Millennial Women Are Taking a Lot Less Vacation Time Than Men

Elizabeth King
May 25, 2017

Summer is here, which means people all over the country are gearing up for vacations. Whether it’s the beach, a national park, or just having a good old fashioned Netflix staycation, vacation time really helps with relaxation, and of course it’s super fun. But according to a new study, some people get more use out of their allotted fun time: men!

The study was conducted by Project: Time Off (P:TO), an organization dedicated to promoting vacation time as an essential part of taking care of ourselves, and as something businesses should provide to their employees. Researchers with GfK, a market research company, and Oxford Economics surveyed 7,331 Americans earlier this year about their work and vacation habits, and found that work dominates the American lifestyle, especially among women.

According to the report from P:TO, men overall use more vacation time than women. The survey found that 48 percent of men 18 or older who work 35 or more hours per week and receive time off used all of their vacation time in 2016. Compare this to just 44 percent of women who used all of their time.

The gender gap was even larger among millennials. 51 percent of millennial men used up all of their allotted vacation time last year, whereas only 44 percent of millennial women did the same. All of this despite the fact that women say vacation time is more important to them than men: 55 percent of millennial women said time off is “extremely important” to them, and only 45 percent of millennial men said the same. Perhaps vacation is so much more important to women because they don’t use as much vacation?

P:TO offered some explanations for why men and women are taking vacation at different rates. Men were shown to plan ahead for vacation more than women were, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. It also turns out women hear a lot more silence or negative messaging around vacation than their male counterparts.

69 percent of millennial women reported “they hear nothing, mixed, or negative messages about taking time off,” compared to 63 percent of men who said the same. Millennial women also fear the stigmas surrounding vacation time more profoundly than men do, the survey found. Report author Katie Denis tells us that women also tended to feel guiltier about taking vacation time than men did.

It’s also no secret that women have it tougher overall at work. Brit + Co has recently reported on the gender wage gap, perceived lack of ambition among women, and the dealing with workplace sexual harassment. Given all of this, Denis says that this business about women taking less vacation time is not surprising.

But wait a second. There’s clearly a gender gap at play in terms of who is taking more vacation time and how vacation is perceived, but what about the fact that nowhere near all American workers are taking all of their vacation time? Less than half of all workers are using up all their time off… something’s not right here.

According to P:TO’s report, American workers are overall afraid that they’re compromising their job security by taking time off, even though their companies allow for time off. Twenty-one percent of survey respondents said they worry that taking vacation time could mean they won’t be considered for raises or promotions, 23 percent said they fear they will seem replaceable if they take vacation, and 26 percent said they worry taking time off makes them seem less dedicated to their jobs.

The report states that the solution is for managers and company leadership to speak openly about the fact that it’s okay to take vacation days, and not speak disparagingly about vacation or allow negative feelings about time off to spread.

Vacation may seem frivolous or like a luxury, but it’s actually imperative for the well-being of employees, and not taking time off is basically a donation made by an employee to their company. According to P:TO, the average employee effectively donate $604 in work time (read: working for free) to their company last year by not taking full advantage of their vacation time. Countrywide, the US workforce gave up $66.4 billion to the companies they work for.

Fortunately, there are some pretty simple and concrete steps that both managers and employees can take to help course-correct the negativity surrounding vacation time. Denis says that especially for women, it’s really important to plan ahead for vacation. “There’s always some anxiety when employees request time off, wondering whether or not it will approved, but it’s really helpful to plan as far ahead as possible,” she says. This way, there’s ample time to make preparations for employees who plan to be away for an extended period, and managers will be pleased to have advanced notice of a temporary change in their team status.

Denis also tells us that managers have some work to do. Especially for managers who work with millennial women, Denis says it’s important to have consistent, positive conversations about vacation days with their team. Many managers may not even be aware their employees have anxiety or fears about asking for time off, so it’s important to ask these questions and address the pressures the team might be experiencing.

Like with most gender-in-the-workplace issues, a lot needs to change within team and company culture to make things more equitable for women. Chatting with a manager about concerns you have about vacation and being sure to plan ahead might seem scary, but you’re entitled to that time off, dang it! So go ahead and enjoy your days off this summer, you deserve them.

Do you have nerves or feel pressures surrounding vacation days? Tell us about it on Twitter @BritandCo.

(Photos via Getty)

'It Ends With Us' Star Brandon Sklenar's Next Movie Is Another BookTok Favorite

Gretchen Weiners' hair might be full of secrets in Mean Girls, but in Amanda Seyfried's new movie, her life is full of secrets. The Housemaid, based on the novel by Freida McFadden, follows Millie (played by Sydney Sweeney), who's down on her luck and in desperate need of a fresh start. When she snags a job as a housemaid in Nina's (Amanda Seyfried) beautiful home, it looks like things are finally moving in her favor. But all is not as it seems — and it doesn't take long for Millie to realize Nina's secrets are the most dangerous thing about her.

The book, which has sold over 3.6 million copies, has been on the New York Times Bestseller list for over a year and Amazon's Bestsellers list for 98 weeks (talk about popular). It was also the second-most-read title on Kindle for their 10th anniversary, so it's no surprise that the story is getting its own adaptation. Here's everything you need to know about The Housemaid starring Sydney Sweeney, Amanda Seyfried, and Brandon Sklenar.

  • The Housemaid by Freida McFadden is getting the movie treatment.
  • Amanda Seyfried and Sydney Sweeney will star as Nina and Millie, respectively, while Brandon Sklenar will star as Andrew.
  • Seyfried promises fans "I'm gonna do you well."

Who's in The Housemaid movie?

Jon Kopaloff/Andreas Rentz/Getty Images

The Housemaid Cast

The cast of The Housemaid will be led by Sydney Sweeney (Euphoria, Anyone But You) as Millie, Amanda Seyfried (Mamma Mia!, The Drop Out) as Nina, and Brandon Sklenar (It Ends With Us,Drop) as Andrew. Uma Thurman, Phoebe Dynevor, and Anthony Hopkins will also star. Check back here for the rest of the official cast list!

"I hope [die-hard fans of the book] accept this casting," Seyfried jokes in an interview with Bustle. "I know Sydney's amazing...I can't wait to work with her. I think we're going to have a lot of fun. But also, like, I don't know how people see Nina, my character...I hope they like the casting because the fans are the reason it's being made. So I'm here to tell all the fans that I'm gonna do you well."

"I can’t even express how excited I am to announce that #TheHousemaidMovie is coming soon!!!" McFadden said in an Instagram post. "@Lionsgate has come up with the absolute perfect cast and director, and I am just so grateful! I mean, Sydney Sweeney, Amanda Seyfried, and Paul Feig…mind blown!!!! I’m so honored and thankful to all my readers who helped make this dream come true!!!!!"

Is The Housemaid going to be made into a movie?

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Yes, Deadline announced on October 8 that The Housemaid would become a film, thanks to Hidden Pictures and Lionsgate. Paul Feig will direct, Rebecca Sonnenshine will write the script, and Todd Lieberman, Laura Fischer, and Feig will produce while Alex Young, author Freida McFadden, Sydney Sweeney, and Amanda Seyfried will executive produce.

“I’m thrilled to have The Housemaid join our upcoming slate,” said Adam Fogelson, chair of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group. “A great filmmaker and a great cast with a great script from a great book is a terrific place to start.”

“Part of the fun of the book was imagining the cast while we read it, and Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried are perfect for Millie and Nina – they’re both mysterious, nuanced, and incredibly skilled at becoming characters who don’t reveal everything right away,” said Erin Westerman, co-president of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group.

What is the plot of The Housemaid?

Amazon

The Housemaid Plot

Millie has one more chance at starting over, and taking a job as a housemaid for wealthy couple Nina and Andrew is the perfect place to start. But as she cleans, cooks, and takes care of their daughter, Millie quickly realizes her employers are far from perfect — even if they'll do anything to keep up appearances.

When is The Housemaid coming out?

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The Housemaid Release Date

We don't have an official release date for The Housemaid yet, but there's a good chance we could see it in 2025. Stay tuned for more news!

How many books are in the series The Housemaid?

Amazon

Freida McFadden has three books in The Housemaid series: The Housemaid, The Housemaid's Secret, and The Housemaid is Watching.

Is The Housemaid spicy?

hubbugaye/Pexels

There is some sex and violence in The Housemaid, but it's not as overwhelming as some other popular books on the market. One Goodreads user compares the content to what you'd watch in Law & Order: SVU or Criminal Minds. If you're concerned about one of your preteens reading this book, you could always read it first, or start a bookclub and read it together!

Read The 17 Best Mystery And Thriller Books For All Readers while it's still spooky season!

This post has been updated.

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I'm Drooling Over Jeremy Allen White's First Look As Bruce Springsteen

Despite his (very) questionable communication tactics, the world was immediately enraptured with Jeremy Allen White's Carmy when The Bear premiered on FX in 2022. And thanks to the show, and its various Emmy Awards, Carmy and his blue apron are instantly recognizable, as is Jeremy Allen White's next role: Bruce Springsteen.

The biopic joins a lineup of other highly anticipated movies like Timothée Chalamet's A Complete Unknown, about Bob Dylan, Selena Gomez's upcoming Linda Ronstadt biopic, and Paul Mescal's rumored role in the Beatles movies. And in addition to White's excitement for Deliver Me From Nowhere, the movie also has The Boss' stamp of approval! Here's everything we know about the upcoming movie.

See The First Look Of Jeremy Allen White As Bruce Springsteen!

20th Century Fox

The first look at Deliver Me From nowhere is a shot of Jeremy Allen White as Bruce Springsteen in a plaid shirt and leather jacket. The whole effect looks like an old polaroid, and (more importantly) is incredibly attractive.

“Beginning production on this film is an incredibly humbling and thrilling journey," writer-director Scott Cooper says in a statement. “Bruce Springsteen’s ‘Nebraska’ has profoundly shaped my artistic vision. The album’s raw, unvarnished portrayal of life’s trials and resilience resonates deeply with me. Our film aims to capture that same spirit, bringing Warren Zanes’ compelling narrative of Bruce’s life to the screen with authenticity and hope, honoring Bruce’s legacy in a transformative cinematic experience. It has been a great pleasure to collaborate with Bruce and Jon [Landau] as I tell their story, and their creative energy fuels every part of this journey. As well, I’m excited to reunite with my friend, David Greenbaum [president, Disney Live Action and 20th Century Studios], as he embarks on his new role at Disney, adding another layer of inspiration to this project.”

What has Bruce Springsteen said about the movie?

It could be a very strange experience to have your life turned into a movie, but Bruce Springsteen seems to be having a great time. “It’s a lovely cast and I am involved a little,” he said on the Graham Norton Show (via People).

He also doesn't shy away from the fact that Jeremy Allen White's performance won't be exactly the same because "you can’t do an imitation, you have to do a personal interpretation."

“It’s difficult but he is a great actor and sings pretty good," he continues.

Will there be a Bruce Springsteen biopic?

Columbia/Sony Music Publishing

Deliver Me From Nowhere Plot

Yes, a Bruce Springsteen movie is on its way! Deliver Me From Nowhere will follow Warren Zanes' book of the same name, which chronicles the process of creating Bruce's 1982 album Nebraska. The movie comes from 20th Century Studios, who's behind other smash hits like Avatar: The Way of Water, The French Dispatch, and Alien: Romulus.

“Bruce Springsteen, and Nebraska, in particular, have had a profound impact on me and my work. Through themes of despair, disillusionment, and the struggles of everyday Americans, Bruce has formed an unparalleled legacy, painting an unflinching portrait of the human condition,” director Scott Cooper said in a statement (via The Hollywood Reporter). “Yet, amidst the darkness, a sense of resilience and a sense of hope shines through, reflecting an indomitable spirit. That’s the Bruce I’ve come to know and love and will honor with this film.”

When does the Bruce Springsteen movie come out?

Deliver Me From Nowhere Release Date

We don't have an official release date for the move yet, but they start shooting in November!

Who will play Bruce Springsteen in the movie?

Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

Deliver Me From Nowhere Cast

Jeremy Allen White stars as rock icon Bruce Springsteen. “I’ve got a really beautiful team of people helping me and Bruce has been really lovely and supportive and available, which has made this whole process an extra joy," Jeremy Allen White told Deadline in September 2024. "His support and Jon Landau, his management's, support, who has a large role in the film as well. So I feel really lucky.”

He also told Variety in June that he's “gonna try [his] best" to do his own singing in the movie.

Jeremy is joined by Odessa Young, who's playing one of Bruce Springsteen's love interests. Since she nabbed a spot in the film, she's been “weeping multiple times a day, but tells Variety she hasn't met the rockstar yet. “I really think that it will send me down a path for which there is no return,” she says. “Like I cannot come back from that experience as the same person.”

Stay tuned for the latest news on Jeremy Allen White's Deliver Me From Nowhere! Read up on why the A Complete Unknown Trailer Cements Timothée Chalamet As An Oscar Contender for more biopic news.

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.

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40 Plus-Size Halloween Costumes To Complement Your Curves

We have a serious appreciation for all things creative, like these plus-size Halloween costumes, and we have a hunch you’ll love some of our newest finds, too. Afterward, if you still haven’t decided on which costume to wear this Halloween, gather your group of besties and get their opinion — or, better yet, pick out a group Halloween costume, and you can all dress up together! Here are 40 of the most curve-lovin’ (and seriously hot) plus-size Halloween costumes you’ll find out there this season.

Yandy

Cruella de Vil

Cruella de Vil will always hold a special place among our most-feared villains, right alongside Voldemort and Ursula. After all, she’s going after puppies! But on Halloween, the celebration of the gruesome and morbid, this evilness equates to fabulousness, and we’ll more than forgive you for dressing up like her… just this once.

Walmart

Maleficent

Channel your deepest, darkest powers and channel your inner Maleficent this Halloween. “So you see, the story is not quite as you were told.”

Amazon

Cozy Deer

Wait, so we can look cute *and* be toasty-warm?! We’re sayin’ yes to this fuzzy zip-up.

Yandy

Sexy Stewardess

Get ready for liftoff in this flight attendant costume. If you’re a travel-lover, this is the perfect way to bring your passion into your costume.

Brit + Co

DIY Jessica Rabbit Costume

This has to be the ultimate curvy bombshell character to channel on Halloween. The dress, gloves, hair, and makeup are bold and will definitely put your bangin’ bod front and center. (via Brit + Co)

Amazon

Sexy Kitty

Frisky attitude not included. This plus size Halloween costume might look simple, but it’s anything but basic.

Amazon

Flapper Girl

There’s nothing as fun — and a little dangerous — as the glitz and glamour of the ’20s. Throw on a long string of pearls or do your makeup to look like a ghostly flapper for that extra creative edge.

Brit + Co

DIY Ursula Costume

We’ll always be a sucker for classic Disney costumes. And if you want to give Ursula that extra-special take, you can follow this relatively simple DIY for the costume contest win! (via Brit + Co)

Halloween Costumes

Sea Siren Mermaid

This is — hands down — one of the best mermaid costumes we’ve ever seen. From the form-fitting metallic mermaid “tail” to the bustier top, this is for sure a look to emulate if you want to flaunt your curves.

Yandy

Storybook Alice

Down the rabbit hole you go this Halloween. You never know what’s going to happen when you channel this fairytale classic!

Halloween Costumes

Sea Siren

You had us at gold, sequins, and tulle. Oh, and we’re always down to rule the sea!

Amazon

Ninja

Pop off this Halloween in a comfortable disguise that’s both sleek and sexy.

Amazon

Beauty And The Beast Belle

We’ll always love our classic Disney princesses, especially this beauty.

Amazon

Minnie Mouse

You don’t need a Mickey to look fly as heck in a retro-inspired Minnie Mouse getup.

Amazon

Empress Divine

One of the best reasons to dress up as an ancient Egyptian is obviously the cat-eye makeup.

Amazon

Goth Red Riding Hood

Pay homage to one of your favorite fairy tales with a sexy twist. Plus, if you haven’t worn a cape before, you truly haven’t lived.

Amazon

Flirty Cop

It may be illegal to impersonate a police officer, but no one ever said a flirty cop was off-limits!

Halloween Costumes

Cinderella Fairy Godmother

We could all use a fairy godmother, albeit notthis scheming one from Shrek. Still, this is a hilarious costume, and we’re definitely eyeing that wand and wig combo.

Yandy

Commando Cutie

Serve your country by wearing this retro army green uniform.

Amazon

Harley Quinn

We’re impressed with the mismatched thigh-highs and color-coordinated armbands on this plus-size Halloween costume.

Amazon

Cozy Bat Costume

The name of this costume says it all. If you’re in the mood to prioritize comfort, you’ll feel extra-snuggly in this cozy bat costume.

Amazon

Ghostbuster

If you loved the all-female Ghostbusters as much as we did, grab your friends and go as the whole crew. The best part? On Halloween, there will be plenty of monsters to bust, which makes a great conversation-starter!

Amazon

Queen Bee

Everyone at this year's Halloween party will be buzzing about you in this flattering bee costume. You are the queen, after all!

Amazon

Poison Ivy

Wow, here’s a sexy take on the evil Poison Ivy.

Amazon

Oktoberfest Fraulein

The beer maid costume is always a safe choice. It’s cute and classic, and you get to wear pigtails.

Yandy

Sexy Nurse

They’ll need a nurse after you knock ’em out with this costume!

Amazon

Snow White

If you’re going to wear this outfit out on the town, you’ll definitely have at least seven admirers following you wherever you go.

Amazon

Pinup Sailor

Sail the open seas with this cute and comfy sailor costume. This retro getup is all about the accessories!

Yandy

Miss Muerte

Another way to celebrate Halloween is to celebrate the dead. Do it in style with this awesome costume.

Amazon

Cozy Skeleton

If you’re into traditional bones, this comfy number will surely scare the living dead out of you.

Amazon

Grease Pink Lady

This is the perfect Halloween costume for when you don’t really want to dress up. Flats? Check! Awesome jacket to keep you warm? Double check!

Walmart

Supergirl

No one is going to mess with you in this costume, and you just might feel faster than a speeding bullet.

Halloween Costumes

Spanish Senorita

With plenty of sass and a whole lot of ruffles, this costume will have you dancing for joy.

Amazon

Mrs. Incredible

Be your own superhero with this sleek Elastigirl costume. You would look totally incredible in it.

Amazon

Dark Alice

We wouldn’t drink the tea that this Alice serves. While we do love the original blue that Disney’s Alice wears, we are really digging this all-black dress too.

Amazon

Batgirl

Trick-or-treat in the name of justice! Grab Superman and bring him along too, because you two are friends now, remember?

Amazon

Hippie

Keep this Halloween totally tubular by donning this adorable retro dress with go-go boots and a fun '70s eye makeup look!

Amazon

Friday The 13th Miss Voorhees

If you’re team Jason, then you need to buy this sexy number. While we’re not sure who would ultimately win this fight, we’re sure this outfit is already winning our hearts.

Walmart

Justice League Wonder Woman

While Superman is cool and all, we are particularly fond of Wonder Woman. She’s a badass chick that we are ready to represent. Flying an invisible jet doesn’t hurt, either.

Yandy

Cat Burglar

Feeling feisty? Go classic cat with a twist. Meeeow.

Subscribe to our newsletter for more Halloween costume ideas!

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 with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

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Blake Lively's Daughter Is Literally Her Mini Me At The Eras Tour

Blake Lively is as multifaceted as they come. She's an actress who has starred in titles like Gossip Girl, A Simple Favor, and The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (plus It Ends With Us). She's the founder of Betty Buzz, which has a variety of non-alcoholic mixers that taste just as good on their own as they do with liquor. And, she's also a mom. Lively has been outspoken about protecting her children from the paparazzi, making rare public appearances with them for events like her husband Ryan Reynolds' Hollywood Walk Of Fame Ceremonyandcozy date nights.

When Lively and Reynolds seemingly announced the birth of their fourth child last year, we melted. Here's everything you need to know about Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively's kids.

Is Taylor Swift friends with Blake Lively's kids?

Mike Coppola/Getty Images

Yes, Taylor Swift loves Blake Lively's kids! The family has shown up to the Eras Tour multiple times, and most recently supported the popstar at her concert in New Orleans, Louisiana. Blake and Ryan were joined by oldest daughter James (who looked amazing in a Reputation-inspired 'fit), and I can't believe how much James and Blake look alike! She's truly her mini-me! At the Philadelphia show of the Eras Tour, which Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively attended, Taylor said hello from the stage.

One funny detail about Ryan Reynolds' kids that I love is when he mentioned the girls finally realized Taylor Swift was a popstar. "I think what's most exciting for them is that for the longest time they just thought Taylor's just like an aunt, like a friend of Mommy and Daddy that's very, very close, almost family," he tellsThe Jess Cagle Show. "And then they went to a concert one day and were like, 'Ohhhhh, this isn't a hobby.'"

For Super Bowl Sunday in 2024, Blake Lively joined Taylor Swift to support beau (and KC Chiefs tight end) Travis Kelce. "Last week I left my kids for the first time ever," she says on Instagram. "I took pictures upside down and had no clue. I treated a friendship bracelet like a Flat Stanley for my husband like I didn’t realize it wasn’t ‘07. I borrowed more jewelry than the skeleton in the Pirates of the Caribbean ride. And I went clubbing. Now I know what my episode of TheTwilight Zone would look like."

How do Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively prioritize their kids?

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At the end of September, Ryan Reynolds revealed how different parenting seems to be now than when he was a kid. "Parents today are so different. We're so soft," he said at HubSpot’s INBOUND tech conference (via People). "I don't yell. I grew up with like — it was nuts, it was an improvised militia.”

“Now it's like, I can go look at all my resources for parenting and remind myself how to be perfectly compassionate,” he continued. "Something I love about [conflict resolution], and I know this is not very fancy, but what I love about it is that you can meet somebody where they are, and you don't have to be right or wrong...You can disagree and still connect."

Blake Lively recently joined an episode of her Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants' costar Amber Tamblyn's Further Adoand revealed the one unbreakable rule she made with Ryan Reynolds.

“When Ryan and I got together, we made a rule not to work at the same time,” she says. “So that we could always prioritize our personal life...That takes working really hard when we're not. Just like financial planning and sustaining that; it takes balance.”

I love that Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds are serious about their family life, and that they have identified what works for them and are sticking with it.

What is the name of Blake Lively's 4th baby?

Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images

Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds' fourth baby is named Olin, which he revealed during the July 22 premiere of Deadpool & Wolverine!

Before Ryan chose to reveal the name, he appeared on the Today show and made a cheeky joke about it after the hosts urged him to spill the beans. He said, "We always wait for Taylor to tell us what the child's name will be. We'll say this: we're still waiting."

What are Blake Lively kids ages?

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Blake Lively's kids are all under 10. James is 9 (turning 10 on December 16), Inez is 7 (turning 8 on September 30), Betty is 4 (turning 5 on October 4), and Olin turned 1 in February.

What gender is Ryan and Blake's fourth child?

Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images

On July 26, Ryan Reynolds confirmed that he and Blake Lively's fourth baby, born in February 2023, is a boy in an Instagram video supporting mental health charity Walking 4 Hope. Speaking with founder John Bell, who struggled with suicidal ideation after the 2020 loss of his son Jake, Reynolds says, “I want to share with you that I, too, have a son...Boy, John, if I love him one-tenth as much as you love Jake, I’ll feel like I’ve done a pretty d—mn good job.”

Considering how adorable James, Inez, and Betty are, I can only imagine how cute Blake Lively's son is!

How many children do Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds have?

Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images

Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively have four kids. They welcomed their third daughter in 2019, making this new addition to the family their fourth child.

Did Blake Lively have a 4th baby?

Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for American Cinematheque

Blake Lively posted a pic on Super Bowl Sunday in 2023 showing what appears to be a post-baby body with the caption "Been busy."

Lively confirmed her fourth pregnancy in September 2022 when she arrived at her Forbes event in NYC cradling a baby bump and by posting her own personal photos on Instagramhoping that "the 11 guys waiting outside [her] home for a 🦄 sighting will leave [her] alone."

How old was Blake Lively when she had her first child?

Mike Coppola/Getty Images for Michael Kors

Blake Lively was 27 when she gave birth to her first daughter, James, in December of 2014.

Why did Blake Lively name her daughter James?

Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images

The couple decided to name their daughter James after Reynolds' late father. While the name connects both James and Reynolds to his father, it also gives Lively the chance to bond with her daughter over having historically male names. "I liked having a boy's name," Lively said on Good Morning Americain 2015. "I thought I'd pass it on."

Their third daughter Betty's name is a tribute to Lively's late father. We didn't know the name of the couple's third baby until Taylor Swift used all three names in her 2020 album folklore. Swift also used James' voice at the beginning of her 2017 track "Gorgeous"! Does that mean we'll hear one of Ryan Reynolds' children in Reputation (Taylor's Version)? I hope so!

What has Ryan Reynolds said about raising their kids?

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In a conversation with Hugh Jackman ahead of Deadpool & Wolverine, Ryan Reynolds opened up about how his family has helped his anxiety. "I think it makes it better because your focus is less on yourself and more on your kids," he says (via People). "I love that I've had anxiety because when I see my kids experiencing some of that, which is probably genetic, I know how to address it in a way that is compassionate, that actually allows them to feel seen. I know that I can't just fix it. And I can communicate all that stuff to them and with them. I'm always grateful for it."

Per People, Ryan Reynolds has also made it clear he and Blake are wholly invested in the kids' daily lives. The doting husband and father enjoys the moments of "walking them to school and walking them back" as it deepens their bond. More than anything, Ryan and Blake's main goal is to make sure they teach their kids how to be introspective with Ryan saying "the thing we sort of hang our hat on the most is self-awareness with our kids."

Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images

However, that doesn't mean Blake and Ryan don't absolutely love being parents. "We're very excited [and] we wouldn't do this four times if we didn't love it," he says in an interview with CNBC's Power Lunch. "Everybody's doing great. Everybody's actually doing fantastic. I think if we hadn't figured it out by now, I think we'd be in deep, deep trouble."

"It's a zoo over here," he jokes. "This is my office here, this is where I'll probably — to be honest, I'll probably spend the rest of my life in here."

We love how much energy Ryan and Blake are pouring into their kids. It's always beautiful when parents are able to be present with their kids and teach them how to be present with themselves. Ryan Reynolds has also mentioned how having daughters "has been such a ride." Since he comes from a family of all boys, having daughters is something that was beyond his wildest dreams! “I love being a girl dad,” Ryan tells Access in 2020. “I have three daughters, which I never in a million years would imagine.”

He mentioned his newest child in June of 2023, when he announced his new series Bedtime Stories. "The idea for a show made to help everyone fall asleep was born the same day as my fourth child," he says on Instagram.

Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images

The Deadpool actor also recently offered some parenting advice on Amanda Hirsch’s hit podcastNot Skinny But Not Fat. "Embrace the chaos,” he tells Hirsch. "[Blake] always says, ‘They're all under our roof right now. The whole family's under our roof right now. We have them all.’ And that is a fleeting thing. Not an infinite resource, you know?”

While Reynolds understands firsthand how overwhelming parenting can feel, he also doesn't wish away this time with four young kids: “Just say, ‘Think about what you would give in 40 years or 30 years to come back and enjoy this one moment.’"

How has motherhood affected Blake Lively?

Dimitrios Kambouris/Staff/Getty Images Entertainment via Getty Images;Art by Claire Shadomy/B+C

Blake Lively opened up about how Ryan Reynolds and she monitor screen safety for their kids, which is definitely something top-of-mind in 2024. “This is not an ad. I get nothing out of this. I just love @tappityapp,” she said of the STEM-focused educational app. “It’s engaging, informative, fun and they care about safety."

She also jokes that she's learning new things right along with her kids! But, no matter how educational or fun an app is, Blake Lively also emphasizes the importance of engaging with her kids' devices: "I’m always triple checking any kids app constantly for safety because that’s my responsibility not an app’s, but I do LOVE this one.”

Despite its fun and funny moments, the actress has admitted being a mom is hard, but she did it with her signature dry sense of humor. “BettyBooze at your service," she wrote in an Instagram Story announcing the new brand. "These are recipes I’ve been making for loved ones for years. But I have 4 kids now. And I’m tired. So here they are. In a can."

Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for American Cinematheque

However, Blake Lively absolutely loves motherhood, and says in a 2022 interview with Forbes that having children has made her feel more comfortable in her own skin. "Once I had children, that just became even more profound because my time was even more precious, but also I think having children for me made me feel so much more in my skin," she says. "I never felt more myself or at ease in my own body or more confident — not to say that there aren't a bevy of insecurities coming at me a million times a day, but I just feel incredibly settled."

Speaking with People in 2021, Lively also explains how important it is that her children see her accomplish things outside the home. "I want to be as present of a mother as humanly possible and I want them to feel my presence, but I also think the best way to be the best mother is to show them that you can have a life and have a passion and have an identity outside of just being a mother," Lively says.

While she acknowledges that motherhood is all-encompassing, and it looks different for everyone, she knows that having your own identity is very important. "Teaching them that they can maintain themselves and that everything is possible [is crucial]," she adds.

When did Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds have their daughters?

Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Gabrielle's Angel Foundation

Blake Lively's children were all born in the last 10 years. Blake Lively's daughters are James, Inez, Betty, and her fourth child is named Olin! Their fourth baby's name was announced during the premiere of Deadpool & Wolverine. Blake gave birth to James in 2014, while Inez was born in 2016. Lively gave birth to Betty in 2019 and Olin in February of 2023.

Do Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively's kids have nannies?

Jamie McCarthy / Staff

Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds' children don't have a nanny. "I feel like I could sometimes have a bit of a short fuse, but there's just been this weirdly endless supply of patience," Ryan told GQ in 2015. "I have no problem waking up five times in the middle of the night and changing diapers, and as exhausted as you get, I have this stupid grin on my face all the time."

Check out our email newsletter for the latest celebrity news and trending content, and check back here for the latest news on Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively's kids!

Lead image via Arturo Holmes/Getty Images

This story has been updated.

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How To Make A Stranger Things Halloween Costume For Adults

If you haven't yet seen the Netflix phenomenon Stranger Things, first of all, whaaat? And second of all, head to Netflix right now (after reading this post I mean) for a serious binge. Stranger Things is amazing for so many reasons. It's not only suspenseful and exciting, but it's also perfectly cast with the sweetest child actors and is wonderfully nostalgic.

Despite the fact we're waiting for Stranger Things 5 (and potentially Eddie Munson) to arrive on Netflix, the first season will always have a special place in our hearts. There is something that's iconic, nostalgic, and classic about it and we just cannot get enough. If you feel the same way, add this Stranger Things costume to your Halloween costume rotation!

Eleven 'Stranger Things' Costume

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Of all the outfits, I was most nervous about Eleven’s pink dress. I really lucked out finding this one at my local thrift store. I tucked a white collared shirt I found from the Brit + Co closet underneath.

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The striped crew socks were from Uniqlo (alternate here) and former visual designer Rosee brought her own sneakers and jean jacket. I tried putting a bald cap on Rosee, but instead of looking mysterious like Eleven, it just looked awkward. We decided to put a blonde wig on her and kept it looking messy and fake to perfectly encapsulate Eleven's faux hair.

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Leggo my Eggo.

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“No.”

Mike Wheeler Costume

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I got Mike’s vintage polo shirt and jacket at a thrift store. Former UI Designer/Engineer Scott brought his own jeans and sneakers. To convince people of your Mike-ness, grab a PARTY ZONE Short Black Wig from Amazon.

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Meet Mike Wheeler. He’s the type of person who would go to the Upside Down for his friend. Plus, he toasts the best Eggos ever.

Lucas Sinclair Costume

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I dressed former VP of Strategy, Baldwin, in a vintage striped polo and a maroon jacket, both of which I found at a thrift store, and in a black backpack. Baldwin brought his own jeans, boots and modeling chops. I didn’t add Lucas’s camo headband this time, but you can easily find a scrap of camo fabric at any fabric store to tie around your forehead.

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Meet Lucas Sinclair. He’s a skeptical but fiercely loyal friend. He also has great tree-climbing and binocular skills.

Dustin Henderson 'Stranger Things' Costume

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Dustin’s vintage t-shirt and jacket were awesome thrift store finds. I bought former Editor Trevor a Curly Wig and Mesh Trucker Hat on Amazon. Trevor brought his own sneakers and shoes. We struggled a little with creating Dustin’s missing teeth, but in the end, we stuck some black construction paper over Trevor’s front teeth. The construction paper lasted for the photoshoot, but for a long Halloween night, you may want to try something else. If you find a great way to black-out front teeth, let me know!

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Meet Dustin. He’s known for his expert compass reading and sweet toothless grin.

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Stop fighting guys!!!

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Friends don’t lie.

Barb and Nancy Costume

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Oh, Barb… she may be one of the most tragic characters in Stranger Things. For the most part, it seemed like she only had Nancy looking out for her. Though flawed, Barb and Nancy’s friendship was super strong, and you can tell that they really cared for each other.

Barb Holland Costume

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Amazingly, Barb’s costume was the trickiest to put together. I went to three different stores before finding these high-waisted jeans at Ross. I bought Barb’s ruffled pink button-down from a thrift store and you can grab a red RicHyun Natural Layered PixieWig and Dollger Clear Lens Non Prescription Eyewear from Amazon. Former Planner Micaela brought her own white sneakers and Barb-ness.

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“Nance, seriously, you’re going to be so cool it’s ridiculous.”

Nancy Wheeler Costume

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Nancy has a lot of variation in her wardrobe, but for this costume, I decided to go with the outfit we see her wear to school in the first episode. I found Nancy’s striped sweater, skirt, and white tights at Forever 21. I got the black flats from a thrift store. Former Beauty Editor Misty pinned back former Associate Creative Director Roxy’s bangs and gave her rosy cheeks and berry lips to complete Nancy’s sweetheart look.

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“Barb? Barb?”

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“Ooh, all my boys are here.”

Steve Harrington Costume

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At the beginning of Stranger Things, I was put off by Steve Harrington. I was like, “Nancy, he’s a tool!” But as the show progressed, Steve grew on me more and more. For his costume, I just bought this blue crew-neck sweater from a thrift store. Our model Johnny brought his own jeans, sneakers, and coiffed hair.

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“You’re an idiot, Steve Harrington.” “You’re beautiful, Nancy Wheeler.”

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Hey, who’s the guy taking pictures of us?

Jonathan Byers Costume

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For Jonathan’s broody look, you can use the same PARTY ZONE Short Black Wig from Mike's costume. Misty added oil to the wig and trimmed parts of it to make it look greasy and emo. I also bought a t-shirt and dark sherpa jacket from a thrift store. Former Channel Marketing Associate Sean brought his own sneakers and jeans.

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“I don’t like most people…”

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“Well I was just starting to think you were okay…”

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Team Steve or Team Jonathan?

Group 'Stranger Things' Halloween Costume

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Let’s get the whole gang together!

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The demogorgon!!!

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Eggos on Eggos on Eggos.

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How will you and your gang dress up for Halloween? Tag us with you Stranger Things costumes on Instagram and check out our Pop Culture Halloween Costumes, TV Halloween Costumes, and other Group Costumes on our Halloween page!

Netflix

DIY Production + Styling: Irene Lee

Makeup: Misty Spinney and Micaela Friedman

Photography: Kurt Andre

Models: Rosee Canfield, Scott Gamble, Baldwin Cunningham, Trevor Tillman, Johnny Walker, Roxy Taghavian, Sean Griffis, and Micaela Friedman

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.

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