Here Are Some Things You Didn’t Know About High Heels

Sep 18, 2014

High-heeled shoes are a beauty statement from the runways to the streets. You name it: pumps, wedges, kitten heels, stilettos… with a little lift of the arch you feel like you own the world. And while we thought we had seen it all in the world of heels, including 3D printed pumps, turns out, we hadn’t. We had yet to see Killer Heels.

The Killer Heels exhibition at the Brooklyn Museum displays a history of heels starting with 16th-century Italian chopines, made of silk and metal…

…Going all the way up to Prada’s 2012 patent leather, wedge sandal in full flame.

This display of swoon-worthy shoes is doing more than making a fashion statement. This style timeline is a way for us to take a look at the impact the high heel has had on culture and fashion. As the museum’s Curator of Exhibitions Lisa Small said, “What people adorn their bodies with is so bound up with personal identity and identity as constructed by the time in which they live.”

Or as Carrie Bradshaw put it, “I decided to rescue my ankles from a life of boredom by purchasing too many pairs of Jimmy Choo shoes.”

By taking the trendy shapes of each time period and then finding their innovative extremes, we can really see how far the boundaries can be pushed. Some of these look nearly unwearable!

At some point, heels became the standard in shoe status, no matter how much they can make our feet ache. Think about it: How often do you see a woman in flats on the red carpet? Heels can make you feel glamorous and confident, but only because at some point in history the public started seeing women in heels as glamorous and confident.

This exhibition sets out to explore that breaking point in addition to comparing heels with other artistic relics of various time periods. If you’re in the NYC area, you can catch the Killer Heels exhibition at the Brooklyn Museum now through February 15, 2015.

Would you wear any of these heel innovations? Let us know in the comments!

(h/t Fast Company)

9 Must-Have Puma Sneakers For Perfect Fall Outfits

Though the hype around certain sneakers like theAdidas Samba and the Onitsuka Tiger is certainly still hot, I urge you to turn your attention to Puma sneakers. From the classic Palermos to suede-clad Easy Riders, Puma’s current sneaker lineup is nothing but comfy and on-trend. They’ve got the perfect neutral shoes and pairs with pops of color to suit your personal style. These 9 Puma sneakers are the absolute must-have silhouettes of the season – scroll on to shop!

Puma

Easy Rider SN Sneakers

I am in love with these cool sneaks. The brown colorway is fall time's BFF, but you can also take them deep into the winter and spring since they really pair well with anything. These shoes are undeniably sporty, thanks to the contrasting side stripes and visible gum sole with tons of traction to support every single step.

Puma

Palermo LaModa Vintage Sneakers

Look at that platform! These boosted shoes look super chic with a medley of materials like suede and mesh. If your looks need a good boost, opt for this pair. You can also shop 'em in bright red and electric blue colorways.

Puma

Suede XL Sneakers

Another playfully chunky silhouette, the Puma Suede XL's boast ultra-wide, vintage-inspired laces and a maximized tongue. These also come in 10 more colorways so you can find your perfect fit! I'd opt for these easy black and white ones, since they'll be easy to match with *all* of my casual fall outfits.

Puma

Palermo Leather Sneakers

An absolute classic, – and some would argue the classic – the Palermo Leather Sneakers boast an easy-to-style low profile, bold side stripes, and suede paneling along the toe box for that familiar, yet unmissable effect. You can currently shop 'em in 4 other colorways, from bright hues to more toned-down nuetrals.

Puma

Suede Trippy Sneakers

The wavy design on these sneakers is everything. The detailed paneling and stitching gives this pair extra 'oomph' that'll definitely turn heads and inspire confidence wherever you go. I thoroughly enjoy the mellow earth tones on these Puma sneakers in particular.

Puma

Scuderia Ferrari Suede Trippy Sneakers

Flaunting Ferrari-esque details within the tongue logo, these suede Puma sneakers are absolutely dripping in curb appeal. The unique rubber outsole stacks a clear layer atop a red color to create an eye-catching effect, plus adds a nice wash of color you can play around with, mixing or matching with your outfits!

Puma

Mayze Brushed Suede Sneakers

Talk about some stacked sneaks. This edgy pair mixes leather and synthetic materials up top, while the contrasting bottoms are made of durable rubber. The Puma logo is stylishly spotted throughout the shoe on the tongue, sides, and soles. These Puma sneakers are the perfect pair to add to your capsule wardrobe since they'll wear well with just about anything – especially if you specialize in nuetrals!

Puma

Suede Classic Sneakers

Colorful shoes like these are the ultimate pair to pull out if your 'fit is lacking a bit of star power. This lapis-blue shoe immediately pulls together any everyday, basic ensemble since the bold color can't be missed! You'll love the comfort of the low-profile silhouette and the sporty look of the side stripes.

Puma

Suede Podium Sneakers

Dotted in blues, yellows, and reds, color takes these what would've been boring sneaks to the next level. The color-switching laces are definitely the star of this shoe, customizing your look beyond compare.

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

Every Shocking Detail You Missed In 'Outer Banks' Season 4 Part 1

Outer Banks Season 4 Part 1 finally brings the cast back to the OBX.
John B., Sarah, Cleo, Pope, Kiara, and JJ are up against the Kooks — and other treasure hunters.
Season 4 feels more grounded and relatable than past seasons, making it a very strong installment.

If you know me, you know I'm a die hard Outer Banks season 1 fan. I binge watched the entire thing with my family in 2020 while quarantining on the real OBX, I joined the Drew Starkey fan club the moment he stepped onscreen, and I was obsessed with JJ and Kiara way before the internet started shipping them. So, needless to say, I've been waiting for Outer Banks season 4 with baited breath — especially when I heard rumors it would focus on JJ (Rudy Pankow) the way previous seasons had focused on John B. (Chase Stokes) in season 1, Pope (Jonathan Daviss) in season 2, and Kiara (Madison Bailey) in season 3.

I think season 1 will always be my favorite, but Outer Banks season 4 part 1 pleasantly surprised me. We're far enough into the show that we really care about the characters, and they have enough history with one another that we're invested in their decisions. Plus, returning to the OBX provided real-world stakes I could relate to as a viewer: family drama, dealing with bullies, and more. No matter whether you really love JJ, or you're always dreaming about your next beach vacation, here's whyOuter Banks season 4 absolutely NEEDS to be your weekend binge. (Serious spoilers ahead!!!)

We're Back On The Outer Banks!

Netflix

FINALLY! After a couple of seasons in the Caribbean and South America, Outer Banks is back, well, on the Outer Banks. Honestly, this automatically makes the season better because it provides a ton of familiarity, nostalgia, and comfort for readers. And it also provides a realistic, grounded aspect to the adventure. Because let's be honest, a group of teens hopping on a tiny plane and taking part in a jungle treasure hunt requires a little too much suspension of disbelief for me. Plus, just like Gossip Girl wouldn't be the same without Blair and Serena hitting up Bergdorf's, a Pogue beach & surfing day just feels right.

The Pogues Open Their Own Shop

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

The first episode of Outer Banks season 4 catches us up on that season 3 time jump. After learning how much money they actually have their hands on, the Pogues move into JJ's old house (renaming it "Poguelandia 2.0"), and open a bait, tackle, and charter shop. While I have a few questions about how six teens literally built a business without the help of a contractor, I love seeing this group lead regular lives. The shop plays into their strengths and allows them to cultivate their relationships in normal settings instead of life-or-death ones. Friendships are made in those boring moments, IMO.

The Pogues And Kooks Are Fighting Again

Netflix

Because so much of Outer Banks season 4 takes place on the OBX, it means John B., Sarah, JJ, Kie, Pope, and Cleo are once again clashing with Topper, Rafe, and the rest of the Kooks. Despite the fact this season features plenty of death-defying stunts, the scene that will stick with me the most is when the Pogues and Kooks wind up at the same beach access.

I audibly gasped when Ruthie, Topper's new girlfriend, plays chicken with the Pogues on the beach, almost hitting Kiara with her Jeep and running over a turtle hatch in the process. (IRL, protecting endangered sea turtles & their hatches are a big deal on the Outer Banks, so this definitely got a visceral reaction from me).

At the end of the day, the major (and arguably, the most painful) conflict of this teen drama is how the Kooks make the Pogues feel like they don't belong anywhere. And if you ask me, exploring this tension and these relationships is where the show truly shines.

The Villains Are Actually Scary

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

That being said, I found the villains this season, Lightner and Dalia, to be way scarier than I expected — especially once Lightner killed Terrance and almost killed Cleo. Every time he showed up onscreen, my heart started pounding like he was chasing me! The thought of being stuck in my bait shop alone with a creepy guy, especially one brandishing a knife? Thank you, next.

The Pogues Are Searching For More Than Blackbeard's Treasure

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

After Outer Banks season 3, the one thing I said I didn't want the show to do was go into supernatural, ghost territory. Turns out, that's exactly where we're going. Wes Genrette and his son-in-law Chandler Groff hire the Pogues to find Blackbeard's treasure, but it doesn't take long for them to realize they're once again in over their heads.

Wes is a direct descendent of Francis Genrette, the man responsible for killing Blackbeard and his wife Elizabeth. Now, Elizabeth haunts every generation of the Genrette family, and once she appears, you don't have long to live. Wes reveals his daughter Larissa (Chandler's late wife) saw Elizabeth a week before she died, and Wes himself has seen her, which means his days are numbered.

Now the Pogues have to find Elizabeth's amulet to break the curse. Their race against Lightner and Dalia brings Pope, Cleo, Sarah, and John B. to Charleston — and leavesPope and Sarah trapped in a crypt as it slowly floods.

Powers At Be Want To Bulldoze The Cut

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

If this show has proven anything, it's that the OBX is far from paradise. This season, some big names are trying to turn The Cut — including Poguelandia 2.0 — into an extension of the wealthier Figure Eight. Things get even more complicated when Hollis, who worked with Ward before he died, wants Rafe to be her financial partner...and then gets his girlfriend Sofia to convince him to sign her contract.

Rafe Could Actually Be Getting A Redemption Arc

Netflix

Drew Starkey admitted after season 1 that he didn't care whether Rafe got a redemption arc, and I agreed at the time. I found the idea of Rafe, who was so driven to please his father he'd literally murder for him, incredibly compelling. Plus, he's been the ringleader of the War on Pogues this whole time, so suddenly making him sympathetic towards them felt like backtracking on his character.

But now that I've seen him with Sofia, the romantic in me is kicking her feet and giggling.

Rafe still has his moments (like saying he'd never date a Pogue after finding out Sofia was from The Cut), but for better or worse, Sofia brings out the best in him. And in the aftermath of Ward's death, and his ultimate wish that Sarah and Rafe would make up, feeling sympathy for the Pogues might be Rafe's way of staying loyal to his dad.

I just want to know how Rafe is going to respond when he finds out Sofia overheard his comments about never dating a Pogue...and then tricked him into signing Hollis' contract. Messy, messy.

Luke Is Back

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

After JJ & Kiara said goodbye to JJ's dad Luke in Outer Banks season 2, he's been totally off the grid. Except, apparently, he hasn't? JJ learns Luke is back when he visits Barracuda Mike, but the father-son bonding quickly takes a turn for the crazy when Luke drops a piece of news that changes everything: he isn't JJ's biological father. Chandler Groff is.

JJ Has Actually Been A Kook This Whole Time

Netflix

JJ's entire character is based around the fact he's proud to be a Pogue. He hates the Kooks and everything they stand for, which is why when Luke reveals he isn't JJ's biological father, and that JJ is related to the Groff/Genrette clan, it totally sends JJ into orbit.

This Kook identity is something he's been running from the entire series — even before Kie had to reassure him that finding the gold didn't make them Kooks — and he's going to have to do some serious soul searching to figure out who he actually is now.

I was wholly sold on the theory Outer Banks 4 would reveal JJ and Sarah were siblings, but this is a pretty good alternative. And who knows? Maybe they're cousins. Fingers crossed JJ doesn't get a deadly visit from Elizabeth's ghost in part 2...

What did you think about Outer Banks season 4 part 1? Check out 9 Insane Outer Banks Theories That Would Totally Change The Show for more while you wait for part 2!

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12 Comfy Fall Ankle Boots To Refresh Your Footwear Game

I'm at my most powerful in a pair of boots. From riding boots to knee-high styles, I feel ready to hit the streets in style. Boots are the ultimate shoe to rock for fall time, and these ankle boots prove it. From moto-inspired pairs to Western steppers, these fall ankle boots add some serious flair to whatever you're wearing this season. Scroll ahead for 12 comfy and cute (and totally must-have) pairs!

Target

Universal Thread Jacey Western Ankle Boots

These faux-suede boots are undeniably cowgirl-esque, and will wear perfectly alongside some bootcut jeans and a cozy top!

DSW

Journee Collection Haylinn Boot

Dark red is *the* color to wear right now. Dress totally on-trend with these adorably sleek and seamless fall ankle boots for a playful pop!

Tecovas

Tecovas The Stella Boot

Black wears well with everything, but why opt for a basic silhouette? These pointy ankle boots with Western embroidered details will certainly have heads turning.

Target

Universal Thread Connor Harness Buckle Ankle Boots

The silver rings and hardware on these dark brown ankle boots bring the perfect amount of edge! Show them off alongside a denim mini skirt or choose to pair them with long jeans – either way, you'll be stepping in style.

Rothy's

Rothy's The Lug Boot

Rothy's classic comfort comes to these ankle boots through the plush sole and flexible outer fabric. They wear like a dream and come in this chic light brown or a black colorway to rock with all your favorite fall 'fits.

Free People

Dr. Martens Anistone Lo Boots

These durable Dr. Martens ankle boots boast some truly biker-inspired details, from the distinctive yellow stitching to the studded loops up top.

SeaVees

SeaVees Bolinas Off Shore Boot

You can take these ankle boots anywhere this fall, since they're totally waterproof. They'll stand up to any wear and tear with utter style, plus this deep green color shakes things up a bit from the expected browns and blacks!

DSW

Baretraps Honee Boot

I think these are the perfect fall ankle boots. The rounded toe, chunky heel, and unique strappy design along the top provide the ideal amount of flair, all while being perfectly practical to walk miles.

Target

Universal Thread Ashely Low Block Ankle Boots

These are the wear-with-everything boots. The shiny black finish elevates any fall ensemble super easily, and each step will be supported nicely by the large block heel along the back.

Free People

Jasper Hiker Ankle Boots

Somewhere between a loafer and a boot, these fall ankle boots were born. The contrasting stitching that surrounds the shoe is so cute, and you get even more pop from the color-dotted laces. The chunky soles balance out the look while still being very practical for hitting the pavement!

Tecovas

Tecovas The Dakota Boot

Belted boots? I'm so into it! These sturdy ankle boots from Tecovas are crafted with high-quality cowhide leather to last your looks years and years.

Anthropologie

Silent D Naydo Heeled Ankle Boots

For an eye-catching footwear look, these white boots don't disappoint. The stacked heel gives you a good boost in height to literally take your fall outfits to the next level.

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

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The Best Liquid Eyeliners To Combat Sweat, Tears, & Smearing

Some of us have sensitive tear ducts that seem to get triggered if the wind blows a little too hard — which can make it so tough for those of us who love a good liquid eyeliner. Suddenly, you look like you were just sobbing about a breakup, when in reality your allergies just got the best of you, leaving streaks of eyeliner and mascara.

However, it IS possible to find the best liquid eyeliner to wear that's long-lasting, waterproof, and perfectly pigmented. Skip the hard-to-grip and smudgy products for these 7 incredible options I found. Trust, you'll barely have to reapply them throughout the day, leaving your makeup flawless for hours and hours!

The Best Liquid Eyeliner Ever!

Target

e.l.f. Expert Liquid Eyeliner (Set of 2)

This is virtually unheard of, but this is probably the best liquid eyeliner you're ever going to wear. 88% of Target's customers recommend it, feeling you're getting the best quality for your money. Though it doesn't have the highest long-lasting rating, it still gets the job done when wearers need it to.

What are customers saying about it?

e.l.f. Cosmetics

From Target:

"i got this eyeliner like a few months ago and let me tell you its the best eyeliner I've ever got, its so easy to apply and good for beginners and STAYS ALL DAY."
"goes on easily and dries with no cracks to create a flawless look"
"I've used this liquid eyeliner for years- really can't beat the price!"

From e.l.f. Cosmetics:

"It's a good liner but it does fade after about four hours so you have to touch it up."
"It's a great eyeliner especially for hooded eyes."
"I have tried many and these just seem to stay put and stay smooth for a long time over so many other brands."

Amazon

NYX Epic Ink Liner

There's a reason why this is considered the best liquid eyeliner on Amazon. It's the overall pick as it's been purchased over 30,000 times and has a 4.5 rating! Also, Amazon noted it's something most customers keep which speaks volumes. So, what makes it so great?

It's a matte, waterproof formula that's going to give you a long-lasting effect and it has a super short precision tip to make your lines look on point. Whether you're going for a cat-eye look or something to complete your Halloween costume, this is your best bet!

Other Popular Liquid Eyeliners

Amazon

Maybelline Hyper Easy Liquid Pen No-Skip Eyeliner

Aside from NYX's Epic Ink Liner, Maybelline's liquid eyeliner is another popular pick on Amazon. It has a similar precise tip that ensures it'll glide on easily — even if your hand isn't the steadiest. It's also hooded eye-friendly (IYKYK) which should bring a sigh of relief to anyone who's tired of seeing smudged eye makeup.

Amazon

Stila Deluxe Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner

This Stila waterproof liquid eyeliner is perfect for all-day wear! You can create so many looks, from lightly outlining your eyes to packing on the drama. Plus, Amazon customers love how this eyeliner allows them to get "super smooth, fine lines" with "no smudging or bleeding." Incredible!

Sephora

Glossier Pro Tip

Can I get a little commotion for his vegan liquid eyeliner? It's totally gonna become another beauty staple soon. It's easy to use and has a buildable formula that doesn't waste time drying. Did I mention it's also long-lasting? In the words of my favorite social media sound, "You better get one of these!"

Sephora

Anastasia Beverly Hills Waterproof Matte Liquid Eyeliner

It seems like the top-rated liquid eyeliners have one thing in common: they're waterproof. And this option from Anastasia Beverly Hills is no exception to that! Plus, this one claims to be highly-pigmented — which doesn't seem like a reach if you know how good Anastasia Beverly Hills' products are.

P.S. There's no parabens, phthalates, or mineral oils in it.

Sephora

One/Size by Patrick Starr Point Made Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner

Rounding this list out is this amazingly vegan liquid eyeliner by One/Size! I've already made a case for their setting spray so it doesn't surprise me that this makes other customers happy too. It glides on super smooth and fits comfortably in your hand so you won't experience a classic case of butter fingers when applying it.

It's also free of the following:

Parabens
Formaldehydes
Formaldehyde-releasing agents
Phthalates
Mineral oil
Retinyl palmitate
Oxybenzone
Coal tar
Hydroquinone
Triclocarban
Triclosan

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

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24 Craveable Chocolate Cake Recipes For Every Occasion

How is your day going? We bet a bit of chocolate cake would make it better — like, way better. And if a bit makes it better, then for good measure, let’s up the stakes to 24 different and divine chocolate cakes and just have a ball. From classic layered numbers to waffle cake masterpieces, we’ve got all your chocolate cake dreams covered. Tie back your hair, and let’s get to baking!

Sarah Anderson

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

chocolate comfort food recipes dessert recipes recipe roundup vegetarian recipes food

Here Are Some Things You Didn’t Know About High Heels

​We're Back On The Outer Banks!

​The Pogues Open Their Own Shop

​The Pogues And Kooks Are Fighting Again

​The Villains Are Actually Scary

​The Pogues Are Searching For More Than Blackbeard's Treasure

​Powers At Be Want To Bulldoze The Cut

​Rafe Could Actually Be Getting A Redemption Arc

​Luke Is Back

JJ Has Actually Been A Kook This Whole Time

The Best Liquid Eyeliner Ever!

What are customers saying about it?

Other Popular Liquid Eyeliners

We're Back On The Outer Banks!

The Pogues Open Their Own Shop

The Pogues And Kooks Are Fighting Again

The Villains Are Actually Scary

The Pogues Are Searching For More Than Blackbeard's Treasure

Powers At Be Want To Bulldoze The Cut

Rafe Could Actually Be Getting A Redemption Arc

Luke Is Back