16 Stylish Backpacks That Will Take You from Day to Night

Diana Kelter
Apr 01, 2015

With the change of seasons comes new activities, recipes and, of course, fashion. And you’d better believe that the spring shopping bug has hit us hard. What’s at the top of our must-have list for this spring? The ultimate transitional bag, of course. Whether you’re running from the office to happy hour during the week or from the farmers’ market to brunch on Sunday, a stylish backpack is a go-to accessory to keep life organized. We’re not talking about the school-playground variety here; these packs have bright spring colors, sleek leather and so much more. If you’re looking to splurge or just keep it casual, there is a stylish backpack here with your name on it.

1. Cornflower Blue Canvas and Leather Backpack ($262): This gorgeous shade of blue will provide brightness on even the rainiest of spring days.

2. Herschel Settlement Backpack ($55): We can’t talk backpacks without a nod to Herschel. This color combo provides casual glamour for any daily adventure.

3. Thick Stripe Backpack ($25): If you’re looking to put a sporty spin on the nautical-vintage look, this is the perfect purchase at an affordable price.

4. Natural Cloud Baggu ($38): Add a distinct flair to spring break with a bag that works for both travel and home.

5. Sacagawea Carryall ($400): At this price point, this one is more of an investment piece, but the level of quality will allow you to take this backpack through many seasons.

6. Peltola Clay Backpack ($150): This sleek style and soft gray hue will go great with all those spring florals and metallic accessories.

7. Studded Backpack ($89): When you forget your jewelry, allow your backpack to make a statement that’ll add a little shimmer to your day.

8. Minimal Rucksack ($294): Looking to take your festival fashion to a more sophisticated level? This bag is just the thing.

9. Rockland Backpack ($89): The functionality of a backpack with the appeal of a briefcase. What more could a modern woman ask for?

10. Longchamp Backpack ($125): Spring also happens to be picnic season, and this backpack looks like an adorable knapsack for all those outdoor adventures.

11. Agnes Backpack ($524): While this one is quite the splurge, it’s like two bags in one. With the small front compartment, you’ll have the perfect place for your phone or travel makeup.

12. Classic Backpack Raw Natural ($108): In addition to the rad triangle shape, this bag features a secret pocket that is great for travel.

13. Marlena Backpack ($385): This bag has not one, but three front pockets to keep your on-the-go life organized at all times.

14. Nila Anthony Backpack ($68): If you’re not interested in going full rocker with your spring wardrobe, you can start with a backpack that provides just enough edge to your ensemble.

15. Metallic Backpack ($65): Take business casual to business glamour with an affordable bag that won’t break the bank.

16. Rose Backpack ($40): Oh, Target. We can’t even count the ways you make our lives that much better. This sharp, zipper-front design not only makes it fashionable, but the adjustable straps allows you to take this from backpack to bag in no time at all.

What’s your backpack style? Sleek and modern or fun and casual? Tell us in the comments!

8 Modest (& Flattering!) Winter Outfits That Will Make You Look Amazing

Short party dresses or skirts aren't abnormal during winter, but you may want to participate in the trend without sacrificing on modesty. Or, you might want to bypass that for an outfit that keeps everything 90-95% covered. Winter is the one of the seasons where I like to keep it modest because I like protecting my limbs from frostbite. It's not fun to freeze — nor is speeding up flu symptoms — but more power to y'all who can still rock those looks in these temps!

If you're stuck in a winter style rut and need a few stylish ideas, I have 8 modest ideas you'll love recreating at home!

Check out the best modest outfits for winter that will look totally amazing all season long!

1. Turtleneck + Wide Leg Jeans

Jasmine Williams

Finding a modest outfit combination that works during winter feels like finding a needle in a haystack sometimes, but there are fail-proof options! For example, wearing a turtleneck sweater with a pair of wide-leg jeans is something anyone can pull off. Both cover all parts of your body save your hands and feet, plus you can drape a winter coat over your shoulders!

2. Teddy Coat + Classic Button-Up Shirt

Brit + Co

A classic button-up shirt add a naturally polished appeal to any outfit because they can be dressed up or down. Though this outfit features a 'white top and jeans' combo with black loafers, the short teddy coat gives it a casual feel. It's great for anyone who doesn't have time to change after work to meet up with friends for dinner and drinks!

3. V-Neck Sweater + Cargo Pants

Jasmine Williams

Despite its seemingly plunging neckline, a v-neck sweater is for all the girls who love modest outfits. You can easily opt for a hemline that rests at the bottom of your waist, but the oversized or tunic look works too! Pair it with cute cargo pants and a pair of ankle boots, and you have an awesome outfit on your hands!

4. Denim Skirt + Lightweight Coat

Brit + Co

There's no need to force yourself to like the mini bubble skirt trend just because it's included in a few holiday new arrivals. You can stick to a midi denim skirt, tights, and a lightweight coat if that feels more comfortable. As far as I'm concerned, it's a low-fuss outfit idea that can take you from family holiday pictures to date night.

5. Smocked Top + Ankle Boots

Brit + Co

A smocked top can still be worn during winter, but you just need to make sure you have a nice trench coat to go over your entire outfit. Also, check to make sure the sleeves are flouncy enough to peek through for a modern renaissance moment!

6. Rib Knit Top + Bandeau Dress

Jasmine Williams

Let's address the elephant in the room: I don't recommend that you wear strappy heels during winter if you're going to be walking through snow. But, you can absolutely wear a rib knit top under a bandeau dress. Just makes sure it's a longline option so your outfit remains modest!

7. Denim Jumpsuit

Jasmine Williams

I love a good denim jumpsuit, especially if it has a similar features of cargo pants. However, that's not a requirement for anyone. The goal is to wear something that still speaks to your personal style as long as it's long-sleeved and doesn't have any cut-out action going on!

8. Barbie Pink Coat + Straight Leg Jeans

Jasmine Williams

Lastly, a Barbie pink coat and a pair of straight leg jeans is one of the easiest modest outfit combinations you'll love wearing this winter. The only thing I recommend wearing is a sleek rib knit or cotton sweater with them so nothing feels bulky.

Looking for more outfit inspo? Be sure to sign up for our weekly email newsletter!

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

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How to Survive Thanksgiving With Your Unwoke Relatives

Did you leave your family Thanksgiving dinner last year feeling like you were the one who got carved up and digested? You weren't alone. In an increasingly polarized sociological climate, family events where opinions differ can feel fraught with high stakes and conflicting moral obligations. And if you're already dreading Thanksgiving because all of the brawlin' that's sure to go down, you might be considering opting out of the festivities entirely.

In our Teach Me Something New podcast, Alexandra Carter, Columbia law professor and mediation expert, talks to Brit and Anj about the powers of persuasion to get the results you want in a conversation. The key to the Thanksgiving political discussion? Listening, asking open questions, and finding some common ground.

Here's what you can do to make it through Thanksgiving when your relatives just keep being problematic and things get awkward...

"I might say something like, 'I hear that you're concerned about national security and that's what led me to have this viewpoint.' So sometimes using a little bit of focusing on what you have in common can help you to have a civil conversation and not have anybody throwing mashed potatoes across the table," says Carter.

Here are more expert-backed tips for navigating the holiday awkwardness, even if it's just via Zoom. Make stuffing your face great again this Thanksgiving by implementing our seven-step plan.

Askar Abayev

1. Choose your battles ahead of time.

You're not going to change everyone's opinion about all of the things over the course of a meal and a football game. You might want to show up ready for a duel of words with your Facebook-meme-king cousin, but that's just going to put your opinionated family member on the offensive from the moment you walk in. Decide ahead of time if there's one issue that you really cannot keep your mouth shut about if it comes up, and have two or three talking points ready that clarify your position on that topic. If your hot button does get pushed, your talking points will help you keep from making things personal.

2. Confer with the host.

If you feel comfortable with the person that's organizing or hosting Thanksgiving, speak to him or her in advance about how you can be on Team Keep the Peace. Most people aren't keen on a political brouhaha breaking out around their dinner table, so they'll probably be relieved to hear that you're on board and willing to help make the day go smoothly for everyone. Brainstorm some ideas about seating arrangements or wholesome activities to fill the idle family time that can lead to trading barbs.

Element5 Digital

3. Make it a game.

Caitlin Bergstein, a Boston-based matchmaker and relationship expert for Three Day Rule, suggests a fun twist on the swear jar concept. “If your family is up for the challenge, you can even make it a game. Each time someone mentions something political, they have to put a dollar in a jar (or take a drink, depending on how your family celebrates the holiday). At the end of the night, that cash can be put aside for the next family get together!"

4. Have a moment of silence.

Sometimes the idea of a quiet table can be intimidating (all those chewing noises!), but encouraging a moment of reflection among your holiday guests can actually be transformative. Whether you observe several seconds of silence in honor of relatives you've lost, as a way to silently acknowledge your individual blessings, or as an act of prayer or meditation, you've hopefully brought the room back to focus on each other's company and the gift that it is to be together.

Monstera Production

5. Be an active listener.

If your one doggedlypersistent aunt can't let go of her obsession with the latest political scandal, reconsider what she's actually trying to tell you. Chances are, it's not just about what she saw on the news. “Assume that your polarizing relative actually probably just wants to connect, feel respected, and reduce their own anxiety about holiday gatherings, and interpret even difficult behavior as such," advises Mary Fisher, a Salt Lake City psychotherapist who specializes in family relationships. “Express the desire to connect while redirecting the conversation," Fisher recommends. Emphasize the fact that you're interested in protecting the time your family spends together. That can help soften the blow when you ask to instead hear them share a family memory or talk about a hobby you both share.

6. Disengage.

Remember that if angry words or offensive language start flying at you across the sweet potato pie, you don't have to respond. Have a script in mind to use, something like, “While I hear where you're coming from, I don't share your opinion, and I'm done talking about it today." Convey the message that you're quite clear on the matter being discussed, and you're not going to take the bait. You may have to repeat yourself several times, or you may choose to remain silent until things cool down around you. Either one is okay.

7. Duck out early.

If you feel like you have to retreat from the situation entirely, do it. One of the best things about being an adult is leaving when you want to leave. You don't have to subject yourself, your spouse, or your family to any kind of dialogue that is insulting, bigoted, or aggressive. Fisher shares these words of advice: “While we might think that the holidays are the time to resolve differences, they are actually the time to affirm and nurture connection, which can be an uphill battle with politically polarizing relatives." If you don't feel like a connection is being nurtured and the environment is not good for you to be in, say goodbye and make a break for it.

Looking for more holiday help this year? Be sure to sign up for our weekly newsletter so you never miss a thing!

This article has been updated from a previous post.

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22 English Muffin Recipes That Will Make You Forget All About Bagels

Sure, savory muffins, taco pancakes, and avocado toast are delicious ways to start the day, but you're overlooking an oft-forgotten breakfast staple. English muffins are the perfect foundation for a filling meal, whether it's as a replacement for brioche in a French toast recipe or as the vehicle to deliver a mouth-watering egg sandwich. Keep scrolling for 22 recipes that will make you realize that English muffins are worthy of the spotlight and more than just breakfast.

Yummy English muffin recipes to replace your current sandwich habits

English Muffin French Toast

The Comfort of Cooking

Switch up the most basic of brunch dishes with this recipe that swaps brioche for English muffins to make a French toast that’s just begging for extra maple syrup and butter.

Spicy Chipotle Egg Breakfast Sandwiches

Aberdeen's Kitchen

This breakfast sandwich is so much more sophisticated than your standard Egg McMuffin. Bell pepper scrambled eggs, bacon, and a creamy chipotle sauce make this a morning meal you can feel proud of.

Grilled Shrimp English Muffin Burgers

I Wash You Dry

Juicy grilled shrimp burgers are way better than your standard barbecue fare. And once you’ve had a burger on an English muffin bun, you’ll never look back.

Mini Hawaiian English Muffin Pizza

Ease and Carrot

The next time you have a party, ditch the frozen snacks. These mini English muffin Hawaiian pizzas are perfect finger food.

Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole

Baker Bettie

If making hollandaise sauce last minute is a little too stressful for your mornings, look to this casserole. It has all the eggs Benedict flavor you love, but is easily made ahead of time.

Homemade Cranberry Walnut English Muffin

Cook Nourish Bliss

The best part about baking is you can customize your favorite dishes. This recipe gives plain English muffins a hearty makeover with the addition of dried cranberries and walnuts.

Barbecue Chicken English Muffin Pizza

Unicorn's in the Kitchen

Skip the take-out pizza and opt for this simple recipe that’s just as tasty as the real thing, with the added bonus of homemade flavor.

Crab Melts

Spicy Southern Kitchen

When topped with crab meat and cheese, English muffins make for a mean canapé too.

Pulled Pork Eggs Benedict

Culinary Hill

Sometimes brunch just isn’t brunch-y enough — everything tastes too much like either breakfast or lunch. Not so with this mealtime fusion, combining a breakfast favorite with a barbecue classic.

Homemade Whole Wheat English Muffins

Jenni Field's Fearless in the Kitchen

Making your own English muffins is great for two reasons. They taste better than anything store-bought, and any recipe using the homemade version becomes a million times tastier.

Lemon Thyme English Muffin Bread

Cook Nourish Bliss

If you’ve never had English muffin in bread form, you’re in for a treat. It’s super-moist, toasts like a dream, and makes every sandwich taste just a little more special.

2-Minute Flourless English Muffins

The Big Man's World

English muffins in the microwave may sound strange, but trust. This version is gluten-free, vegan, oil-free, and sugar-free, but still gets nice and toasty, making them a great allergy-friendly option.

Homemade Cinnamon Raisin English Muffins

Food Fanatic

Sometimes the best part of baking is how it makes your house smell. These English muffins will fill your home with the scent of cinnamon, raisins, and baking bread.

Paleo Pumpkin English Muffins

Running to the Kitchen

Quick breakfast recipes are essential to have on hand. This two-minute Paleo pumpkin English muffin is made in the microwave, so you can have a tasty breakfast even on busy mornings.

Breakfast Burger

Well Plated

Hey, sometimes we all just want an excuse to have a burger for breakfast. This one is made with a turkey patty, bacon, and cheese, for a breakfast that will really fill you up.

Poached Egg and Prosciutto Brunch Sandwich

Salt and Lavender

Nothing hits the spot on the weekend like a brunch sandwich. This one, made on an English muffin and stuffed with a poached egg, prosciutto, and lemon garlic mayo, will make you glad it’s the weekend.

English Muffin Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Cups

No. 2 Pencil

Finding the perfect dish for a brunch party can feel like a chore — you don’t want to have to do a bunch of cooking after your guests arrive. This recipe for English muffin bacon, egg, and cheese cups solves that problem.

Baked Peach English Muffin French Toast

The PKP Way

Fruit-filled breakfasts always feel like a special treat. These English muffins, topped with baked rosemary peaches and cream cheese, will make you feel like a queen.

Make-Ahead English Muffin Melts

Julie's Eats & Treats

A fast breakfast doesn’t have to mean an apple or granola bar on the go. These make-ahead English muffins ensure that you can eat a hot and cheesy meal, even on busy mornings.

Game Day Mini Pizzas

Brit + Co

While ordering multiple kinds of pies can get pricey really fast, our mini English muffin pizzas are an all-around win. From tangy Buffalo chicken to a meatless Margherita, these healthier budget-friendly mini pies will be a hit with everyone - just start with a base of sauce, cheese, and muffin and then try one of these variations. Click for the more recipe details!

Pepperoni:

(serves 6)

  • pepperoni sticks, sliced into thin rounds
  • optional toppings: hot banana pepper rings

Buffalo Chicken:

(serves 6)

  • about 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken
  • 1/3 to 1/2 cup Frank’s Red Hot
  • optional toppings: crumbled blue cheese or feta and chopped celery leaves

Pesto Chicken:

(serves 6)

  • about 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken
  • 3-4 Tablespoons of basil pesto
  • optional topping: crumbled feta

Veggie Lover’s:

(serves 6)

  • button mushrooms, sliced
  • green bell pepper, diced
  • red onion, thinly sliced or diced
  • cherry tomatoes, sliced
  • green olives, sliced

Margherita Inspired:

(serves 6)

  • cherry tomatoes, sliced
  • fresh basil leaves (if they’re large, you can slice them into ribbons or roughly chop them)

Greek Inspired:

(serves 6)

  • kalamata olives, sliced
  • red onion, thinly sliced or diced
  • cherry tomatoes, sliced
  • crumbled feta

Bao English Muffins 

Thomas Breads

Made with pork shoulder, try this slightly sweet Asian-style recipe from the classic English muffin brand.

Cherry Macadamia English Muffin French Toast

With Salt and Wit

Baked French toast is always a breakfast favorite. This recipe ups the ante, swapping bread for English Muffins and adding macadamia nuts and fresh cherries for flavor.

Hope you found an english muffin recipe to inspire your next craving! Share your recipe pics with us @BritandCo and find more inspiration in our baking courses on B+C Classes!

This post was updated.
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