5 Rules for the Whitest Smile Ever

If you’ve been hitting the iced lattes, red vino, and other stain-causing food and beverages the past few months (even those farmers’ market berries are to blame), then chances are your pearly whites might not be so, um, white. “The most common reasons for teeth to get stained and yellowed are drinking dark-colored liquids such as coffee, tea, red wine, and soda,” says New York City-based dentist Steven Davidowitz. “In addition, poor oral hygiene and the natural aging process will lead to discoloration of your teeth.” To get your smile back on track, follow these rules.

Invest In A Good Toothbrush

“By brushing gently, twice a day, with fresh soft bristles, covering all surfaces of your teeth over a full two minutes, you will be able to keep surface stains away and your teeth naturally white,” says dentist Jennifer Plotnik of Grand Street Dental in Brooklyn. “An electric toothbrush like Quip ($25), has vibrating bristles and a timer to ensure a sensitive, but thorough clean, and they have a brush head subscription program, which allows you replace them when you need to.”

Opt For a Whitening Toothpaste

Aside from brushing with the right brush, Davidowitz recommends using a specialized toothpaste for clear results. “Professional dental cleaning visits are critical to removing the plaque and stains that develop over time, however, whitening toothpaste can help the process on a daily basis,” he says.

Try Luster Premium White Power White Deep Stain Eraser ($7), which claims to remove 95 percent of surface stains in five days, or Colgate Optic White Radiant ($7), which relies on hydrogen peroxide to remove deep-set stains. Or, keep the paste you love and go for ECO Balance ($79), a gel that you place on top your toothpaste that volumizes as it turns into a foam. This delivers actives to hard-to-reach areas (like where decay and bleeding gums start… eek), so you end up with a healthier mouth, fresh breath, and whiter teeth over time.

Try An On-the-Go Pen

Zoom! Whitening Pens ($26 for a two-pack) are great to have handy before going out on the town, whether for an important function or date or night out with friends,” advises Davidowitz. “They’re discreet and allow for easy application and scrubbing, with mild hydrogen peroxide to brighten teeth on-the-go.”

Opt for in-house treatments, however, if you’re looking to keep track of your progress. “Some dental offices have comprehensive visits where hygienists do shade-taking, which helps track your tooth’s health/shade through guides and professional photography,” mentions Levine. “It’s hard to keep track of aesthetic goals and see if your whitening products are working if you can’t measure the progress. Next time you’re at your dentist’s office, ask them if they do shade-taking to track yours.”

Don’t Forget to Floss

Regular at-home oral hygiene is the key to making sure your whitening results are long lasting, according to Davidowitz. “Flossing not only keeps your teeth and gums healthy, but it removes tartar buildup and thereby prevents those shadows and stains from forming in-between your teeth,” he says. Try Oral-B Glide Pro-Health Deep Clean Cool Mint Flavor Dental Floss ($7) in a three pack so you can keep one in your beauty bag, one in your handbag, and one deskside. Not into floss? Davidowitz also notes that “eating carrots, celery, broccoli, and lettuce, as well as crunchy nuts, can actually contribute to the natural exfoliation of your teeth and help in breaking down the stain molecules before they are visible.”

Skip the Strips in Favor of a Whitening Device

“At home, there are a number of things a person can do to get their teeth white — and keep them white,” says New York City-based Jonathan B. Levine. “We created a whitening tool called GLO Brilliant Personal Teeth Whitening Device ($220) that amplifies the effect of whitening gel, so wear times are short with zero sensitivity.” The device uses a mouthpiece that warms the gel and gets it active. Insert it for three, eight-minute sessions and you’re done! It can be used for initial whitening and a few times a month for maintenance. The best part is you don’t have to deal with messy tray gels and long wear times that cause sensitivity. If the $220 price tag is a little hefty for you, you can also try GLO Pop 10-Day Teeth Whitening Treatment ($75), which is an on-the-go kit that can be used anytime throughout the day. But remember, “After you get your teeth whitened, avoid eating anything that can stain a white t-shirt for the next 48 hours following your appointment,” advises Levine.

What’s your go-to whitening product? Tweet us @BritandCo!

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(Featured photo via Getty)

The age-old question of fashion is and always will be: what’s in right now? Living in the digital age of TikTok and Instagram, the rate at which the trend cycle fluctuates is vicious and it can be difficult to keep up. Not to mention, the terminology behind trends in a “core” obsessed world is enough to make your head spin; in the last year alone we experienced ballet-core, cowgirl-core, and even… tomato girl-core.

Instead of trying to decode what's currently “in” and what is “out” in the fashion space ATM, we tapped a few expert stylists who have a strong knack for trend forecasting. Below you can find expert commentary from both Liz Teich, better known as @thenewyorkstylist on Instagram (whose following boasts close to half a million thanks to her skillful styling suggestions); and Style Made Simple’s founder and stylist, NYC-based Alison Berlin.

Read on to uncover which fashion trends are outdated, and the best ways to replace them in a manner that feels more current.

​Stop Wearing Skinny Jeans, Start Wearing Slim Leg Jeans

Image via Sezane

“You may already be aware, but there are many who have had a hard time letting [skinny jeans] go,” shared Berlin. However, she kindly made an exception and mentioned that you can “hang on to a favorite pair for over-the-knee boots in the winter but otherwise, it's time to switch to wider leg styles. This can range based on your comfort level and height, but anything from a proper straight leg (for an easy transition) to a full wide leg will do!” Liz Teich offered Sezane’s Brut Sexy jeans as a great stepping stone after the skinny jean addiction that we all faced, whether we’re ready to admit it or not.

​Stop Wearing Barbie Pink, Start Wearing Icy Blue

Image via GAP

Barbie Pink had its moment allll year long in 2023, and we’ve just about had enough. Teich explained that “Barbie pink feels a bit costume-y but icy blue feels like luxury and less saccharine.” To easily incorporate this color into upcoming outfits, Liz suggested utilizing chambray pieces that you likely already have in your closet.

​Stop Wearing Cut-Off Shorts, Start Wearing Bermuda Shorts

Image via Argent

Even if they’ve been with you through it all, it’s time to retire your super short denim cut-off shorts. Instead, Teich suggests opting for a more sophisticated, lengthier short, such as Argent’s suiting shorts. The tailored look is super chic and versatile, so you can dress them up or down!

​Stop Wearing Cross-body Bags, Start Wearing Practical, Roomy Handbags

“I'm not giving [the cross-body bag] up or suggesting it's not wearable given its game-changing utility,” Berlin shared with reassurance, “but the bags to invest in now are soft, larger-scale totes.” Teich chimed in with product suggestions including Songmont's Drippy Tote Bag and Paris64’s Tote, but Quince also makes a high quality tote while still hovering at an affordable price point.

​Stop wearing Dad Sneakers, Start Wearing Sleek And Colorful Sneakers

Image via Adidas

Chunky, solid, minimalist sneakers that resemble ‘dad shoes’ “dominated for quite some time,” says Berlin. She continued to mention an alternative in sneakers with color and detail for a fresh reset. To achieve this look, Liz Teich suggested either Adidas Sambas or Gazelles, and I’m particularly swooning over these retro silver Nike sneakers that are less than $100 at DSW.

​Stop Wearing Ankle Boots, Start Wearing Something New

Image via Rothy's

Alison from Style Made Simple had no problem admitting that ankle boots can and should be a staple for all of us, “but it's time to put them away in favor of branching out into new territory,” she offered. “Flats like Mary Janes and ballet styles are trending, as are loafers.” Take advantage of upcoming warmer weather and try out flats this spring. Our favorites are from Rothy’s because their shoes are designed to be machine-washed again and again to keep them looking fresh and feeling clean. As for a classic pair of loafers, we love the iconic silhouette of this tasseled pair from Cole Haan.

​Stop Wearing Midi Skirts, Start Wearing Extreme Length Skirts

Image via Free People

It’s time to retire the midi skirt and graphic tee combo this spring and opt for something a bit more dramatic and current. “You should be thinking in extremes in terms of skirts — minis or maxis,” shared Alison Berlin. In the off chance of your mini skirt riding up is a deep seeded fear of yours like it is for me, this skort is the perfect solution and a standing staple piece in my closet; the built-in shorts are not visible at all, so it still gives the illusion of being a micro mini skirt. However, if maxi skirts fit your vibe better, we love this flowy, bohemian option from Free People.

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

Header image via Free People

Everyone deals with family issues, but some people had more dysfunctional childhoods than others. Are there ways to tell? According to family psychologist Caitlin Slavens of Mamapsychologistsand therapist Rachel D. Miller, Ph.D., LMFT of Hold The Vision Therapy, yes!

Slavens says, "As a family psychologist, I’ve seen how growing up in a dysfunctional family leaves its mark. Sometimes the signs are glaring, like obvious chaos or neglect." However, she said the signs can also be "more subtle" being that they're "things you don’t even realize were 'off' until you’re older." You may even "start noticing patterns in yourself or your relationships" if you've become retrospective, according to her.

Here are all the subtle signs you grew up in a dysfunctional family

1. You're never sure what kind of mood your parents will be in before you walk in the living room or kitchen.

Emma Bauso

Let's put this on record: parenting is tough — especially on top of trying to maintain a work-life balance. But, this doesn't mean you're meant to be unsure of what to expect every time you come around your parents. If you have to "'read the room'" a lot "before speaking," Slavens indicates this is one of the more subtle signs of dysfunction.

This is where you may have learned how to become passive-aggressive if that's something you struggle with. The reason for this is because "clear and direct communication is avoided and/or seen as bad or aggressive," according to Dr. Miller.

2. You tend to feel like you're constantly compared to and in competition with your siblings.

August de Richelieu

My heart truly wants to believe this isn't intentional behavior from parents, but I can't say I haven't heard people talk about feeling like they'd never measure up to the 'golden child' of their family. You may have felt insecure about your grades, the college you chose to go to, your career goals, or even your physical appearance. Slavens says this "struggle with self-worth or second-guessing yourself constantly" is yet another sign that your family's dynamic wasn't the healthiest.

Also, Dr. Miller says this could've caused you to learn to "shrink yourself in the presence of loved ones." Even worse, you may "feel the need to hide pieces of yourself in order to be loved and accepted."

3. There was constant yelling and screaming during arguments, making you fearful of disagreements or hardships.

Kaboompics.com

If you grew up in a home where arguments always led to screaming and yelling, chances are you're not a fan of loud voices or hard moments. Honestly, Slavens says it's not hard to believe that "conflict make you anxious, even when it’s minor." Unsurprisingly, you may have become a referee during these arguments and currently find yourself being a mediator in your platonic or romantic relationships. Why?

Dr. Miller says, "You constantly feel the need to manage everyone else’s emotions often at the cost of your own needs and wellbeing." You know, to keep the peace.

Here are some more obvious signs you grew up in a dysfunctional family

4. You had to take on a parental role when one of your parents decided to stop being an adult.

cottonbro studio

I imagine that having an emotionally immature parent is one of the most aggravating and stressful things to deal with. Not only that, but you may have had to help keep the household afloat. You may have had to get a job or two to help pay bills, listening to an adult conversation as your mom or dad laid their problems at your young feet, and more!

If you "family roles were flipped" and you "maybe had to parent your own parents," Slavens says this is a form of emotional dysfunction.

5. You weren't allowed to go anywhere with your friends because your parents wanted to keep an eye on you at all times.

Ketut Subiyanto

Slavens says boundaries that "didn't exist" or "were rigid and controlling" is a sign your home was a little...interesting. Being concerned about your whereabouts is one thing, but it's another when you're unable to do anything without your parents' eagle-eyes on you. Something as simple as going to the mall with your friends may have become a lecture about the dangers of shoplifting or car wrecks. Again, these are valid concerns but they shouldn't be treated like the verbal form of doom scrolling.

6. You consistently witnessed one of your parents abuse alcohol or drugs at home.

Ksenia Chernaya

This is a tough because substance abuse is so prevalent in varies socioeconomic statuses and communities. From the functioning alcoholic to the one who becomes belligerent after they've had too much to drink, it always affects those around them. Slavens says if "there was ongoing neglect, substance abuse, or verbal/physical aggression," your home probably didn't safe.

I recognize some of these signs of a dysfunctional family. But that doesn't mean they're affecting my current relationships, right?

Ron Lach

I hate to break it to you, but it's possible your childhood wounds have shown up before. "Dysfunctional dynamics don’t stay in childhood — they tend to creep into how you connect with others," says Slavens. Similarly, Dr. Miller agrees that "we typically repeat what we learned at home with our families in our other relationships." How?

"This includes the beliefs and rules we follow, often completely subconsciously, about what can and can’t talk about and why, as well as what emotions are allowed to be expressed, who can express them and how, and how we should or must respond to those people and their emotions," explains Dr. Miller.

Another way to look at this is how Slavens has outlined it:

In Platonic Relationships:

  1. Overextending yourself to please others, even at your own expense
  2. Feeling like you have to "earn your friends' affections.
  3. Avoiding vulnerability because it feels unsafe.

In Romantic Relationships:

  1. Struggling to trust your partner or feeling overly suspicious
  2. Repeating patterns like dating people who are emotionally unavailable or controlling.
  3. Feeling overly responsible for your partner's happiness — or relying on them for yours.

OMG! How do I unlearn habits from my dysfunctional family?

Antoni Shkraba

Honestly, everyone has a few bad habits they've carried from their childhood to adulthood. You're not an outlier because some things weren't 100% normal so I don't want you to feel like you're a failure for not having having it all together. "Dysfunction doesn’t have to define your future relationships," Slavens assures. Dr. Miller says you can start to unlearn things "that aren't working for you anymore" by "gathering your family's larger context to gain insight into how and why, for them, the behaviors make sense."

By taking a look at your family's "history and larger social and political contexts" gives you a chance to "see them as whole people with full lives," she says. Once you do that, she believes "you can examine what pieces make sense for you to keep and what parts you'd like to learn to do differently." Her other suggestion? Don't forget you're ability to utilize a "therapist who works systemically, like an LMFT" who "can be a huge support in this process."

Anastasia Shuraeva

Slavens' tips include the following:

  1. Practice self-awareness: Notice when a response feels automatic — like people-pleasing or shutting down during conflict — and ask yourself, Is this helping me, or is this a leftover habit from the past?
  2. Set boundaries: If your childhood lacked healthy boundaries, learning to say “no” without guilt is a game-changer. Boundaries protect your energy and teach others how to treat you.
  3. Learn healthy conflict skills: If conflict made you feel unsafe growing up, it’s natural to avoid it. But healthy conflict is necessary in relationships. Practice expressing your needs calmly and directly.
  4. Therapy, therapy, therapy: A good therapist can help untangle the messy, “weird” things that got normalized and give you tools to rebuild healthier ways of relating to yourself and others.
  5. Surround yourself with healthier models: Whether it’s friends, mentors, or books/podcasts, seek examples of functional relationships and start observing what feels different.

While you're busy unlearning things, Dr. Miller also wants you to remember something. "Recognize that how your family does something is simply that; how your particular family system figured out and were taught to navigate the world. It isn’t inherently right because you’ve normalized it nor is the way another person or family does it inherently wrong," she says.

Slavens' final thoughts? "It’s not about blaming your family but recognizing how your experiences shaped you — and giving yourself permission to do things differently. You’re allowed to rewrite the script."

Visit the top signs to recognize if you have toxic friends on Brit + Co!

With the solstice officially behind us, this summer's calling for a going out top and a little late night dancing. I've got my eye on a few Barbie pink tops and asymmetric pieces that I know will make me feel *bonita* for sure. But I'm here to help you perfect yoursummer style, so if you've been trying to find something to shimmy in this summer, here are 15 going out tops that'll cause a breathtaking scene!

Free People Carrie Crop

Date nights deserve romantic going out tops that teeters on the edge of being ethereal and sexy like this pale pink cropped design. Made of 100% nylon, it's boxy shape will pair well with a silk midi skirt.

Free People Lady Lux Printed Layering Top (Coral Paradise Combo)

This is one layering top we can get behind! It's the perfect shade of coral and even has a thumbhole feature that can take you back to the early 2000s. We know you miss that era too!

Free People Full Bloom Top

Spring is next month so it's only right to have floral going out tops that captures the essence of a new season. This top is another nostalgic nod to the past and features a silhouette that's perfect for a late night of dancing in a barn or at a house party. Slip a pair of denim shorts underneath and cowgirl boots for an effortless look.

Free People Just A Girl Tank

If your friends are begging you to keep it casual during your next outing, compromise by slipping into this cute tank top. We call it the 'casual in the front, but party in the back' top because it's truly the gift that keeps giving.

For Love & Lemons Tia Top

Become a walking disco ball with this cropped rhinestone top by For Love & Lemons! It has adjustable tie straps that'll work for even the daintiest of shoulders.

Image via Anthropologie

Anthropologie The Hannah Seamless Textured Tank (Raspberry)

Just because you're headed for a night out on the town doesn't mean you have to dress up. If you're going to a house or keg party, this Barbiecore pink tank top worn with frayed denim shorts are all you need.

Image via Princess Polly

Princess Polly Daintree Plisse Corset Beige

This plisse corset is designed to hug your curves while giving your cleavage a boost. If you're looking to wear something that's in between chic and sexy, wear this top.

Image via Princess Polly

Princess Polly Janney Top Pink

Fun, flirty and frilly pieces are a must-have for a night of non-stop dancing. The thin front ties will make sure nothing spills out of your top.

MANGO Cropped Top With Sequins ($140)

Image via MANGO

MANGO Cropped Top with Sequins

We don't make the rules, but sequins are a go-to for going out with your friends. Whether you're on vacation and want to hit the trendiest club in the area, or decide to host your own soiree, this top will make sure your outfit is memorable.

Forever21 Twisted Satin Tie-Back Crop Top

Show off a hint of cleavage with this tie-back satin top. The functional buttoned cuffs at the end of the long sleeves are a nice added touch that makes this top feel a little classy.

Sister Jane Tulle Ruffle Blouse

It's almost time to start wearing baby doll going out tops that are draped in delicate tulle! Okay, we're making that up. But, this ruffle blouse is giving us major Poor Things vibes.

Moussy Vintage Cross Over Tank

Love tank tops, but want one that has a dressier feel? Try this crisscross tank by Moussy Vintage! The jersey fabric is comfortable so you won't spend most of your night adjusting your clothes.

Perfect Persona Ivory and Beige Lace Tie-Strap Bodysuit

Call us biased, but tie-strap going out tops are an easy way to elevate your look. You can pair this lace bodysuit with a pair of medium-wash straight legs to keep your overall look casual.

Nasty Gal All Over Diamante Camisole

Your upcoming birthday gives you an excuse to be as extra with your outfit which is why we think this diamante camisole is a no-brainer. It's flirty and comes with a matching skirt that'll complete your look.

House of Harlow 1960 x REVOLVE Burna Blouse

This top will leave others wondering whether you're headed out to grab drinks with friends or if you're more interested in a bar crawl with a new date. As far as we're concerned, you could do both in this cute top that has smocked cuffs.

Let us know which top you're planning to add to your going out wardrobe!

Lead image via Urban Outfitters

This post has been updated.

Sprinkle the magic of Christmas into every seasonal activity by creating some festive Christmas nail designs! Whether you like to lean towards the traditional reds and greens or prefer to think colorfully outside the box, the polishes and Christmas nail designs below will set your mood and nail look right. Winter nails don't have to be drab – from star-studded nail art to bejeweled nail beds, we've got just the inspo for you.

Christmas Nail Colors

Amazon

essie 'Off Tropic'

You can't get your dream Christmas nail designs done without some stellar nail polishes! If your look involves a deep green, this shiny pick will help you pull it off easily. Use it to coat the entire nail for a sultry seasonal mani.

Amazon

OPI Opaque Light White & Gray Shimmer Nail Polish

With Christmas comes cold, and this nail polish screams icy. Wear it alone or apply it over a traditional Christmas color like red or green!

Amazon

OPI Infinite Shine 'Bubble Bath'

This baby pink will look gorgeous as a solid coat for Christmas-y dates and dinner parties.

Amazon

ILNP 'Ruby'

It's red. It's glittery. It's perfect for the holidays!

Amazon

Essie 'Winter Trend'

Spending Christmas with your besties or roommates? It's time for you to have your first 'Pinkmas' with the sparkly magenta nails to match!

Amazon

Sally Hansen Insta-Dri 'White on Time'

A super solid white nail polish, alongside a thin nail art brush, can be used to paint snowmen, gift wrap, or snowflakes like some of our featured Christmas nail designs depict.

Amazon

RARJSM Holographic Gel Polish

For the lazy gal manicurists, this holographic polish will make any light reflect off your nails which is the point during Christmas!

Amazon

essie 'U Wish'

Embrace the holidays with this fiery red that defies expectations of what a Christmas color should be.

Amazon

Butter London Patent Shine Nail Polish

This one color will work excellently for minimalist Christmas nail designs – use it to dot, stripe, or wear it on its own.

Amazon

Revlon 'Iced Mauve'

Sparkles are a must for Christmas, which is why we're heavily eyeing this potent pink.

Christmas Nails Inspo

Nataszija / July Ninety Six

Nifty-Gifty Gems

Use small nail gems of any color to infuse your Christmas nail designs with festive energy. We're loving red in particular because it just feels luxurious!

Brydie/Instagram

Deep Red Elegance

The bold red French tips, in combination with some art deco-inspired golden stars, can really bring your seasonal mani to the next level.

Charlotte Herberts/Instagram

Colorful Christmas Stars

Use a stencil or freehand these tiny stars in different chrome nail colors for a more jolly vibe this year.

Bryony Howell/Instagram

(Gift) Wrap It Up

A nail art brush can be used to paint on cutie little Christmas bows like this silvery one!

(via )

Oliwia Krauz/Instagram

Classic Colors

Multicolor nails are not dead – take the trend further for the holidays by crafting your look with a mix of whites, golds, greens, and reds.

Melou's Nails/Instagram

Let It Shine

For an understated (yet still spirited) Christmas manicure, glitter will be your go-to. We love the gradient effect that this hand has on!

Peachi Nails/Instagram

Merry & Bright

Tiny star details are sure to turn heads this Christmas! You could use any hue, but a standout gold like this one really makes your nails pop!

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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

Sophia Bush and Ashlyn Harris are the talk of the town lately — and Ali Krieger definitely has something to say about it. The timeline of Ashlyn and Ali's divorce and Ashlyn and Sophia's relationship is messy at best, but the latter couple constantly dispel any rumor that there was overlap. For much of this narrative, Ali's been pretty silent, but it's clear she's ready to speak her truth. In a statement posted to Instagram, the soccer superstar opened up. Here's what she had to say.

See Ali Krieger's full statement about the Ashlyn Harris drama here!

  • Ali says that while she's had an "outpouring of love and support" over the last year, she's been confronted with "a wave of dishonesty and misinformation" in regards to her marriage to Ashlyn Harris.
  • Ali noted that her "unwavering priority" is to her kids, and that she requests privacy while she comes to terms with the state of her personal life right now.
  • This comes after Ashlyn Harris made comments about the dissolution of their marriage on a podcast, stating that there was a total lack of intimacy and that the cheating "is so far from the truth."

www.instagram.com

On December 3, 2024, Ali posted her statement to Instagram. She opened with, "I’m overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support I’ve received this last year. However, amidst this warmth, I’ve also had to confront a wave of dishonesty and misinformation regarding my marriage and personal life."

Ali shared that she isn't ready to make a more formal statement, but she feels "compelled to address this currently to prevent further distortion of the truth." But at the end of the day, Ali explained that her "unwavering priority" is her kids at this moment, and that she'll share more when her "heart feels ready."

She closed her statement with, "In this vulnerable time, I humbly ask for privacy and understanding from all involved, as I grapple with the profound changes in my personal life."

Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for American Ballet Theatre

This comes after Ashlyn spoke on the Naked Sports with Cari Championpodcast. Ashlyn noted that she was in a relationship without intimacy, eventually leading her to ask for an open marriage as a "last attempt." She also stated that people constantly see her as a cheater, which she says is "is so far from the truth."

I guess we'll know the truth in time...but for now, this is definitely messy. Wishing both sides of this divorce peace and understanding!

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