8 Ways to Live the Last Days of Senior Year like the Laguna Beach Cast

Although Laguna Beach: The Real Orange County may be 10 years old (WHERE DID THE TIME GO?!), some of the castmates have reached dream-BFF status, remaining in our lives this whole decade. (Hey, Lauren <3) Just because it’s been a decade since the show debuted, giving us a peek into the lives of the OC seniors doesn’t mean the LBHS crew’s shenanigans aren’t still relevant for today’s seniors (uhhhh, and us post-grads) to recreate. It’s time to make the final high school countdown a memorable one before you pick up that diploma, making it officially “dunzo.”

1. A Black + White Affair: The hotel party that kicked off the entire series is totally as suitable for a theme today as it was back in 2004. Just like Taylor Swift (and this reality show), black and white “never go out. of. styyyyyle.” Book a room (or an Airbnb), invite your gals + guys — leaving some space for the “We forgot yous,” right, Morgan? — set a dress code and get ready for an unforgettable shindig to say bye.

2. Beach Bonfire: Every high school clique has traditions, and this West Coast gang’s was a beach bonfire on the reg. If you live near the shoreline you’ve also probably hit the sand and started a bonfire more than a few times too. And if not, graduation is right around the corner, so what are you waiting for?! Have no fear, landlocked friends, as you can improvise with a fire pit, some DIY shirts and s’mores for the same effect ;)

3. Take a Trip: Throughout the series, the group of friends took various vacations. Because high school is stressful, okay? Some of the most memorable, though, were Cabo for spring break (“What happens in Cabo stays in Cabo,” and don’t you forget it), Christina auditioning for Wicked in NYC and camping on Catalina where Stephen dressed up as a bear. Make your own memories with your besties by picking a spot for the weekend to enjoy each other’s company for one last weekend of bonding.

4. Promposal: Before you work it in a cap and gown, a night of dancing comes first. Shoot your partner the LB group’s promposals so they have an idea of how to ask the big “Will you go to prom with me?” question correctly. Then pick out the perfect dress, organize a limo, attach a unique boutonniere on your date, take plenty of pictures and have the night of your high school life with the class of [insert your grad year here], because graduation is right around the corner.

5. 18 Candles: A lot of the Laguna Beach cast turned 18 during the series’ first season, and you future high school grads are most likely there also. Since one themed party won’t be enough for the year you turn the big 1-8, your bday is the perfect reason to go all out again. Other than impressing all your buds with a far-out theme, delectable food + bevs and a sick location, make this electric candle to blow out your cake and their minds.

6. Bands, Concerts + Festivals! Oh, My!: While it’s sad to realize Blink-182 isn’t still around to actually recreate the concert scene from the show, there are countless other options for you to enjoy some live music with your friends before parting ways come summer or fall. Coachella may have passed, but there are so many more choices (that are actually affordable) besides the celeb-favorite fest. Check out the lineups and get your road trip on for one final hurrah.

7. Make aVideo Yearbook: Yeah, you can purchase the physical yearbook your school puts out, but why not go the Laguna route and make a personal video with your friends that you can look back on and watch at your 10-year reunion together? Just like Lauren, Stephen, Lo, Trey, et al did, share your hopes and dreams for your futures and your fave memories over the past four years. It will totally make you tear up now and in a decade.

8. The “First to Go” Party: No one ever really wants to be the first of the friend group to head off to college, but someone’s gotta be #1. Before that happens, get all of your friends together one last time before moving into the dorms with a backyard BBQ — accessorized with tie dye placemats + cornhole — so you can guarantee a side of fun with those tears.

Bonus: If all of those Laguna traditions don’t satisfy your group’s final months of bonding calendar, try throwing a fashion show a la Stephen, Trey and Dieter, or whip up some dinner with your bestie and SOs like Kristin and Jessica.

Now do yourself a favor and binge watch LC + Co’s senior year immediately.

How would you recreate Laguna Beach for your final days of high school? Let us know in the comments.

(Featured photo via Michael Muller/MTV)

The first time Lauren Conrad appeared on my TV screen, I immediately liked her. My friend and I watched countless episodes of Laguna Beach to keep up with her life, and when that wasn't enough, we watched her navigate internships for Teen Vogue and Kelly Cutrone's PR company onThe Hills. She was the ultimate definition of career goals, and while I may not be working in the fashion industry per say, I can proudly say LC's inspo definitely lead me to my media career.

This — among other reasons — is why she's forever cemented in my mind as one of the OG definitions of an "It" Girl. If you grew up with LC like I did, you saw her release books, drop epic collections at Kohl's, and introduce a home collection. Throughout it all, here's what made me admire her, from day one.

Lauren's "It" Girl Factor Stood Out On "Laguna Beach"

Photo by Scott Gries/Getty Images

From the moment Lauren began narrating Laguna Beach, I was drawn to her. At the time, it seemed like she had the sort of confidence that most popular girls were be born with. I was barely a pre-teen when Season 1 premiered, so my perception of confidence was skewed back then. Still, I admired the way she seemed to speak with authority without being blatantly aggressive.

Today, I can of course pinpoint moments where she was actually being passive-aggressive and my opinions are a little different. But, I would never badmouth her for not being this perfect teenager who had cameras in her face. She stood up for herself — something many young woman (myself included) could stand to learn.

Her Internship At "Teen Vogue" Was Inspirational

Photo by Scott Gries/Getty Images

I didn't know a fashion career was even remotely attainable until Lauren Conrad landed her internship at Teen Vogue. She's literally the reason I begged my mom to buy The Teen Vogue Handbook: An Insiders Guide to Careers in Fashion. It didn't matter that she wasn't writing groundbreaking articles throughout the internship — merely seeing her show up to do the tasks required of her made me want to do whatever it took to land my own internship at Teen Vogue.

While that didn't happen either, I can say I was fortunate to attend Teen Vogue's Fashion U in 2015. It was my first time in NY, and I felt that much closer to my very own fashion journalism career. Silly as it may sound to some, but Lauren's internship paved the way for the younger, much more impressionable version of myself. I guess you can say that crazy amount of hope I had is paying off — I'm writing this article, aren't I? 😉

She Became A Multi-Faceted Bestselling Author

Photo by Slaven Vlasic/Getty Images

After The Hills, Lauren Conrad set her sights on becoming a published author. She could've easily chosen to step away from the spotlight, but she decided to take her career into her own hands. She wrote both fiction and lifestyle books that not only solidified her pen game, but solidified the beginning of her empire. I vividly remember borrowing my best friend's copies of L.A. Candy and Sweet Little Lies. Aside from them, Lauren went on to write the following:

Fiction

Lifestyle

Lauren Conrad Partnered With Kohl's To Create Her Own Affordable Label

Photo by Cindy Ord/Getty Images for Kohl's

When Lauren Conrad announced she was partnering with Kohl's to create her own label, there was no doubt in my mind that this "It" Girl was a force to be reckoned with. Not only are her clothes affordable, but the pieces can easily be incorporated in your existing wardrobe. Public figures announce a clothing lines left and right, but it's another feat for them to create something that's actually relatable and affordable.

Whenever I visit Kohl's, I always make a beeline to her collection to see what I can find. It's to the point where my mom doesn't bat an eye if she's with me because she just knows how I feel about Lauren Conrad.

She cCreated The Little Market With Her BFF Hannah Skvarla

Photo by Rachel Murray/Getty Images for The Little Market

The Little Market proves that Lauren Conrad and Hannah Skvarla are BFF goals. They joined forces to create a successful wholesale business that's been thriving since 2013. That's 10 years of working side-by-side to highlight handcrafted items from home decor to accessories. The best part of it all? The Little Market focuses on ethical pieces and supporting thoughtful causes and intiatives.

She's Embracing Her Marriage To William Tell

Photo by Larry Busacca/Getty Images for PMK*BNC

While I'm sure her marriage isn't perfect, I still admire the way Lauren Conrad has embraced it in the public eye. After meeting William Tell in 2012 on a blind date, she married him two years later — potential proof that love at first sight does exist. The two seem to support each other, providing a strong structure for their little family.

Honestly, it doesn't matter who I used to root for her to be with during Laguna Beach and The Hills. I'm happy she's with the person she truly wants to be with. And yes, I have filed Lauren and William's love story to the top of my Roman Empire list.

I think what really solidifies Lauren Conrad's status as an OG "It" Girl is the way she's expanded her career. She went from being a teen embroiled in drama to a successful entrepreneur over the course of a decade, and I think that's worth applauding. I may not talk about her as much as I used to, but Lauren will always be one of my sources of inspiration.

It's nice to be at a point where I can recognize the influence of others. Now that I think about it, I guess she counts as one of the first influencers, too — TikTok dances not included. 😘

How do you feel about Lauren Conrad being considered an "It Girl?" Share your comments below and follow the conversation on Facebook!

Lead image via Cindy Ord/Getty Images for Kohl's

Summer rom-coms are so back! A24 confirmed on March 4 that Celine Song's Materialists, starring Dakota Johnson, Chris Evans, and Pedro Pascal, is coming to theaters this June and I cannot contain my excitement. The new movie follows a matchmaker (Dakota) who finds herself torn between two romantic prospects. If that's too dramatic for you, girl, I'd be happy to take your place.

Here's the latest update on Materialists starring Dakota Johnson, Chris Evans, and Pedro Pascal.

Watch the 'Materialists' trailer now.

I watched the Materialists trailer four times before writing this because I just couldn't stop soaking it in — and I didn't want to miss a single detail. Of course, we get the story of Lucy (Dakota Johnson) a matchmaker, who finds herself torn between the perfect man (Pedro Pascal) and her ex (Chris Evans), who's still dreaming of "wrinkles and children that look like you," a line that will be playing in my head on REPEAT because OH MY GOSH.

But just like director Celine Song's acclaimed Past Lives, every single detail of the movie translates the emotion in the story. Dakota Johnson has an effervescent grace and masters the screen every time we see her, while Pedro and Chris don't even have to open their mouths to break my heart; their eyes say it all. The color grade and film quality are soft and romantic, which totally matches the delicate situation this trio finds themselves in; both men fall for Lucy and it looks like our matchmaker has to figure out how to avoid breaking anyone's heart — including her own. "Delicate" by Taylor Swift, anyone?

But overall, the movie teases that sometimes, there are no bad decisions, just really hard ones. And if I got all that from the Materialists trailer, I can't wait to see the full movie...even if it's going to be totally devastating. And I have a feeling I'm going to be seeing it more than once.

Is Materialists out yet?

Materialists will premiere in theaters June 13, 2025. After Past Lives became THE summer movie in 2023 (and absolutely wrecked my roommates), I know Materialists is going to be the perfect June watch.

What is the plot of Materialists?

The movie follows Dakota Johnson's character, a matchmaker in New York City who falls for the perfect man, but can't seem to let go of her ex. Given the fact the first poster for the movie includes "save the date" and looks like a wedding cake, I'm wondering if we'll see all three characters cross paths at a wedding...

Who's in the Materialists cast?

The Materialists cast has some incredible names leading the movie, and when I asked Dakota Johnson about working with Pedro Pascal and Chris Evans, she teased how much she enjoyed working with them. "They're both big idiots and I love them," she told Brit + Co exclusively at her Daddio premiere. Here's a breakdown of their roles:

  • Dakota Johnson as Lucy: a perpetually single matchmaker who finds herself torn between the perfect man and her ex.
  • Chris Evans as John: Lucy's ex who hasn't been able to let her go.
  • Pedro Pascal as Randy: a handsome stranger who changes Lucy's life forever.

Where was Materialists filmed?

Materialists was announced in February of 2024, and filming began around New York City by April. Filming wrapped in June.

I love spring and summer shoots because the movie's going to have so much life and energy in every single shot. Plus Dakota's sundresses are totally giving Brooklyn gal — and I'm dreaming of prancing around the city in a dress as soon as the weather warms up!

Are you as excited for Materialists as I am? Let us know your favorite rom-coms in the comments and check out the latest news on Madelyn Cline's new romance movie for more!

Alright, let's get grounded, loves! ✨ This week's tarot reading kicks off by tuning us back into Mother Earth, especially with those seasonal vibes in full swing. Think of it: as the world around us shifts, so are we, darlings! It's all about recognizing that deep-rooted connection – we're part of this planet, after all, and underestimating that link is a no-go. The big takeaway? Change is coming, whether you're waving hello or hiding under the covers. But trust us, leaning into it is where the magic happens and things flow so much easier. We're talking subtle "micro tweaks" in your everyday, prompting a little soul-searching about what this new season means for you. What are you ready to switch up? What's staying? Just remember, it's a gradual glow-up, not an overnight makeover. Tapping into that holistic connection with the Earth? That's your secret sauce for ease, purpose, and all-around good vibes. It's all about feeling connected, finding your purpose, soaking up the joy, and bringing it all together. You've got this — so let's get into your tarot reading!

Scroll to see your weekly tarot reading for March 17-23!

Page of Cups:

Okay, first up in our cosmic download is the dreamy Page of Cups! This card is all about tapping into your inner confidence and those sweet, sweet feelings. Think of it as your permission slip to chase what your heart desires – as long as you're not stepping on anyone's toes (including your own!), and honestly, who cares what anyone else thinks? The adorable fish in the cup? That's the universe dropping unexpected opportunities right in your lap when you're just being your authentic self and following your joy. Yes, effort and intention are still part of the equation, but aligning with what lights you up can seriously unlock some magical joy, abundance, freedom, and peace vibes. This week, let's make it a mission to pump up that passion and confidence within ourselves so we're living a life that truly feels like us.

The Moon:

The next card is the mystical Moon! This one's all about those shifting phases, telling us that the change we've been craving? It's practically here this week! But heads up, babes, it's gonna require a healthy dose of self-trust and building up that inner confidence to actually create and welcome it. The Moon also shines a light on that little flutter of fear that can pop up with the unknown – totally normal! But the cosmos is reminding us that change is already happening all around, just like the moon's cycles and the Earth's seasons. To really ride this wave, we gotta get cozy with being uncomfortable. Remember that power mantra: "nothing changes if nothing changes"? It's your reminder that you've got the power to shape your own path, and that means embracing the new. The reading also nudges us to get super clear on who we are and what we truly want, because floating around without direction? Not the vibe. Implementing changes, whether they're big leaps or tiny tweaks, that align with our most confident and brave selves – guided by those amazing feelings, that spark of excitement, pure joy, and that inner soul voice? That's the secret sauce for unlocking some serious ease.

The Hanged Man:

Okay, last but definitely not least in our reading is the intriguing Hanged Man! Now, this card is all about that "in-between" space – you know, that transitional period where you might feel a little paused or even stuck, even though things are moving behind the scenes. But don't fret, darling! This card is actually encouraging you to embrace that pause, like a cosmic red light giving you a chance to check your internal GPS before hitting the gas again. Think of it as a moment for contentment, practicing patience, and even a chance to tweak your direction if needed. The Hanged Man is your gentle reminder that big changes take time, so don't stress if you're not seeing instant results. This phase is all about trusting the universe's timing and understanding that you're in a transition, moving from point A to point B. So, even if it feels a little slow, know that momentum is building! Use this time to your advantage – optimize, check in with your soul self, and follow those little breadcrumbs of joy, excitement, and curiosity. You're exactly where you need to be right now!

Watch Your Full Weekly Tarot Reading Here!

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Come back next week for another reading! Until next time! ✨

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The best romance books know how to transport us to worlds where unexpected love and second chances exist. They also find a way to make "cheesy" meet-cutes and dialogue feel like the adult version of our favorite Disney stories. Think Cinderella meets Bridget Jones' Diary.

We already know it's a given that BookTok creators are always looking for their next fix in this genre, so we've got 15 new reads they'll be ready to devour. The plus side of this is that you get first dibs on the picks you think your bookshelf's eager to make space for!

Scroll for the best new romance books that are poised to become instant favorites!

Amazon

Wild and Wrangled by Lyla Sage (April 15, 2025)

Camille Ashwood's a planner who thought getting married would solve the problems she's faced in Meadowlark, Wyoming. But she faces heartbreak on the day of her wedding and it leaves her stranded. Desperate to find somewhere to stay, the only prospect she finds is an idyllic home that comes with the last person she wants to see.
The neighbor she'll be living next to is none other than Dusty Tucker, a former flame she's rather not cross paths with. All she can think about is how he broke her heart, but Dusty's determined to prove he's changed.
Somewhere along the lines, familiar feelings begin to show which leaves these two lovebirds with two choices: confront their pasts or walk away from each other for good.

Amazon

Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry (April 22, 2025)

The only thing Alice Scott and Hayden Anderson have in common are being handpicked by the elusive Margaret Ives for a special project. The ultimate prize is securing the right to pen a biography that's sure to be on everyone's lips. Alice can't ignore how unsteady Hayden's gaze makes her, but she's convinced she has more to lose than he does. Also, Margaret isn't telling her story in order so it leaves both writers confused about how to best proceed with their work.
By the end of it, someone will have possible fallen in love or lost out on an opportunity of a lifetime.

Amazon

Gold Coast Dilemma by Nana Malone (April 29, 2025)

Despite Ofosua Addo and Cole Drake's spicy meet-cute, they're romance is all but forbidden for two reasons. One, Ofosua's an heiress whose burdened by tradition and she's supposed to be getting married to someone else. But all of this changes when the lavish wedding meant for her becomes an absolute nightmare.
Between her broken heart and soul-searching, Ofosua and Cole collide once again. Only this time, things are different which may or may not come with a lack of support that could threaten to destroy everything they feel.

Amazon

The Last Sunrise by Anna Todd (May 6, 2025)

Oria Pera's world is shaken in the best way when she and her mom have to temporarily relocate to Majorca for the summer. For her, it's the start of something promising even as she dealings with the health that's kept her under her mother's watchful eyes.

Against her mother's wishes, she ventures to the beach and becomes acquainted with one of the sexiest men she's ever met. Julián has a way of reminding Ry of everything she doesn't know, but that doesn't stop her for falling for him.

Somewhere along the lines, Ry will discover what it means to truly live for the first time in life.

Amazon

Can't Get Enough by Kennedy Ryan (May 13, 2025)

Hendrix Barry is the "rich auntie" Gen Z talks about online. She's a successful entrepreneur who has the love of her friends and family. Plus, she's enjoying a kid-free existence. But she still has problems that involve being a caretaker for one of her parents. This leaves no room for frivolous love as far as she's concerned.

But tech mogul Maverick Bell's making her second-guess her rules because he's sexy and has "do not pass go" written all over him. He's precisely the man that makes Hendrix swoon and it's every reason she feels she should stay away from him...except he doesn't want to leave her alone.

Amazon

What Will People Think by Sara Hamdan (May 20, 2025)

Mia Almas splits her time between working in the media and telling jokes at clubs in NYC. She's afraid to live life on her terms, but she knows how she feels when she's on stage. When she and her boss' love affair heats up, so does Mia's jokes that shine a glaring spotlight on what she's been doing.
Afraid of what her Palestinian-American family will think, Mia works overtime to "fix" things. However, this opens the door to a hidden truth her family's been trying to keep buried.

Amazon

It's a Love Story by Annabel Monaghan (May 27, 2025)

Jane Jackson's gone from the awkward teen on everyone's most-watched TV series to setting her sights on becoming one of Hollywood's well-respected executives. With her faux bravado intact, her potential idea catches the attention of the right people. But the catch is she'll have to talk to Jack Quinlan after making a huge promise about securing him for her movie. Never mind the fact she's lost contact with him.

Between cinematograper Dan Finnegan's taunting and the impending doom she's feeling about reaching out to Jack, Jane may find love for someone unexpected is housed under her nerves.

Amazon

Battle of the Bookstores by Ali Brady (June 3, 2025)

Josie Klein and Ryan Lawson both manage bookstores, but they've never had a reason to have a conversation. This suddenly changes when a new owner acquires both locations and decides on a merger deal that brings their opposing book worlds together. The catch is that only one of them will be allowed to stay based on their performance.
Josie and Ryan immediately clash on everything except the burning passion simmering between them. Turning to a chat room, they find comfort in anonymous people and it's hilarious they're unaware they're confiding in each other.
In the midst of a clear divide offline, Josie and Ryan will find love "in a hopeless place."

Amazon

Writing Mr. Rightby Alina Khawaja (June 10, 2025)

Ziya Khan knows she doesn't want to be a secretary for the rest of her life, so she burns the midnight oil to create the universes she dreams about. Unfortunately, one too many passive-aggressive letters passing on her writing causes her to give up.

The result of this is a sexy man named Aashiq who seeks to help her take control of her life and pick up her pen again. It's all fun and games until Ziya starts falling in love while realizing Aashiq's fading into obscurity the more things start going her way.

Can she somehow keep both her creative streak and the man who's seemingly materialized out of thin air?

Amazon

Love, Coffee & Revolution by Stefanie Leder (June 10, 2025)

Dee Blum's a senior in college, but she doesn't feel enthusiastic about her future. All she wants to do is leave her current path behind and is surprised when she secures a role putting together eco-tours in Costa Rica. Promptly abandoning her studies, she eagerly starts her activist journey.
But she begins to experience fear when she realizes she's never experienced life like this or held the attention of two sexy men. Adrián provides a dash of adventure, but doesn't align with her politically. On the other hand, Matías has travelled the world and is able to hold her interests in more ways than one.
Then there's the work Dee is doing. In a heartbreaking reveal, she learns exploitation is taking place and puts her life on the line to uncover how far-reaching it is. Between this and romance, she's being pulled in different directions that will have lasting effects no matter what happens.

Amazon

Work Nights by Erica Peplin (June 17, 2025)

Jane Grabowski works a typical 9-5 that leaves her feeling uninspired. She may live in the city "where dreams are made of," but she feels like another drone save for the sexy intern that makes her days brighter. There's one issue: Madeline's apprehensive about getting close to Jane.
With a little but of perseverance, Jane finds ways to help Madeline let down her guard. However, Jane's roommate is sure there's someone better for her which is how Jane meets the ready and willing Addy.
Though she knows being involved with Addy won't involve a game of chase, Jane's still drawn to Madeline and begins making decisions that will end with someone's heart being broken.

Amazon

Total Dreamboat by Katelyn Doyle (June 24, 2025)

Hope Lanover's life has turned into a hot mess, but that's nothing a trip planned by her best friend can't solve. Too bad Hope could care less for the cruise they're going on. Ironically, chef Felix Segrave is also thrown for a loop when his parents believe he and his sister deserve a vacation too.
Initially feeling tortured, Hope and Felix are smitten as soon as they spot each other. They know there's chemistry between them, but old hangups explode in their face and leave them left with no choice but to form an alliance that'll save them.
Who knows, they may even fall in love.

Amazon

How Freaking Romantic by Emily Harding (July 1, 2025)

Beatrice Nilsson's reasons to be eternally pissed off have piled up, but she finds ways to channel her frustrations. Everyone in her life can count of her to be a great source of support, but it's obvious she doesn't shower herself with the same attention. Nevertheless, going to task as her best friend experiences a terrible divorce pushes that thought aside.
This is precisely how she finds herself in Nathan Asher's office. Though he's clearly the enemy by being the lawyer of her bestie's ex-husband, Beatrice can't find the willpower to dislike him forever. Every time she tries, she finds herself daydreaming about what falling in love would feel like. But that's also the problem. Is she going to put herself first this time or remain the side character while everyone else gets the life they want?

Amazon

How to Sell a Romanceby Alexa Martin (July 15, 2025)

Kindergarten teacher Emerson Pierce is so desparate for a boost of income that she turns to selling beauty via Petunia Lemon. It sounds like a pyramid scheme disaster waiting to happen, but she'll do anything to survive. Sadly for her, investigative reporter Lucas Miller is on a mission to bring the company down. His mission's personal because it led to his abrupt divorce, but a chance meeting with Emerson clouds his judgement.
In a strange twist, the two discover Lucas' daughter is one of Emerson's students which brings any passion they felt to a halt. But Petunia Lemon's sneaky and it's up to them to uncover its harmful practices...if they can stay focused and out of love.

Amazon

Moderation by Elaine Castillo (August 5, 2025)

Girlie Delmundo moderates content for a living and her precision's helped land her a promotion. Next up is the world of virtual reality where she has the potential to drive forward a new way people communicate. She may alone more often than not, but she's finally experiencing financial stability.

The only thing she doesn't have control over is William Cheung's past and the way her heart beats for him. He may be a Chief Produce Officer, but she's about to find out how one's title doesn't indicate where their future will take them.

While you wait for your pre-order books to arrive, revisit the dark romance novels we can't stop reading!

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