Lauren Conrad’s DIY Halloween Costume Would Make Ariel Jealous

Like a lot of us here at Brit HQ, Lauren Conrad started planning her Halloween costume early and to our delight, started dropping hints as to what she would be soon after. So when the former reality star posted a photo of a cluster of seashells to her Instagram a few weeks ago with the caption “Working on my Halloween costume,” we had a strong suspicion as to what that meant: we were due for a DIY mermaid costume. It turns out, we were right. Yesterday, Lauren Conrad revealed the handmade look on her website, and even though we called it, we had no idea it would basically be mermaid couture.

Lauren cut no corners when it came to her Halloween look. Besides hacking a seashell-covered strapless bustier by hot glueing each starfish and scallop shell perfectly in place, Lo also hand-sewed a high-waisted mermaid maxi out of teal green sequins and ocean blue tulle, which was used to create a head-turning tail train. We’ve gotta hand it to LC — a gal whose love of all-things Halloween + handmade is about as strong as ours — the final result would make any hipster Ariel jealous. Click over to laurenconrad.com with your sewing know-how to follow the eight-step tutorial. We’ll let Lo guide you through the DIY costume, but we’ll step in when it comes to the Pinterest-perfect mermaid hair + makeup.

Are you going as a mermaid for Halloween this year? Did you buy or DIY the costume? Tell us about your plans in the comments below.

(Photo: yoni goldberg for laurenconrad.com)

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

Swimwear trends come and go, but there are some from the past that truly live in our minds rent-free. There are several styles that we’re honestly glad to see gone from the beach, whether it’s due to unflattering fits or impractical fabrics. We’re definitely guilty of wearing a few of these 7 “old fashioned" swimwear trends back in the day, but nothing compares to the designs we can shop today.

These are 7 bygone swimwear trends that have faded into fashion history – take a look at the styles you rarely see anymore!

1. Crochet Bikinis

Free People

It's Now Cool The Crochet Bikini Bottoms

Crochet bikinis were an undeniable hit in the 1970s and had a brief revival in the 2010s, but they’ve largely flopped in modern times because they’re not super practical.

Amazon

Seamoly Crochet Swimsuit

The crochet material tends to absorb more water than your typical swim-ready fabric, so it becomes heavy and saggy – not flattering. Plus, crochet swimmies can take a long time to dry and lose their shape quickly.

2. Belted Swimsuits

Anthropologie

Beach Riot Sydney Belted One-Piece Swimsuit

Once a super stylish choice in the ‘60s, ‘70s, and ‘80s, belted swimsuits (especially one-piece swimsuits) were highly favored for their hourglass-enhancing look.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A Luxe Link Belted One Piece

These days, they’ve become less common because the extra material can feel restrictive and impractical for swimming. The belt can easily dig into the skin, plus, modern designs can achieve similar figure-flattering effects with shaping silhouettes.

3. Swim Skirts

Old Navy

Old Navy High-Waisted Matte Swim Skirt

Swim skirts were beloved for their added modesty to any swim getup. Now, swimwear trends have moved toward sleeker, more streamlined suits!

J.Crew

J.Crew Swim Skirt

While some people still prefer swim skirts for extra coverage, many find them impractical because they add extra bulk. Showing more skin seems to be in!

4. Metallic Fabrics

Andie

Andie The Lipari One Piece

Shiny and eye-catching metallic swimsuits were especially popular in the 80s and early 2000s, but they’ve faded out of popularity due to some… wearability issues.

Nordstrom

La Blanca Earth Lace-Up Underwire One-Piece Swimsuit

The metallic fabrics these suits are made of tend to be less stretchy, degrade faster with sun and chlorine exposure, and can look less flattering when wet. Not great!

Macy's

Becca Liquid Metal Triangle Bikini Top

Today, swimwear leans toward matte and textured fabrics that are way more durable and comfortable.

5. Tankinis

Target

Shade & Shore Bandeau Tankini Top

We honestly wish tankinis were still around with the cult following they had in the late ‘90s and early 2000s.

Boden

Boden Porto Tankini Top

Offering more coverage than a bikini but still being more versatile than a one-piece, tankinis have sadly been replaced by more modern designs like high-waisted bikinis and sleek one-pieces. Plus, tankinis can sometimes bunch up awkwardly or feel less secure when you’re swimming.

6. Zebra Print

Target

Wild Fable Textured Medium Coverage Triangle Bikini Top

Animal prints were everywhere on swimwear in the early 2000s. While leopard print has made quite the comeback, zebra print isn’t as hot since it tends to look overly bold and outdated.

Urban Outfitters

Sunkissed Le Triangle String Bikini Top

Most modern swimwear patterns now favor softer, abstract prints or straight-up solid colors for a more sophisticated look.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch Halter String Triangle Bikini Top

That isn’t to say you can’t wear zebra print swimsuits these days – if bold is your vibe, go for it!

7. Velvet Swimsuits

Triangl

Triangl Maia Vyne Swimsuit

Velvet swimsuits had a brief moment in the limelight during the ‘90s and 2000s, but they were never truly practical. The fabric, while luxurious on land, is quite terrible to wear when wet – it absorbs water, takes forever to dry, and can feel heavy and clingy.

Amazon

Cupshe One Shoulder Velvet Jacquard One Piece Swimsuit

Most people now prefer performance-ready swim fabrics that dry quickly and offer great stretch and comfort.

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Dating or marrying someone you can't be yourself with feels awful, but Gisele Bündchen is done with that. She's moved on from life with Tom Brady and has been happily enjoying her relationship with jiu-jitsu trainer Joaquim Valente. She even announced she was pregnant with their first child together last year! But that doesn't means she's forgotten how she felt during her former marriage, nor is she shying away from embracing all the new feelings!

Keep scrolling to learn how Gisele Bündchen feels post her divorce from Tom Brady!

Jason Koerner/Getty Images IWC Schaffhausen

Gisele Bündchen is basking in the afterglow that comes from ending a draining relationship. According to Page Six, a source told them she's experiencing a "freer" feeling with her current boyfriend Joaquim Valente. This comes as a surprise because she and Tom Brady always looked happy in pictures together, but we see how they don't always show what happens behind closed doors.

But she's not slighting Tom! If anything, the source noted the former model is "grateful for what she had" with him and "is blessed for their children."

The observation Gisele's made is noticing that she "felt like she lived in Tom [Brady’s] shadow for a long time," according to the source. Sometimes we shrink ourselves so we don't eclipse the grandiose personality of our partners which can make us feel invisible over time. That's not to say Gisele wanted to overshadow Tom, but feeling heard and seen in a relationship should apply to both partners.

Knowing that the source says she's "absolutely loving this new chapter," it's incredibly valid for Gisele to embrace what feels like a breath of fresh air!

In a previous Page Six reporting, a different insider dished about how Tom felt upon learning Gisele was having a baby with Joaquim. "It just wasn’t something that was on his radar. So when Gisele broke the news to him he was stunned, to say the least." However, the former pro-football player accepted this new development in his ex-wife's life.

"At the end of the day, Tom’s sole focus is on his children and his career. What Gisele decides to do with her own life is really none of his business."

Do you think Gisele Bündchen truly feels different in her relationship with Joaquim Valente? Share your thoughts on Facebook!

Cozy outfits don’t have to be unflattering, and these 10 plus-sizelounge sets from Amazon totally prove it! Plus, you can snag each one without breaking the budget – yet they all look super luxe. From buttery-soft fabrics to effortlessly chic designs, these sets are perfect for everything from lazy weekend hangs to WFH days. If you're looking for plus-size loungewear that feels just as good as it looks, these picks definitely deserve a spot in your wardrobe.

Scroll on for the 10 cutest and coziest plus-size lounge sets you can shop on Amazon!

Amazon

In'voland Plus Size Linen Shorts Set

Breezy and oh-so easy, this linen set works great for more put-together and laze-around-at-home moments alike.

Amazon

Beautife Plus Size Striped Knit Lounge Set

You're gonna want to live in this soft knit set 24/7. The stripes totally kick it up a notch!

Amazon

Oyoangle Plus Size Floral Sleepwear Lounge Set

For more of a pajama vibe, this plus size lounge set comes complete with plenty of frills and florals. You could easily style the top with comfy jeans and sandals for an easy spring 'fit, too!

Amazon

Tiyomoi Button Down Textured Top Set

This set is cut from some insanely soft and breathable fabric to keep you feeling cool. The textured, pleated look makes it look more polished, so you can step out with the utmost confidence!

Amazon

Ekouaer Knit Sweater Lounge Set

Your next WFH session is calling! The high-quality knitted fabric this 2-piece set is made of is said to be "skin-friendly," so you won't feel irritated wearing it all day long.

Amazon

Pinsv Short Sleeve Top & Flare Pants Lounge Set

Easy to put on and even easier to wear during long days, this lounge set is crafted using a pleasantly soft material that moves with you – not against you. It also comes in so many different colors to match your personal style!

Amazon

Zhuhouse Plus Size Pajama Lounge Set

This butter yellow color is undeniably trendy at the moment, so you'll look effortlessly stylish when you slip it on. Whether it's for a movie night at home or a sleepover with your bestie, you'll feel put-together and so cute! Complete the look with your fave slippers, and voila!

Amazon

Ritera Plus Size Pullover Set

The ribbed knit on this plus size lounge set gives it that luxe vibe you're looking for. Better yet, the calm cashmere color is easy to wear with any and every accessory, from loafers to denim jackets when it's chilly out.

Amazon

Eytino Plus Size Pullover Top & Short Set

The varied stripes on this easy-wearing set will definitely have heads turning your way – it's an unexpected (and super stylish) departure from your traditional lounge set designs.

Amazon

Beautife Plus Size Striped Casual Lounge Set

Soft, breathable, and lightweight, this lounge set will feel like a second skin when you wear it. The stripes feel oh-so elevated for such an affordable lounge set!

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