greatest of all time by copping him that stylish pair of sneakers he's been eyeing.

Amazon

Polaroid Now 2nd Generation I-Type Instant Camera + Film Bundle

If your man is into photography and all things nostalgia, consider surprising him with a retro Polaroid camera set. We bet you'll be his favorite muse.

Manly Bands

Manly Bands The Forged Ring

This sleek wedding band stands up to tough, hands-on jobs with a carbon fiber construction, unlike traditional rings. The inner part is actually made from a Jack Daniel's whiskey barrel, making the perfect personalized touch for gifting the guy who loves a drink.

Uncommon Goods

New York Times Custom Football Book

This isn't just any coffee table book, but one that true sports buffs will actually want to devour – with clippings from his team's history, glory days, and highlights.

Still trying to figure out the perfect gifts for him? Subscribe to our email newsletter for more gift guides!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others and earn commissions, but we always offer genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated. Former reporting by Kaitlyn Ingram and Lauren Black.

It's official: Blue Ivy looks totally grown up now — especially in her gorgeous gold gown at the Mufasa: The Lion Kingpremiere. It honestly feels like just yesterday that Beyoncé announced she was born, and now she's a star in her own right! She celebrated her Disney film debut with her family by her side on the red carpet (and everyone looking as gorgeous as ever).

While Jay-Z was one of the latest celebrities caught in the crosshairs of P. Diddy allegations, it didn't stop mom and dad from showing their unwavering support. The family put on a united front, smiling for the cameras and praising Blue's work on her latest Disney film, further proving that they're in this together. Here's everything we know!

Details about the Mufasa: The Lion King premiere

Beyoncé & Jay-Z Amazing Support Of Blue Ivy's Role In 'Mufasa'

Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney

Blue Ivy stars in Mufasa: The Lion King as Kiara with Beyoncé voicing Nala again. The highly anticipated film will show Mufasa's origins from a young cub to the majestic king we've come to know, love, and mourn.

In this cute BTS clip, Beyoncé and Blue are initially shown in separate recording booths while the latter says, "Don't stare at me." It's a typical response all kids eventually give their parents, but it doesn't bother Beyoncé. She simply smiles and says, "I can't help it. You're just too beautiful girl." Still, she offers a bit of reassurance to Blue. "I'mma be right here closing my eyes."

Blue briefly talked about what it feels like to work on a movie by saying, "If I like told my younger self that I was in a movie, I'd like never believe myself."

The star couldn't help but tear up as she continued to watch Blue and said, "Give me a second. I'm still...just can't believe that's my baby." While sitting side by Blue, Beyoncé eventually turns to look at her to let her know she's "so proud of her." Even Rumi, Beyoncé and Jay-Z's youngest daughter, makes a quick appearance!

The Mufasa: The Lion King premiere occurred December 9 with Beyoncé, Jay-Z, and grandma Tina Knowles standing by Blue Ivy's side. They looked stunning on the red carpet as they wore coordinating outfits. Although the ladies seemed to be present and excited, Jay-Z temporarily looked distracted while all of them were standing together (via PEOPLE).

If we had to guess, it may have something to do with the recent allegations connecting he and P. Diddy weighing on his mind. After the accusation went public, Jay-Z penned his own public statement and shared it to Roc Nations' social channels. The most heartbreaking aspect of it is realizing his children will be able to see everything.

"My wife and I will have to sit our children down, one of whom is at the age where her friends will surely see the press and ask questions about the nature of these claims, and explain the cruelty and greed of people," he wrote (via X). Only time will tell how everything pans out, but we hope this doesn't overshadow Blue Ivy's success, nor do we want to see people vilify her or her siblings for alleged misdeeds of Jay-Z.

At the end of the day, we're so proud of Blue for letting her light shine bright despite everything else!

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I'm feeling the holiday spirit and have been weeding through Christmas dresses to find the perfect number to wear before or on December 25. Since I know I'm not the only person who needs options, I've got us covered with everything from preppier picks to winter-themed milkmaid dresses! And if you're worried that everything's just red and green? Fear not! There are plenty of holiday hues to choose from. Happy shopping!

The most stylish Christmas dresses you'll want to wear again

Anthropologie

Anthropologie The Thea Twofer Sweater Dress

By now you should know I love a good cozy and stylish moment — hence this fun sweater dress. While you'll get the traditional rib knit that covers your shoulders, chest, and arms, you're also getting a woven bottom that's slightly lighter. You're sure to match someone's Christmas tree, making this dress the best choice if you don't want to go overboard with your look.

Abercrombie

Abercrombie Long-Sleeve Crepe Mini Dress

Now, you know we love an Abercrombie dress over here. Somehow, they truly have a dress for every occasion — the holidays included! I love this deep, rich, green pattern here. It's totally evoking the Christmas spirit, and the silhouette is totally flattering too!

Ann Taylor

Ann Taylor Jeweled-Neck Dress

I'm not saying I picked this JUST because Taylor Swift wore a black dress with a bejeweled neckline the other night...but I'm also not NOT saying it. Regardless of who's worn something similar, this Ann Taylor dress is a totally classic shift dress that will look good at any Christmas dinner table. Plus, a little bit of shimmer never hurt anyone!

Revolve

Line & Dot Phillipa Mini Dress

Feeling inspired by preppier Kate Middleton looks this season? Revolve has you covered! This bright red dress with its statement buttons is an incredibly chic way to standout this holiday season! Pair it with some velvet black heels or a shimmery silver pair, and you're sure to turn heads...in the most demure way, of course!

MANGO

MANGO Ribbed Knit Dress With Opening

Do you plan to visit more than one family member or friend's house on Christmas? Well, you're going to need a flexible dress that won't lose its stretch with all the moving around you'll be doing.

P.S. Add a teddy or faux fur coat over it for extra pizazz.

Anthropologie

Maeve Sleeveless Squareneck Textured Babydoll Mini Dress

If you're going from party to party on Christmas with the intention of dancing all day, you need a cute babydoll dress that'll move when you do. I love this one because the texture takes the whole 'Little Black Dress' idea to the next level.

Nordstrom

Staud Hawthorne Contrast Cuff Long Sleeve Ponte Knit Sheath Minidress

This is a dress that would make Blair Waldorf proud — I don't make the rules! Really though, if you're feeling tired of the "typical" Christmas colors, this dress is perfect for you! The navy color will blend in perfectly with any environment, and the statement sleeves add just enough festive nature to your look!

Free People

Maison Amory The Windsor Maxi Dress

Let's talk about it: 2024 was hard for some of us. I have a feeling you could use a touch of magic and whimsical feelings in your life though. While this dress won't fix your problems, it'll help you embrace the holiday spirit on Christmas.

Old Navy

Old Navy Fit & Flare Velvet Mini Dress

Sometimes you just wanna through on a cute (and flattering) velvet dress and call it a day! There's just something about velvet that screams the holiday season — and I'm soooo here for it! Grab this Old Navy option for a simple silhouette, and accessorize it with some statement earrings for a not-so-simple slay. (Or sleigh?)

Nordstrom

Dress The Population Bailey Off the Shoulder Body-Con Dress

Red is always classic for the holiday season, and this dress owns that classique nature to the fullest. The off-the-shoulder sleeves are gorgeous, giving you a slightly sexy look without being too over-the-top. Plus, that sweetheart neckline? Yeah, adding this dress to cart ASAP...

H&M

H&M Sequin Wrap Dress

The only way to host your own Christmas party this year is to wear a sequin wrap dress that's perfect for the hospitality you intend to show guests. Though it makes a statement, it doesn't look outlandish. Seriously, it's just right for the holidays.

Banana Republic

Banana Republic Cotton-Wool Mock-Neck Dress

There's no shame in wanting to show off the new pair of knee-high boots you bought right before Christmas. Between us, I like to think footwear is one of the most important parts of an outfit because it can make or break whatever you're wearing. This mock-neck dress from Banana Republic is perfect for allowing your boots to complete your look because the hemline rests right above your knees, letting everything else work in tandem with it.

Target

INSPIRE CHIC Women's Christmas Party Elegant Flared Bow One Shoulder Dress

I always know Target's gonna have something totally adorable to add to my cart — holiday season or not. I love this flirty little one-shoulder cocktail dress for any holiday parties you have coming up! And? It has pockets. Yep, you read that correctly.

Macy's

And Now This Plus Size Mixed-Media Midi Dress

If you recently gave birth and plan to introduce your infant to family members this Christmas, you'll want to wear something that's as comfortable as it's functional. Though this doesn't fit any traditional holiday themes, all that matters is that you're able to breastfeed or hold your baby without worrying about if the fabric will irritate little one's skin.

Ann Taylor

Ann Taylor Ribbed Sweater Dress

If you're spending time at your grandparents' house on Christmas and have a grandmother that gives you a side eye if your hemline is an inch too short, you'll want to show up in this sweater dress. It truly covers everything and is less likely to illicit interesting comments from your elders.

Banana Republic

Banana Republic Crepe Mock-Neck Midi Dress

My rule of thumb for company parties is to err on the side of caution. Banana Republic is known for having stylish pieces that work for professional settings so I highly suggest you wear this cute midi dress if you've RSVP'd to a holiday soirée at work.

Cupshe

Cupshe Burgundy Stand Collar Belted Frill Dress

Someone out there loves plaid as much as I do which is why this belted frill beauty's made it to my must-have Christmas dresses wishlist. It looks like it has the traditional feel of the holidays stitched all over, making it an easy pick for someone who wants something cute and festive to wear on December 25!

Lulu's

Lulu's Emerald Green Maxi Dress

So you decided to go to someone's wedding on Christmas and have to figure out what to wear that doesn't distract from the bride's gown. Take a peek at this green maxi dress from Lulu's. It has a bardot neckline and velvet texture that says, "I'm formal enough to attend this wedding and not cause a scene."

Petal & Pup

Petal & Pup Naira Pleated Maxi Dress

And if you never wait for special moments to dress up, twirl your way into the holidays in Petal & Pup's pleated maxi dress. You'll find every reason to keep moving on Christmas just to hear a rustle of fabric while you set the dinner table or reach for a present to gift to someone.

But that's not all! Browse through more party dresses if you still need holiday style inspo!

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

Ahhh…Paris Geller. Where does one even begin with the best Gilmore Girl whose name isn't actually Gilmore? The woman we all came to know and love. The purveyor of backhanded compliments, deadpan humor, the quickest wit one can imagine and an absolutely ungodly work ethic. The sole character of the series who I would 100% watch a spin-off of, and love every minute. Sure — she once said that everyone around her needed to be sterilized immediately. And that Rory’s boyfriend offers “nothing to women or the world in general.” And that she can “scare the stupid out of you. But the lazy runs deep.”

She may, in fact, be the only character whose absurdity warrants such unhinged comments, and I am so here for it. You may be reading this because you too believe that Paris Geller deserves way more praise than she receives. Or you hate her. Or perhaps you don’t even know who she is. Regardless, allow me to delight you with the many — shall I say — unique musings of my favorite Gilmore Girls character, and explain exactly why Paris was not only what the cult-classic show needed, but the feminist icon TV needed, too.

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So let’s start from the beginning. Paris Geller (played by Liza Weil) joined the GG crew in Season 1, right as Rory Gilmore (the show’s sort-of protagonist) walked into Chilton Academy, a private school where Paris was attending, for her first day. A far cry from Rory’s relatively timid and soft-spoken personality, Paris tore up the screen with her high-strung personality and immediate rivalry with Rory (Rory did not feel the same), who Paris viewed as the only candidate who could possibly challenge her spot at the top of the class standing. As the year progresses, the two become friends, which of course Paris still highly questioned.

The rest of their high school experience is plagued with repeated ups and downs, from Paris’s parents’ highly publicized divorce to their joint student government campaign and, most notably, Paris’s C-SPAN meltdown, courtesy of a Harvard rejection fueled by what she can only assume to be wide-spread knowledge that she lost her virginity. Despite losing the Valedictorian slot to Rory (which Paris comes to terms with after finding out Salutatorians tend to be more successful), Paris walks across the graduation stage and accepts her diploma from the school’s headmaster, to which she iconically quips, “no hard feelings.”

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Fast forward to Paris’s first year at Yale, a school she knew Rory was attending but had no intention of ever seeing again. Not to the surprise of Paris’s life coach, the two frenemies were placed together as suitemates, a pairing that ultimately served as a catalyst for lifelong friendship. Throughout college, Paris pursues pre-med and pre-law degrees, joins the Yale Daily News alongside Rory, dates an elderly professor (he passes away, leaving Paris to grieve), moves on with the editor of the Yale Daily News, Doyle McMaster, and potentially saves Rory from abandoning Yale forever by admitting to Lorelai that Rory is the only person who ever listened to her, challenged her and motivated her.

Paris then proceeds to become the editor of the Yale Daily News, a position in which her power-hungry tendencies took full-force, resulting in a forcible resignation, kick Rory out of their shared apartment, let Rory move back into their shared apartment (now with Doyle), be accepted to a slew of prestigious medical and law schools. She ultimately chose to attend med school and break up with Doyle, to which he refused, and tells Rory that they’re on their own but she can still do great things (Of course this doesn’t last, the two are meant to be best friends.)

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Somehow this doesn't even scratch the surface of the character of Paris. As you can tell, Paris is a fiercely loyal, protective woman who fights for herself to no end. She (literally) doesn’t care what other people think (so long as they’re not within her immediate circle) and never stops pursuing her dreams, no matter how many times she probably should have. She is the epitome of feminism in modern television — perhaps taken to an extreme — and serves as a necessary counterweight to Rory’s floundering sense of self.

So long as she keeps her need for perfectionism in check, Paris has one of those few personality types whose wild ambition and outspokenness is directly beneficial to her success, a success that she, and only she, can define. Sure, she has an exaggerated sense of self-importance, but when balanced by Rory’s soft-but-straightforward approach, Paris can quickly reset, reevaluate and move forward.

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That's the thing with Paris — she’s always moving forward. She doesn't get into Harvard? Tough. She takes a few days to wallow before considering her other options: Yale, Columbia and Princeton. She doesn’t know whether to choose med school or law school, so she takes stock of her bearings, reflects on her past dreams, and makes a clear, concise decision that she moves forward with.

Her brutally honest nature (both internally and externally) is exactly why Paris works. She’s generous when needed, comfortable with giving tough (and oftentimes tougher) love, is able to express vulnerability with the people she loves, doesn’t allow outside influences to affect her path and never let’s someone (especially a man) tell her she’s less than (*cough, cough*—Rory). For an early 2000s show, she showed women that there is power in education. There’s power in stepping away from a caretaker role. There’s power in expressing your opinion, no matter your age.

Image via WB

There’s no doubt in my mind that she’s inspired countless women over the years — after all, she’s inspired me! Even though she’s had her controversial moments, she’s always been a cheering voice for women, even if it’s behind her resting grimace. For these reasons, and so many more, I am hereby deeming Paris Geller the best of Gilmore Girls — the heroine, perhaps, and a feminist icon to all.

What's your take on Paris Geller? Let us know in the comments, and sign up for our email newsletter for more pop culture musings!

Header image via Netflix, Warner Bros

This post has been updated.

Gilmore Girlstakes up more of my brain space than I'd care to admit. The show is undeniably great. I mean, there's a reason it's become an absolute cultural phenomenon! The banter is witty and memorable, the Stars Hollow, Connecticut setting is warm and friendly, and the character dynamics feel natural and comforting. All of these elements combined create the perfect comfort show thatI personally rewatch again and again. However, despite having an overall positive opinion of the show, there is one bone I have to pick with it. This grievance makes my blood boil and keeps me tossing and turning at night.

While I can't pose my all-too-important question to the creators of the show, I will ask it to you, reader: Why in the world was Lane Kim's storyline such a travesty? Considering the show is not shy about uplifting and celebrating Rory (despite her many mistakes) it feels especially unfair how short of a stick Lane (played by Keiko Agena) truly got. Here are my unfiltered thoughts on the subject.

Lane deserved better after a life of seeking independence

Photo via WBLane Kim's Treatment On "Gilmore Girls" Is The Ultimate TV Tragedy

Throughout Lane's formative teenage years, she was forced to hide her true identity and interests in order to appease her mother. From hiding CDs in her floorboards and changing her clothes when she got to school, Lane was under a lot of pressure to keep her mom happy, while still trying to figure out who she was. Her mother even kicked her out after finding out about her "secret life," causing Lane to have to move into Rory's dorm. Rory, on the other hand, had a mother who supported her every dream and who she could be fully herself with.

I'm not sure why only one of these two besties got to live out their dreams, but if it did have to play out this way, it should have been Lane Kim. Given how difficult her upbringing was, couldn't the show have given her a win by having *her* be the one who gets to follow her dreams?

Lane's love life is lackluster

Image via Saeed Adyani/Netflix

Once again, the show propped up Rory and gave her not one, not two, but three love interests. Whether or not you love all three of them, we can all admit that each boyfriend was compatible with Rory in their own way, and helped her learn and grow. Lane, however, did not get this. Her first boyfriend, Dave, is great. He's kind and sweet and understanding of her family situation, but the show breaks them up because they can't handle being long-distance. (Technically, we know actor Adam Brody had to leave for The O.C. but where is the justice??!)

After Dave, it all goes downhill from there for poor Lane. She ends up with Zack, who isn't bad but isn't great. And, as soon as Lane is finally getting to pursue her passion by going on tour with her band, she finds out she and Zack are pregnant. Considering how long Lane dreamed of getting to be her authentic herself and openly express her interests, it feels cruel that this twist of fate took it away from her at this exact moment.

Lane made the best of her situation

Image via Neil Jacobs/Netflix

Despite Rory having almost every opportunity available to her, we find out in Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life that she is making bad decisions (like, er, sleeping with an engaged man) and is struggling to find her way. Lane, on the other hand, has made the best out of the cards she's been dealt. She's still married to Zack, is taking care of her twins, and has even kept music in her life by joining a band. I can't help but think if Lane can forge ahead despite all of her unfortunate circumstances, how fantastic could her life have been if the writers had served her just a little bit more good fortune?

Lane could have served as the role model so many girls needed

Image via Saeed Adyani/Netflix

Lane's experience mirrors many Asian-American girls' lives. She had a strict upbringing and struggled to strike a balance between fitting in with her American peers and forming her own identity, while still trying to manage her mother's expectations of who she should be. As an Asian-American, Lane's experiences mirrored many of my own, and, at a time when there was such little Asian representation, this was extremely impactful.

With the lack of representation at the time, it was even more important that Lane was dealt an ending that she and her viewers could be proud of. Instead of turning her into somewhat of a cautionary tale, her story could have been utilized to empower an audience of individuals who saw themselves in her. For that reason, Lane's treatment on Gilmore Girls will never quite sit right with me.

What do you think about Lane Kim's storyline on Gilmore Girls? Let us know in the comments and check out our guide to Where Is The Gilmore Girls Cast Now? to keep up with your favorite Stars Hollow residents (even if they're not in Stars Hollow anymore).

Lead image via Warner Bros

This post has been updated.