Seriously Chic Sequins (No Longer Just for New Year’s!)

We’re all about sparkle here at Brit + Co, but it is definitely possible to go overboard in the sequins, glitter, and rhinestone department. When we stumbled across this tutorial on the web, we had to give it a try. Sequins as beads? Sequins as something that doesn’t look it’s like from the ’80s or only reserved for New Year’s Eve? Yes! Read on to see how it’s done.


– flat sequins (on a string or individually)

– 20 gold eye pins (available on Amazon)

– gold lobster clasp

– gold o-ring

– gold chain

– earring hooks

Tools:
– needle nose pliers

– round nose pliers

We found our strings of sequin trim at a local fabric store, but you can also find loose sequins at craft and jewelry stores.

1. Sequined Diamond Earrings: The title of these earrings might be a little misleading, but we love the geometric diamond shape combined with flat blocks of black, silver, and clear sequins.

If they’re on a string like ours, unstring ’em! Then place a stack of clear ones on an eye pin. Each earring will require 4 eye pins, so 8 eye pins each.

We created a pattern that was half clear, half black. Keep placing those sequins on the eye pin.

We snipped our first eye pin at 1 1/8 inches long. You can always go bigger or shorter depending on your sense of style. Use round pliers to create another “eye” at the end. Loop your second eye pin through the eye you just created, cut to the same length, and curve into a loop again.

Repeat with the next two eye pins and attach to create a diamond. Use needle nose pliers to add earring hooks to the top eye pins and you’re done!

Pretty fly, don’t you think?

2. Sequined Chevron Necklace: As you can see, we will never be over the chevron trend. I mean, what’s not to like about zig zags?

The process for this is similar to start. Cut your pins down to a size that works for you. Ours were all 1 1/8 inches long. String on your sequins. For this one, each chevron section was a solid color, with plain eye pins in between each section.

Like this! It definitely takes some patience to put this one together, but the payoff looks like a necklace straight out of Anthropologie. Use pliers to attach your eye pins to chain, about a 1/2 inch apart for each section.

And that’s it!

We love how the chevron shape falls naturally into place when you wear it.

These pieces are delicate enough that you could totally wear them together.

What unconventional ways have you used sequins? Or any other traditionally too-shiny material? Talk to us in the comments below.

One of my favorite new ways to upgrade a simple and basic outfit is by throwing on a pair of gold statement earrings. They always really elevate the entire look, making me feel AND look way more put together and chic than before. I've gone through the latest trends and picked out the hottest statement earrings at the moment, so keep reading for all of our favorites worn by the likes of Hailey Bieber and more!

Heaven Mayhem Tabi Earrings

IMO, Heaven Mayhem is the queen of gold statement earrings! They have so many different styles and options for the classic and chic, cool-girl look! Even THE It-Girl herself, Hailey Bieber, has been seen rocking these beauties lately.

Heaven Mayhem Hoop Earrings

I see these earrings everywhere, and for good reason! They're a great starter pack to gold statement earrings, and they go with every outfit; casual or dressy! After these, you'll be hooked for sure!

Sézane Flora Hoops

I have these in the white, and I wear them to almost any major event, dinner, or wedding that I have because they mix and match with so many different outfits! I get soooo many compliments on them multiple times anytime I go out, so be prepared — they're well-loved!

Open Edit Teardrop Earrings

These are almost identical to the Bottega earrings that went viral last year, worn by Hailey Bieber and so many others. Except these adorable earrings are about $800 less than their designer counterpart, so I would definitely opt for this cheaper, but still chic alternative!

Madewell Chunky Heart Earrings

Madewell does such a great job with their accessories — I've bought multiple items from them with them never really tarnishing. These chunky earrings are perfectly on trend, and at such an affordable price too!

Mango Chunky Stone Earrings

I love these gold statement earrings! The hardware is definitely gold, but the pops of color in the stones bring such a fun element to any outfit. I'd pair these with an otherwise simple dress for date night, matching my bag to one of the four colors in the stones. I can totally see these with a dainty pink purse, or a classic chocolate leather bag.

Jenny Bird Florence Earrings

These were gifted to me, but I'm telling you right now, I've worn them SO much that I would buy them in a heartbeat. In fact, I've already planned to re-purchase them once they show signs of wear, but that's yet to happen after having worn them for nearly a year! They are extremely high quality, durable, and perfect for everyday use!

Coach Carriage Studs

These are giving me all the vintage-vibes with the sweet horse-drawn carriage engraved into them! I love the detailing, and I especially love how affordable they are, given these earrings are Coach. They're simple but are sure to become an everyday pair!

Madewell Pearl Earrings

Pearl and gold together just look phenomenal and so classy! I love these because they aren't as weighty, so they won't feel super heavy on your ears when you wear them, all the while still giving the illusion of more hearty earrings. Definitely perfect for a comfy, cute statement earring!

Heaven Mayhem Wine Earrings

I personally have these and wear them ALL the time! They are the perfect accessory to an all black look. My favorite way to style them is with a chic blazer and jeans with a slicked back bun, and voila! The earrings pack a punch and add some fun to an otherwise simple outfit!

Bauble Bar Flower Earrings

Flower earrings are a great way to make a statement, and I absolutely love Bauble Bar for all of their statement jewelry! They have some other great gold options that are sure to stand out and help add some flair to your outfit!

Sézane Heart Earrings

These gold statement earrings definitely made a statement (see what I did there?) when they went viral on Tiktok! They sold out for a brief moment, but they're available now, so run to grab them while they're still in stock!

Anthropologie Gold Starfish Earrings

Want to be an IRL Princess Ariel?! Then these are the earrings for you! I would definitely grab them if you have any upcoming tropical vacations planned because these would be to-die for during a beach-front dinner!

Petit Moments Dangling Earrings

Dangling earrings are such a moment because they just feel so elegant and extravagant at the same time! Every time I wear earrings like this, it feels like I'm headed off to fancy ball in a gown. And these stunning earrings are made with 18k gold plating, so they're extremely nice quality without all the fully-gold cost.

Sterling Forever Pearl Earrings

The vintage '80s brooch-looking earrings will never be out of style, I'm truly obsessed with them! If you can't thrift them, then I would highly suggest these stunning pearl earrings from Sterling Forever, because they really do look straight out of the '80s! These are the perfect statement piece to any outfit!

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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 Sézane

If there's one thing about Gilmore Girls fans you can count on, it's their passion. They love the quirky one liners, memorable moments, and are usually either Team Jess or Team Logan (sorry Dean...). Give any Gilmore Girls lover in your life the chance to transport themselves to Stars Hollow this holiday season — without having to make the trek to Washington, Connecticut or the Warner Bros. stage in Hollywood. These Gilmore Girls gift ideas are fun, thoughtful, and very cozy, which are also three hallmarks of the series itself! From a coffee mug that Luke Danes would approve of to the perfect gifts for Taylor Swift fans, this Gilmore Girlsgift guide will make you say "Oy with the poodles already!"

Keep reading for 24 Gilmore Girls-themed gift ideas for 2024.

Amazon

The Third Gilmore Girl: A Memoir

Get all the behind the scenes info you could ever dream of when you pick up Kelly Bishop's new memoir!

Hot Topic

Loungefly Gilmore Girls Icons Mini Backpack

I was absolutely gagged the first time I saw this backpack. Tiny pizza slices, both the Luke's Diner and Chilton logos, AND the gazebo? I need this, like, right now.

Sunday Best

Sunday Best Peggy Sweater

Consider this white cable knit sweaterthe Rory Gilmore sweater for the season. I cannot stop wearing mine. It's super soft and the perfect medium weight (meaning you won't be cold but you also won't feel weighed down). It's also not itchy at all. I love wearing it with jeans, or tucked into trousers or a skirt.

Amazon

Cotton Baseball Hat

For a more subtle nod to the fashion on the show, a blue baseball cap gives major Luke Danes vibes without having to walk around wearing Gilmore Girls merchandise. Wear it with a crewneck and oversized coat now (hello '90s "It" girl!) and a tee shirt come spring.

Book of the Month

Book of the Month

Channel your inner Rory with the Book of the Month subscription service. The cool part about someone else picking out the books is that you'll find titles — and authors — you didn't even know to look for.

Nordstrom

Espresso Martini Statement Earrings

It wouldn't be an episode of Gilmore Girls without a cup of coffee, or a martini at one of Richard and Emily's Friday night dinners. Combine the two iconic beverages with these statement earrings! They're bold, they're quirky, and they'll be the talk of all your holiday parties.

Etsy

Stars Hollow "Autumn Festival" Travel Poster

Nothing screams Stars Hollow like a festival, and this autumnal poster celebrates the best parts of small town life. Whether you choose to display it in a gallery wall or on a bookshelf, you'll feel like you're coming home every time you look at it.

Etsy

Luke's Diner Mug

With a Luke's Diner mug, you can pretend you really are in Stars Hollow. Bonus points if you're also having a big stack of pancakes!

Etsy

Gilmore Iced Coffee Glass Cup

If you're more of an iced coffee fan, even in the winter (I wonder what Luke would have to say about that?), grab a glass with a super cute design. Not only do I love that Rory and Lorelai are featured in the design, but the color palette is beautiful, too!

Maisonette

Gina White Poodle

Getting your little into the Gilmore Girls spirit? They definitely need a lovable stuffed dog. Again I say, "Oy with the poodles already!"

Handker Bandanas

Colorful Bandana

For another low-key nod to the ultimate BFF's, grab a bandana in your favorite color (like this one that uses untreated, non-GMO cotton!). In true Y2K fashion, Sookie and Lorelai wear bandanas throughout the show, so this is a super fun way to incorporate their style into your own closet this winter.

Etsy

Dragonfly Necklace

A delicate dragonfly necklace is a beautiful layering piece that will add summer cheer to the dreariest of winter days and remind you of Dragonfly Inn at the same time. The fact that dragonflies represent new beginnings is just the cherry on top.

Etsy

Gilmore Girl Eras Shirt

Have you been binging Gilmore Girls during the day and watching Eras Tour TikTok livestreams at night? This T-shirt has your name written all over it. My personal favorite detail is that Kirk is in the debut square.

Etsy

Stars Hollow Christmas Festival Sweatshirt

There's nothing like layering a turtleneck, a crewneck, and a bunch of jewelry for a trip to your corner coffee shop, so swap your go-to crewneck for this festive Stars Hollow one! The gazebo is instantly recognizable for Gilmore Girls fans and just looking at the design makes me want to say, "I smell snow."

Walmart

Gilmore Girls: Complete Series Collection

One of my favorite Christmas presents in recent years was the full Gilmore Girls DVD set. This 42-disc DVD set has every single episode and even more hours of unaired clips, behind the scenes features, and episode commentaries. I'm geeking out just thinking about it.

Amazon

Gilmore Girls: The Official Cookbook

Gilmore Girls recipes are always delicious, and always pretty easy (after all, Lorelai and Rory basically only eat takeout and Luke's!). The official cookbook will let you put your own spin on the food you seen onscreen, and then you can have a truly meta experience by eating your meal while you watch the Gilmores eat theirs.

Amazon

Gilmore Girls: Trivia Deck and Episode Guide

Tried-and-true Gilmore Girls fans will love diving into this trivia book. Because this game (which features 200 questions) has an 88-page episode guide and goes through every. Single. Episode. Worth it!

Amazon

Gilmore Girls: At Home in Stars Hollow

TBH, I think kids books are great for book lovers of any age. The art and simple storytelling really get my creative juices flowing. At Home In Stars Hollow will make you (or a family member or friend) love Gilmore Girls in a whole new way!

Cande Craft Company

Stars Hollow Scented Candle

This all-natural soy candle has every scent a Gilmore Girls fan will love: coffee, sweet cream, and vanilla. It's cozy and balances sweet and bitter in a really intoxicating way.

Amazon

Lorelai and Rory Gilmore Plush

Okay, I'll be honest. I want these plushes for myself! The design is a hilarious nod to the season one episode "The Lorelais' First Day At Chilton" and even features a tiny coffee mug and tiny book!

Rock Em Socks

Gilmore Girls Socks

Now that we're in knee-high boot season (which I FINALLY bought), I like to wear super fun, colorful, and chaotic socks. Grab a pack of Gilmore Girls socks to take some Stars Hollow magic with you no matter where you go.

Etsy

Gilmore Girls Themed Blind Date with a Book

For this bookish blind date, you'll receive a Rory-themed read, a tea bag, a bookmark, and stickers. You really can't go wrong.

Favorite Child

Stars Hollow Books Tote Bag

Carrying your favorite books in a tote bag with the Stars Hollow Books logo feels like it's meant to be.

Amazon

Have I Told You This Already?: Stories I Don't Want to Forget to Remember

Lauren Graham's collection of essays will give you a glimpse behind the curtain as she offers thoughtful stories about life, aging, and the industry.

Which gifts from this Gilmore Girls gift guide will you be buying for your friends (or yourself)? Let us know in the comments!

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.

You may be bundled up in every sweater and coat you can get your hands on this season, but that doesn't mean your winter style can't be fun. IMO, this is the perfect time to go haywire with metallics by rocking all the best metallic styles you can stand. Plus, you'll want to wear something shiny to pair with your Valentine's Day outfit this year!

Whether you're you're rocking silver heels, or looking to start small with some silver jewelry, this trend is definitely one to get into. Here are 45 pieces of silver jewelry you can get right now!

Silver Necklaces

Anthropologie Sparkling Tennis Necklace

This sparkling tennis necklace proves that silver jewelry is far from basic.

Kendra Scott Elisa Pendant Necklace

All you need is a simple knit sweater and a pair of bootcut jeans to complement this silver pendant necklace.

Anthropologie Double Layer Herringbone Necklace

Herringbone necklaces are a classic staple that works with all holiday outfits.

Mejuri 5mm Curb Chain Necklace

This necklace from Mejuri is perfect for layering, but it's bold enough to make a statement on its own.

Dazzling Rock Collection 10mm Round White Freshwater Pearl & Diamond Infinity Pendant

The unique crossing design atop the pearl in this necklace pendant grants it a truly unmatched charm. It's intricate and simple all at the same time, allowing for easy pairing with any outfit or other pieces of silver jewelry.

Pendant Zodiaco Sagittarius

Show off your star sign with this sweet, simple zodiac necklace.

Brilliant Earth Zodiac Engravable Tag Pendant

Looking for something similar, but just different enough from the round zodiac pendant? Look no further than this adorable zodiac tag necklace.

Anthropologie Book Locket Necklace

Book lovers need thoughtful gifts they can appreciate — like this book locket necklace.

Gorjana Compass Coin Necklace

Let this Gorjana Compass Coin Necklace guide you to your best look yet.

Brilliant Earth Mountain Range Diamond Pendant

Love the great outdoors? Show off your natural passions in style with this pendant.

Silver Earrings

Baublebar Reagan Earrings

Take a break from crystal drop earrings and sport Baublebar's embellished version instead. Trust me — you'll love the effect statement silver jewelry has on your confidence.

Mejuri Pressed Flower Two-Tone Large Stud Earrings

Wearing silver doesn't mean you can't mix metals. These two-toned earrings let you play around with your accompanying accessories!

Brilliant Earth Moon Stud Earrings

Simple and chic, these moon studs go perfectly with any look.

Alexis Bittar Crumpled Silver Small Post Earrings

But, there's also power found in wearing small silver post earrings.

SHASHI Estelle Earrings

Just when you thought silver jewelry couldn't get bolder, these crystal drop earrings showed up on the scene.

Brilliant Earth Cultured Pearl Threader Earrings

Threader earrings give all the goodness of a drop earring with all the contemporary chicness.

Jenny Bird Florence Earrings

Hoop earrings are the easiest way to add an extra dose of 'oomph' to your OOTD. Besides, the polished silver will give your ears a bit of shine as you go to and from your intended destinations.

Gorjana Rose Huggies

Huggies are a great way to ease yourself into the world of hoop earrings.

Mejuri Charlotte Bold Huggies

If you want huggies that are a little more bold, well...it's literally in the name!

Baublebar Chiara Pavé Hoop Earrings

Go all out with these silver tone earrings. Featuring glass stones, they're the perfect accessory for that in-office holiday party you've been invited to.

Gorjana Tanner Hoops

Absolutely loving these hammered hoops for a little extra texture.

Sif Jakobs Earrings Elisse Lungo Cinque

Elevate your silver jewelry stash by buying this stunning pair of drop earrings. They're exude opulence and will be the star of any holiday party you attend.

Jenny Bird Aurora Ball Stud Earrings

Inspired by the idea of flying saucers? I totally get it.

Madewell Puffy Heart Statement Earrings

Throw these silver heart earrings on when you're running errands. They'll elevate your winter cozy style in less than 30 seconds.

Sif Jakobs Earrings Livigno

Not a hoops girl? These circular Sif Jakobs earrings can blend in or standout, depending on how they're styled, so you get a similar effect.

Mejuri Pyra Medium Hoops

These hoops from Mejuri are perfectly classic with a modern twist. Love!

MEJURI Puffy Charlotte Hoops

These mini sterling silver hoops may be on the smaller side, but they still make a bold statement.

Silver Rings

David Yurman Cable Collectibles Stack Ring

Stack your silver jewelry on your fingers starting with David Yurman's collectibles ring.

Local Eclectic Moonstone Decco Ring

If some guy said your aura's moonstone just 'cause he was high, then this is the ring for you! 😉

Dazzling Rock Collection 0.05 Carat Round White Diamond Flower Marquise Illusion Set Ring

Fall in love with this ring's unique diamond setting that can be worn for formal occasions and in your everyday. The floral-inspired design will adorn your finger with an alluring aura!

Tory Burch Miller Stud Ring

Tory Burch's brand has become synoynmous with effortless style that has a unique twist.

Gorjana Parker Link Ring

Loving the chain look? The Parker Link Ring can really tie it all together for you!

Gucci Sterling Silver Trademark Heart Ring

If this piece of sterling silver jewelry makes you sing, "Gucci this. Gucci that," I won't judge you.

Mejuri Wave Ring

Take your typical silver ring and give it a (literal) twist!

Mejuri Croissant Dome Ring

Croissants are always a good option — even if you can't exactly eat this one. 😗

BEN ONI Cody Cuban Link Ring

This gender-neutral ring works for anyone. It's sleek and constructed into a stackable ring that features Cuban links. There's nothing sexier than that.

Ippolita Classico Hammered Statement Dome Ring

Don't want anything flashy on your finger? Rock this hammered dome ring.

Monica Vinader Riva Diamond Hoop Ring

Monica Vinader has cracked the silver jewelry code by creating a design that's simple and elegant.

Mejuri Oval Gemstone Signet Ring

This ring speaks for itself — simplicity is stunning elegance.

Dazzlingrock 0.05 Carat Round Ring

This ring comes complete with a gorgeous floral design and set of diamonds that makes it the most ideal choice for occasions like Valentine's Day. It's expertly crafted and will pair well with the other silver jewelry you plan to wear.

Silver Bracelets

Kendra Scott Addison Stretch Bracelet

If you're not already thinking about it, pair this bracelet with Kendra Scott's Elisa pendant necklace!

Sif Jakobs Bracelet Ellisse

Let this silver-tone, chunky chain bracelet sit pretty on your wrist!

Local Eclectic Chunky Stainless Steel Curb Chain Bracelet

If you wanna go bolder than the Sif Jakobs bracelet, then this is a great choice to stand out.

Gorjana Parker Link Bracelet

Looking for a less chunky link bracelet? And one that can match your Parker Ring, too? We got you. 😇

Anthropologie Assorted Chain Bracelets

The girlies need options...it's me. I definitely need options, so I'm eyeing this silver assorted chain bracelet set.

MEJURI Puffy Charlotte Cuff Bracelet

Available in four sizes, MEJURI's silver cuff bracelet is has a memorable design that's easy to wear.

Silver Watches

BREDA Virgil Metal Watch

If it's time to replace your wristwatch, step your game up with this silver metal watch.

VANNA Claire Sandstone & Jade Watch

Having small wrists doesn't have to be a disadvantage. You can easily rock this dainty silver watch without worrying about it slipping down your wrist.

Versus Versace Colonne 45MM Two Tone Stainless Steel Bracelet Watch

Why buy a regular watch when you can a two-tone one that doubles as a bracelet? It's a piece of silver jewelry that works smarter, not harder.

FOSSIL Stella Three-Hand Date Stainless Steel Watch

FOSSIL knows how to create lovely designs that stand the test of time — pun intended.

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

Lead image via Mejuri.

This post has been updated.

Angelina Jolie has always been mother — but she's also a literal mother to six kids whom she clearly cares about fiercely. Since she first adopted Zahara, Maddox, and Pax to giving birth to Vivienne and Knox, it's always been evident that her children are her entire world. While she rarely talks about her children (especially given her highly contested divorce at the moment), Angelina shared a little slice of her feelings on motherhood, insights on her children, and more with Good Morning America.

Here's what Angelina Jolie had to say about her kids — including which one of them is the most private!

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

Angelina opened up about her feelings for her family while chatting about her new movie Maria with Good Morning Americaon November 21, 2024. Host Michael Strahan asked Angie about if there's anything she loves as much as her character loves singing, and she replied that it's her "motherhood."

"It’s my happiness. You can take everything else away from me," she said. "I could — nothing else matters."

When asked about her sons' involvement in Maria, Angelina explained that despite their involvement behind the scenes, they're very uninterested in a life in the spotlight. She said, "None of my children want to be in front of the camera. They're quite private."

Angelina elaborated, "Shiloh's extremely private. They weren't born with privacy, so I hope they can have that."

This interview comes after Angelina and Knox attended the Governor's Awards with her on November 18, 2024. His rare appearance shocked so many — including Brad. Daily Mail reported that Pitt found the timing "suspicious."

The source said, "'She is trying to get under his skin after his recent win and using Knox to do so is odd. Knox wants nothing to do with Hollywood and has no communication with Brad."

Despite the weirdness, the source also said, "He [Brad] believes that, in time, his children will come back into his life."

How many kids does Angelina Jolie have?

Angelina Jolie has six children. She adopted Zahara, Maddox, and Pax, and later gave birth to Vivienne and Shiloh. She shares her children with Brad Pitt, most of whom aren't on good terms with him at the moment.

Looking for more celebrity news? Be sure to follow us on Facebook so you never miss a thing!

Just how expensive is it to have a baby in 2024? One woman sharing her experience on social media has sparked a much-needed conversation about financial transparency when it comes to starting (or growing) a family.

Josephine Anderson, who posted a video on her Instagram @fosterthevalley, outlined the costs of her uncomplicated vaginal birth, and TBH, it was shocking.

The financial breakdown of her experience (with Cigna for insurance):

  • Routine office visits (including 2 ultrasounds): $1,266
  • Labs: $3,440.81
  • NIPT genetic testing: $15,319.36
  • Anatomy scan: $1,270
  • RhoGam: $360
  • Hospital for mom: $23,722.10
  • Hospital for baby: $7,402.80
  • OBGYN for delivery: $5,000
  • Epidural: $5,720
  • Breastfeeding support: $2,589.78
  • Pediatrician: $209
That all racks up to a whopping total of $66,299.85. After insurance was factored in (her deductible was $3,000 while her max out-of-pocket for in-network expenses was $11,000), the total cost for her uncomplicated vaginal birth was $4,788.98. Forbes Advisor reports the average cost of having a baby in 2024 is $2,854.

Instagram

Josephine’s video warranted thousands of comments, most of which were appalled by the costs of her experience:

“This needs to be shared in SexEd classes,” one commenter wrote.

“The US medical system is BROKEN,” another said.

“And people are still confused why more women are choosing to remain child free… we literally can’t afford it,” another user commented.

Mart Production / PEXELS

Brit + Co spoke with Wendy Colson RN, IBCLC and CEO/Founder of BOOBIE Superfoods to gauge if Josephine’s costs were typical for the care she received. Colson has significant insight into how insurance works not only from an employer’s perspective, but from personal experience as a patient with breast cancer.

“The $4,788.98 net amount she mentions is realistic given that her deductible was $3,000. If she had chosen a plan with a $1,000 deductible – which is a common ceiling for good coverage – the same scenario would have cost her around $2,789,” Colson said. “The video highlights the importance of understanding what you're getting with an insurance plan, especially when you anticipate major life events like childbirth.”

Sarah Chai / PEXELS

Colson primarily attributes unanticipated costs for medical care (like in Josephine’s case) to patients that choose their insurance plans with, well, no real plan.

“Many [people] opt for the [plan] with the lowest paycheck deductions without fully evaluating the benefits,” Colson said.

There’s often a tradeoff between paying less per paycheck and receiving your desired benefits: for example, if you elect to contribute less money towards your insurance per paycheck, you may end up paying more out of pocket for things like doctor’s office visits and prescriptions.

“Making an informed choice is key to saving money in the long run,” Colson continued. “In short, it's crucial to consider both the immediate costs (like paycheck deductions) and the potential future costs (like deductibles and copays) when choosing an insurance plan.”

Anna Shvets / PEXELS

Another major cost Josephine mentions in her video was 12 weeks of unpaid maternity leave, which cost her a total of $18,000 (in lost income).

Per the passing of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) in 1993, moms have a legal right to up to 12 weeks of unpaid maternity leave. The U.S. Department of Labor notes that the act was designed to help employees balance their work and family responsibilities, accommodate the legitimate interests of employers, and promote equal employment opportunity for men and women.

Matilda Wormwood / PEXELS

It all sounds great until you realize the time off is indeed unpaid, which doesn't really aid in the amount of money parents end up owing after all is said and done in the pregnancy and childbirth processes.

Only 13 states plus the District of Columbia offer paid maternity leave. When you compare the United States’ laws to that of other industrialized nations, they don’t exactly measure up.

Colson says Sweden’s maternity leave policy is “one of the most generous,” offering 390 days of paid parental leave (shared between parents) and 80% of wages covered for a significant portion of the leave. In Germany, mothers are entitled to 14 weeks of maternity leave plus a tax-free, income-based allowance straight from their insurance provider.

Jonathan Borba / PEXELS

Though it’s likely that US laws will never be that generous in terms of paid maternity leave, there are a few things you can do to make the blow of medical costs hurt a little less, says Colson.

“My advice is to be your own advocate,” she says. “If you’re planning to have a baby, start by understanding what your state provides in terms of paid leave to avoid surprises after delivery.”

To keep the cost of having your baby (if you’re planning to have one) transparent and free of surprises, Colson recommends:

  • Asking your physician’s office for a detailed breakdown of insurance billing codes, including:
    • Office visits
    • Lab work
    • Epidural (and the anesthesiologist’s separate fee)
    • Hospital admissions
    • Specialist consultations during admission
    • Optional procedures like circumcision, if desired
  • Email the insurance billing codes to your insurance provider, who can help calculate your out-of-pocket costs and deductible

“Having a baby is priceless,” Colson says. “By planning ahead – understanding your insurance options, healthcare costs, and available benefits – you can ensure peace of mind and focus on what truly matters: your growing family.”

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