Lauren Conrad Talks Disney, Style + Her Go-To Coconut Oil Hack

Not everyone can survive the perils of reality television and come out unscathed, but Lauren Conrad is no ordinary woman. She’s managed to go from MTV reality star to running an empire, including best­-selling books, clothing lines, a website, crafting tips and advice columns for various magazines. And in the last few years she has really shown off her strengths as a designer and philanthropist with her company The Little Market, which features the exquisite goods and designs of female artisans across the globe, as well as her popular line for Kohl’s.

This year LC got the chance to combine two things we are big fans of around here — her Lauren Conrad for Kohl’s line and Disney. Conrad kicked off the Disney-themed collections with a Cinderella line in February — that would literally make even the most unsentimental feel like a princess — and has now moved on to the iconic Minnie Mouse. You may never look at polka dots and bows the same way again. We were lucky enough to get an exclusive interview with LC about her work as a designer, what sparks her creativity and what she can’t live without in the morning.

What was your design process for the new Minnie Mouse collection? How did you research it?

I actually had the opportunity to learn a lot about Minnie when I first met with Disney. It was fascinating to see how she has evolved over the years and how each change represents a time in history. I had so much fun learning all about this little mouse.

Was Minnie harder than Cinderella in terms of designing an entire collection? Minnie is so iconic.

I don’t think it was more challenging, but we definitely had a lot more to choose from as far as imagery and inspiration. Our first decision was which Minnie to use. 1920s Minnie? Modern Minnie? From there on it was all polka dots and bows.

Was she a favorite as a kid?

Of course! What’s not to love about Minnie?

Can you give us any hints about your next Disney collection? Will you go back to princesses?

I am already hard at work on my next Disney Collection. I’m really excited about it! My hint is that the collection is not inspired by a princess.

What’s the last thing that you made that you were really excited about?

A large living arrangement of succulents for my living room table.

What is one home-­related or general life “hack” you keep in your toolkit?

I don’t own a toolbox, but I do have a couple multi-purpose products that I love. One of my favorites is coconut oil. You can used it to cook with, remove eye makeup, oil pull, as a moisturizer…

I can’t start my day without…

Making a hot cup of coffee.

Who else would you like to see us get insider info from? Let us know in the comments below!

College grads who have absolutely no idea what to do with their lives seem to only have four options: join corporate America, get their master’s to put off joining corporate America, take up running as a hobby, or travel around the world. Kristin Juszcyzk went for option number five: design kickass, custom NFL merch for women, WAGs, and world-record-shattering Olympians like Simone Biles.

www.instagram.com

In December 2023, Biles rocked a custom puffer jacket with her husband’s (former Green Bay Packers safety Jonathan Owens) number on it, handmade and shipped by Juszcyzk herself. It’s still a pinch-me moment for the fashion designer. “I’m pretty sure Simone was the first person to ever wear any of my designs. I DM’ed her and was like, ‘Please, let me make you something!’” Juszczyk says in an exclusive interview with Brit + Co. “She is so incredible and so sweet, and she was so great in the process. She trusted me with a ton of creative freedom.”

Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images

Like her husband, San Francisco 49ers fullback Kyle Juszczyk, Kristin crushed the 2023 football season. Niners fans have been familiar with her style game for years, but when Taylor Swift sported a custom 87 jacket to Travis Kelce’s game on Jan. 13, Juszczyk’s fashion career skyrocketed into a brand new era.

Instagram/@theoriginshop

Juszcyzk’s lifelong love of fashion first manifested itself in 2018. The budding designer founded an online clothing boutique called Origin, which sold everything from knitted sets to hoop earrings to studded jeans. (If 2018 were a brand, it’d be Origin.) “That was where I got my feet wet. I really enjoyed every second of it, but it got to a point where I felt like I lacked the ability to be creative,” Juszczyk reflects. The brand’s Instagram account and website went quiet in late 2021.

www.instagram.com

But just because Origin shut down doesn’t mean that Juszcyzk’s drive to design did. As she searched for her next venture, she started DIY-ing her own NFL merch to wear to her husband’s games. We’re not talking about screen-printed tees here. Juszcyzk’s rocked up to Levi’s Stadium in custom leather jackets, a jersey reworked into a cropped corset, and a red-hot blazer/skirt combo. Her unique designs caught Biles’s and Swift’s attention, as well as that of Brittany Mahomes, Taylor Lautner, and Olivia Culpo, just to name a few of Juszcyzk’s celebrity clients.

Every piece Juszcyzk designs is completely personalized to its owner. “I always take a look at the person’s Instagram and what they like to wear. I want to make sure I follow their vibe so that they feel confident in my design,” she reveals.

x/@simone_biles

She also considers the weather the piece will be worn in — a lesson she learned the hard way. “When I made that puffer vest for Simone, I didn’t even put two and two together that it was gonna be 30 degrees and snowing. I should have put sleeves on it! I’m still learning,” she says. (Not that Simone minded. On the day of Super Bowl LVIII, the gold medalist tweeted, “I want the 49ers to win just because it’s Kristin Juszczyk’s birthday.”)

Juszcyzk is now an official licensee of the NFL, which means that she’s one step closer to working with her dream clients: the fans. She says, “One-off pieces are obviously not accessible to people, and making them is very time-consuming and labor-intensive. I want my designs to be more accessible to everybody, you know? There’s a huge demand for fresh designs, especially for girls, and I want the fans to have them.”

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Before football starts back up in September, Kristin and Kyle have been making the most of the off-season at home with their adorable Samoyeds, Mozzarella and Pierogi. In between competing for Purina treats, Mozzie and Rogi are keeping their mom company as she gathers inspiration for her Fall ‘24 designs. She shares, “I’m so excited to show people some new silhouettes and also to push my boundaries and come up with something new every week.”

As for whether we’re going to see another Simone Biles and KJD collab soon? “Her husband’s on a different team now, so I’ll have to make her something new!” Juszczyk says.

Looking for more exciting celebrity news? Be sure to follow us on Facebook so you never miss a thing!

Header image via Designs by Kristin

Amazon’s famedBig Deal Days returns on October 8-9, but you don’t have to wait until then to get your shop on! There are tons ofearly Prime Day deals to scoop up right now, from beauty and fashion to home goods and appliances that’ll literally save you hundreds. This Prime member-exclusive savings event also comes at the perfect time ahead of the holiday season, so you have the chance to check everyone off your gifting list with plenty of time to spare before December’s here.

Jump to our favorite early deals:

Since we’re all about saving, here are all the absolute best early Prime Big Deal Days deals to start shopping now!

Early Beauty Deals

Amazon

SheaMoisture Smoothie Curl Enhancing Cream

$13, with option to save 10% more with Subscribe + Save

This luscious curl cream works for a wide range of curly hair types. From enhancing subtle waves to making sure tight coils stay in place, it sure is effective for such a low price. In addition to helping curls hold, this product reduces frizz and creates "brilliant shine."

Amazon

COSRX Snail Mucin 96% Power Repairing Essence

$17, was $25

This multi-hyphenate serum (4.6 out of 5-stars rating, Amazon best-seller, and viral fave) is beloved for a reason. It's super gentle on the skin, all while delivering unparalleled hydration and moisture when you really need it. Even if you're not looking for a skincare restock, someone on your holiday shopping list will love this as a stocking stuffer!

Amazon

Hempz Smoothing Herbal Koa & Sweet Almond Body Moisturizer

$19, was $28

Hempz makes some of our all-time favorite body lotionssince they're super hydrating. Give your bod the TLC it's been craving as temperatures cool down with this sweet-smelling formula made with thick, nourishing shea butter! Shoppers love it for its ability to maintain "supple and irresistibly soft" skin.

Amazon

Wavytalk Ionic Hair Dryer

$40, was $55, with option to use $8 off coupon

This salon-quality hair dryer is small, but mighty. It's powered by a 1875-watt motor, 3 temperature settings, and 2 airflow speeds to help you achieve the exact style you're looking for. It's earned 4.5 out of 5 stars from Amazon shoppers for being a great value, efficient at drying, and quiet during operation.

Amazon

CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Gel

$16, was $20

This derm-recommended water-based moisturizer is packed with 3 essential ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid for "immediate and long-lasting hydration." It's the perfect product to deliver the moisture your skin needs without feeling heavy or sticky on the face.

Amazon

Oral-B iO Deep Clean + Whiten Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush

$100, was $150

Prime Day is the perfect time to re-up your oral care game since a lot of electric toothbrushes tend to be on deals. This model's "advanced" tech allows you to remove 100% more plaque and (even 2.5 times more in between your teeth) for a very fresh feel. It can sense if you're brushing too lightly or too hard, plus it's equipped with a handy 2-minute timer for the ideal brushing experience. The coordinating case makes traveling with your expert-approved toothbrush super easy!

Amazon

Shark HD430 FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System

$235, was $300

This beloved hair tool from Shark is shoppable on sale ahead of Prime Day, saving you $50! It dries and styles your hair simultaneously using low heat, but powerful airflow. This minimizes heat damage to your luscious locks, which is always welcome! You can easily customize your desired hairstyle using 4 heat and 3 airflow settings, plus 5 interchangeable attachments.

Amazon

Crest 3D Whitestrips Sensitive At-Home Teeth Whitening Kit

$22, was $50

The same sentiment goes for all things oral care – these whitening strips are a whopping 50% off right now, offering the perfect opportunity to stock up. These American Dental Association-approved strips are specially formulated for sensitive teeth so you can use them safely.

Amazon

Olay Super Serum

$30, was $35

This serum essentially acts as 5 serums in one single bottle! It's packed with niacinamide, vitamin C, collagen peptides, vitamin E, and AHAs to simultaneously hydrate, soothe, smooth, and gently exfoliate your skin – all with visible results. It goes on lightweight and absorbs quickly so you can easily layer on your typical moisturizer and SPF!

Amazon

Stila Blush & Bronze Hydro-Blur Cheek Duo

$30, was $32

This luxe 2-in-1 bronzer and blush boasts a gel-based formula that not only bronzes and blushes, but leaves a "dewy, non-oily, glow-from-within" look on your skin. It's fairly sheer and buildable, so it works equally well across bare skin or foundation. This pick would also make an epic stocking stuffer for the makeup aficionado in your life!

Amazon

Anua 10% Niacinamide+ 4% Tranexamic Acid Serum

$19, was $24

A combo of 10% niacinamide, 4% tranexamic acid, and 2% arbutin is put to work in this serum to effectively target dull skin and enlarged pores. It also soothes and hydrates the skin with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, ensuring you don't lose any precious moisture.

Amazon

Filorga Time-Filler Eyes Daily Anti-Aging Eye Cream

$68, was $72

This cream claims to reduce dark circles, wrinkles, fine lines, lift sagging eyelids, and thicken eyelashes in just 7 days. It's packed with a powerful amount of hyaluronic acid and peptides in order to tackle this wide range of skincare concerns. Don't just take our word for it – 82% of users saw reduced eye wrinkles over a week-long period, plus this product boasts a 4.3 out of 5-star rating for being noticeably effective.

Amazon

Keranique Hair Mask

$34, was $36

This fan-loved hair mask treats dry, distressed hair to transform it into healthy, bouncy, and thicker-looking locks. The GMO-free, gluten-free, and cruelty-free formula is the perfect mix to incorporate into your har care routine one to two times a week for stronger hair!

Early Fashion Deals

Amazon

Anrabess Open Front Knit Lightweight Cardigan

$47, was $70

If your fall and winter 'fits are craving something a bit more (and some extra warmth), this on-sale longline cardigan is the perfect light layer to throw on. It comes in 24 stunning colors to match your personal style. The open collar and front pockets make it look super sophisticated – even though it's currently 51% off. 👀

Amazon

Anrabess Striped Oversized Sweatshirt

$20, was $31

It's giving Free People, but for way less. This colorful striped sweatshirt is sure to make a statement wherever you go, and you have a ton of color options to shop, including this vibrant blue-pink-green colorway. It's designed for an oversized fit, which is ideal for fall and winter layering.

Amazon

Shupua Pointed Toe Ballet Flats

$26, was $31

These adorable red flats are a perfectly chic addition to any outfit, thanks to the pointed toes and lil' bows on top. The shoes themselves are soft and flexible, and boast padded heel cushions for an extra-comfy wear. The upper parts of the flats are made of a breathable mesh material, so your feet won't feel overly restricted, even after wearing them all day!

Amazon

Amazon Essentials Women's Teddy Bear Fleece Oversized-Fit Lapel Jacket

$45, was $62

This roomy jacket is just the thing you need to throw on a layer of warmth over your fall and winter looks. The teddy fleece sherpa fabric will keep you extremely snug, all while looking stylish. The large collar adds a nice touch of sophistication so you can easily rock it on the way to the office!

Amazon

Anrabess Oversized Long Sleeve Quarter Zip

$40, was $50

Look luxe for a fraction of the price with this super-soft quarter-zip pullover. Whether you wear it for WFH days or grocery store trips, it'll keep you warm and cozy with a plush ribbed knit material. The longline hem and raised collar will give you extra coverage on those especially-cold days.

Amazon

Cicy Bell Barrel Jeans

$30, was $45

Barrel jeans are *the* style to have right now. They're extra-wide across the thighs and knees, then tapered down around the ankles for a unique shape that wears well with flats and boots alike. This pair in particular has some slight distressing, shown in the frayed bottom hems and tiny rips around the hips. The comfy, baggy fit will become your BFF for days you have to dress up a bit, but don't really feel like gong all-out!

Amazon

Amazon Essentials Women's Crop Puffer Jacket

$58, was $69

Prepare for the extra-cold temps coming our way by snagging a dependable puffer jacket on sale for Prime Day now. This extra-puffy cropped jacket mixes practicality with style – the thick filling, stand collar, and elastic bands around the waist and wrists will keep you warm, while the cropped length, concealed front zipper, and side pockets have you looking stylish AF, even in the snow.

Amazon

Anrabess Double-Lined Long Sleeve Crop Top

$15, was $20 with option to use 10% off coupon

This "comfortable and stretchy" long sleeve top comes in so many colors to suit only your best layered outfits for fall and winter. It's made of a soft 92% rayon and 8% elastane material which is doubled over to give your look more coverage. The square neckline is ultimately super flattering for any body type, and the slightly-cropped length pairs just as well with high-rise pants as it does low-rise styles!

$40, was $66

Athlefit Chelsea Boots

$43, was $66

If there's anything we truly love, it's a boot. These black ankle boots boast timeless details that allow you to wear them with a multitude of 'fits! The chunky heel and sole gives these shoes a bit of edge while also supplying a hefty amount of traction for comfortably walking far distances. They're super easy to slip into, thanks to the elastic panels on the sides.

Early Kitchen Deals

Amazon

Nutribullet Pro+ Personal Blender

$100, was $130

This Pro+ personal blender from Nutribullet delivers "more extraction power, more convenience, and more functionality" than their original model, saving you effort and time in the kitchen where it's needed the most. The best part is it doesn't take up nearly as much real estate on your counters like a traditional blender would (small space-friendly)! Save 23% now, ahead of October's Prime Day event.

Amazon

Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine

$705, was $1,000

Splurge, anyone? This insanely luxe at-home espresso machine crafts the perfect cup with 6 pre-set beverage options, an efficient milk frother, and an adjustable bean grinder to achieve the ideal brew. It sounds intricate, but is actually super easy to use with high-visibility buttons and dishwasher-safe components for easy cleanup. Upgrade your current coffee routine right now.

Amazon

Carote Pots And Pans 11-Piece Set

$70, was $120 with option to use 10% off coupon

These gorgeous pots and pans are such an easy kitchen upgrade, especially since they're half-off. They're uniquely designed with detachable lids and handles to seamlessly fit inside your cabinets, saving ample space. The non-stick cookware surface delivers "rapid and even" heat to any dish you please! This set would also make a stunning gift to someone who's just moved to a new spot.

Amazon

Ninja Foodi 11-In-1 Air Fryer Pressure Cooker

$132, was $200

This 6.5-quart air fryer and pressure cooker does much more than air fry and pressure-cook. It's fitted with 11 different settings that range from steaming to broiling, and even dehydrating. It's gonna be a massively worthwhile kitchen upgrade if you tend to cook for the whole family or large potluck groups. If you're craving more easy meal ideas, it comes equipped with a 45+ recipe guide!

Amazon

Ninja Woodfire Pro Outdoor Grill & Smoker

$300, was $400

If you've got a griller at home, they'll adore this grill, smoker, and air fryer all in one! It delivers the same char and searing that a large propane-powered grill would, taking up way less space. It's conveniently powered by electricity, but is compatible with Ninja's real burning wood pellets for added smoky flavor. It includes an attached thermometer that allows you to check the temps of whatever you're cooking with ease.

Amazon

KitchenAid Ribbed Soft Silicone Oven Mitt Set

$15, was $35

The deal on these mitts is insane! They're made of a heat resistant silicone (up to 500 degrees F) that's also super grippy so you won't risk annoying slips and spills. The material is conveniently easy to clean with an easy rinse and wipe, too. If you're looking for an affordable upgrade for your worn-out oven mitts, this Prime Day deal is your sign.

Amazon

Cosori 9-in-1 Air Fryer

$85, was $120

Having a multi-function kitchen appliance like this one is life-changing. This 9-in-1 air fryer can cook up everything from crispy tots to baked chicken in literal minutes!

Early Home Deals

Amazon

Hatch Restore 2 Sunrise Alarm Clock

$170, was $200

This science-backed sunrise alarm clock is a total game-changer in supporting your natural circadian rhythm. It can send you to bed with a variety of white noise settings and nature sounds, then will wake you up calmly with a gentle light that mimics the rising sun. Tons of Amazon shoppers attest to its transformative properties – and the fact that it looks gorgeous on a nightstand.

Amazon

Urevo Under Desk Treadmill

$250, was $330 with option to use $70 off coupon

With 5 layers of anti-slip belt, 8 silicone shock absorbers, and 2 soft rubber pads, this under-desk treadmill provides a comfortable experience for getting your daily step goal in. The "powerful motor" is surprisingly quiet, so you won't have to worry about noisy distractions. The included remote control makes adjusting the speed easy, up to 4 miles per hour.

Amazon

Blueair Large Room Air Purifier

$190, was $350

This top-rated air purifier cleans up to 3,048 square feet in 60 minutes, removing "at least 99.97%" of tiny airborne particles like smoke, dust, and dander to keep the air in your home feeling (and smelling) fresh. The coordinating mobile app makes it super easy to monitor the device's performance, and will even notify you when it's time for a filter change! Its compact size allows you to place it out of the way of traffic for a seamless experience.

Amazon

Dyson V8 Plus Cordless Vacuum

$417, was $470

This Dyson deal is too good. Known for its high power and ability to clean every nook and cranny, this cordless vacuum is such a powerhouse. It comes with 3 attachments to target your desired space, and can operate up to 40 minutes on a full charge.

Amazon

FelixKing Ergonomic Office Chair

$150, was $170 with option to use $30 off coupon

Ditch your current creaky desk chair for a fancy new upgrade. This ergonomic design provides 5 supporting points across your head, shoulders, back, hips, and hands with proper lumbar support to prevent those pesky workday aches and pains. You'll enjoy the breathability of the mesh backing and the ability to adjust the chair's height to your liking. It comes in 9 stylish colors in addition to this all-black pick!

Amazon

TushGuard Memory Foam Seat Cushion

$20, was $27

We're no stranger to work-induced back pain. This memory foam seat cushion can be used at your desk, at the kitchen table, in the car, or even on stadium bleachers to support a healthy sitting position! The material on top is soft and breathable, while the bottom boasts a rubber coating to prevent annoying slips. The u-shaped design fits your hips to "effectively support" the coccyx, relieving any pain from sitting in the same place for extended amounts of time.

Amazon

HiLife Clothes Steamer

$37, was $60 with option to use $5 off coupon

If you reside in too small a space to whip out an iron and ironing board frequently, this compact clothes steamer is gonna be a lifesaver. It uses high-temperature steam and a metal panel to smooth out wrinkles for a range of fabrics. It's also equipped with an efficiently-designed 300-milliliter water tank that's capable of steaming up to 6 garments on a single fill.

Amazon

Bissell Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner

$100, was $124

This conveniently compact carpet cleaner can tackle tough pet spots and stains on carpet, upholstery, and car interiors. It's lightweight, easy to use with interchangeable attachments, and capable of tackling lots of mileage on a single fill from the 48-ounce water or cleaning product tank.

Early Tech Deals

Amazon

Ring Spotlight Cam Plus

$110, was $170

This easy-install security camera offers wide-angle, 1080p HD video with color night vision at all times of day so you can check in on your front porch, living room, or backyard when you need to. Its motion-sensing technology will set off two powerful LED lights when movement is indicated in its view. It also features two-way talk so you can communicate with guests from the comfort of your home. Invest in extra peace of mind with this $60-off deal!

Amazon

Oura Ring Gen 3

$299, was $349

This sleek health-tracking ring helps you monitor your sleep activity, workouts, stress levels, heart rate and more. Its small, but mighty sensors can detect over 20 different biometrics to give you a well-rounded glimpse into your wellbeing. The Oura Ring is definitely more discreet than a watch would be, plus it's very stylish. The titanium it's made of is lightweight and built to last, and it can easily fit into your everyday jewelry stack since it's available in silver, gold, black, rose gold, and more. You can currently snag it in ring sizes 6-13, use it with iOS or Android devices and apps, and even save more on your purchase since it's eligible for reimbursement with FSA / HSA funds!

Amazon

Apple AirPods Max

$399, was $549

The AirPods Max claim to bring "high-fidelity audio" and "breakthrough listening experiences" to every user. In addition to the high-quality sound, these luxe headphones also boast active noise cancellation to block out the world around you, plus a transparency mode that allows to you listen to both your headphone audio and the outside world simultaneously. The mesh band and memory foam ear cushions provide an "exceptional" over-ear fit, also sealing in sound when you need some focus time studying or working out. You can get up to 20 hours of listening time on a single battery charge, which is ideal for those constantly on-the-go.

Amazon

Amazon Fire TV 40" 2-Series HD Smart TV

$160, was $200

This Prime member-exclusive deal is too good to pass up. Watch your favorite TV shows and movies in HD with this Amazon Fire screen – it gives you "quick access" to all your go-to's, including games and music, too. Its remote is equipped with Alexa, so you can easily navigate to your desired watch via voice control.

Amazon

Sony ZV-1F Vlog Camera

$398, was $500

This small, but mighty camera (capable of capturing 1080p and 4K resolutions) is a must-buy for the photographer, family documentarian, or just the person who loves to capture daily memories. It's fitted with a 20mm wide-angle lens – ideal for vlogging – to capture everything in close range clearly. It even comes with a discreet microphone and wind screen to eliminate extra background noise.

Amazon

Kindle Paperwhite Essentials Bundle

$135, was $205

This Kindle's screen reads like real paper in any environment to supply the ideal reading experience, no matter where you are. This bundle makes the perfect gift for the bookworm in your life – they can enjoy over 2 million book titles along with thousands of audiobooks using a Kindle Unlimited subscription.

Amazon

Marshall Willen Portable Bluetooth Speaker

$70, was $120

This powerful portable bluetooth speaker can travel with you practically anywhere, from friends' places to the park. With 15+ hours of playtime on a single charge, you'll never lose your groove. It also comes complete with a built-in microphone so you can answer calls and command Siri to play your favorite tunes!

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This post has been updated.

Yulin Kuang has been having an It Girl summer. Her debut novel, How To End A Love Story, dropped April 9 and was chosen for Reese's Book Club in May. "They did send me photos of [Reese Witherspoon] holding my book, which I was like, 'Oh my God, this is almost better than if I had a selfie with her,'" Yulin jokes over Zoom. "It feels more personal. I was like, 'Oh, it's like she's taking a selfie with my brain.'"

"It's been kind of a whirlwind," the author continues. "I've walked into, somehow, the dream scenario for a debut author. And at the same time, it is kind of daunting because it always feels so vulnerable to put art out there that feels personal, which I think good art always should feel."

Amazon

How To End A Love Story follows Helen Zhang and Grant Shepard, who reconnect after a tragic accident 13 years ago changed their lives forever. In honor of Yulin's partnership with Maison Louis Jadot, I sat down to talk about the author, screenwriter, and director's favorite book & wine pairings (like Natalie Sue's I Hope This Finds You Well & Pouilly-Fuissé and Betty Corrello's Summertime Punchline & Bourgogne Blanc). And that includes the drinks her characters would go for.

According to Yulin, Helen would love the Beaujolais-Villages ("She's a little bit formal, she talks about how she feels like she was raised by old Victorian Ghosts"), while Grant would gravitate to the Macon-Villages, a personal favorite of Yulin's.

"My friends came over and we poured it and we were just having our own little wine sampling, which I do recommend," she says. "I feel like it's fun to have two different wines, and instantly you've elevated your gathering."

No dinner party is complete without a charcuterie board, and Yulin's perfect spread includes nuts, meats, and cheeses. "Something with rosemary and salt," she says after thinking for a moment. "I love a truffle nut. It's a good source of flavors and kind of a light protein so it feels kind of healthy. Apricots are great. And then I love a meat spread as well. So any kind of pepperoni, salami. And then yeah, I love any kind of cheese that has a hint of garlic, which I know makes me like less kissable."

In addition to creating the ultimate book and wine list, Yulin has been diving into hobbies that cultivate her creativity. Bridgerton reminded her how much she loves to embroider, while she's also found time to figure skate. She's been revisiting classic novels, old movies, and just "going back to the things that first made me fall in love with romance."

"I started subscribing to magazines because I found that everything that was coming to me was coming to me through an algorithm and I didn't mind that it was curated, but I wanted it to be curated by a human," she continues. "So sometimes when I feel like I've been staring at screens for too long, I shut everything off and then I start painting and I just paint using references from magazines."

Zack Wallnau/Maison Louis Jadot

While the celebration for her first novel is far from over, Yulin Kuang is also looking to the future — and the two Emily Henry books she's adapting: Beach Read (on which she's writer and director) and People We Meet On Vacation (which she wrote the screenplay for).

"I am pretty focused on Beach Read at the moment," she says. "I truly believe that art belongs to the audience once it's out in the world. And so saying too much, it feels prescriptive, you know? So I hope they enjoy it. I hope that they know that a lot of care is going into the adaptations. I remember what it's like to be watching with anxious hearts about the announcements of all my favorite adaptations. And so that's the main thing. I hope they know that I really, really care."

I got to sit down with Emily Henry ahead of the release of her 2023 hit Happy Place, and was immediately enchanted by the author. "She really is that person," Yulin says about Emily. "She is so warm and charming and wonderful. And she's the dream collaborator when it comes to this because you kind of want somebody who understands the art and understands that the book is a book and the movie is a movie."

"When you transport art into another medium, it has to be able to take root in the soil and bloom into its own thing," she continues. "We're creating different vineyards. And so I think there's some natural anxiety going into that for the first time because it's like, 'Oh, well, is this gonna go well? Will they like what we've done?' And Emily has just been such a fantastic collaborator in that regard."

Sela Shiloni

But Beach Read and People We Meet On Vacation aren't the only projects we'll see from Yulin Kuang in the future. "I do have another indie feature that I'm currently working on," Yulin shares. "It's called Filthy and it's with Adam Scott and Naomi Scott's production company. I'm very excited about that one. It's set in the world of audio porn and it's about a couple that's trying to decide if they're ready to have kids. And then the wife discovers that her husband is secretly an audio porn star, and they have like a sexy little affair."

"In the book space, I've been working on book two," she continues. "What I can say is book two has proved so much harder to write than book one. And I kind of have a mistress book too. I do this thing where, for some reason, I need to have a main project and then eventually a mistress will develop and then I'll kind of work on the two and see which one is gonna actually make it across the finish line. It keeps things exciting for me."

Check out The 27 Most-Anticipated New Books Debuting In 2024 to see what else you should totally add to your TBR this year.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

I spent many way-too-early mornings standing behind the coffee bar at Starbucks. Barista-ing, though stressful at times, was honestly so satisfying. I felt good when I poured the perfect drink for my customers, but I felt even better when I found the best beverages to make for myself.

Having unlimited hot drinks at my disposal during my shifts was definitely one of the best perks about being a Starbucks barista. I worked the opening shift there quite frequently through the dreadfully bleak winter season (I’m talking sub-10 degrees every morning), so warming up – caffeine included – was crucial.

My Starbucks era taught me that everyone takes their coffee differently, and there are countless ways to customize a drink. If you’re looking to switch things up and transition into the chilly season with a new hot drink order, please take some suggestions from me – a former barista who knows all about it. Now, I present to you: the 18 best Starbucks hot drinks.

Starbucks

Hot Matcha Latte with Oat Milk and Peppermint Syrup

People are always surprised when I tell them that peppermint is available year-round at Starbies – it's not just reserved for the winter-exclusive Peppermint Mocha – and it's most delectable when you add it to a hot matcha. The earthier feel of the matcha gets balanced out super well among the minty-ness of this syrup, though I wouldn't overdo it on the number of pumps. I found that two pumps in a grande worked best for my taste.

Starbucks

Chestnut Praline Latte with Oat Milk

This Starbucks hot drink is the way to go if you like nutty flavors. Chestnut and praline notes combine with some strong signature espresso, turning this pick into dessert inside a cup. I *loved* drinking it with oat milk the most, because it rounded out the flavors so beautifully (plus, I just have a general preference for plant-based milks).

Starbucks

London Fog with Almond Milk

NGL, Starbucks has a pretty amazingLondon Fog drink. It's essentially an Earl Grey tea with vanilla syrup and steamed milk of your choice, and it makes for a deliciously light and creamy beverage. I'd recommend ordering it with almond milk because the Starbucks milk is quite flavorful on its own, and it can really enhance (and possibly transform) what you thought you knew about a London Fog.

Starbucks

Hot Matcha Latte with Oat Milk and Hazelnut Syrup

I must say, I'm a matcha latte fiend. Thus, I'm noting yet another green tea powder-based order on the Starbucks hot drinks ranking. When prepped with hazelnut syrup, the chain's matcha earns some extra sweetness. So, if you have a sweet tooth (like me), this gently-caffeinated drink will do you very good. Not that into sugar? Order it with half pumps to lighten your sip up.

Starbucks

Honey Almond Milk Flat White, sub Honey Packets for Syrup

The Honey Almond Milk Flat White is a permanent staple on Starbucks' menu, but I don't think a lot of people know about it. Starbies' flat whites are typically made with whole milk, but this riff actually utilizes almond milk for a lighter (and more dairy-free-friendly) option. The honey sweetens things up perfectly, but the OG recipe calls for honey syrup – which, to me, does *not* taste like honey in any way. Luckily, you can customize the drink with a more natural substitute: actual honey packets. I like to do 3 packets for a grande size, but I suggest you go with your gut and taste-test it from there.

Starbucks

Sugar Cookie Almond Milk Latte

Based on my experience working behind the bar, this is one of the most divisive Starbucks hot drinks on the holiday menu. From what I remember, the debate mainly circled around the latte's *very intense* sweetness – so, go ahead and scroll on if you're not a massive sweets fan. If you are, the Sugar Cookie Almond Milk Latte brings forth that desired sugar cookie-ness that amps up the winter season when ordered hot AF. Pro tip: you can actually order drinks extra-hot at Starbs! Sadly, this sip is only seasonally available.

Starbucks

Pistachio Latte with Almond Milk

This is one of my favorite Starbucks hot drinks (though it's really good iced, too). It's a latte built with some nutty-sweet pistachio syrup, and it's addicting. I prefer to order it with almond milk to really amplify the nuttiness – it pairs insanely well with the strong espresso!

Raphael Loquellano / PEXELS

Hot Matcha Latte with 2 Pumps White Mocha Sauce

Again with the matcha! Okay, okay, this is the last matcha hot drink I'll speak on. Believe me, though – it's *so* tasty. White mocha sauce provides a gentle, sweet creaminess to the Starbucks matcha, regardless of what kind of milk you order it with. Typically, grande-sized drinks have a default number of 4 syrup pumps, so to dampen down the overly-sugary impression, I like to order this offering with half pumps.

Starbucks

Cinnamon Dolce Latte

This permanent Starbucks menu classic is all about the spice. Cinnamon swirls each and every sip, thanks to the addition of Starbucks' sweet cinnamon dolce syrup. You're in for an extra treat when you order this Starbucks hot drink, too, because it's topped with sweet whipped cream and a cinnamon-sugar dusting! I think the cinnamon notes are a chilly fall day's BFF, so hold this one close when you're craving a dose of seasonal vibes.

Starbucks

Caffè Misto with Oat Milk

This is one of the best Starbucks hot drinks for someone who isn't into all of the syrupy stuff. All the Caffè Misto promises is a 1-1 ratio of hot brewed coffee to your choice of steamed milk. I found the best milk to be, of course, oat milk, but you do you, boo.

Starbucks

Dirty Chai Latte with Almond Milk

Throw a couple of espresso shots in here, and you've got a killer drink – literally. If you need to be productive on a particular day, order a Dirty Chai. I just love the balance between sweetness and spice that Starbucks' chai has. It definitely leans sweet, though, so if you're used to a chai with bite, prepare yourself.

Starbucks

Honey Citrus Mint Tea

The Honey Citrus Mint Tea (AKA the Medicine Ball) may be a scrappy DIY way to cure you of your head colds, but I also think it's a massively tasty beverage for simply sipping in good health. It's zingy, minty, and lemony, which offers a really nice break from the milky, sweet, espresso-filled drinks people usually order from Starbucks.

Starbucks

Pumpkin Spice Latte with Half Pumps

Ah – a true classic when it comes to the Starbucks fall menu. PSLs are perfectly sweetened with pumpkin, but can be a lot sometimes. That's why I recommend ordering your next Pumpkin Spice Latte with half pumps. Don't worry – the pumpkin will definitely still shine through – it just won't be fully in your face with this Starbucks hot drink.

Starbucks

Apple Crisp Oat Milk Macchiato

There was a customer I had that ordered this Starbucks hot drink almost every single day when I was a barista there. I didn't understand their undying love for the seasonal drink until I tried it! The Apple Crisp Oat Milk Macchiato is like if you poured out a hot, steaming cup of fall. It has undertones of famed apple desserts (like pie!), but gets a caffeinated punch from the blonde espresso. I love it as-is, but again, you can always customize your drink based on how sweet you want it.

Starbucks

Peppermint Mocha with Half Pumps

The Peppermint Mocha is undeniably an icon. You can be pretty sneaky and order it year-round, too! Like I mentioned, Starbs keeps their peppermint syrup stocked at all times, so all you have to do to get your paws on this Starbucks hot drink is order a latte with mocha and peppermint pumps. Easy. Since this bev can easily overwhelm with syrup (like the PSL), I'd suggest trying it with half pumps if you're not ready for an instant sugar rush.

Starbucks

Brown Sugar Oat Milk Latte with Blonde Espresso

One Starbucks barista noted on Redditthat a latte with Brown Sugar syrup, oat milk, and Blonde espresso is their go-to drink. They said it "tastes like an oatmeal cookie," which sounds *so* delectable. I will add that Blonde espresso is a little bit sweeter than Starbucks' signature espresso shots, so it's always a nice substitute if you're craving extra oomph.

Starbucks

Hot Blonde Vanilla Latte with Whipped Cream, Plus Two Extra Pumps of Vanilla and Caramel

This commenter likes their Starbucks hot drinks sweet AF. With extra syrups and whipped cream, there's truly no telling just how decadent this vanilla latte is.

Starbucks

Blonde Flat White with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon Powder Steamed into the Milk

This flat white, suggested by another barista, gets its charm from some cinnamon steamed into the milk. Yes, you can in fact order your milk that way at Starbucks, and it's heavenly.

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This post has been updated.

What would you do if your worst nightmare came true? You hope you'd be level-headed, ready to tackle any problem that came your way. But no one really knows what they'd do in an emergency until they find themselves in one — and that's exactly what All Her Fault's Marissa finds out when she arrives to pick up her son from a playdate, a stranger opens the door, and her son is nowhere to be found.

There's something extra spooky about the idea something could happen in a place you know so well, and that makes this Peacock limited series even more terrifying than it already was. But one silver lining? The thriller features some of our favorite Hollywood names.

​Who's in the All Her Fault cast?

Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for Tribeca Festival/Amy Sussman/Getty Images

All Her Fault Cast

All Her Fault stars our favorite names in television right now: the show will be led by Succession's Sarah Snook as Marissa alongside Dakota Fanning (The Perfect Couple), Abby Elliot (The Bear), Jake Lacy (Apples Never Fall), Sophia Lillis (It), Jay Ellis (Top Gun: Maverick), Thomas Cocquerel, Daniel Monks, Duke McCloud, Kartiah Vergara, and Michael Peña.

​When is All Her Fault coming out?

Andres Ayrton/Pexels

All Her Fault Release Date

We don't have an official release date for the show yet, but considering they've already entered production, we can expect to see it sometime in 2025! Check back here for Peacock's official release date.

​What is All Her Fault about?

Amazon

All Her Fault Plot

Based on the novel by Andrea Mara, All Her Fault follows Marissa Irvine, who arrives to 14 Tudor Grove to pick up her son Milo from a playdate with a new friend. But when a woman she's never met opens the door, and Milo is nowhere to be found, Marissa finds herself in the middle of a waking nightmare. There are four women who could be held responsible — but only one of them might have him.

​Where is All Her Fault filming?

Tiff Ng/Pexels

All Her Fault is filming across Australia, and at the beginning of October, they were seen filming in Docklands (in Melbourne). The show is set in Chicago.

​Who is the director of All Her Fault?

Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images

Minkie Spiro will direct the first episode of the series, while Megan Gallagher will write the script and executive produce. Gareth Neame, Nigel Marchant, and Joanna Strevens will also executive produce for Carnival Films.

Check back here — and on Facebook! — for the latest All Her Fault news.

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