Caroline Lindner’s Nashville Street Barbers Gives Free Haircuts to the Homeless — and So Much More

Nov 27, 2018

Be the Change looks at real life projects and inspiration to make the world better.

As a stylist, Caroline Lindner knows all about that feeling you get after a much-needed haircut. She sees it in her clients every day. It’s confidence. It’s loving yourself, and feeling worthy of love. But she knows that a simple haircut is a luxury some people don’t get to experience.

After she went through the vulnerable process of getting sober in 2017, service work became a priority in Lindner’s life. Inspired to use what she had to help others, she caught wind of two local volunteer organizations that serve the local homeless population — a mobile shower truck called ShowerUp and a food, clothing, and supplies provider called People Loving Nashville — at the same plaza in Nashville every Monday night. On one such Monday, she decided to show up by herself to give free haircuts to the homeless.

Knowing that the two other outreach groups would also be there was a definite source of reassurance for Lindner, who was entering personally uncharted territory. When we ask what worried her about the endeavor, she bluntly responds: “Everything. Absolutely everything.” Mostly, she didn’t know how she would be received by the community.

“I was scared that people wouldn’t want me to cut their hair. I know that I’m picky about my hair and I don’t expect it to be any different for them. I was trying to get them to trust me that I knew what I was doing and convince myself of that too,” explains Lindner.

Lindner’s experiment proved a success, and before long she was asking fellow stylists to join her on her Monday night haircut missions. They were “apprehensive,” as Lindner recalls to us, “and probably a little bit scared. Because most of us have never cut outside before in an environment that we weren’t used to. But the rest of the community was excited because they had never heard anything like it.”

Fast forward a year later and Nashville Street Barbers, as it’s now known, gives up to 80 cuts in one night, with as many as 15 barbers volunteering at once.

Through Nashville Street Barbers, Lindner sees “people at their lowest” — veterans with PTSD or people just coming out of jail. Often, she sees the same people week to week. While they look forward to seeing each other, it’s rewarding when people stop coming because they’ve either gotten a job or housing. She likes to think the haircut helped get them there.

Lindner was proud to share that Jay, one of the men who was receiving cuts from her team on a weekly basis, is now showing up as a volunteer stylist. He was always very particular about his hair and actually taught the stylists a thing or two about cutting, she tells us. Once Lindner’s team was able to provide him with tools, they asked Jay if he would join the group.

“He’s so dedicated and he gives us some really good insight into a world that we don’t 100 percent know,” adds Lindner.

Jay’s story is only one of a growing number of interactions that have turned into special moments.

“Every single time when you see someone’s face light up after they see their haircut, that’s the best,” Lindner says. “I had a man cry in my arms. He said more than a haircut that’s what he needed. I tear up just thinking about it because these people don’t have human touch from day to day.”

As a recent honoree of Hardee’s All Star program and one of five hometown heroes receiving a $10,000 donation, Lindner is looking forward to making Nashville Street Barbers an official nonprofit organization. She’s also thinking about investing in a mobile truck so her team would be able to cut in bad weather conditions.

But regardless of recognition and resources, Lindner says her goals have always been the same.

“We want to go to different communities and inspire people to start programs just like this where they live. There are always people in need. Be a service to people.”

Does Nashville Street Barbers inspire you to give back? Tell us @BritandCo!

(Photos courtesy of Caroline Lindner)

It’s Up to Us to End Sexism In Media — In Campaign Coverage and Beyond

We still have more than 18 months to go before the 2020 presidential election, but there’s already an emerging trend in the way we’re talking about female candidates versus their male counterparts.

According to an analysis of some 130 (and counting) news stories by Storybench, a digital news project out of the Northeastern University School of Journalism, women candidates are being described in negative terms at a higher rate than male candidates. The study, which is ongoing, examined stories written for the most popular mainstream digital news sources, including TheNew York Times,TheWashington Post, CNN, and Fox News.

Of course, not every instance of negative coverage is related to sexism in media — some reflect legitimate grievances with a candidate’s voting record or personal conduct. But even when accounting for these factors, the study has identified a disturbing and familiar pattern: We’re harder on women.

Various studies over the years have confirmed that gender biases are present in media coverage of political candidates. While we should hold the press accountable for its coverage, it’s not the fault of the media that this sexism exists in the first place. Rather, their coverage is reflective of the subconscious and internalized attitudes about gender that affect all of us, to some degree, and shape our discussions.

TAKING CHARGE OF THE NARRATIVE

Many women running for public office take advantage of social media in order to take control of their public narratives; in fact, research has shown that women candidates tend to use Twitter more than their male counterparts. Freshman representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has become somewhat known for her use of Instagram, and Twitter especially, to communicate directly with her supporters.

But the use of social media doesn’t get women candidates nearly on equal footing with men. On social media, women in general face disproportionate amounts of harassment, especially sexual harassment. Women running for office, and women in office, are no exception. While social media can help women candidates get their messages out on their own terms, it’s clearly not a complete solution to contending with unfair biases in the press.

Some critical or negative coverage will, of course, be warranted for women candidates — it’s not as if women candidates should be considered above criticism or scrutiny merely because they are women. And male candidates are not immune, either, to negative coverage and scrutiny. There is plenty of reporting on the shortcomings of male candidates, as well.

However, men running for president tend to receive more coverage overall, and less negative coverage than their female counterparts. The absence of chatter over their “likability” factor means that male candidates have coverage of their campaigns more squarely focused on their political track records and policy ideas, an advantage compared to women who have to deal with punditry about their shoes and makeup.

HOW WE CAN HELP

The responsibility for change lies primarily with gatekeepers in the media industry, but readers play a critical role as well. In general, news consumers can and should challenge themselves to examine their own sexist biases against women, and see how those biases are informed by or underscored in the press. Everyone who lives in a patriarchal society (which is to say, all of us) needs to push back against harmful views of women that manifest not only in coverage of women running for office, but how women are viewed and treated in general.

Across various industries including STEM, film and television, higher education, and business, women are held to double standards and face a series of never-ending misogynistic obstacles that can never be fully overcome. Women are typically paid less for equal work compared to men and given harsher performance reviews in various fields. These barriers are compounded for women of color, queer and trans women, and disabled women.

The solution for covering races for political office lies not in subjecting male candidates to the same silly, gendered objections that have nothing to do with policy, nor in not scrutinizing women running for president, but rather in focusing on issues relevant to what kind of an impact a candidate will make as president.

Sexist treatment of women in high-profile positions is also a general reflection of how all women, in general, are treated. Similar sexist stereotypes and treatment of women are rampant both in and outside of politics, and to some degree, are internalized by many women.

WE CAN STILL TURN THIS AROUND

Though it’s early in the campaign season, there’s no good reason that coverage of 2020 candidates can’t stay tightly focused on issues — it’s not as if there’s a lack of problems that need solving right now. With barely a decade left to take decisive action on climate change, the humanitarian crises that have resulted from immigration policies, health care, and student loan debt, there should be no time for discussing whether or not a woman candidate smiles enough.

There are far too many urgent, real matters to get to the bottom of that simply can’t and won’t be addressed adequately in sexist reporting. What matters most, for any political candidate regardless of gender, is what they are most likely to do if they win the office. This can be sussed out through critical interviews, an examination of past voting records, speaking to constituents, reviewing policy plans, and so on. There’s nothing of political value to be gleaned from wallowing in sexist tropes.

If there’s any single trend to be hopeful about, it’s that women running for office have lately been more likely to call out sexism themselves, according to a CNBC report from September of last year. In the past, women running for elected office typically shied away from addressing sexism leveraged against them head-on, but the current political moment has made it almost impossible to avoid.

In the 2018 midterm elections, some women candidates directly confronted sexist slander against them, both in the press and on their own social media accounts. Addressing sexism has become part of how many women seeking elected office in the wake of the resurgence of #MeToo and TIME’S UP have begun to run their campaigns.

Unfortunately, ideas about what would make someone a good or effective president are largely informed by gender, as well as race, education, class status, and so on. It’s on us to seek out the coverage we want to read and amplify it on social media — and to reach out directly to the news editors at our favorite publications and ask for more like it.

Looking for politics coverage that lifts women instead of putting them down? The Women’s Media Center is a good place to peek. (And while you’re at it, take a stroll through the Issues section right here at Brit + Co!)

(Photos by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for SXSW; Zach Gibson/Getty Images)

5 Money Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Friendships, According To Experts

Loud budgeting may be popular on TikTok, but conversations about money can still be awkward. I've been in romantic relationship for a little over a decade and we're just at a point where we've become aligned on finances. So imagine having random conversations with your family or friends that begin with, "I know I've never really asked before, but is it okay if I can borrow [insert x amount of $] until I can pay you back?" The nature of your platonic and familial relationships will totally determine whether you receive positive or negative responses.

As helpful as money can be, it can fracture even the closest relationships. Why? Well, psychologist Veronica West of My Thriving Mind, head of advice for Wells Fargo Emily Irwin; and Founder of Her First $100K money expert Tori Dunlap have a few ideas!

Keep reading for a few sneaky ways money can ruin your friendships:

1. Talking About Money Can Expose Hidden Feelings

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It's impossible to know how someone feels every second of the day, but we probably all think we have a good understanding of the people we're close to. But people are capable of hiding how they feel about something or burying their discomfort until certain situations 'expose' them. Why does it seem like money has a way of doing this?

Both Irwin and Dunlap agree that "money is taboo," leading people to avoid conversations about it. "Data tells us that we are more likely to talk about any other taboo topic—sex, politics, religion, even death—before we’ll talk about money," says Dunlap. West agrees and says, "Money is like that one friend who’s incredibly helpful but totally untrustworthy—everyone likes what they bring to the table, but no one wants to talk about them directly." Did you think of someone specific? It's okay because I did too!

The problem is that money can make "hidden insecurities come out, old sibling rivalries rear their heads," and more, according to West. "Even something like 'who paid for what' can suddenly become a life-or death conversation," she says. It's strange because Irwin says a Wells Fargo study shows that "many Americans across all ages are worried about money," proving we're all thinking about it, despite our avoidance issues.

2. And Money Can Also Create Unease In Conversations

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"When we don’t have open conversations about money, we’re left to navigate it on our own, which can keep us feeling underpaid, overworked, or unsure about our financial situation," Dunlap points out. She feels "discussing money requires a huge amount of vulnerability" which "isn't easy for everyone." You may have seen how other topics are swept under the rug by family members or friends based on reasons they're not ready to talk about.

Though Irwin believes saying something like saying, "'Here's what's keeping me up at night' or 'here's what my goals are' could strengthen connections," Dunlap knows that "shame, comparison, or fear of judgement" can cause people to remain tight-lipped about their finances.

If you've experienced a weird moment because of money or had to be the unfortunate witness of an awkward conversation, my apologies. It's not fun no matter who's involved because, unfortunately, "money carries layers of emotions, like pride and insecurity, that turn simple conversations into potential minefields," says West.

Dunlap says there's a silver lining if people are willing to be open, however. "The key is respecting each person’s comfort level, and encouraging openness if they're willing to meet you there. It’s not going to be perfect at first, but by starting to share more about your own financial experiences, you can start to break the cycle of shame and fear around money. You might be surprised at how quickly others are willing to open up too."

3. Making Assumptions About Other’s Money Status And Financial Situation Can Lead To Disrespecting Boundaries

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No one's saying you should never lend friends money, but being mindful about the decision is worth noting. West feels "it's complicated" while Dunlap believes the issue "can be tricky." There's a chance a low-key loan becomes an expectation that you should dish out money every time someone needs help, even if you're trying to maintain your own bills. "Lending money to a friend is like sharing your Netflix password—simple in theory, but one wrong move, and things get weird," West forewarns.

Dunlap also says, "When you lend money to someone close to you, there's always the chance that you won’t get it back. You want to be mentally prepared for that! Otherwise, it can strain your finances and your relationship. The emotional toll can be just as heavy, as unpaid loans can lead to resentment or awkwardness." It's not unusual to hear about certain friends being unreliable in more ways than one after you've let them borrow something. Unfortunately, Irwin indicates this happens because some people "don't expect to give something back that they've borrowed."

Because of this, Dunlap thinks "it's best to avoid loans if possible." Should you decide to move forward with helping out a friend who's in a bind, make sure you're both in agreement about repayment and what to expect moving forward. West says "having clear terms" or "gifting a small amount if you can afford it" is like "buying their friendship insurance." The latter is something Dunlap agrees with because it "helps prevent resentment if they can't pay you back as planned." Plus, she feels it also "keeps the loan within an amount you're okay with potentially losing."

4. Lending Money Is A Slippery Slope That Can Lead To Distrust And Resentment

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It's amazing how money can lead to a friendship breakup if boundaries aren't created or respected. "Money is a sneaky little devil who can push everyone’s buttons. It can cause resentment if one person feels taken advantage of or someone’s 'casual loan' becomes an epic saga of unpaid IOUs," West says. Not only that, but Dunlap knows "money can strain relationships between friends and family by highlighting differences in how we value it, expect to use it, or feel about sharing it."

Friends and family members shouldn't take each other's kindness for granted, but human nature is fickle at times. That's not an indicator that someone you love is a "bad" person, but they may feel like you owe them your time and money. However, Irwin says this isn't "de facto that that person is entitled." Still, Dunlap is more than aware how this can play out. "For example, it can lead to resentment if one person is always the one picking up the tab, while another might feel uncomfortable or indebted because they’ve been helped financially," she says.

On the other hand, it can show up a little differently in families. She adds, "Issues like unequal inheritance or constant requests for financial help can lead to deep emotional tension. Money can also become a tool for power imbalances, where one person feels in control and the other feels dependent, and that can mess with trust and respect."

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When certain negative patterns show up in relationships, it can make people decide to take a step back from being available. "And once distrust settles in, it’s hard to shake; nobody wants to be 'that friend' who’s forever dodging a Venmo request or getting side-eye from relatives at every family BBQ," West points out. How many times have you built up a wall with the people you love because of repeated unreliability or the expectation that you're supposed to help them whenever they ask? If you didn't hesitate to think of a moment, you're living proof that distrust can affect even the closest relationships.

Dunlap says, "When money becomes a main factor in a relationship, it can overshadow the connection, making it difficult to maintain genuine trust and understanding. You can avoid this by having open conversations with friends and family about your financial situation. Clear communication can help keep the focus on the relationship, not the money."

5. You Can Worry You're Not A Good Friend Or Family Member For Setting Money Boundaries

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Worrying about how other people feel can keep us from setting boundaries. There's a difference between being an empath and a people pleaser, but it's easy to blur the lines. You can absolutely empathize with someone's hardship while knowing you're not in the position to lend the amount they may be looking for. I'm a huge fan of saying that two things can be true at once — because they can.

Irwin says you need to "address the conversation head on" if a friend does ask you for a loan. Your response may depend on if their ask was "emotionally-charged or "in an uncomfortable environment," but Irwin doesn't recommend ignoring it. If you're not in the space to respond, here's what she suggests saying in a "timely" fashion:

"Hey, I need time to think about this. Let me get back to you."
"We can help you, but here are our boundaries."
"We see and understand you, but we're unable to help because we're trying to pay off debt or save for _______."

Yes, Financial Boundaries Are Essential

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Don't think you need to create financial boundaries for yourself and your friends? Think again. West says, "Establishing some ground rules is a lifesaver—think of it adding airbags to the friendship. Setting boundaries early on, like when you’re still in the happy, non-monetary part of the relationship, can protect both sides if things get sticky."

Here's how she advises you proceed with creating boundaries:

Keep it light and be honest; you’re not making a prenuptial agreement here, just letting them know you’d like to avoid “financial fireworks” later.
Say, “I’m your friend, not your ATM.” It’s funny but helps set the tone that your wallet isn’t a free-for-all.
Set a gift cap, such as, "I'm happy to chip in for brunch or a birthday, but let’s not get into home-loan territory.”
If you do lend, draw up a repayment plan. Think of it as adulting with a side of accountability to avoid “accidentally” becoming their financial fairy godmother.
Limit talk of big financial choices unless you’re genuinely invested together. After all, nobody needs to know how much their friend spends on avocado toast or scented candles, let alone home renos.
A little humor and some boundaries go a long way. You’ll save yourself a lot of awkwardness and keep the friendships intact, one “non-loaned” dollar at a time!

Alexander Grey/Unsplash

Tori says, "It's so important to have transparent conversations about money, set clear boundaries, and ensure that relationships are prioritized in any money exchange." Here are a few things you can try:

Communicate about your budget with a “gratitude sandwich.” Say you’re invited to an outing—a dinner, or a sports game—that isn’t within your budget right now. You can respond with the “gratitude sandwich.” The “pieces of bread” are positive, and the “meat” is the money thing you’re scared to say. Thank that person for the invite, let them know it’s not within budget right now, and then offer a cheaper alternative, reassuring them that you’d really love to see them. Offering an alternative reminds that person that declining their invitation isn’t about them, and you still care about them. In doing so, you prioritize your budget AND your relationship in the process.When in doubt, remember that no is a complete sentence. You don’t need to overcomplicate things, and sometimes a simple “no” is all you need.
Set expectations early. When planning trips with friends, discuss the budget and how costs will be split upfront. Having these conversations ensures that everyone is on the same page and helps avoid any misunderstandings. It creates a supportive, stress-free environment where everyone can enjoy the experience together without any added worries!

The Final Verdict:

Emil Kalibradov/Unsplash

Once you've weighed your options and considered what you need, you can decide to loan your friend money. However, Irwin wants you to consider being formal about it. "You can absolutely draft a promissory note or loan agreement so that your friend knows how serious you are about your boundaries. If you want, you can also put an interest rate on it," she says.

It's not to hurt your friend's feelings, but it is a boundary you can put in place so they think to themselves, "This is truly a loan because I'm borrowing money with the intent to pay it back," Irwin says. It could change the dynamics of your friendship, but it's more about being "purposeful about the language being used" so you and your friend can both move in the "right direction," according to Irwin.

If the idea of creating a 'loan agreement' sounds icky to you, Dunlap wants you to seriously consider it as "an extra bit of protection." She says all you need to do, again, is "try setting up a simple contract to outline repayment terms" because it "can help both of you stay on the same page and avoid misunderstandings down the road."

Her ultimate piece of advice? "Only lend what you're comfortable giving and potentially losing, and keep open communication to maintain trust and respect in the relationship."

If you set clear financial boundaries and still find that your platonic relationships are weird, we have tips to help you navigate a potential friendship breakup.

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Plucked Out of Poverty at Age 4, This Woman Wants to Bring Mental Health Care to Her Rural Indian Village

Be the Change looks at real-life projects and inspiration to make the world better.

Shanti Bhavan, a residential school in Southern India and subject of the award-winning Netflix documentary Daughters of Destiny, takes a unique approach to lifting families out of poverty: by demanding they dream big.

The school, which was founded in 1997, recruits students from the “untouchable” class at the bottom of India’s caste system. Its driving philosophy is that an educated daughter or son will improve the circumstances of their entire community. Already, the school reports that its graduates have gone on to attend and complete college. Some reportedly work at Fortune 500 companies and contribute 50 to 80 percent of their salaries to their families to cover housing costs, medical bills, education expenses for their siblings, and more.

Shilpa Raj, a Shanti Bhavan graduate and author of the memoir The Elephant Chaser’s Daughter, recently spoke with Brit + Co about how Shanti Bhavan changed her life — and how she plans to use her education to transform the way mental health is addressed in her community.

Brit + Co: How were you chosen for Shanti Bhavan?

Shilpa Raj: I was four years old. The school had just been founded and no one knew about it. A team from the school who knew the local dialect of the region’s villages would just randomly drive into villages, and on one fateful morning they happened to drive into my village, almost three hours away from the school. People [in the village] were curious about who these people were, who were so polished and well-dressed and speaking in English, and so naturally a crowd had gathered around them. They explained that they were from a school and they were looking for kids around the age of three-and-a-half and four, and that they would take them and educate them for free.

Immediately the news spread, and my father was insistent that I go in for the screening process. They based it off your ability to cope with an academic program, and had a few small tests [to determine that]: being able to respond to some simple questions and maintain eye contact. They were looking for children between a very specific age range because they believed in early intervention methods, and you had to fall into the bracket of being below the poverty line, and only one child from each family could be selected. I was four at the right time; my brother at the time was two, and my sister wasn’t even born yet. So it was just a matter of luck.

B+C: Why does the school only take one child per family?

SJ: They believe in reaching out and spreading the impact across as many families as possible. Even I’ve come to believe that even one empowered child is strong enough to carry the entire family forward.

B+C: How have you used your experience to help empower and carry your family?

SJ: There are two parts. Emotionally, I’ve been able to be a strong force of moral support for my siblings and my parents. And financially, from the book savings, I have been able to help them in small ways. I cover medical costs, because medical care is always an area they overlook and they postpone; they leave it up to God or a higher power to look after them, which logically doesn’t work for me. So, I immediately intervene when there are medical issues at home. I also help my grandparents by giving them money every month.

B+C: That’s a lot of responsibility for somebody who is a fairly young person.

SJ: I’m not the only one. Some of the people I studied with have paid for their siblings to go on to finish college. And [others] have built houses — kids who were living in slums have now built houses for their families. My friends have cleared off generational debt, which even I’ve done for my grandfather. He had a huge debt and in one go I cleared it for him. It’s been amazing for all of us to have this power to help.>

B+C: You’ve written your memoir, which has gotten a lot of really positive attention. And you’ve also completed a master’s degree?

SJ: Yes, I completed a master’s degree in psychological counseling. I’ve decided to dedicate my life to the field of mental health — I lost my own sister to suicide at the age of 14. Her death made me realize that she was just one among the many children who live their lives completely helpless to the larger forces of violence and trauma, and that’s just compounded by the role of poverty. So, I’ve finished a master’s and I’m pursuing a second master’s of philosophy in child and adolescent psychology.

B+C: Incredible. So, is your ultimate goal to become a counselor in the community that you’re from, to work with young people?

SJ: Yes, my goal is to open my own clinic and hopefully work with governmental organizations to help bring about policy change.

B+C: Over here in the US, issues of mental health and wellbeing are becoming more common subjects of conversation and concern. But there also seems to be a class component involved — it seems to be more of a conversation among educated or well-off people and less prioritized, and more stigmatized, among poorer people. Is that also the case in India?

SJ: Yes, here it’s the same. In my community, or at least in my own family, I have found that people often don’t have the language to express emotions. They have words like, “happy,” “sad,” and “angry,” but that’s it. So, they also don’t have the coping skills to manage their emotions.

Nowadays, I move around in middle- and upper-class society, back in college. We do talk a lot about mental health, and I’m very encouraged by the kind of exposure and awareness that’s being spread in India in the circles that I move in. But back at home, nobody even knows that you could go to a counselor, or the kinds of mental health care that’s out there.

B+C: And I would guess that trained counselors or clinicians may not have much interaction with communities like the one that you’re from, and might not necessarily know how to work with people who don’t have the familiarity with these mental health concepts. In starting a clinic there, you will fill a health care gap.

SJ: Yes, that is my eventual goal. All of my friends, my peers who I studied with in Shanti Bhavan, we met to celebrate the new year and we all were talking about how our own experiences have been quite similar but also quite different. Many of them now have careers in the corporate world. One thing that we do share in common is this deep desire to help others other than our own families. That sense of giving is so deeply engrained in us, because from a very young age we were told that we couldn’t be selfish and we had a duty to reach out to others the same way people had reached out to empower us and change our lives.

Want to help mental health awareness in your community? Check out this list of organizations compiled by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration that can help you coordinate an event near you.

(Photos via the Shanti Bhavan Children’s Project)

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25 Anthropologie Gifts That Are Perfect For The Cool Girl In Your Life

If you’re one of those people that prides themselves on delivering the perfect present and finds joy in seeing the giftee's face light up, Anthropologie is going to be your BFF for finding gifts this holiday season! From home decor to apparel and everything in between, Anthropologie delivers unique and eclectic finds that are fun and fashion-forward. It can be challenging sifting through the endless online racks of their treasures, though, so I’ve broken down the best gifts from Anthropologie so all you have to do is press *add to cart*!

Our 25 favorite Anthropologie gifts for 2024 gifting:

Let's jump into the best gifts from Anthropologie for the season! These are perfect for teen girls, Gen-Z-ers, fashion lovers, and those who can't help but hop on the latest trends.

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For the one that plans like it's a full-time job: 2025 17-Month Monogram Planner

Is there ever a better gift than something that'll help them keep their life in order? 2025, we're coming for you.

Anthropologie

For the cozy-chic gal: UGG Classic Mini Boots

These mini UGG boots are so on-trend right now, any cool fashion gal will adore them as a gift.

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Bring street style to their closet: The Oversized Brigitte Satchel by Melie Bianco

This bag fits everything your giftee could possibly need in the day-to-day – and then some.

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For the skincare-obsessed: NuFACE Mini+ Gift Set

This slightly-bougie skincare device tones and lifts your face while targeting signs of aging, like fine lines and wrinkles. It'll be such a luxe upgrade to your giftee's current routine!

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For the girl on the go: New Balance 530 Sneakers

These fashion-forward sneakers work well across a variety of outfits and occasions, like hitting the gym, going on a hot girl walk, or running weekend errands. The cool girl in your life will love pairing them with her favorite matching workout set and a sleek trench coat when it's cold out.

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Being trendy is too easy: Cherry Lips Bag Charm

Bag charms are all the rage right now, so help them hop on the trend with this adorably eye-catching keychain.

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To wear with her cowgirl boots: Worn/West Let's Go For a Walk Trucker Hat

Trucker hats are the perfect head gear for a casual-get up. Styles that make a statement like this one are perfect for the Western fashion lover!

Anthropologie

Seasonal scent for their space: Icon Woody Fresh Balsam & Cedarwood Glass Candle

Anthropologie's candle selection is bomb – you're bound to find a scent your giftee will approve of. We recommend this seasonal woody scent encased in a festive, tree-dotted glass!

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Unique lighter that looks like decor: Nomatiq Flume Electric Lighter

Pick up this electric lighter to coordinate with any candle gift. We promise they've never owned a lighter like this!

Anthropologie

Okay, she's a bookworm: I-SEA Aviator Readers

Whether she's working through her current TBR list or starting off the workweek, these chic readers will help her see clearly. You can snag 'em in a handful of colors and different strengths based on her vision.

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Straight to the point for the shoe lover: Maeve Pointed-Toe Moto Mary Jane Flats

All the cool girls are rocking pointed flats for winter. Bonus points for this pair being metallic!

Looking for more gift recommendations for 2024? Be sure to sign up for our email newsletter!

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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Cheeky Gift Ideas That Suit Anyone and Everyone

Surprise your loved ones with these cheeky gift ideas that are perfect for anyone and everyone! From quirky gadgets to fun, useful finds and playful accessories, these picks are designed to bring a smile to anyone's face. Whether you're shopping for a close friend or that hard-to-please relative, these unique finds add a dash of humor and charm to your holiday gifting. Explore these playful gifts and make this season memorable with presents that everyone will enjoy.

Thanks for reading about our favorite finds from across the internet! FYI: We participate in affiliate programs and may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

This calming toy to Help Reduce Anxiety

Amazon

This Purrble calming toy has been awarded Amazon’s choice, and will be both fun and soothing for children. It is a high-tech tool and a soft, furry toy that is a cuddly interactive companion that can help children stay calm in moment of stress and anxiety!

Caroline Lindner’s Nashville Street Barbers Gives Free Haircuts to the Homeless — and So Much More

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TAKING CHARGE OF THE NARRATIVE

HOW WE CAN HELP

WE CAN STILL TURN THIS AROUND

5 Money Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Friendships, According To Experts

Keep reading for a few sneaky ways money can ruin your friendships:

1. Talking About Money Can Expose Hidden Feelings

2. And Money Can Also Create Unease In Conversations

3. Making Assumptions About Other’s Money Status And Financial Situation Can Lead To Disrespecting Boundaries

4. Lending Money Is A Slippery Slope That Can Lead To Distrust And Resentment

5. You Can Worry You're Not A Good Friend Or Family Member For Setting Money Boundaries

Yes, Financial Boundaries Are Essential

The Final Verdict:

Plucked Out of Poverty at Age 4, This Woman Wants to Bring Mental Health Care to Her Rural Indian Village

25 Anthropologie Gifts That Are Perfect For The Cool Girl In Your Life

Let's jump into the best gifts from Anthropologie for the season! These are perfect for teen girls, Gen-Z-ers, fashion lovers, and those who can't help but hop on the latest trends.

For the one that plans like it's a full-time job: 2025 17-Month Monogram Planner

For the cozy-chic gal: UGG Classic Mini Boots

Bring street style to their closet: The Oversized Brigitte Satchel by Melie Bianco

For the skincare-obsessed: NuFACE Mini+ Gift Set

For the girl on the go: New Balance 530 Sneakers

Being trendy is too easy: Cherry Lips Bag Charm

To wear with her cowgirl boots: Worn/West Let's Go For a Walk Trucker Hat

Seasonal scent for their space: Icon Woody Fresh Balsam & Cedarwood Glass Candle

Unique lighter that looks like decor: Nomatiq Flume Electric Lighter

Okay, she's a bookworm: I-SEA Aviator Readers

Straight to the point for the shoe lover: Maeve Pointed-Toe Moto Mary Jane Flats

Cheeky Gift Ideas That Suit Anyone and Everyone

This calming toy to Help Reduce Anxiety

This Puffer Bomber Is So Chic

Blow Off Some Steam With A Dammit Doll

A Form of Shart

Fidget Putty Is Perfect For Concentration

Advent Calendar But Make It Makeup

Mini Karaoke Machine

These Slippers Are Perfect for Cold Weather

Remove Sebum and Blackheads With This Tool

The Not-So Piggy Bank

Put Your Phone on DND and Enjoy Some Quiet Time

The Top Selling Pillows On Amazon

Shoe Spray to Spray the Stink Away

This Organizer Bin With a Genius Design

A Portable Photo Printer To Make Prints Anywhere

This Desk Lamp For Lighting But in the Cutest Way

Cowboy Hat-Wearing Duck Lamp

This Comfortable Bath Pillow Takes Relaxation to Bliss

The Stanley Stainless Steel Tumbler Is a Fan Favorite

Go Solo

Wrap Up In Warm in These Essentials

Comfy Couch Blanket

Nostalgic Glow From This Tetris Lamp

They'll Feel Pampered With This Laneige Holiday Gift Set

Astronaut Galaxy Night Light

Handprint Kit

This Heated Neck Stretcher For the Whole Body

This Camera Bundle for Pro-Level Shots

Give Their Plants a Personality with these Magnets

This Book Nook for DIY Enthusiasts

Relieve Tension With an Infrared Heat Mat

A Coloring Book with a Sense of Humor

Legacy Journal

Christmas Snow Globe for Magic Glittery Moments

For the True Crime Lover

This Kit to Crochet the Stress Away

These Solar Wind Chimes For Musical Days and Nights

Every Kitchen Needs One

This B5 Balm Soothes Dry Skin

Gift the Joy of Cozy, Warm Sips with a Temperature-Controlled Mug

The Screaming Goat: For the Office Jokester

This Smart Notebook Transmits Handwritten Notes

Healing Crystal Candle To Calm Their Bah Humbug Attitude

These Nostalgic And Fashionable Mini Ugg Boots

This Unique Jewelry Wash Makes It Easy to Keep Your Jewelry Sparkling

Chill Out with These Meditation Disks

Portable Blender

Keep your pet entertained for hours with a motion-activated toy

This Bracelet Doubles As a Charging Cable

This Toiletry Organizer For Travel