As much as I adore coffee, you could not convince me to drink it black. I like my drinks sweet (but not too sweet) and creamy (but not too creamy), with plenty of flavor that doesn’t drown out the actual coffee notes. But sometimes, the classic coffee-creamer combo gets old and I need a way to spice up my morning joe. Luckily, there are endless ways to upgrade coffee that take your brew from boring to beautiful.
I polled my inner circle (we’re all coffee snobs to a degree) about their #1 favorite add-in that truly makes their coffee shine. These 6 simple coffee upgrades are all affordable, easy, and compatible with all kinds of brewing methods. Next time your pick-me-up needs a pick-me-up, try out one of these hacks!
Brigitte Tohm / PEXELS
Lavender in a latte is sheer heaven. I’ve DIY’ed my own lavender syrup before (it’s too easy), but you can also buy it ready-made! Any sort of syrup makes for an easy coffee upgrade, really. Brands like Jordan's Skinny Mixes and Torani are my go-to’s, and they sell a vast array of flavors to suit any taste!
Lisa Fotios / PEXELS
I’m convinced cinnamon belongs in everything. I put it in my protein pancakes, yogurt bowls, and cookies, but it’s also a supreme add-in for coffee and even matcha lattes! The warm flavor notes of cinnamon are also perfect for cozying up in the fall and winter.
Julissa Helmuth / PEXELS
Cinnamon in coffee gets even better when you put honey in the mix with cinnamon. It’s one of my pal’s absolute go-to’s in lattes (hot or iced), but it also works just as well in hot drip coffees or cold brews.
Andrea Davis / PEXELS
Oat milk (or milk of any kind) is a perfect coffee hack for those who can’t stand black coffee. It helps cut the sharpness and acidity of the brew, adding some creaminess and color to each sip. I find that oat milk is the best pairing for breakfast time!
Amazon
In place of milk, I also really like adding a splash of a protein shake to my coffee for a dose of creaminess and flavor. The protein is just an added bonus!
I really love Koia’s protein shakes since they sell a lot of different flavors, from Cinnamon Cereal to Pumpkin Spice.
JaYoung Choi / PEXELS
I’ve used brown sugar many times to make a Starbucks copycat brown sugar shaken espresso right at home. I’ll simply add equal parts instant coffee and brown sugar to a mason jar with ice, shake it up, and top it off with cinnamon and milk.
If you prefer sipping on something a little less fancy, adding a spoonful to a plain hot coffee could be really delightful, too!
Target
The final (and tastiest) coffee hack I drink on the regular is cold foam! Target sells a good range of cold foam cans in various flavors, but I’ve really come to love the salted caramel iteration. It’s perfect for topping of iced coffees for a nice mid-day treat!
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Emily in Paris season 4 was the buzziest season yet, and for good reason. Emily's in Rome, Camille was never pregnant, and Gabriel's hair went from très hot to tragique. In addition to the viral response to Gabriel's new hair, season 4 left me pretty sad because after four years of waiting for Emily and Gabriel to get together, they almost immediately break up — and actor Lucas Bravo is just as confused as we are.
Carole Bethuel/Netflix
“The ‘sexy chef’ was very much part of me in Season 1 and we grew apart season after season because of the choices he makes and because of the direction they make him take,” Lucas Bravo told IndieWire while promoting Mélanie Laurent’s Freedom. “As they made him kind of unaware of his surroundings, of the dynamic, always victimizing and always being completely lost in translation and oblivious to anything that is happening around him and being manipulated by everyone, it kind of became not fun for me to shoot or to see a character I love so much and brought me so much, being slowly turned into guacamole. I really grew apart from him.”
Honestly it makes me really sad that a character we all love so much is becoming unrecognizable. But at the same time, it makes me feel a little bit better, because we're not the only ones who feel like Gabriel has changed. And while Lucas has done what he can to bring those early-series aspects of Gabriel back, he says "there is only so much I can do in the limits of a script.”
Netflix
“I tried for seasons to bring nuances but we don’t have much liberty on set," he continues. “It makes me question if I want to be part of Season 5…because my contract ends at Season 4. I really want to see if Gabriel gets back to his fun, cheeky, playful, alive self. Because three seasons playing melancholic, sad, depressed, and lost is not fun anymore. It’s a comedy, everybody is having fun around me, everybody is jumping around, and I’m just slowly sinking into god knows what.”
Say what now?! If Lucas Bravo leaves Emily in Paris, I truly don't know what I'd do. Gabriel is my favorite character on the show! (Or at least, early Gabriel was.) Seeing him move from 30, flirty, and thriving to someone who's consistently in the middle of an existential crisis doesn't make sense within the world of the show. And even though Lucas thinks the show has a "lack of risk," he still loves everyone involved.
“I love the show. It started everything for me. I love the show and the people in it," he says. "With saying that, I feel like I am not being nice or grateful, but when you love something you want it to be…you want the best version of it. I’m not going to lie, I’ve been frustrated with the direction by character is taking. But we’ll see where it goes. The show is not over.”
Just like the show's iconic costumes are all about expression and fun, here's hoping Emily in Paris is able to bring some life back into our favorite chef. Because if not, it sounds like we could be nearing the end of the show's most popular would-they-won't-they relationship. Fix this Netflix, I beg you!
What do you think of Lucas Bravo's dilemma? Do you miss season 1 Gabriel? Let us know in the comments and check out the latest Emily in Paris season 5 news.
If you're heading back to the office, getting away from your workspace to enjoy a healthy lunch (in a cute adult lunch box, of course) could be good for your mental health. We know, sometimes it can be a challenge doing all the prep work, but maybe having a box this cute will inspire you to eat healthier and break away from your desktop. Here are some very cool lunch box options that will have you proudly packing abento box lunchto work or school. Bonus: Grab a reusable ice pack to throw in an insulated lunch bag, box, or cooler to really keep things chill.
Image via Modern Picnic
This purse lunch box doubles as a super cute accessory that features a rosy color to match your outfit and an insulated interior to keep your food cool.
Image via Pottery Barn Kids
With its streamlined design and small size, this stainless steel lunchbox will fit perfectly in your tote bag. The tight-fitting, handle-lock lid will prevent your fruit, pasta, or salad from spilling everywhere.
Image via Amazon
Fold it up or down depending on how much you plan on storing, this Yeti lunch bag keeps your warm lunch hot and your cold sandwiches cold.
Image via Amazon
This tote says stylish lunch all over it. The insulated lining helps keep your food and bev fresh for hours while it's easy to wipe clean.
Image via Etsy
This is not your grade school lunch bag. This compact lunch box is sleek and features three inner compartments for you to store your breakfast, lunch and even a snack.
Image via Tillys
The Lunch Break has an insulated interior to keep foods warm or cold plus an angled zip opening so it can lay flat so you can use it as a tray!
CALPAK
Taking your lunch to work doesn't have to remind you of your elementary school days anymore because this insulated lunch bag is as stylish as it's functional! It has exterior pockets that'll safely house your drinks, utensils, and snacks all while being lightweight.
It's also water-resistant so accidental spills don't stand a chance against it. All you have to do is spot clean it by wiping it, but you can always secure your lunch by pulling the drawstrings to close it!
Amazon
You may have been making no-cook meals, but this sturdy lunch box is for the days your leftovers are from a hearty meal. It has enough room to carry your lunch, drinks, fruit, and more because of the mesh pockets attached to it.
The premium PEVA material helps safeguard it from spills while the aluminium foil lining maintains the temperature of your food. To clean it, all you need is a wet cloth or baby wipe!
Unlike the prior lunch box, this one has a detachable shoulder strap so you can slide it on your shoulder as you're racing out your front door.
Image via Amazon
Pretty and well-designed, this Bento setup is completely leak-proof and also really cute (we love the bamboo). But our favorite aspect may be the free lunch notes that come along with the box. Whether you’re packing lunch for your kids, an S.O., or yourself, write a little note to put a smile on their face. Even if it’s your own!
Image via Amazon
This lightweight tote bag is made with a waterproof and dirt-proof cotton and is roomy enough to fit your lunch as well as a whole day’s worth of snacks. The stylish stripes also allow it to be repurposed for an everyday tote or makeup bag.
Image via Amazon
If you’re someone who likes to have both cold and hot food for lunch, this roomy insulated two-leveled lunch bag will help you keep those items separate. There’s a top “dry” section and a bottom leakproof compartment, and it also comes with a handy shoulder strap.
Image via Amazon
Keep it classy with this understated but refined lunch tote. We think polka dots make everything better.
Image via Amazon
This lunch bag is great for bringing lunch to work during the week, and for packing all the kiddos' favorite snacks during the weekend. The heavy-duty strap provides support, and it's got plenty of space for lunch *and* dessert.
Image via Amazon
The perfect way to travel with salad, this container has separate compartments for all of your toppings. It also comes complete with a matching fork for a very stress-free lunch break.
Image via Target
The crush-resistant Fulton Bag Co. Upright HardBody Lunch Box is sturdy and practical and keep food cold by the time lunchtime rolls around.
Image via Herschel
For Herschel bag fans, this lunch box has a soft insulated main snack compartment that easily wipes clean of your favorite fare.
Image via Hydro Flask
Keep your lunch cold for hours with this sleek, modern lunch box from one of our favorite water bottle makers.
Image via Amazon
Prep your lunch ahead of time with these 32 ounce picks that divide up your food and keep it contained. They're great for organizing your fridge and for maximizing space in your lunchbox.
Image via Amazon
Simple and stylish, the reusable lunch bag is also roomy enough to fit an entire's day worth of food and then some.
Image via Amazon
Take a modern twist on a classic design with this tiered set inspired by century-old vessels from northern India. The interlocking tins are perfect for your multi-course lunch.
Target
Lunch boxes should be durable like this one! Designed by Tirrinia, it's made of 600D Oxford cloth and has thick foam padding as well as insulation in it. That alone tells us your food, snacks and water bottle will be securely kept in one place.
You can't detach the shoulder strap, but you don't need to. It has a rotatable and detachable buckle that helps you avoid any discomfort.
Image via Amazon
This colorful neoprene tote is compact, machine-washable, and insulated.
Wal-Mart
Your sandwich boxes will fit nicely in this lightweight lunch bag. It also comes with a side bottle holder and compartment for utensils.
Image via Wal-Mart
If you don't care about having a stylish lunch box, that's okay! This mini lunch box keeps things simple by offering a modular design that separates your sandwich from any fruit or snacks you want to eat at your desk.
Image via Amazon
Forget those soggy bread balls you get when you wrap your sandwich in plastic wrap — this box promises you the perfect sandwich every time. This metal lunchbox is a great container for smaller meals and snacks like crackers and cheese or celery and peanut butter.
Amazon
Stand out with a vintage lunch box roomy enough to hold lunch for two. There's even a metal bracket just inside the lid that can keep your full-size Stanley Vacuum Bottle or Mug secure.
Image via Amazon
Gray and pink is a classic color combo and an insulated liner ensures everything stays cold. We also love that it’s big enough to carry your lunch as well as utensils and a bottle of water or two.
Image via Amazon
This hard plastic box boasts a game-changing, vacuum insulated bowl that promises to keep cold yogurt cold and hot soups hot. There are also several leakproof compartments. Although, for those of us unwilling to give up our PB+J, the bowl can be removed for a sandwich spot.
Image via Amazon
Those extra long work days require extra snacks. This bag comes in a variety of colors and is big enough to hold several shifts’ worth of snacking.
Wal-Mart
If you're only taking salad to work for a week, you don't need to worry about looking at traditional lunch boxes. Instead, feast your eyes on this salad container!
You'll get a salad bowl, 3 compartment topping trays, dressing container, leak proof lid, and a spoon!
Image via Walmart
This plastic-free stainless steel set of three containers fits perfectly together so you can take three dishes on the go. Basically, you can put a sammie (or other main course) in the largest container, and two sides in the smaller ones.
Image via Amazon
Pack these cute and yummy Mason jar lunches safely with these colorful protector sleeves.
Image via Walmart
You’ll never have to eat a soggy salad again with this incredible container. Not only does it keep your greens fresh, but it also comes with a separate container for dressing and a fork which both snap into the lid.
Image via Igloo Coolers
This functional cooler bag is great for keeping your cold drinks and salads cold due to its MaxCold insulation. The exterior is also made of vegan leather so it's sustainable!
Image via Dick's Sporting Goods
Toss your heels under your desk and slip into your comfy sneakers before grabbing this sporty lunch tote for lunch in the park.
Image via Corckcicle
Take this sleek lunchbox to work and your scheduled yoga sessions once you clock out!
Image via Ban.do
This lunch bag is the perfect match for the person who can't stop making charcuterie boards. It has the cutest quilt design and contrasting blue zippers that make it easy to open and close.
We don't suggest stuffing this mini lunch bag though! It has just enough room for fruit, an oatmeal packet, yogurt, and a small sandwich!
Image via Williams Sonoma
For the busy girl who needs a ton of snack options in between breakfast and lunch, Bentgo's multimeal bag is a dream come true. It can hold up to five meals that you've packed in different Bentgo containers.
Your food will be insulated for up to 8 hours and you'll be able to store everything from napkins to utensils inside!
Image via Kohl's
This lunch bag will probably remind you of one of the cute backpacks we've found for school and office, but that's the point! It's another spacious option that'll keep your food warm or cold, plus the exterior pocket will hold any extra lunch supplies you need.
Image via Packed Party
This pretty confetti cooler bag will remind you of the last-minute getaway you and your besties took before heading back to work. Aside from it's mermaid-inspired look, it's designed to stash your lunch without compromising it's temperature or taste.
Image via Etsy
Customize your very own insulated lunch bag with this cute design! It has a waterproof lining that protects against any sauce that may leak from your lunch and it has drawstrings that make opening it super easy.
Now that you've found the perfect adult lunch box, it's time for happier lunches!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Header image via CALPAK
This post has been updated.
Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie created reality TV gold when The Simple Life debuted in 2003. Their antics were outlandish, but we couldn't help repeating their iconic phrases like "That's hot" or "Sanasa" during random moments in our own lives.
It's no secret the two didn't really act that way, but their 'characters' left a huge mark on a generation of millennials. "I knew what I was doing but the whole world didn’t, so it was kind of frustrating to me to be perceived in that way because it’s not who I am at all," Paris told People.
Even though she may have felt judged, it seems that Paris Hilton realizes how many people actually loved The Simple Life because she and Nicole Richie are teaming up to film a reunion special that'll debut on Peacock as we speak! Here's everything we know so far!
NBCUniversal Media
Peacock first shared a video clip on Instagram that hinted something special involving Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie is coming in May. A nostalgic TV set with a black and white screen can be seen while our favorite duo's voices can be hearing saying, "Sanasa, Sanasa."
Peacock captioned the post, "New Era. Same Besties. Coming soon to Peacock," and fans could barely contain their excitement. Even celebs like Naomi Campbell and Katy Perry commented on these hot vibes.
Bravo
Then Paris Hilton took to her own Instagram to share more about what fans could expect. She said, "As some of you may know, we are doing a reunion special to celebrate 20 years of our show The Simple Life and it's been so much fun."
Actress Selma Blair shared how much she's looking forward to this by commenting that she's "living for this."
So are we!
The Simple Life/20th Century Fox
The Simple Life showed Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie as they basically traded their wealthy lifestyles for 'everyday' living. Cameras followed them from fast food jobs to dealing with getting out of sticky situations they'd supposedly never experienced. Needless to say, it was hilarious, iconic, and instant reality TV gold.
Peter Kramer/Getty Images
The Simple Life was on air from 2003 to 2007 with five successful seasons. It seemed like it wasn't going to be hit at first, but it defied expectations. By how much you ask?
According to reporting from The Cut, somewhere around 13 million viewers tuned in to watch Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie's oddball take on daily life. That's a pretty huge deal if you ask us!
Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images
Paris & Nicole: The Encore will premiere on Peacock December 12! The two were previously seen at a Sonic drive-thru yesterday so it can be assumed filming is underway (via People)!
Sporting partial Sonic uniforms, Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie added accent pieces that match their signature flairs. Paris wore a pair of reflective sunglasses, silver sequin heels, and added a pink flip phone to front of her blue apron. Nicole wore gold hoops and a pair of slingback pumps alongside her hotdog mascot costume. That's hot (dog).
Frazer Harrison/Getty Images
Paris Hilton has expressed how much she loves to be sharing the screen with Nicole Richie again. "I'm so excited to be doing this with Nicole on Peacock. Nicole has been my best friend since we're 2 years old, every memory that I have is with her," (via E! News).
Nicole also posted a few throwback moments from The Simple Life on her Instagram, but the most notable one is the video mashup of them singing "Sanasa, Sanasa" over and over. "20 years ago, not only did we become television stars… we became song writers. Happy Anniversary Sill @parishilton#TheSimpleLife#sannnasaaaaa" she wrote in the caption.
Peacock
Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie sat down with W Magazine to let the world know the Paris & Nicole: The Encore show is on its way! Not only that, but fans can expect to see an Opera version of the show they fell in love with two decades ago. Paris said, "The idea of the opera was unexpected" while Nicole chimed in with, "What people need, even though they don't know it yet, is for 'Sanasa' to be an opera.'"
The two besties came up with the idea via a series of texts that started off as ideas between them. Nicole said everything "came up organically" for the two and we can only imagine the memories this brought up for them. OG influencer Paris even talked about how The Simple Life was an "important show in pop culture history" and we couldn't agree more!
Nicole truly wants people to enjoy themselves while watching Paris & Nicole: The Encore and "find the same joy" she had while filming it. According to Paris, she feels what they have is "magic" because "there's just so much history behind it."
It's not every day that you can get to have fun with your best friend while coming up with long-lasting memories that contribute to pop culture, but Paris and Nicole have always danced to the beat of their own drums. Now we'll get to see them in action again!
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This post has been updated.
Friendsgiving season is coming folks! And if you have one on the books, but have no idea what to cook, we have you covered. From deliciously cheesy veggies to a healthy take on everyone's favorite spuds, we're rounding-up easy recipes to make that won't weigh heavy on your pocketbook. Take a look through to see the yummy ensembles you should be whipping up!
Brit + Co
Because everyone needs a carb to soup all those juicy drippings on your plate. This 'The Final Table' winning recipe does the job.
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Not crazy about veggies? These greens will change your mind. Topped with cheese, chives, and a nice crisp topping, they're extra yummy (and keto-friendly!)
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Sure this one is a bit non-traditional, but your vegetarian friends will love it. Plus they make the perfect topping to nearly any dish (who needs croutons when you have these anyways?!).
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Puts some greens on your plate with this holy-grail recipe. Trust us: It's sooo easy!
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Dust off the ole' Instant Pot will this delectable fall polenta. Filled with butternut squash and lots of parmesan you (and your besties!) will quickly fall in *love*.
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Just when you thought you knew how to roast sweet potatoes, this recipe came along. And boy are we taking notes!
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Be the friend that brings the booze. This autumn-themed mulled wine drink will warm everyone's spirits.
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If you're designated salad duty, take a twist on it by packing it full-on quinia, pomegranate, and a tangy dressing. Yum!
Brit + Co
When the temperatures drop, your friends will be extra thankful for this soul-warming, cheesy pasta.
Brit + Co
No time? No worries! This freezer-friendly pasta bake complete with pillowy gnocchi, creamy mushrooms and spinach is super easy to create ahead of time, without taking away from any day-of deliciousness.
Brit + Co
Upgrade your biscuits with "addicting" flavors of cheddar, chives, and jalapeños. Pro tip: Double the batch to ensure you have more than one for everyone!
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Your hostess will thank you extra for showing up with an app to tide guests over until the main meal is served. Packed with yummy baked potato fixings, it's got an extra "kick" to make it comparable to store bought options. Plus it's keto-friendly... you can't go wrong with that!
Brit + Co
Keep the keto ideas coming, am I right?! Make this popular Pinterest vegetable dish loaded with garlic and extra cheese. Yes please!
Brit + Co
Pack a 'lil extra protein into your mashed spuds (with the bonus of making them extra creamy!). Who knew yogurt would soon become your go-to secret ingredient?
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And let's not forget about the sweets! Make a batch of this pumpkin spice-flavored treat as a great take-home option for overstuffed guests! (Just be sure to save some extra for yourself!)
Follow us on Pinterest for more tasty Thanksgiving recipes!
This post has been updated.
