5 Best Apps of the Week: An App That Finds Your New Favorite Makeup + More

Apr 25, 2015

App enthusiasts may have noticed something different in the App Store this week with a sparkling additional option on a bunch of new and old favorite downloads: an Apple Watch version! Yes, the future is now and we’re about to see if wearables are A Thing or just a passing fad like mood rings and pet rocks. Take a peek at the apps you need to download if you pre-ordered Apple’s arm candy, get jealous about the exclusive version Beyoncé is rocking or just say, eh, I’d rather check out the best apps of the week for my smartphone, thank you very much and keep reading below.

1. MyIdol: Instagram’s latest meme sweeping the social network is all thanks to this Chinese app that transforms your selfies into completely creepy versions of you. And then puts you on a stripper pole. Like a next-level version of those singing elf Christmas e-cards from a holiday or two ago, you can sick your animated selfie loose in a new digital world and then share it for all of your followers to respond lol and wtf to. Download this one for fun, but beware that the English version is still on its way so you’ll have to brush up on your basic Chinese in the meantime.

DL It: Free on iOS

2. Pacemaker: We’re all DJs to some extent, whether a master party playlist curator or one of those navigators who can manage GPS and Spotify perfectly from the passenger’s seat. Take your hobby to the club with this iOS app (that will work on your Apple Watch too) to turn playlists into dance party mixes from iTunes or Spotify. With its proprietary technology, Pacemaker can reshuffle your tracks or help mix them for you and find the right song to transition — and of course there’s a record scratch feature.

DL It: Free on iOS

3. Operator: Services like Magic have taken the convenience of texting to Uber levels of on demand personal assisting, but the text-and-get-what-you-want isn’t yet as ubiquitous as the swipe-right-to-like function. That might change now that one of the cofounders of the rideshare company has created personal shopping app Operator that will aim to make getting what you want, no matter what it is, as easy as calling a car. This one is still in beta, and has a pretty hefty (80,000+) wait list ahead of you, but it might be worth the wait, lazy/busy girls of the world.

DL It: Sign up for beta on iOS here

4. Shadescout: Calling all color lovers and makeup mavens — you have a new favorite app that’s like your dream version of Shazam. Snap a picture of anything that’s any hue you would rather find at the Sephora counter (whether a flower that might make an even better blush/lipstick combo or a dress that should be an eyeshadow just like that) and Shadescout will locate makeup products in that exact or similar shade. The only thing that will make this better is a future hookup to a 3D makeup printer.

DL It: Free on Android and iOS

5. Hykoo: Sure there are a lot of apps out there that will help you add things like text to photos and videos, but this one will give you a chance to flex that Lit degree or Creative Writing minor. Shoot a trio of photos or videos and add text to elevate them to visual stories that turn your memory capturing into a haiku, as the name of this photo app suggests. Share the finished product on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter and watch the Likes, the Hearts and the “Whoaaa, what app is this?!” roll in.

DL It: Free on iOS

What was your favorite app of the week? Share below!

What Would A TikTok Ban Mean For Small Businesses?

Amid dire concerns that TikTok threatens U.S. national security, bans against the app have spread like wildfire. Beyond just government devices, some universities initiated bans, with the latest policy talks going as far as to include personal devices as well. Though it’s unlikely that the platform will be completely banned (there are other proposed solutions, like selling the app or amending its data policies) due to free speech, the possibility of a ban raises another concern: the livelihood of small businesses.

TikTok is a central avenue for small businesses to promote their products and services, with special thanks to its algorithm, says Johannes Larsson, Founder and CEO at Financer.com.

“The platform's unique algorithm, which prioritizes content discovery and virality, has enabled many small businesses to reach and connect with potential customers in a way that wasn't possible through traditional social media platforms,” says Larsson. “Since its growth has been exponential throughout the years as a key marketing channel, the ban triggered the markets for sure.”

TikTok also masters the art of connection. Your For You Page knows exactly what you like to see. This gives small businesses the ability to get closer to their audience and reach more success that way, says saysLynzee Krohne, Founder of branding agency LEO + LAINE.

"On TikTok, brands have the freedom and space to be more casual and less branded," Krohne said. "Because of the nature of TikTok, it allows brands to let their guard down a bit and create content that may be a little more rough around the edges—which helps them appear to be much more authentic to their audience."

Jessica Tran, founder of @jtmobiledetailing, says 60% of customers choose her car detailing shop because they saw it on TikTok. Jaz and Sam Sears, owners and operators of@aztaco.king, grew their business from a food cart in a parking lot to two restaurants in less than 6 months, due to their success on the app. Megan Gersch, a web designer and brand identity creator, says around half of her client base comes from TikTok, which often turn into 4 to 5-figure contracts.

This positive growth for small biz is commonly attributed to the app’s distinctive features that connect creators with consumers, such as live video streaming, a virality-driven algorithm, and the ability for users to personalize their daily feeds.

“TikTok has been a great tool for allowing me to connect with my audience on a deeper level,” says Gersch. “There's a special magic that happens with video marketing that you can't achieve with a text or static image post. Your audience gets to know your quirks, your mannerisms, and they start to feel like they know you, even though you've never met. Every time you see a new video from one of your favorite creators, it's like a FaceTime call from a trusted friend.”

In its absence, small business TikTokers would have no choice but to adapt and pivot their marketing strategies, which is not always easy when they’re doing it DIY-style, says Larsson.

“While small businesses may be able to find success on other social media channels, the competition for visibility and engagement is often more intense [than on TikTok], making it harder for them to stand out. The time and effort required to establish a new presence and create content tailored to the specific characteristics of other platforms could be a significant burden on small business owners.”

Small businesses pivoting to other platforms might face different struggles for exposure, due to consumers being very platform-specific, according to Krohne.

"If [TikTok] brands begin to focus their content efforts on Instagram, they’re up against multiple types of content, and competing in a more content-saturated world," Krohne told us. "TikTok mostly has one content offering, and that’s why it’s insanely popular. There’s a difference between platforms. Brands must diversify their content and show up in other places to keep a steady stream of touchpoints to remain top of mind and memorable."

Though Gersch is no stranger to restrategizing, a potential TikTok ban would still impact her business as a web designer and brand creator.

“I've been a marketer for 16+ years, and one thing that I have learned along the way is that you need to constantly test, look at your analytics, and create where the attention is,” says Gersch. “If TikTok goes away, there will be a huge gap in the market that will need to be filled.”

TikTok recognizes the work that small business owners take on in order to find success, which is why the platform has committed $1 million each to the Hispanic Heritage Foundation to elevate entrepreneurship in the Latin community, and Black Girl Ventures to support Black and Brown women entrepreneurs.

“Five million US businesses turn to TikTok to take us inside their world in a fun, authentic way, and as a result, they are reaching new customers, hiring more employees and growing their business,” says Becca Sawyer, Global Head of SMB for TikTok. “By partnering with HHF and BGV and launching virtual workshops, we're strengthening our commitment to build an inclusive and supportive platform where small business owners and entrepreneurs can share their story, find their audience and drive real business results."

We can’t make a solid prediction for the destiny of the beloved app for now, but we do know that it’ll be dearly missed by small businesses and consumers alike if bans (at any capacity) go through.

“I don't want Tiktok to be banned - not only is it an integral part of my business, but I have also been able to connect with so many incredible people that I wouldn't have met otherwise,” says Gersch. “It's my go-to source for inspiration, learning, and even a good laugh.”

Sign up for our newsletter for more takes on current events. Follow us on TikTok to catch exclusive content!

Illustration by Claire Shadomy

What Is A Winter Arc? Everything You Need To Know About Setting These "Self-Improvement Goals" Before 2025

We're past the point where a mid-year reset has come and gone, but leave it to the internet to find another wellness trend to highlight. This time, a focus on zeroing in on your 'winter arc' has become an EOY focal point, ushering in more calls to essentially make the most of 2024. But, what does that mean and is it even worth stressing out about if trends feel triggering?

I asked psychologist Dr. Ilana Lane, Ph.D., founder of Wellness Lane Psychological Services, to help break down the meaning of the 'winter arc' trend. She said, "First, we as humans can often engage in a pattern of thinking called 'all-or-nothing thinking,' which can become even more prominent at this time of year due to all of the external messages about 'new year, new me,'" she says.

So, whether you're curious about what the winter arc challenge is, whether you should join it, or if there are other things you can focus on before 2025, here's everything you need to know about it.

Get clued in about what the winter arc challenge is — and what you can do if it's triggered your FOMO!

I keep hearing about the winter arc challenge, but what is it?

Yan Krukau

According to TODAY, influencer Carly Bergesshared a viral video talking about the trend at the end of September. Her TikTok platform is all about taking steps to improve yourself, hence why she emphasized the winter arc's goal of inspiring people to not slack off their goals just because the year is ending. It's meant to cover the time between October 1 and January 1 — approximately 90 days, or the length of time it takes to form a habit.

Dr. Lane says the winter arc "encourages people to 'lock in' on self-improvement goals for the last few months of the year." That sounds like setting new years resolutions right? I thought so too, but she says this challenge or trend aims to help people "be their best selves." It feels more specific, which makes all the more it intriguing.

Thirdman

"In terms of the winter arc, an example of this may be someone reflecting on their year thus far and thinking how they 'didn't accomplish anything' because they didn't lose the 20 pounds they had hoped to lose, and thus they may completely lose sight of the things that they DID accomplish over the year," she adds. The examples she gives are:

Successfully starting an exercise routine
Cooking more meals at home
Opting to order out less
Accomplishing things unrelated to goals

5 Ways You Can Embrace The Winter Arc In 2025!

1. Get An Adequate Amount Of Rest

cottonbro studio

We've already dug into sleepmaxxing and it's benefits, so we think this is definitely one of the ways you can optimize your winter arc. Not only does it involve getting at least 7 hours of sleep each night, but there's an emphasis on making sure your bedtime routine and sleep environment are also promoting something positive. This means everything from limiting your screen time before bed to keeping your room cool at night.

Dr. Lane says, "Try to view rest as a choice that's aligned with your values rather than as a sign of laziness. Use this time of year as an opportunity to reconnect with whatever matters most to you, whether that's family, time for self-reflection, etc."

2. Eat A Balanced Breakfast

Nathan Cowley

If this sounds simple, it's because it is. How many times have you skipped breakfast this year only to find yourself with a raging migraine around lunch time? PIedmont Healthcaresuggests that foregoing meals can lead to "low blood sugar," causing us to eat more things that aren't healthy. Even if you're in a hurry, try to at least eat breakfast that includes fruit and fiber.

3. Practice Gratitude

Cup of Couple

Gratitude journaling is one of the things we love talking about at Brit + Co. It's something we've been relying on when things get rough and it's a good thing because Dr. Lane suggests living in a state of gratitude. "Research shows that taking a few moments to reflect on specific things you are grateful for can have a profound impact on your overall mental health and well-being," she says.

When everyone's talking about everything they've achieved in 2024, she believes "it's easy to have FOMO and/or feel like we aren't doing 'enough,'" but "a daily gratitude practice can shift the focus to what IS going well in your life and help you to be more present with that." How does she suggest you practice gratitude?

"Write down 3 good things that happened at the end of the day everyday, as well as why those things happened (the WHY is important as it often allows you to give yourself credit for the meaningful/impactful things you've done). You can even extend this more broadly and reflect on good things that happened over the past year and why those things happened."

4. Find Something To Enjoy Everyday

Anna Tarazevich

It doesn't take much to find something to be upset about everyday. It actually feels like our brains look for it. But, Dr. Lane wants you to try to retrain your mind so you're not focusing on everything that went went wrong in any given day. "Be mindful of savoring enjoyable parts of your day-to-day-routine. This could include things like savoring a warm cup of tea, walking in nature, or journaling at the start or end of the day." Even if someone cut you off in traffic, your favorite Starbucks order will likely make you forget about the small infraction

5. Set Small, Meaningful Goals

Kaboompics.com

Even though you may be looking to have your shot at having a winter arc, you don't have to set huge goals just because someone else is. "Instead of aiming for big year-end milestones, focus on small, purposeful actions that are aligned with your values, like 'spend 10 minutes in silence' or 'call someone who brings me joy,'" Dr. Lane encourages. As far as we see it, achieving goals that matter to you means you've probably already been having a winter arc without naming it.

Tiffany Bui

The official winter arc challenge timeline is almost over, and I have FOMO!

Okay, take a deep breath. You're not behind because you've never heard of this trend and feel like you're missing out on something. "As a psychologist who specializes in burnout, I have often seen firsthand the negative impacts that our self-improvement culture can have on people's overall well-being," states Dr. Lane.

From her POV, ignoring the winter arc trend may be better for you because it's a way of "protecting your energy." The call to move away from hustle culture is real with Dr. Lane saying the winter arc "can pressure people into unnecessary busyness, draining energy that could be better spent resting or connecting with loved ones."

Andrea Piacquadio

Also, it's possible that you're not 100% on board with the winter arc trend. "What works for others may not align with your personal priorities or values — and that's okay," she adds. In this day and age, she feels "it can be empowering to decide what truly serves you versus going along with a popular trend."

If you don't feel energized right now, you don't have to pretend you're in the mood to improve yourself weeks before the new year arrives. According to Dr. Lane, "Winter is a natural time for reflection, restoration, and stillness." While you shouldn't be telling yourself that you'll rest when you're dead, she's adamant about you getting as much rest as you need."Rest isn't just an option — it's essential for overall well-being and entering the new year with clarity."

Pavel Danilyuk

Should you feel anxious about missing the majority of the winter arc's timeline, here's what Dr. Lane says you can do:

Try Breathwork: Simple techniques like 4-7-8 breathing (inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7, exhale for 8) can calm the nervous system in just a few minutes.
Engage the Senses: Use grounding exercises like the 5-4-3-2-1 method (naming five things you see, four you can touch, three you hear, two you smell, and one you taste). These can bring you back to the present moment.
Prioritize Restorative Routines: Focus on activities that recharge your system, like consistent sleep, gentle movement, time outdoors, or unplugging from screens in the evening.
Set Boundaries: There are so many demands and expectations on our time, attention, and energy this time of year - both from the outside world and from ourselves. I recommend being intentional around your boundaries for this time of year and even writing them down. This could include things like the amount of time you'll stay at certain social events, events/requests that you will plan to say "no" to, etc. Planning these things in advance can help you feel more empowered to stick to the plan if/when these things come up
Reflect Without Judgment: Instead of dwelling on what didn’t go as planned this year, acknowledge the lessons learned and focus on what you did achieve or overcome.
Celebrate Small Wins: Recognize the small joys or successes from the year—whether it’s navigating a tough season, prioritizing self-care, or simply making it through.

Sign up for our newsletter for more EOY wellness tips!

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9 Black App Creators You Need To Know

In an increasingly digital world, mobile apps change the way we access information, stay connected to friends and family, entertain ourselves, and even manage our mental health and anxiety. Behind every great app is an inspiring fleet of developers who have taken a spark of creativity and turned it into something totally new and useful.

This Black History Month, we’re celebrating some of our favorite Black app creators who have been instrumental in revolutionizing their respective industries. These talented women have used their passion for coding and design to create apps that are both innovative and indispensable.

Aurelia Edwards, Founder of Nailstry

Aurelia Edwards has created the ultimate destination for beauty lovers through her app Nailstry. This exclusive marketplace is tailored to help those aspiring to perfect their press-on nails with unique designs from nail art designers across the country. It doesn't stop there; Aurelia also seeks out opportunities that give back and donates a portion of her sales towards programs like Black Girls Code.

Damilola Awofisayo, Founder of TecHacks

Damilola Awofisay is a young leader making waves in driving the tech industry forward. She is using her coding skills to create apps that address issues such as sign language learning and dyslexia support for students, actively cultivating a more inclusive future of digital innovation. Moreover, she's making STEM more accessible for young women through TecHacks, a nonprofit that brings women and nonbinary individuals together virtually in hackathons.

Dayo Akinrinade, Founder of Wisdom

Dayo Akinrinade is empowering people everywhere with Wisdom, an app that connects users to inspiring advice and a supportive community of like-minded individuals. Through the platform, users can learn from each other on topics ranging from business success to personal wellness in one inclusive setting. Through Wisdom, closed networks are replaced with limitless opportunities for knowledge sharing!

DeShuna Spencer, Founder of kweliTV

Deshuna Spencer translated her passion for storytelling and black culture into creating a platform that celebrated the intersection of the two. She launched kweliTV, a streaming app, features 550 titles from 450 global filmmakers. With almost 50,000 users, kweliTV has earned $800,000 in revenue, 60% of which goes directly back into the film community! This is innovation at its finest; disruption through creativity while still giving back to support others who share this same vision.

Janique Edwards, Co-Founder of EatOkra

Janique Edwards, along with her husband Anthony, are connecting foodies to Black-owned restaurants and culinary experiences through their app EatOkra. Seamlessly streamlining the discovery process, EatOkra is bridging audiences with over 11,000 black-owned eateries across the country.

Kaya Thomas, Founder of We Read Too

Kaya Thomas is a true inspiration! Combining her passions of reading, coding, and writing, she founded We Read Too, an app that enables young people to explore hundreds of books written by authors from diverse backgrounds and featuring characters who look like them. Through this innovative idea, Kaya is bringing equity and inclusion to the literary landscape for children across the globe.

Kimberly Seals Allers, Founder of Irth

Kimberly Seals Allers is an inspiring leader who was driven to make a difference. After her own negative hospital experience, she devoted herself to researching disparities in care for Black and Hispanic women during childbirth. This spurred the creation of Irth, an app designed specifically with these communities in mind so they can have equal access leading up to and beyond their child’s birth.

Simmone Taitt, Founder of Poppy Seed Health

Simmone Taitt is the visionary behind Poppy Seed Health, an incredible app that provides 24/7 on-demand access to midwives, doulas, and nurses for pregnant and postpartum individuals. Driven by her own pregnancy journey, Simmone recognized an opportunity in the tech startup scene to build a community for those embarking on one of life's most beautiful yet challenging journeys: parenthood. The culminating result? A warm digital refuge!

Tanya Van Court, Founder of Goalsetter

Tanya Van Court is the mastermind behind Goalsetter, a personal finance app that has empowered families to help their children realize their financial aspirations. Goalsetter is on an ambitious and compassionate mission. The goal they're setting? Striving for one million Black kids worldwide to open savings accounts!

These are just a few of the creators whose work is transforming industries, connecting communities, and promoting equity within our digital landscape. We hope that they serve as an inspiration to all aspiring entrepreneurs who have bright ideas and big dreams. Be sure to support these incredible Black app creators and the amazing work they’re doing!

tech apps app creators black history month tech news

28 Last-Minute Christmas Gifts That Will Arrive Before The Big Day

It's that time of year where everyone is shopping for last-minute Christmas gifts (ourselves included, eek). Time just gets away! Luckily, we live in an age where we can shop for things one day, and see them arrive at our doorsteps the next. That's the magic of modern day shipping, baby! These 28 last-minute Christmas gifts all will arrive before the 25th, so that you can finally cross everyone off your list.

From girlfriends to kiddos and grandpas to coworkers, our list of last-minute Christmas gifts has a little something for everybody!

Last-Minute Christmas Gifts For Her

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Bedsure Satin Pillowcase

This silky-soft pillowcase keeps her locks in-check, and will help smooth out those pesky flyaways she's always looking out for.

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Dearfoams Fireside Sydney Shearling Fur Scuff Slipper

These plush slippers are like a cozier version of this season's "It" shoe (looking at you, UGG). When you give this last-minute Christmas gift to her, she'll appreciate how tuned-in you are to today's trends!

Amazon

Blossom Rollerball Perfume Oil

When you're lost on the best scent for her, opt for this trio! These fragrance oils are infused with real flowers, so each application smells eau so fresh. She can keep these handy in her bathroom, in her purse, and even in the car.

Amazon

Kitsch Satin Heatless Curling Set

These heat-free satin curlers leave her with some gorgeous waves and curls, without all the damage that traditional curling tools bring. They're suitable for all hair types and lengths, too.

Amazon

COSRX Snail Mucin 96% Power Repairing Essence

This #1 best-selling serum has over 49,000 5-star reviews, and your giftee will definitely feel the same about this product when you give it to them for Christmas. This bottle makes an excellent stocking stuffer so that she can up her skincare game!

Amazon

Telena Belt Bag

Did someone say dupe? This belt bag plays at one of this year's most popular accessories with the same level of quality, except at a fraction of the OG price.

Amazon

Tatcha The Serum Stick

This serum stick was made for gals who are on-the-go. It can be used under makeup or alone as skincare to combat dryness and signs of aging. Get them ready to glow!

Amazon

Soft Touch Foot Peel Mask

Foot masks are absolutely amazing, so this pack of two will make for a good stocking stuffer and last-minute Christmas gift for the gal who just wants to unwind!

Amazon

Foreo Luna 3 Facial Cleansing Brush

This chargeable facial cleansing brush will make her skincare routine oh-so fancy! Thanks to its soft silicone material and powerful pulses, this device is capable of a super deep clean every time. She'll be on her way to youthful, rejuvenated skin in no time. It's also small, so it's easy to transport.

Amazon

White Silicone & Gold Cooking Utensils Set

This kitchen pick is functional and aesthetically-pleasing, perfect for the gal that's got her home decor together. These sleek gold utensils are lightweight, but still sturdy enough to use every day.

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The Silicone Kitchen Reusable Jumbo Silicone Baking Cups

These colorful, reusable baking cups will give their kitchen a sustainable flair. They arrive in a stylish cotton mesh bag, too, so they'll look stunning as a stocking stuffer for her.

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Bloom Nutrition Super Greens Powder Smoothie & Juice Mix

Bloom's greens powder is effective in releasing our bloating, so if you've got a hottie with tummy issues to shop for, let your last-minute Christmas gift be this. It comes in a handful of other flavors, too!

Amazon

Redken Bonding Hair Mask

Same thing goes for her hair – this thick, salon-tested repairing hair mask will combat the dryness that the holiday season typically brings!

Last-Minute Christmas Gifts For Him

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ThisWorx Car Vacuum Cleaner

If your guy can't get enough of his car, gift him a tool like this small vacuum to take care of it! This last-minute Christmas gift will arrive before the big day, and he'll be using it from there on out.

Amazon

Tozo T10 Bluetooth 5.3 Wireless Earbuds

Does he hit the gym? Then these wireless earbuds are going to totally change his workout game. They're inconspicuous yet stylish in the ears, plus can play music for up to 10 hours on a single charge.

Amazon

Hanes Men's Ecosmart Fleece Sweatshirt

It's cozy season, so why not help him settle in comfortably with this sturdy cotton pullover? Basic clothing is always your bet best for last-minute Christmas gifts, and this piece comes in tons of different colors to suit your man's style.

Amazon

Echo Dot (5th Gen, 2022 Release)

The Echo Dot is the perfect companion for handling anything life throws at him. He can verbally command Alexa to ask for the weather, make to-do lists, shop for forgetting grocery items, and control his smart devices.

Amazon

Flancci Over The Door Hat Rack Organizer

This space-saving door organizer is meant to serve his hat collection! It conveniently holds up to 18 caps, all while keeping them out of the way elsewhere. Our most favorite part is that the organizer is 100% adjustable, so it can fit a variety of different sized doors, if he decides he wants to relocate his hats.

Amazon

Belkin MagSafe 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Stand

The tech-y dad or boyfriend who also has a knack for design will love this sleek stand. It'll look show-stopping on his nightstand, especially once he leaves his phone, earbuds, and watch to rest on it.

Amazon

Renpho Active Massage Gun

This massage tool will impress and destress any guy with sore muscles or tense shoulders. It has a convenient charging port for power-ups, operates under 5 different speeds, and has numerous attachments to target specific problems throughout the body.

Amazon

Modern Mixology Bartender Kit

For the guy that loves a good cocktail, this all-in-one bar kit will make the perfect last-minute Christmas gift. It'll help him whip up yummy drinks in no time! Plus, you'll probably get to be the #1 taste-tester. So, win-win.

Last-Minute Christmas Gifts For Kids

Amazon

Hasbro Gaming Connect 4

Connect 4 is a classic, so if they haven't been introduced yet, this is a genius gift idea.

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Let Loose Moose Hover Soccer Ball

This "floating" ball will keep those kiddos occupied, indoors or out. It features a soft, durable outer shell that protects the toy itself and the surroundings it's bound to hit. The colorful LED lights inside keep things interesting, especially when the lights go out.

Amazon

Marvel Legends Series Ultron, Comics Collectible 6-Inch Action Figures

Action figures are *not* out of style! Gift the Marvel lover this sturdy lil' dude for maximum happiness.

Amazon

Looikoos Kids' Walkie Talkies

We had walkie talkies as a kid, and they definitely elevated each and every play date. Now, they can communicate playfully among schoolmates, friends, and other family members.

Amazon

Mini Magical Unicorn Terrarium Kit

For the one with their head in the clouds, this dreamy terrarium kit is gonna knock it out of the park for a last-minute Christmas gift. It's a perfect gift to spark creativity in the duller winter months!

Amazon

Wearable Blanket Hoodie

The real gift will be watching your little one wobble adorably around the house in this darling oversized hoodie! It comes in an array of different colors and patterns to suit your kiddo.

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Lite-Brite Classic

Another classic toy, the Lite Brite has been a monumental part of playtime for years and years. This is another great last-minute Christmas gift that doesn't cost a ton, and doesn't take up too much room at home.

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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.

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Holiday Lounging Done Right with These Cozy Favorites

The holidays are the perfect time to slow down, snuggle up, and soak in the magic of the season. Whether you're sipping cocoa by the fire, binging your favorite holiday movies, or diving into a new book, having the right cozy essentials can take your lounging days to the next level. Think ultra-soft blankets, plush loungewear, and the kind of candles that make your whole home smell like a winter wonderland. We’ve rounded up everything you need to create a warm, relaxing vibe that’s as comforting as your favorite holiday traditions. Get ready to kick back and enjoy the coziest days of the year in total style and comfort.

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

This Two Piece Set Doubles As Pajamas

Amazon

Whether you're lounging around the house, watching your favorite movies or running around town grabbing your favorite goodies, this Two Piece Set is just what you need to do it in style. This lounge set comes with a long-sleeved top and matching sweats, providing you with the ultimate comfort for all winter occasions.

5 Best Apps of the Week: An App That Finds Your New Favorite Makeup + More

Get clued in about what the winter arc challenge is — and what you can do if it's triggered your FOMO!

I keep hearing about the winter arc challenge, but what is it?

5 Ways You Can Embrace The Winter Arc In 2025!

1. Get An Adequate Amount Of Rest

2. Eat A Balanced Breakfast

3. Practice Gratitude

4. Find Something To Enjoy Everyday

5. Set Small, Meaningful Goals

The official winter arc challenge timeline is almost over, and I have FOMO!

From girlfriends to kiddos and grandpas to coworkers, our list of last-minute Christmas gifts has a little something for everybody!

Last-Minute Christmas Gifts For Her

Last-Minute Christmas Gifts For Him

Last-Minute Christmas Gifts For Kids

This Two Piece Set Doubles As Pajamas

This Matching Set For Movie Night

2 Piece Sweatsuit Set

This Oversized Set Is What You're Looking For

A Loungewear Set for Casual Days

This Chunky Scarf for a Pop of Color

This Two Piece Set Will Become A Winter Go-To

This Turtleneck Sweater for All-Day Comfort

ANRABESS Lounge Set Is Perfect For Lounging At Home

You Totally Deserve a Cashmere Lounge Set

Waffle Knit Set

7 Pack High Waisted Leggings

Get Comfy In A Cozy Pajama Set

This Sweater Set With 2 Pieces

This Running Jacket To Look Snatched

A Mock-Neck Jogger Set That's Beyond Comfy

This Sweater Falls Off the Shoulder

This Two Piece Set For A Cozy Day Around The House

Fall Into Cozy Bliss with a Trendy Oversized Hoodie

This Lounge Set Will Be Your Favorite Outfit

The Stylish Throw Blanket

A Turtleneck Sweater With a Knit Fabric

This Ribbed Knit Set Is So Chic

This Faux Fur Cardigan Is A Go-To

These Faux Fur Slippers Feel Like A Cloud

You Won't Regret Buying The Warmies Marshmallow Booties

This Loungewear Set Is Too Cute To Resist

A Sweater Set Ideal for Mixing and Matching With Other Pieces

These Sweatpants Are The Ultimate Loungewear

You Can't Beat The Price Of Achiou Winter Gloves

This Three Piece Set That Will Take You To Cloud 9

This Fuzzy Lounge Set Keeps You Warm

These Sweatpants Are on Another Level

A Super Soft Fuzzy Sweater

Conquer Cold Days With This Fleece Lined Leggings

A Set Of Cozy And Fluffy Socks

This Matching Set Gives You Endless Styling Opportunities

This Matching Set With a Thick Knit Fabric

These Socks With Bold Stripes

Tapered Sweatpants

A Cozy Neck Lounge Set

Merino Wool Socks Keep Your Feet Warm And Cozy

Slouch Knit Socks

Wide Leg Sweater Pants Are A Winter Outfit Staple

A Cozy Sweater Lounge Set

The Softest Memory Foam Slippers

Matching Set

This Popular Satin Silk Pajama Set

These Yoga Pants Are A Winter Must-Have

Flare Leggings That Will Keep You On-Trend

This Plush Fabric With Unique Colors and Patterns