Nina Dobrev Helped Create Your Favorite Elena Gilbert Outfits On "The Vampire Diaries"

elena gilbert outfits nina dobrevelena gilbert outfits nina dobrev

The Vampire Diaries' lead character Elena Gilbert (played by Nina Dobrev) is peak late 2000s-core. This teen drama wouldn't be complete without all of Elena Gilbert's outfits, or The Vampire Diaries' fall outfits in general, in all her jewel toned, nostalgic, layered glory. Because what can we say — there's nothing like a Henley and tank top combo. And thanks to a recent interview with Harper's Bazaar, we now know that Nina actually had a huge hand in creating those outfits.

Because Nina Dobrev was leading TVD, she had more creative power with her styling. "I definitely had a little bit more say and sway in my wardrobe and I collaborated with the wardrobe stylist on the show and created Elena's look," she says in the interview. "At the time, Elena felt very innocent, sort of sheltered, and I wanted her wardrobe to reflect that so Elena was a little bit more buttoned up in that way."

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How Nina Dobrev Built Her 'Degrassi', 'Vampire Diaries', and 'Love Hard' Characters

But Nina didn't only play Elena. There are a few doppelgängers within the world of The Vampire Diaries, including Katherine, who has very important ties to Elena *and* is also played by Nina. "Katherine was much edgier," she says. "She's been around a lot longer, she's a century-old vampire, so she's lived through a lot of fashion and a lot of different eras and she's a lot more confident."

While Elena wears lots of tees, tanks, and cardigans, Katherine opts for edgy accessories, darker colors, and lots of leather. Put both characters side-by-side and it kind of feels like a day-to-night outfit lookbook.

"Through these two characters I definitely found different parts of myself," Nina continues. "Katherine gave me more confidence and made me grow up in a way. Elena and Katherine were really incredible roles and I'm so happy I got to play them."

Love Hard. (L to R) Jimmy O. Yang as Josh Lin and Nina Dobrev as Natalie Bauer in Love Hard. Cr. Bettina Strauss/Netflix © 2021

While Nina has gone on to star in films like The Perks of Being a Wallflower and Love Hard, The Vampire Diaries continues to hold a special place in her heart. "The show was huge. It was extremely beloved. The fans were, and still are, so incredibly loyal," she says. "I don't think I really knew what success was until The Vampire Diaries, I wasn't used to that, it was actually slightly overwhelming, but it was incredible and it's changed my life."

Which Elena Gilbert outfit is your favorite? We're partial to her blue ballgown from the season one episode "Miss Mystic Falls" but we'll also never say no to a comfy tee shirt ;).

Lead image via The CW/YouTube

Austin Butler as Elvis truly changed Hollywood, because now, not only are we getting Timothée Chalamet as Bob Dylan and Selena Gomez as Linda Rondstat, but Paul Mescal is also one of the actors leading the upcoming biopics about The Beatles. Each movie, from director Sam Mendes, will focus on a different member of the band — and their unique points of view — but will intersect to “tell the astonishing story of the greatest band in history,” per Variety. And it'll be “the first binge-able theatrical experience,” according to Sony's Tom Rothman. But the best news is that we finally just got the full cast.

Here's everything you need to know about Sam Mendes' Beatles movies, starring Paul Mescal, Harris Dickinson, Barry Keoghan, and Joseph Quinn.

Who is playing John Lennon in The Beatles movie?

Eric Charbonneau/Sony Pictures via Getty Images

John Lennon will be played by Harris Dickinson in the new movies about The Beatles! Director Sam Mendes confirmed the casts for his Beatles biopics at CinemaCon 2025. “We’re not just making one film about the Beatles — we’re making four,” Sam said at the convention. “Perhaps this is a chance to understand them a little more deeply.”

Here's the full cast:

  • Harris Dickinson as John Lennon: The Beatles' founder and one of the lead vocalists.
  • Paul Mescal as Paul McCartney: pianist, and one of the lead songwriters and singers for The Beatles.
  • Barry Keoghan as Ringo Starr: The Beatles' drummer.
  • Joseph Quinn as George Harrison: lead guitarist of The Beatles.

Is there a new Beatles movie coming out?

Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images

Yes, director Sam Mendes is developing four movies about The Beatles — one for each member of the band. Each individual movie will tell a story from the perspective of one member (including Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, John Lennon, and George Harrison).

“I’m honored to be telling the story of the greatest rock band of all time, and excited to challenge the notion of what constitutes a trip to the movies,” Sam Mendes told Variety.

How many Beatles films are there?

Stewart Cook/Sony Pictures via Getty Images

We're going to be getting four new Beatles films from Sam Mendes and Sony, which are currently slated for April 2028. But you can actually see the real members of The Beatles in a few movies! The band appeared in the following movies:

  • A Hard Day's Night (1964)
    • Help! (1965)
      • Magical Mystery Tour (1967)
        • Yellow Submarine (1968)
          • Let It Be (1970)

          Where can I watch the new Beatles biopics?

          Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images

          Each of the four movies will be released in theaters, thanks to Sony Pictures Entertainment, and they're currently scheduled for April 2028.

          “You have to match the boldness of the idea with a bold release strategy,” Sony Pictures chief Tom Rothman told The Hollywood Reporter. “There hasn’t been an enterprise like this before, and you can’t think about it in traditional releasing terms.”

          Who is playing Paul McCartney in The Beatles biopic?

          Arturo Holmes/Getty Images

          Paul Mescal is playing Paul McCartney in the new Beatles movies, and during Gladiator 2 director Ridley Scott actually revealed the casting last year! When asked if Paul Mescal was starring in his next film The Dog Stars, Ridley told filmmaker Christopher Nolan, “Yes. Maybe. Paul is actually stacked up, doing the Beatles next. So I may have to let him go.”

          While Paul Mescal's involvement in Sony's upcoming Beatle biopic quartet (say that five times fast) has been around the rumor mill, the news is finally confirmed by the movie studio.

          Check out I'm Drooling Over Jeremy Allen White's First Look As Bruce Springsteen for more biopic movie goodness.

          This post has been updated.

          Don't ask us to choose between our love for polka dots or leopard printunless you want us to curl up in the fetal position for two seconds. In all fairness, we think it's time to give moodier styles a break in favor of something lighthearted, so we're okay with focusing on the classic black and white colorway! If you're ready to sashay in this print during spring, we've got the prettiest pieces you should be wearing.

          From tops to swimsuits, scroll to see the best polka dot pieces we've bookmarked!

          The Best Polka Dot Tops

          Abercrombie & Fitch

          Abercrombie & Fitch Short-Sleeve Tie-Front Top

          Not only are polka dots popular, but tie-front tops are also trending! Putting both together has to be the work of a marketing genius who knows we're looking for the least complicated tops to wear during spring.

          LOFT

          LOFT Dotted Everyday Relaxed Shirt

          If you'll be logging more hours at work and want to participate in this trend, LOFT's relaxed polka dot shirt help you avoid FOMO. It's lightweight and breathable, so you won't have to worry about sweat stains ruining your business casual OOTD.

          Old Navy

          Old Navy V-Neck Button-Down Crepe Top

          Give your crew neck tops a break and reach for Old Navy's take on polka dots. Though it's hard to tell, they're actually navy instead of black so you can almost treat it like a neutral that pairs well with a bright red or butter yellow bag!

          Revolve

          MAJORELLE Joy Bodysuit

          Have dinner plans with your girls or that sexy guy you bumped into at Trader Joe's? We suggest you wear this off-shoulder polk dot bodysuit that shows the right amount of skin. Think of it as a peek-a-boo piece that gives you the freedom to add your favorite fragrances near your neck without ruining your top.

          ELOQUII

          ELOQUII Satin Bubble Top

          Say yes to that party invite you just received because we've found the most breathtaking top for you to wear! This satin bubble top feels as flirty as it looks and is guaranteed to have all eyes on you most of the night.

          P.S. Don't be surprised if you get a hot stranger's number while wearing this!

          Ashley Stewart

          Ashley Stewart Polka Dot Poplin Blouse

          If you need another workwear top that aligns with the polka dot trend, reach for Ashley's Stewart's poplin design. It features elasticized cuffs that sit perfectly on the wrist and the overall top has enough stretch in it to keep you comfortable all day.

          The Best Mini Polka Dot Dresses

          The Reformation

          The Reformation x Devon Lee Carlson Cher Dress

          In need of a cute, but uncomplicated spring dress? Reach for this mini polka dot dress that can be worn with flats or sneakers. Besides being pretty, it's also made of organic cotton, lyocell, and other fabrics that cut back on waste.

          P.S. Of course it's possible to be stylish and sustainable!

          ASOS

          Ghospell Ruched Asymmetric Polka Dot Mini Dress

          Where are you going to wear this mini dress? The choice is yours, but we have a few solo date ideas geared towards inspiring you to romanticize your life.

          If you want our honest opinion, we think it's the perfect dress to wear to an art gallery followed by dinner at your favorite restaurant.

          Hollister

          Hollister Crepe Mini Dress

          Not a fan of a brown or deep tan polka dot piece? We understand which is why we came prepared with Hollister's mini dress. All you need is a slightly oversized denim jacket, a pair of Adidas Samba, and your favorite clutch.

          The Best Midi Polka Dot Dresses

          Abercrombie & Fitch

          Abercrombie & Fitch Women's Dipped-Waist Midi Dress

          Slip into a similar, yet longer version of the above mini dress if you're worried about the back of what you're wearing rising up every time you sit or bend over. You'll be saved from accidental exposures should the wind decide to blow strongly the day you decide to wear something that has a shorter hemline.

          ASTR The Label

          ASTR The Label Eirene Polka Dot Midi Dress

          Do we spell wedding bells for someone you know? It's only right you wear this polka dot midi dress that has a lace bodice and shoulder straps. It won't take away from the bride's gorgeous gown, but you'll nice and stylish!

          Lulu's

          Lulu's Black Polka Dot Satin Midi Dress

          On the contrary, this contrasting polk dot dress is another great date night option. Though it seems simple, we know that your outfits don't always have to be over-the-top. Just slide into a great pair of black heels and grab a clutch that has a black strap or gold hardware clasp on it!

          The Best Maxi Polka Dot Dresses 

          Pretty Little Thing

          Pretty Little Thing White Polka Dot Corseted Dress

          We can totally imagine someone taking their proposal pictures in this polka dot corseted dress! It's more structured than most bandeau tops, so your "girls" won't spill out when you bend over slightly to pretend you're fixing your shoe in your pictures!

          Princess Polly

          Princess Polly Marguerite Halter Maxi Dress

          You don't need a reason to wear a polka dot maxi dress during vacation, so we won't give you one. The only thing we'll say is you'll be able to adjust the halter so that it doesn't unravel at the worst possible moment.

          Reformation

          Reformation Naira Dress

          Someone may look at this dress and worry it'll make them look like a "trad wife," but not all traditions are bad. You can pretend you're living in a modern version of Breakfast at Tiffany's whenever you wear it because you are the main character.

          The Best Polka Dot Swimsuits

          Club L London

          Club L London Sheer Bliss Black Polka Dot Swimsuit

          This has retro Betty Boop all over it! From the perfect polka dot print to the organza shoulder ties, we just know you're going to enjoy wearing this. It doesn't matter if you're taking a dip in the ocean or in your own background, we know you'll look amazing in this.

          For Love & Lemons

          For Love & Lemons Denim Dot One Piece Swimsuit

          While you're at it, give this denim polka dot swimsuit a chance. It's equally as gorgeous as the above option and exudes the kind of "vintage" appeal that someone is bound to appreciate.

          J. Crew

          J. Crew Gemma Ruched Bandeau One-Piece

          Take the biggest risk ever and wear this bandeau one-piece swimsuit. The polk dots are slightly bigger, but it works because they give the illusion of a longer torso if you don't have one. Plus, you'll look similar to the 1950s swim Barbie!

          Subscribe to our newsletter to see more pretty spring styles!

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

          The internet was locked into The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives when it premiered on Hulu last year — and not just because these women basically founded MomTok. We had so many questions about Whitneys's relationships with the rest of the women, the Galentine's Day celebration, and that soda obsession, and good news for anyone else who hasn't been able to stop thinking about it: The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives season 2 is on its way!

          Here's everything we know about The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives season 2, streaming on Hulu May 15.

          Is there a season 2 for Secret Lives of Mormon Wives?

          Yes, season 2 of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives is on the way. New episodes drop this May, and season 2 is going to be "better" than season 1. "But I do think this one is going to be just as good, if not better, than our first season," Taylor Frankie Paul says in an interview with People. "So far, I think everything has been so fun and entertaining to experience for myself."

          But that's not all! Six women from the group (Taylor Frankie Paul, Mikayla Matthews, Mayci Neeley, Jen Affleck, Jessi Ngatikaura, and Layla Taylor) are headed to Las Vegas after the premiere for a roundtable-style discussion, games, and surprises according to People. They'll be at The Venetian Resort's Palazzo Theatre in Vegas on June 7 for MomTok: The Unholy Tea (you can get more info here).

          “We’re beyond excited to bring MomTok directly to our fans at The Venetian Resort," they said in a press release. "This show is our chance to connect, let loose and give audiences an unforgettable girls’ night out in Vegas – a city that’s become such an iconic part of our story!”

          Where can I watch the new Secret Lives of Mormon Wives?

          The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives season 2 is coming to Hulu on May 15, 2025.

          How many episodes of Secret Lives of Mormon Wives are there?

          There are 8 episodes of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives so far. Stay tuned for the full list of season 2 episodes, but for now, here are the episodes you can watch!

          • Season 1, Episode 1 "The First Book of Taylor" premiered on September 6, 2024
          • Season 1, Episode 2 "The Book of Belonging" premiered on September 6, 2024
          • Season 1, Episode 3 "The Book of Saints & Sinners" premiered on September 6, 2024
          • Season 1, Episode 4 "The Book of Truth" premiered on September 6, 2024
          • Season 1, Episode 5 "The Book of Broken Vows" premiered on September 6, 2024
          • Season 1, Episode 6 "The First Book of Sin" premiered on September 6, 2024
          • Season 1, Episode 7 "The Book of Trust" premiered on September 6, 2024
          • Season 1, Episode 8 "The Book of Rumors" premiered on September 6, 2024

          Who's in the cast of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives season 2?

          Disney/Hulu

          The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives season 2 will see the return of our favorite MomTok creators, as well as some new additions:

          • Jen Affleck
          • Demi Engemann
          • Whitney Leavitt
          • Mikayla Matthews
          • Mayci Neeley
          • Jessi Ngatikaura
          • Taylor Frankie Paul
          • Layla Taylor
          • Miranda Hope

          What to watch after Secret Lives of Mormon Wives?

          With so much reality TV at our fingertips, there are plenty of shows to stream after you finish season 1 of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives (and while you wait for season 2). Sister Wives on Hulu, The Real Housewives franchise on Peacock, and even Mormon No More on Hulu are all great options for Secret Lives of Mormon Wives fans.

          Are you excited for The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives season 2? Check out 12 New TV Shows To Watch In April To Avoid Major FOMO for more ideas on what to watch this month.

          Trader Joe’s is the premier destination if you’re eating a high-protein diet – you just have to know where to look and what products to shop for! Luckily, as a self-proclaimed protein aficionado, I have a handful of easy hacks that allow you to maximize your protein intake. I eat each of these at least once a week and can verify they’re extremely simple and so tasty.

          From breakfastto dinner (and, of course, snack time!), you’ll definitely want to whip up these Trader Joe’s protein hacks if you’re trying to up your intake.

          Scroll on for 5 Trader Joe’s hacks that’ll help you reach your protein goals with ease!

          BP / PEXELS

          1. Add cottage cheese to scrambled eggs.

          This is one of my favorite things to do if I'm craving a savory breakfast – especially one that’ll fill me up! Adding a heaping scoop of Trader Joe's cottage cheese to your scrambled eggs (just mix it in with the eggs before cookin’ them) not only ups the protein content in each bite, but it makes the eggs super fluffy and never dry.

          Trader Joe's

          2. Use Trader Joe’s high-protein tofu instead of regular tofu.

          Did you know that TJ’s carries a special kind of high-protein tofu? As opposed to the regular variety that has around 9 grams of protein per serving, this pack is loaded with 14 grams of protein per serving! It’s perfect to use for stir fries, tofu scrambles, and tofu fries with an extra boost.

          Trader Joe's

          3. Add Trader Joe’s protein granola to Greek yogurt bowls.

          Trader Joe’s also sells a delicious high-protein granola – and it’s insanely good. I like to top my Greek yogurt bowls with it for breakfast, though you could easily use it as a cereal or just snack on it dry. The Peanut Butter Protein Granola has a whopping 11 grams of protein per serving – the only drawback here is that people with a peanut allergy can’t enjoy it.

          Polina Tankilevitch / PEXELS

          4. Add protein powder to your morning oatmeal.

          Trader Joe’s doesn’t carry a name-brand protein powder, though the Orgain variety is typically always on shelves when I shop there. The tub they have is actually smaller than most other protein powders you can find elsewhere, too, which is highly agreeable with my lifestyle since I live alone – and don’t wish to spend $30 on protein every time.

          Anywho, I love using this protein powder to ramp up the protein content in oatmeal bowls and smoothies alike. Two scoops delivers 21 grams of organic, plant-based protein that tastes oh-so yummy.

          Trader Joe's

          5. Stock up on TJ’s underrated protein snacks for an easy (yet satisfying) bite.

          If you don’t have the time (or simply the energy) to whip up a high-protein snack, Trader Joe’s actually has plenty of bites to offer. Here are some of my favorites to always keep stocked:

          Subscribe to our newsletter for more high-protein meal + snack ideas!

          Spring is here, and it's time to swap out winter comfort foods for fresh, nourishing meals that make the most of the season’s best produce. But let’s be real — we need recipes that are as quick and easy as they are delicious and satisfying.

          We’ve got you covered with 15-minute recipes to shake up your weekly rotation. Featuring Perdue® Fresh Cuts No Antibiotics Ever chicken and its convenient pan-ready packaging (read: no cutting board needed), these meals keep cleanup to a minimum while maximizing flavor.

          Scroll for the recipes!

          • Healthy Spring Roll Chicken Bowls
          • Zesty Chicken Skewers over Spring Salad
          • Sheet-Pan Chicken Tacos with Spring Veggies

          Nicole Hill Gerulat

          Healthy Spring Roll Chicken Bowls

          Serves 4

          Switch things up for dinner with a deconstructed spring roll bowl — tender grilled chicken, crisp fresh veggies, and a generous drizzle of your favorite peanut sauce for a flavorful, fuss-free twist!

          Nicole Hill Gerulat

          Ingredients:

          • 4 ounces vermicelli rice noodles, cook according to pkg directions
          • 1/2 pkg Perdue® Fresh Cuts Chicken Breast Strips
          • 1 jar of peanut sauce
          • 2 tablespoons olive oil
          • Salt and pepper
          • 1/2 head of green cabbage, sliced
          • 1 carrot, julienned
          • 2 small cucumbers, thinly sliced
          • 1/2 mango, cubed
          • 1 pkg mung beans
          • 1 avocado, sliced
          • 1 spring onion, sliced
          • 1/3 roasted peanuts, roughly chopped
          • Optional herbs: cilantro, mint, thai basil
          • 1 lime, cut in wedges
          • Hot sauce

          Nicole Hill Gerulat

          Directions:

          1. In a medium bowl, combine 3/4 cup peanut sauce (thin with a little water if too thick) and chicken breast strips to marinate for at least 30 minutes.

          Nicole Hill Gerulat

          2. On a grill pan or sauté pan, heat oil over medium heat until shimmering. With tongs, remove the chicken from the marinade and place directly onto pan in one layer. If the pan isn’t large enough, make in batches. Season with salt and pepper.
          3. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, not moving or flipping until well browned. Chicken is ready when an insta-read thermometer reads chicken at 165℉.

          Nicole Hill Gerulat

          4. Transfer grilled chicken to plate to rest while you assemble the bowls.

          Nicole Hill Gerulat

          5. To assemble bowls, equally divide the rice noodles into four bowls, top with cabbage, carrot, cucumbers, mango, mung beans and avocado.

          6. Add sliced chicken with any reserved juices, and top with spring onions, peanuts and herbs.

          7. Drizzle with peanut sauce (thin with a little water if too thick). Serve with lime wedges and favorite hot sauce.

          Nicole Hill Gerulat

          Zesty Chicken Skewers over Spring Salad

          Serves 4

          Chicken makes everything better — especially when it’s grilled to perfection and tossed into this vibrant citrus-kissed salad. Packed with spring peas, crisp asparagus, watermelon radishes, and fresh greens, it’s the perfect way to kick off a healthy spring!

          Nicole Hill Gerulat

          Ingredients:

          • 1 jar Italian or citrus dressing
          • 1 pkg Perdue® Fresh Cuts Chicken Breast Diced
          • 2 tablespoons olive oil
          • Salt & pepper
          • 1 pkg spring lettuces
          • 1/4 radicchio head, torn in pieces
          • 1 pkg pea shoots, optional
          • 1/2 cup snow peas
          • 1 watermelon radish or 1/2 bunch radishes, thinly sliced
          • 1 carrot, shaved
          • 2 asparagus spears, shaved
          • 2 asparagus spears, 1/2” slices
          • 1 pkg micro greens, optional
          • Goat cheese

          Nicole Hill Gerulat

          Directions:

          1. Soak wooden skewers in water until chicken has finished marinating.

          2. In a medium bowl, combine 3/4 cup Italian dressing and diced chicken breast to marinate for at least 30 minutes. Skewer 4-5 pieces of chicken onto each skewer.

          Nicole Hill Gerulat

          3. On a grill pan or sauté pan, heat oil over medium heat until shimmering. Place skewers directly onto pan in one layer, in multiple batches. Season with salt and pepper.

          4. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, not moving or flipping until well browned. Chicken is ready when an insta-read thermometer reads chicken at 165℉.

          Nicole Hill Gerulat

          5. Transfer grilled chicken skewers to plate to rest while you assemble the salad.

          6. To assemble salad, layer each plate with lettuces, pea shoots, snow peas, radishes, carrot, asparagus and top with micro greens, freshly cracked pepper and goat cheese. Drizzle your favorite Italian or citrus dressing and enjoy!

          Nicole Hill Gerulat

          Sheet-Pan Chicken Tacos with Spring Veggies

          Serves 4

          Let everyone load up their tacos with their favorite toppings for an easy, fun, and flavor-packed way to celebrate Taco Tuesday — or any day! Bake your chicken and veggies in just 15 minutes, thanks to Perdue® Fresh Cuts Chicken Breast Strips that are already pre-cut for you.

          Nicole Hill Gerulat

          Ingredients:

          • 1 tablespoons taco seasoning
          • 2 tablespoons olive oil
          • 1/2 pkg Perdue® Fresh Cuts Chicken Breast Strips
          • 1/4 head of cauliflower, small florets
          • Bunch of radishes, trimmed & quartered
          • Salt & pepper
          • Flour or corn tacos, grilled or warmed
          • 1/4 head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
          • Pickled red onions
          • 1 avocado, sliced
          • Cotija
          • 1/4 cup Mexican Crema, or sour cream
          • Fresh cilantro, chopped

          Nicole Hill Gerulat

          Directions:

          1. Preheat oven to 350ºF. In a medium bowl, combine taco seasoning, olive oil and chicken and toss to coat. On a greased (or parchment-lined) sheet pan, arrange chicken and veggies into one layer. Season liberally with salt and fresh pepper.

          2. Bake for 15 minutes. Halfway through, flip the chicken. Chicken is ready when an insta-read thermometer reads chicken at 165ºF. Set aside while preparing the tacos.

          Nicole Hill Gerulat

          3. To assemble the tacos, layer tortillas with cabbage, chicken, roasted vegetables, red onions, avocado and cotija and top with crema and cilantro.

          Nicole Hill Gerulat

          Enjoy more Perdue® Fresh Cuts pre-cut chicken breast recipes!