As much as we’re looking forward to spring, it seems like we’re in for even more cold fronts. In the vein of staying safe (and warm!) in what could potentially be a dangerous situation, we’ve gathered 13 last-minute essentials you should always keep on-hand in light of severe cold fronts and power outages.
Being prepared with these ‘emergency kit’ items is crucial, and the best, most convenient part is they’re all shoppable onAmazon, who’ll get ‘em at your door within days or sometimes even hours so you can be sure you’re covered.
Amazon
Balaclavas are like beanies – but better – since they cover more of your face, which makes a huge difference in how you perceive the cold. This one comes with adjustable straps to help you trap in even more body heat.
Amazon
Where would we be without our heated blanket? Having one in the living room or bedroom is super helpful, especially if your radiator or central heating goes kaput. In the case your power's completely out, this can still function as a practical extra layer of warmth.
Amazon
Carhartt beanies are unmatched when it comes to the comfiness and warmth they bring.
Amazon
This pick is pretty self-explanatory. Space heaters are the MVP of keeping you warm, especially in places that your regular heater may have difficulty reaching, like the bathroom.
Amazon
In addition to a reliable beanie, a scarf is a winter must. We recommend you opt for a big, soft one like this!
Amazon
Same thing goes for good gloves – shop for ones that are waterproof, snow-proof, and expertly insulated.
Amazon
Insulated cups and mugs are wintertime's BFF since they'll keep your tea, coffee, or hot chocolate hot for longer, warming you up from the inside out.
Amazon
If you have to brave the cold, HotHands are the OG way of keeping your hands warm. You can even throw them in your shoes if your toes tend to freeze and you don't have insulated snow shoes in your closet. Just remember it's a temporary fix!
Amazon
Anyone who lives in a snowy place knows that a snow brush is a smart investment for, well, brushing off the snow from your car. This one is especially nice since the other end boasts a scraper to tackle pesky frost and ice!
Amazon
In case of a power outage, you're going to want to have a flashlight, lantern, and some old-fashioned candles handy. This product in particular is rechargeable, so make sure it has a full charge!
Amazon
If you opt for a battery-powered flashlight (or other device), batteries are key. Luckily, Amazon sells a ton of different kinds for same-day delivery.
Amazon
Cold front or not, a fully-stocked first aid kit is crucial for responding to emergencies. This one comes complete with stuff to address wounds, cuts, scrapes, and aches.
Amazon
Splurging on a generator can be a really great idea if you live somewhere where power outages and/or natural disasters are common. This one is fashioned with plenty of different plugs and can power devices and more for days.
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
It's been 17 years since Gossip Girl first premiered on The CW, thus opening our eyes to the scandalous lives of Manhattan's elite and introducing us to a new generation of stars like Blake Lively and Leighton Meester.
In the six seasons the show was on air, it captivated fans and critics alike, serving up week after week of delicious drama and continuously upping the ante for TV show fashion. ("So many designers were lining up to be a part of it — they wanted their stuff on Blake or Leighton," costume designer Eric Daman told Vanity Fair.) Click through to find out what the Gossip Girl cast has been up to since the show's success, and where they are today.
Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Michael Kors
Of all the Gossip Girl cast alumni, Blake Lively is arguably the most well-known. Not only has she gone on to major roles in movies — including The Age of Adaline, The Shallows, All I See Is You, and most recently, It Ends with Us— but she's also married to fellow actor Ryan Reynolds (married in 2012).
Blake shares four beautiful daughters, James, Inez, Betty, and the youngest (born in 2023) whose name has not been announced publicly with Ryan. True to her Gossip Girl character, she's quite the fashionista! In her spare time, she likes to hang out with her BFFs, who just so happen to include Taylor Swiftandthe Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants ladies.
Frazer Harrison/Getty Images
Leighton Meester has a career that would make even her cunningly ambitious Queen B character proud. Since Gossip Girl's end in 2012, she's acted in films including Life Partners, The Judge, The Weekend Away, and most recently, EXmas. She even recorded and released songs such as "Good Girls Go Bad" with Cobra Starship and the solo effort "Somebody to Love," and even starred on Broadway in Of Mice and Men back in 2014.
Leighton is married to actor Adam Brody (The O.C., Jennifer's Body, Gilmore Girls) as of 2014. She has two kids – one daughter and one son.
She has been heavily involved in philanthropy while taking on acting projects, primarily volunteering and campaigning with Feeding America and the Los Angeles Food Bank.
Dominik Bindl/Getty Images
Long gone are the days when Taylor Momsen played Dan Humphrey's sweet (and a bit messed up) little sis, Jenny. The actress left the Gossip Girl cast in 2010 in order to pursue her dreams of a music career, and all these years later, she's still doing just that as the frontwoman of the uber-successful rock group, The Pretty Reckless. With four records under their belt, the four-member band has supported bands like Evanescence, Soundgarden, and Guns N' Roses, and has toured in numerous cities and music festivals.
Momsen has typically kept her dating life on the down-low. She is currently single and appears to be putting all of her energy into her band.
Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images
Everyone’s favorite Gossip Girl — er, guy — Penn Badgley, followed in his on-screen sister's footsteps after the show ended, pursuing his musical interests with rock band MOTHXR. The band's most current project, Centerfold, was released back in 2016.
Badgley has since acted in several movies and TV shows including Easy A, The Paper Store, and Here Today, but his most notable work has been on the ongoing book-based Netflix series, You. He plays Joe Goldberg, a charming bookkeeper with eerily odd characteristics, especially when it comes to love.
Badgley currently has a podcast titled Podcrushed, which explores the awkwardness of adolescence and revisits guests' best (and worst) middle school memories. He cohosts with Nava Kavelin and Sophie Ansari. One episode even features ex-Gossip Girl co-star, Leighton Meester!
Badgley is married to singer and doula Domino Kirke as of 2017. Kirke already had a child from a previous relationship. Badgley and Kirke had their first son together in 2020.
Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images for Diesel
Ed Westwick tapped into his angsty side post-Gossip Girl, starring as Tybalt in a 2013 adaptation of Romeo & Juliet. Since then, he has fought crime as Kent Grainger on Wicked City, played a crime lord on Snatch, and sold double-glazed windows on White Gold. Is there any role he can't play? Most recently, Westwick stars in the movie DarkGame.
With a background in music, Westwick also currently sings in the bandFor You. Their most recent release is the song "Tailspin," and they're set to release a new single "Here Comes Trouble" in March 2024.
Westwick had been dating model and actress Amy Jacksonsince 2021, with the pair getting happily engaged during a ski trip in January 2024.
Leon Bennett/Getty Images for MBJx DAVID YURMAN
Following his stint as a wealthy Upper East Sider on Gossip Girl, Texas native Chace Crawford tried his hand at playing a greedy oil worker on ABC's short-lived TV series, Blood & Oil. He's had several film roles since – you can catch him in movies like Undrafted, Eloise, Nighthawks, even voice-actingin Belle. Most recently, Crawford stars as The Deep on The Boys.
Crawford has previously dated Carrie Underwood, Rachelle Goulding, and Rebecca Rittenhouse, though he is currently single as a Pringle.
Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images
Jessica Szohr, who played Dan Humphrey's BFF slash on-again, off-again girlfriend (needless to say, we were confused too), has been a lot busier than her character was after season four, when she was all but written off the show.
In the years since Gossip Girl, the actress scored several roles on TV shows such as Complications, Kingdom, Twin Peaks and The Orville. She even starred in Taylor Swift's music video for "22" back in 2013!
Jessica also welcomed a daughter with her longtime boyfriend in early 2021.
Jessica currently hosts a podcast called "XOXO" that dives deep into the Gossip Girl cast, crew, and behind-the-scenes moments. Some notable episodes have featured Zuzanna Szadkowski (Dorota), Aaron Tveit (Tripp van der Bilt), Kelly Rutherford (Lily van der Woodsen), and Michelle Trachtenburg (Georgina Sparks).
Jemal Countess/Getty Images
Since her stint as the "bad girl" Georgina Sparks, Michelle Trachtenberg landed roles on shows like Criminal Minds, NCIS: Los Angeles, Sleepy Hollow, and Sister Cities among other numerous series and movies. She even reprised her role as Georgina for the 2021 remake of Gossip Girl on HBO Max!
She managed to keep her personal life largely out of the tabloids, including her dating life. The last update on her relationship status was in 2023, and that she was dating her talent agent, Jay Cohen. She reportedly previously dated Shawn Ashmore, Joshua Radin, and Jason Segel.
Unfortunately, Michelle passed away on February 26, 2025.
Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images
Besides being a New York Fashion Week icon (we'd expect nothing less of Lily van der Woodsen's alter ego!), Kelly Rutherford has popped up in several TV shows over the years, including Quantico, Jane the Virgin, and Dynasty.
She also frequently travels to France and Monaco, where, after years of custody battles with her second ex-husband, Daniel Giersch, she has extensive visitation rights to see her two children, who reside there with their father.
"Yes, it was a challenging time. It was a heartbreaking time," she told People. "But I focus on the good most of the time, I really do," she says. "I'm very thankful of where we are. I have a great relationship with my kids."
When she's not with her kids or working on a project, Kelly is dropping iconic 'fit pics on her Instagram account.
Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images
Matthew Settle, who played rockstar dad Rufus Humphrey, continued acting after the Gossip Girl cast dissolved. He hasn't been on any other TV shows other than one episode of Criminal Minds: Beyond Borders in 2016. He mostly stuck to movies, acting in titles like Ouija, Marshall the Miracle Dog, and Valentine: The Dark Avenger.
Settle is also a dad of two children, having welcomed his first with actress and model Naama Nativ in 2009. He had divorced her in 2011 and went on to have a second baby with girlfriend Maria Alfonsin in 2015.
Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images
Though Blair's loyal maid and, ultimately, best friend, wasn't technically a main character, there's no denying that it would have been a different show without her unwavering presence! Zuzanna Szadowski has dabbled in film and television since then, appearing in shows such as Girls,The Good Wife, and Modern Love.
In 2010, she partnered with Sam Weisman to open The Sam Weisman Studio, an acting school (now closed).
Oh, and did we mention she just so happens to be one of Leighton Meester's real-life BFFs?
Which Gossip Girl cast member is your fave? Tweet us @BritandCo!
This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.
Winter is undoubtedly here (boo, snow and cold!), but a whole new wave of weather means it’s time to step up not only your layering game, but your shoe game, too. From stylish tall boots to cozy lined house shoes, these 5 types of winter shoes are simply the perfect pairs to get you through the season in style.
Free People
Tall boots are just that girl when it comes to winter outfits. They truly wear well alone, but for wintertime, they look especially stunning when you layer ‘em up with leggings or tights.
Free People
Jeffrey Campbell Katrina Pull-On Tall Boots
There are quite a few variations in design when it comes to tall boots, so you could snag them in a moto, cowboy boot, or sleek style.
Tecovas
Whatever tall boot style speaks to you the most and will be most practical for your needs will be perfect!
Blundstone
Blundstone All-Terrain Thermal Chelsea Boots
Snow boots are honestly non-negotiable if you live somewhere, well, snowy.
Nordstrom
Sorel Tivoli V Faux Fur Lined Waterproof Boots
Snow boots are designed with the cold in mind, so they’re often expertly insulated and boast reliable textured soles that won’t fail you on slippery ice.
Nordstrom
Sorel, UGG, Hunter, and Blundstone make some of my favorite snow boots since they still look effortlessly stylish, all while keeping your feet safe and warm!
SeaVees
Where would I be without my clogs?! Seriously – they’re super helpful if I need to run a quick errand or take my dog for a brief walk outside. The best part about clogs is they’re extremely easy to put on and take off – no time for traditional laces over here!
I thoroughly enjoy this gardening-inspired pair from SeaVees because the soles are fitted with a good amount of traction to keep me from slip-sliding when I have to go out in the snow. They’re also waterproof, keeping my feet dry with every step.
Nordstrom
Chaco Ramble Water Resistant Puffer Clogs
Puffer styles like these are especially great if more warmth is what you’re seeking this season.
DSW
I also can’t recommend these Chacos clogs enough, since they’re remarkably durable and perfect for year-round wear.
Adidas
Sneakers are a must no matter the season, but having a pair for winter can really depend on your season-specific needs. Whether it’s a running sneaker that’s primed for the gym’s treadmills or a more fashion-forward design that you want to rock with all of your ‘going out’ outfits, there’s a winter sneaker for everyone.
New Balance
I tend to shop sneakers for winter in more toned-down color palettes, since I typically wear more monochromatic ‘fits when the weather’s gloomy. I really adore my New Balance 530's since I can easily take them from a workout to a night out.
Nordstrom
Finally, cozy house shoes should be a given when it comes to winter. I surely spend more time at home around this time of year, and when I’m hibernating, my toes get annoyingly cold! I know I'm not the only one, too.
Amazon
Dearfoams Chloe Soft Knit Clog Slippers
That’s where a good slipper or house shoe comes in – they exist to protect your feet from the elements, ensuring you stay cozy all season long.
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Jewelry is truly the cherry on top of a good outfit — so you definitely don't wanna top everything off with an outdated trend you pulled from the bottom of your jewelry box. And while some jewelry will always be timeless, there are plenty of pieces that are way past their prime. Whether too gaudy, too much of a flash trend, or some combination of the two, these are the six outdated jewelry trends you should totally retire in 2025.
Target
Once upon a time beaded jewelry was a popular status symbol among the "it girls" in middle or high school. It was a nostalgic trend that's come been recycled over the years, but it's finally time to put it rest. Why?
It's time to wear jewelry that doesn't feel so juvenile.
Anthropologie
Sometimes we fondly remember the days we used to wear chunky charm bracelets that featured our initials, hearts, stars, seashells, and more. You usually could hear us before you saw us because our favorite accessories made a lot of clinking noises. Maybe we're traumatized by how loud our bracelets each time we moved our arm during tests, but we're finally over wearing excess charms. That's not to say this style is 100% "outdated" though!
We're all in favor of this trend, but we'd rather see you choose 1-3 meaningful charms instead of squeezing 10+ on a chain link.
Pandora
Jewelry trends are supposed to be fun and cute, but this one is giving us "Mob wife" energy...you know, the trend from 2023? We know it's been a popular style that some people gravitate towards, but we prefer to see you wearing bracelets that indicate you're in your "soft girl era."
Alexis Bittar
The quickest way to age yourself is by making makeup mistakeswhile wearing the heaviest chunky gold earrings you own. Unless your goal is to walk around like you're auditioning to be an extra in a spoof of an '80s or '90s comedy, don't ever pair the two together.
As a matter of fact, give your ears a break from the heaviness of this trend.
gorjana
Thin rings seem like they're perfect for the set of Severance, but how practical are they in real life? We're afraid you'll spend your hard earned money on a cute ring set only to lose one or two of them while doing your daily activities.
Then again, we're a little biased because chunkier rings are taking center stage for their ability to infuse personality in your everyday casual outfits.
Ettika
Shell necklaces remind us of that one tongue twister that we just couldn't ever get right: "She sells seashells by the seashore."
For obvious reasons, this jewelry trend gets a hard NO from us — it's gaudy and doesn't really complement many personal styles. Even if you swear it does, we'd rather see you wear a pair of shell earrings instead of a statement necklace like this.
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
We may have left mountains of homework and questionable cafeteria food behind years ago, but that doesn't mean we can't learn anything from educational podcasts. From online classes to language apps, we’re all about expanding our knowledge, especially if it’s fun.
When your commute turns into a bore or you’re up for picking up a new skill, these educational podcasts will drop some serious knowledge on you, no backpack required.
What began as a Kickstarter project has now become an extremely popular trivia podcast. Half quiz show and half offbeat news, Good Job, Brain! will have you laughing and dominating your next trivia night.
Curiosity Daily is an award-winning podcast that allows you to learn a little bit more about the world around you. It takes listeners through research-based life hacks and the latest science and technology news, allowing you to walk out into the world more knowledgable.
Hidden Brain explores something we all strive to understand better - our thoughts! Each episode teaches about social psychology and the neuroscience behind our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. What I love about this podcast is how practical and applicable the information shared truly is.
Ologies is designed to be a crash course on all things science. It talks about everything from dinosaurs to space to the human body, giving you all sorts of information you never knew you needed or wanted. The host is able to interview experts in the field, giving you a really comprehensive look on the subjects tackled.
This podcast is filled with valuable information that is going to make your life better. Its two female hosts talk about everything from sex and relationships to health and career. They break down really complex topics in a way that feels accessible, educational, and engaging.
This podcast dials you into the "herstory" you never learned. It tells the tories of girl bosses from queens to warriors to scientists and artists.
Radio journalist Mike Pesca leads this Slate podcast, which covers three hot, political topics a week. From JFK to debates, The Gist will keep you in the know.
HowStuffWorks writers Josh and Chuck educate listeners on everything from the ecosystem to Jack the Ripper and sharks. What stuff should you know? Take a listen to how sushi works or the science behind3D printing.
Mo’ money, mo’ problems, right? Not if you’re Planet Money. They’ll teach you how to handle your money, check your finances and work with the economy, all without being a bore. Where to start? Learn more about homeowners insurance policies or free money.
TED talks are known for their thought-provoking topics and speakers. This podcast is a coproduction of powerhouses NPR and TED to bring ideas, creations and problem-solving tips to the table. Listen as individuals share their ideas each week, like singer-songwriter Megan Washington, who talks about how singing achieves stillness.
Former pro-athlete Lewis Howes takes business, leadership and personal development to the next level. The School of Greatness features top professionals who aim to inspire and encourage growth in their listeners. Ready for change? Find out the 10 essential truths needed to upgrade your life or discover simple ways to overcome stress.
Angela Duckworth, a research psychologist, partners up with tech and sports executive, Mike Maughan, to answer all of your science questions. They answer them in a knowledgable and non-condescending way, no matter how silly the question may seem.
We all know sometimes the internet can bombard us with info, and it's hard to decipher what's true and what's not. Science Vs explores the science behind popular claims and trends, interviewing experts and conducting in-depth research to help you decide what's worth following.
Which educational podcasts have you listened to recently?
Lead image via Ivan Samkov/Pexels
This post has been updated.
