Lessons In Chemistry's Aja Naomi King On Working With Brie Larson & The “Boundless” Nature Of Women

aja naomi king and brie larson lessons in chemistry

BookTok is constantly recommending new books we should add to our TBR, and it's always exciting when those well-loved books are adapted for the screen! In addition to the recent Book Lovers and It Ends With Us movies, Lessons in Chemistry, a episodic series based on Bonnie Garmus' 2022 book of the same name, is coming to Apple TV+ this fall.

Watch Our Interview With "Lessons In Chemistry" Star Aja Naomi King

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Lessons In Chemistry’s Aja Naomi King On Working With Brie Larson & The “Boundless” Nature Of Women

Ahead of the “Lessons In Chemistry” finale, we talked to Aja Naomi King about her character Harriet Sloane’s book to screen transformation, and how the series is the perfect example of why we should never forget our history. She also gave us a look into working with Oscar-winner Brie Larson (who also stars as Elizabeth Zott and worked as executive producer).

What is Lessons in Chemistry about?

In Lessons in Chemistry, Elizabeth Zott (depicted by The Marvels' Brie Larson) dreams of being a scientist, but finds herself in the throes and restrictions of 1950s' society. When she's ultimately fired from her lab, she becomes the charming host of a TV cooking show instead, and uses the position to teach housewives — and the men who are suddenly listening — much more than recipes.

Is Lessons in Chemistry a good read?

Lessons in Chemistry was very well received. It has 160,823 ratings for an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon!

Who's starring in the show?

Image via Apple TV+

Episode 8. Brie Larson in "Lessons in Chemistry," premiering October 13, 2023 on Apple TV+.

In addition to Larson, we'll see Lewis Pullman, Aja Naomi King, Stephanie Koenig, Kevin Sussman, Riann Wilson, Patrick Walker, and Thomas Mann make appearances in the series.

When can I watch Lessons in Chemistry?

The first two episodes ofLessons in Chemistry will premiere October 13 on Apple TV+.

Here's a first look at the official trailer:

In Lessons in Chemistry's tantalizing trailer, viewers briefly see Elizabeth Zott's transition from working in a lab as a scientist to become an empowering cooking TV show host.

This official first look is smartly crafted and pulls viewers in without giving away any of Zott's lessons or the series' climax. As far as we're concerned, October can't come quick enough.

Are you excited for Lessons in Chemistry? Let us know in the comments!

This post has been updated with new information.

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

Lead image via Apple TV+.

As 2024 slowly comes to a close, it’s safe to say that this year has given us some pretty entertaining TV shows. While there were some shows that made us laugh, cry, and want to date a hot rabbi (I’m looking at you, Nobody Wants This, which is getting a season two, btw), the internet can't stop talking about other Emmy-award winning shows like Shōgunand Baby Reindeer, plus Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story.

However, there are some shows that just weren't well reserved by audiences and critics (*coughs* Echo *coughs*). Whether you loved watching every second of these shows or hated them with a burning passion, these shows just didn't make the cut.

Keep reading to see if you agree with the worst TV shows of 2024 (so far), according to viewers and critics.

The Spiderwick Chronicles

Roku

Based on the best-selling children’s book series written by Tony DiTerlizzi and Holly Black, this modern retelling follows the Grace family as they move from their longtime home in New York to their ancestral home in Michigan, where they discover an enchanted secret about the Spiderwick Estate.

Despite its whimsical premise and talented young cast (in addition to a cameo by longtime Hollywood actor Christian Slater), the first season of this Roku Channel series received an IMDb rating of 5.3 out of 10 and a 42 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Yikes.

A Good Girl's Guide To Murder

Netflix

Another book adaptation that let some fans down came this summer when A Good Girl's Guide To Murder dropped on Netflix. The series follows Pip, who's determined to prove Sal Singh isn't responsible for his girlfriend Andie's death — and that the real murderer is still out there. Eek!

Even though BookTok couldn't get enough of the novel, the show received a 6.8 out of 10 IMDb rating and a 69 percent audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. But don't worry, Holly Jackson fans! The show just got renewed for season 2.

Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft

Netflix

As she's confronted with a secret from her past, Lara Croft puts herself in danger once again to retrieve a historical artifact that's been stolen. Although some critics commend the Netflix series for its animation style and its ability to be a solid continuation of the beloved game series, Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft didn’t quite hit the mark for viewers, earning an audience rating of 33 percent on Rotten Tomatoes and a 5.4 out of 10 score on IMDb.

But it appears that Netflix has decided to give Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft one more shot to impress audiences because the streaming service announced back in October that a second season has been officially greenlit.

Chicken Nugget

Garage Lab/Netflix

As someone who loves watching a cute K-drama every now and then, I’ll be honest: When I first read the premise for Netflix’s Chicken Nugget, I thought it was a little strange. Here’s the SparkNotes version: Inspired by the popular webtoon of the same name, the ten-episode comedy series follows a young woman who enters a mysterious machine and—get this—turns into a chicken nugget. Her father and a secret admirer ban together to turn her back to normal.

Despite receiving a perfect score from Tomatometer-approved critics, Chicken Nugget was only fairly received by audiences, receiving a 73 percent audience score on RT and a 5.1 out of 10 rating on IMDb. Oh boy…

Megamind Rules!

Peacock

Unfortunately, when it comes to the worst TV shows of 2024, kids' series took a hit too. Megamind is a beloved movie for lots of Gen Z, but its TV adaptation only received a shocking 2.1 out of 10 rating on IMDb. It recovered a bit with a 77 percent audience rating on RT.

Echo

Chuck Zlotnick/Marvel Studios

Just when we thought nothing could top Sony's Madame Web and its poorly-received execution on all fronts, Echo surely takes the cake for worst show of 2024 for some longtime fans of the comic book universe. The series follows Maya Lopez (Alaqua Cox), who's pursued by Wilson Fisk’s (Vincent D’Onofrio) nefarious operation. This causes her to return home, where she's confronted with her family history and past.

Though the show has a bad—ss titular character and an exciting premise, it was just a hard “no” for some Marvel fans. In addition to its 6 out of 10 rating on IMDb, one fan on Reddit shared their thoughts on the series, writing, “There was no flow at all and it was seemingly set up more like a movie than a TV series. I didn’t feel excited at all and everything felt incredibly anti-climactic.” As they go on to note that this is their honest opinion, the Redditor emphasized that they “truly did not like that show at all.” So much for Echo season two.

The Acolyte

Disney+/Lucasfilm

Serving as a prequel to the Star Wars franchise, The Acolyte follows a Jedi Master investigating a string of murders that leads him to encounter a sinister foe from his past.

Despite its inclusion of characters from diverse backgrounds and exploration of LGBTQ+ themes, the show was not only canceled after one season due to low viewership, it was also rated poorly by viewers, with a 4.2 out of 10 rating on IMDB and a 18 percent audience score on RT. Either way, I will always be an Osha + Qimir shipper 4LIFE!

Good Times

Netflix

Netflix's animated series Good Times might have geniuses like Steph Curry and Seth McFarlane behind the scenes (and Marsai Martin!!) but it still only raked in a 4.1 on IMDb — and a 10 percent RT critics' score alongside a 25 percent audience score.

What do you think about these shows? Are there any other series you think were the worst TV shows of 2024? Let us know in the comments below and before you get too sad, read up on 13 TV & Movie Adaptations That Are Just As Good As The Book (Yes, Really).

Miley Cyrus and boyfriend Maxx Morando are extremely elusive, TBH. We've gotten snippets of their relationship status here and there, from them moving in together to their adorable appearance at the Grammys, but not much more than that. Thankfully, Miley opened up to Harper's Bazaarabout her budding relationship, making rare comments about her curly-haired beau.

Here's what Miley Cyrus had to say about Maxx Morando!

Francis Specker/CBS

Like most millennials, Miley needs help staying up-to-date on all things Gen Z, including (and maybe especially) when it comes to memes. Luckily, apparently Maxx keeps her in the loop by sending her what he sees online — a time when their eight-year age gap really seems to come in handy. She told Harper's Bazaar, “He looks at life really differently than I do. He grew up with a laptop. I had a desktop computer that I shared with my brothers and sisters."

The Grammy-winner went on to explain that Maxx even uses his Gen Z-ness when it comes to their dog (OMG they have a dog together?!). She said, "Honestly, he’s raised our dog off Reddit. I’m like, Are you sure we’re supposed to be doing this? And he’s like, On Reddit it says blah, blah, blah."

She went on to explain that Maxx is "very similar" to her. She said, "We just don’t take life too seriously." This all plays into their ability for the two musicians to collaborate on creating, meshing their personal and professional lives pretty seamlessly. According to the article, Maxx helped write the song "Something Beautiful" on her upcoming album, which is apparently the title track...I'm not crying, you are!

While so many couldn't intertwine their careers with matters so personal, Miley clearly feels differently. She said, “I worked with my dad forever. That’s how me and my ex-husband met each other. I’ve always worked with the people that I love. And Maxx just inspires me so much.”

BRB while I anxiously await this new album...and any other updates on these two love birds!

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Our favorite dancing queens (Meryl Streep included) might be returning to the big screen for a third encore of Mamma Mia! and we’re already rewatching the first two movie musicals in preparation.

In an interview with Deadline in May of 2023, Mamma Mia! franchise creator and producer Judy Craymer said a third movie musical is in "earliest stages." She also shared that she has come up with a way to bring Meryl Streep back again.

"I don't want to over-egg it," she said of the unofficial news, "but I know there's a trilogy there…and I do think Meryl should come back, and if the script is right, she would, I think, because she really loved playing Donna."

"Of course I want to do it," Streep said during the 2024 Cannes Film Festival (via Deadline). Sounds promising to us!

Is Mamma Mia 3 happening?

Universal Pictures

Yes, Mamma Mia 3 is in its early planning stages! Christine Baranski just told The Hollywood Reporter that she's met with producer Judy Kramer, and that Kramer has plans for the third movie. "She gave me the narrative plotline of how it’s going to happen," Baranski says. "That’s all I can say! But, it’s not like, 'Oh, I wish it could happen!' Judy Kramer makes things happen. She made number two happen, and it was a phenomenal hit. I wouldn’t put it past Judy Kramer to get everybody back together."

Universal Pictures

A third installation was first mentioned way back in 2020, during a Collider interview with Mamma Mia! star Amanda Seyfried. Seyfried said she was on board — and at the time, she thought the rest of the star-studded cast would be too.

"Listen, every single person in that movie would say yes in a heartbeat because we want to hang out with each other," Seyfried told Collider at the time. "That's what we talked about last time, like did we ever think that we'd end up here again on an Island in Croatia?"

When will Mamma Mia 3 come out?

Universal Pictures

We don't have an official answer about when to expect this highly anticipated sequel. The project is in the "earliest stages," according to creator and producer, Judy Craymer. Cher also revealed to Entertainment Weekly that everyone is "talking about it," but she doesn't "know when they're going to do it."

Has casting information been shared about Mamma Mia 3?

Jonathan Prime/Universal Studios

While nothing's been made official, Amanda Seyfried just said something that made my heart skip a beat. She told ABC News she loves Sabrina Carpenter's music and dropped this admission: "If Sabrina Carpenter wants to play my daughter, I’ll make it happen."

But before she admitted that, the actress said something else that made me raise my eyebrows. "Everybody says it’s gonna happen, but I mean, I haven’t seen a script."

Cher is also eager to return to the beloved franchise and is rooting for Meryl to make an appearance again. "I keep saying, 'Meryl, you've got to come back,'" she said (via Entertainment Weekly). She also said she's told her, "'It'll be fun. You'll have a good time. You'll be able to sing.'"

I don't know what it'll take, but hope someone gets a script in Amanda Seyfried, Cher, and Meryl Streep's hands ASAP!

What is the first Mamma Mia about?

Universal Pictures

The first film follows Donna (Streep) and Sophie (Seyfried) as mother and daughter living on a remote Greek island. When Sophie is about to marry Sky (Dominic Cooper), she sets out to learn who her real father is after discovering it could be one of three men (played by Pierce Brosnan, Stellan Skarsgard, and Colin Firth).

Who does the second Mamma Mia follow?

Universal Pictures / NBCUniversal

Mamma Mia 2takes viewers back to 1979, where young Donna (Lily James) embarks on a series of adventures throughout Europe following her Oxford University graduation. On her journeys, she makes the acquaintances of Harry, Bill and Sam – the latter whom she falls in love with. In the present day, pregnant Sophie dreams of renovating a taverna while reuniting with her mother's old friends and boyfriends on a Greek island island.

TBH, we’re pretty happy that Mamma Mia! is far from over, and we can’t wait to see what the franchise has in store for us next. Stay updated on all the latest entertainment news with Brit + Co.

This post has been updated.

Signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles are inevitable as we, well, age. But age does not dictate whether or not you can rock a stunning makeup look! When it comes to applying foundation to mature skin, you can still achieve a smooth, glowy base.

The best practice for finding foundations for mature skin is avoiding thick, high-coverage foundations – they can look cakey and sink into those pesky fine lines, accentuating them even more. Instead, opt for thinner, more buildable foundations. Bonus points for formulas with hydrating and anti-aging ingredients like hyaluronic acid and SPF!

If you’re getting glam on a budget, I’ve tracked down the 8 best drugstore foundations for mature skin. The best part is they’re all relatively affordable, but oh-so effective in providing coverage so you can step out with confidence.

The best drugstore foundations for mature skin in 2024:

Scroll on for the best drugstore foundations for mature skin, starting at just $9!

Amazon

Best hyaluronic acid formula: CoverGirl & Olay Simply Ageless 3-in-1 Liquid Foundation

Pros: Infused with Olay skincare like niacinamide, a hyaluronic complex, and vitamin C, good coverage, smooth application

Cons: Customers have noted that the shades can run darker than what's noted on the packaging

Promising review: "This product is amazing. It truly provides full coverage. It makes my skin look flawless. No cakeiness and foundation seems creamy and good quality. Not super lightweight but that's ok with me."

Amazon

Best SPF formula: L'Oreal Paris Age Perfect Radiant Serum Foundation

Pros: Higher sun protection than other options at SPF 50, includes vitamin B3 and a hydrating serum to better complexion

Cons: Some users noted the formula can feel oily

Promising review: "I found my holy grail. Years and years, probably hundreds of dollars later, my Goldilocks foundation is cheap, available and even includes a high SPF. Why I waited so long on this L’Oréal winner, I don’t know. My mature dry skin loves this one. Never settles in lines or texture and lasts all day. Medium coverage and so easy to apply with brush, fingers or sponge. Very natural finish but not dewy."

Amazon

Best antioxidant formula: Neutrogena Healthy Skin Liquid Foundation

Pros: Includes vitamin E, feverfew (known for calming properties), and natural soy to enhance skin

Cons: Poor shade range, formula can be thicker than others but "dries right away and covers very well."

Promising review: "Finally found a foundation that looks natural with a good match to my skin. I read an article on a celebrity who uses it so I decided to give it a try. I dot it all over my face and use a makeup brush to stipple it first and then swirl. It’s buildable so you can start slow. I love how it looks on my mature skin. Doesn’t settle or look dry."

Amazon

Best on-the-go formula: Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Foundation

Pros: Packaging makes it easy to travel with and apply, buildable coverage, blurring applicator

Cons: Some users noted the formula can feel oily, leading it to fade quickly

Promising review: "So easy to apply, can be blended with fingertips or makeup brush, really excellent coverage! No strange smells and doesn't irritate my skin (and I'm very sensitive, in the past had to use hypoallergenic brands). Have reordered and will not try any other brands going forward. It's funny because it's been 55 years since I used a Maybelline product, spent years paying for upscale brands, and now they've finally got it right!"

Amazon

Best long-wear formula: Revlon 3X Age Defying Foundation

Pros: Claims to work as a moisturizer, serum, and primer all in one, easily buildable

Cons: Sun protection is very low at SPF 20, poor shade range

Promising review: "I have dry mature skin. This is perfect for me. I like how it looks natural... I don’t use my moisturizer when I use it…it’s like using moisturizer. I cleanse, tone and then apply with a kabuki brush. A+"

Amazon

Best dewy formula: Maybelline Fit Me Dewy + Smooth Liquid Foundation

Pros: Adds a luminous finish, oil-free formula

Cons: Sun protection is very low at SPF 18

Promising review: "An older friend with beautiful skin told me she used Maybelline Fit Me Dewy, so I tried it. It works better with my aging skin than many more expensive brands of foundation I’ve tried. Despite being light as a feather, it has fairly good coverage for blending out dark spots or splotches, [so] I sometimes use a concealer for under eye circles, too. There is a great range of colors, so it’s easier to get a good match."

Amazon

Best buildable formula: Covergirl Advanced Radiance Age Defying Foundation

Pros: Reduces fine lines and imperfections, cruelty-free formula

Cons: Some customers have noticed discrepancies between this product's shade names and the rest of Covergirl's foundations and that it can be cakey on the face, but only with a heavy hand

Promising review: "When I started to develop fine lines around my eyes I found the mineral powder foundation settled into them and made me look older. (I'm now mid 40s). This foundation provides a medium to full coverage (depending on amount used) which I like but still looks natural. It is very creamy, feels light, and does not settle into my fine lines. It doesn't feel like I'm wearing makeup."

Amazon

Best subtle splurge: IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream

Pros: Great coverage, multi-tasking product with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, vitamin E, and SPF

Cons: On the more expensive side (this travel-size version is $22)

Promising review: "I'm a 58 year old woman of Italian heritage. I definitely have that ever-so-slight olive tint to my skin. Despite the spotty reviews I decided to try it anyway... I LOVE this product and for me it lives up to all the hype."

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

Get ready to sleigh your stocking stuffer game this holiday season, because we've curated the ultimate list of 30 must-have goodies under $35! From heart-shaped sunglasses that scream sass to the coziest fuzzy socks that will have you Netflix-and-chill ready, we've got you covered. Whether you're shopping for your BFF, sister, or treating yourself (because, let's be real, you deserve it), our lineup is bursting with trendy finds and timeless classics. So, grab your shopping list and dive into the holiday magic with these wallet-friendly treasures that are sure to spark joy and spread the festive cheer. Let the stocking stuffing begin!

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Opaque Tights

Tights might sound like a strange gift, but gifting red tights is a sign that you know whats up with the trends!

Amazon

Maxdot Heart Shape Sunglasses Rimless Transparent

It's time to embrace those heart eyes, darling! Cutesy accessories are the perfect little gift for any stylish romantic.

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Velvet Bow Hair Ties, Set Of 6

Perfect for adding a touch of whimsy to a simple hairstyle, these hair ties are a must-have for achieving that Instagram-worthy look.

Target

Starface Hydro-Star Pimple Patches + Refillable Compact

Say goodbye to blemish blues with Starface Pimple Patches. Stick one on and let the healing magic begin!

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Slip Scrunchie Ornament

Gentle on the locks and oh-so-chic, these scrunchies are the secret to achieving that effortlessly messy bun with a touch of glamour.

Urban Outfitters

Brand New

MOODEAUX Supercharged Skin Scent 2-in-1 Dry Oil Perfume Spray

Take someone's scent glands on a journey with MOODEAUX's fun-sized Supercharged Skin Scent Dry Oil Perfume Spray! Just like the name suggests, it has a delicious-smelling blend of fragrances and oils that help trigger a happier mood. From pink pepper to raspberry and saffron, your nose buds will be taken on a heavenly ride once they smell this for the first time.

We love MOODEAUX at Brit + Co and are excited to announce you'll be able to get your hands on the Dry Oil Perfume Sprays in 25 Urban Outfitters stores nationwide! Be sure to check out the official announcement here!

Anthropologie

Jingle Bell Bottle Opener

Now your fav boozy bae can pop open their favorite drinks with a jingle, and let the holiday vibes flow. It's a party in a bottle opener!

Anthropologie

Papier Pause Bookmark

A gentle reminder to slow down, relax, and take your time when getting lost in the pages of your favorite book.

Free People

Bow Taper Candles

Help set the mood with these cute and dainty candle sticks!

Sephora

Clinique Black Honey Lipstick

Universally flattering, this iconic shade adds a touch of mystery and allure to any pout.

Urban Outfitters

Chillhouse Chill Tips Press-On Manicure Kit

These trendy and hassle-free nails are a game-changer for anyone looking to level up their manicure game without the commitment.

Target

Fujifilm Quicksnap 135 Flash 400 2pk Camera

Forget filters and digital screens – these vintage-inspired cameras bring back the joy of film photography. Snap, click, and relive the memories!

Anthropologie

Mermade Hair Velcro Roller Set

Embrace the vintage aesthetic with Mermade Hair's pretty pink rollers. They're essential if you want to achieve a cute and flirty bedtime look.

Amazon

Ferrero Rocher 24 Count Chocolate Gift Box

Forrest Gump's mom didn't lie when she told him, "Life's like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna get," because it often feels that way. But you can always count on Ferrero Rocher's chocolates to provide the same high-quality taste they're known for every time. We know your mom or grandma can't stop eating them so why not surprise them with their own gift boxes?

Sephora

Clarins Lip Comfort Hydrating Oil

Still can't get your hands on Dior? Opt for this luxe lip treatment from Clarins!

Skims

Skims Holiday Socks (2-Pack)

Comfy, cozy, and effortlessly cool, these holiday socks from Skims will help Santa decide if someone deserves an extra present or a lump of coal.

Skims

Skims Boyfriend Boxer

Comfort meets style in these chic boxers that redefine the meaning of intimate gifting. Because let's be real – everyone loves Skims!

Amazon

Magic 8 Ball

The Magic Eight Ball is your pocket-sized oracle for those burning questions. Will your crush text back? Shake it up and find out!

Anthropologie

The Petra Mini Drop Earrings

Delicate and charming, they add a touch of elegance to any outfit. Embrace the art of understated glam!

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Classic Faux-Fur Earmuffs

A perfect blend of fashion and function, these earmuffs keep the "It Girl" warm while turning heads.

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Sherpa Cozy Socks

Luxuriously soft and oh-so-cuddly, these socks are the perfect companions for a cozy night in.

Anthropologie

Tweezerman Enchanted Garden Mini Tweezer Set

These high-quality essentials are a game-changer for achieving perfectly groomed brows and precision plucking.

Urban Outfitters

Conair x Wicked Spa Satin Headband

From being a beauty routine essential to a casual brunch accessory, this accessory is the perfect blend of style and comfort.

Urban Outfitters

TONYMOLY All You Need Face Mask Set

Packed with skin-loving ingredients, these masks are your ticket to a radiant and refreshed complexion.

Nordstrom

Chunks Suki Claw Clip

This playful accessory is a statement piece that holds your tresses in style.

Free People

We're Not Really Strangers Card Game

Dive into deep and meaningful conversations with the We're Not Really Strangers Card Game. Perfect for game nights with friends or intimate moments with a loved one, this card game is a journey into connection and discovery.

Sephora

Beauty Blender Original Makeup Sponge

Because you can never have too many.

Sephora

Phlur Missing Person Eau de Parfum Travel Spray

This captivating scent is perfect for those who love a touch of enigma in their fragrance collection.

Target

Tile Mate

For those who are prone to misplacing things, Tile Mate is *the* trusty sidekick.

Salt Nails

Salt Nails Poppi Press-Ons

We swear by these easy-to-apply and study press-ons by Salt Nails! Not only are they stylish, but they don't interfere with everyday life! If you know a mom who dreads getting her nails done because of her baby or toddler's car seat, she'll love this stocking stuffer idea!

Amazon

Realsy Pitted & Stuffed Medjool Dates

We all know a few snackers in our lives who love eating on-the-go. With these yummy Medjool Dates, they'll be able to enjoy something that's fresh, tasty, and healthy. Plus, they're filled with mouth-watering natural nut butter from Realsy's "family-owned date farm!

Looking for more holidayhelp? Be sure to sign up for our weekly shopping newsletter for all your gifting inspo needs!

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

This post has been updated.