This Artist Is Bringing Stained Glass into the 21st Century

You’d think an art form as luminous and multi-colored as stained glass would have more of a scene than just church windows. And to be fair, we’ve seen some sweet prismatic art and home projects. But this is the first time we’ve seen a maker put such a modern twist on traditional stained glass portraits.

Yes, that is a stained glass portrait of Cam’ron, the rapper, and of course, he approved, calling it “#Dope.”

Lauren Puckett is the Charlotte-based artist behind these amazing portraits. Stained glass grabbed her attention after years of working with graphic design, printmaking, photography, fibers and painting. “Stained glass has allowed me to combine all of these elements with its graphic, flat nature, range of color and shade and the tactile nature of scoring and breaking glass. It doesn’t allow for the continuous manipulation that computer-aided design and painting allowed me. It has a finality that really appeals to my nature.”

It’s more strenuous work than graphic design, that’s for sure. Calluses, burns and ground-down fingernails come with the territory of hand-scoring and breaking each piece of glass. She gets all of the glass and materials from a local supplier, although she’d like to make her own glass someday. There’s still lots of learning to do, she says, which will help her make even bigger portraits. So far she’s made 10, the biggest of which took two months and 2,000 pieces of glass. It’s all worth it for the end result, though. “The most rewarding part is holding a finished work up to the light for the first time. It’s always better than I imagined it. It’s spectacular.” Lauren, we totally agree.

All that broken glass leads to a lot of leftover fragments, but Lauren is not wasting any of it. She turns them into funky pieces of jewelry and sells them through her shop, JAMESSIOUX. She’d also like to start making housewares, telling us, “I save all of my scraps and meticulously organize them so that I may someday melt them down in a kiln and make functional work like bowls and glasses.”

You can check out Lauren’s Instagram, @JAMESSIOUX, for more pics from her studio and peeks at her upcoming work. Be sure to check out her Etsy shop to snag some of her jewelry.

What would you ask for in a stained glass portrait of yourself? Share your vision in the comments below!

(Photos via Lauren Puckett; studio photo via Katherine Kirchner.)

From more minimalist designs to bold statement pieces, there's an Amazon accessory for everyone. Today, we're diving into Amazon necklaces under $50, so you can keep your latest looks shining without ever breaking the bank. Scroll on for our 11 favorite Amazon necklace designs that wear well with everything from gold hoop earrings to your go-to shoes.

Amazon

Pavoi 14K Gold-Plated Freshwater Pearl Necklace

This $35 necklace is dotted with tiny freshwater pearls that lend your look such an elegant feel. The chain itself is more on the choker side, measuring around 14 inches long. This pick looks gorgeous alone, but it's also super easy to layer up with if you have a go-to necklace stack.

Amazon

KissYan Bubble Letter Necklace

Bubble letter necklaces are very trendy at the moment. Everyone's loving their playful shape, especially in the wake of summertime! This $14 take is placed on a cute beaded chain that comes with a 2-inch extender for finding your perfect fit. This Amazon necklace also makes a fun gift for the ladies in your life since it can be personalized with any letter of the alphabet.

Amazon

Barzel 18K Gold-Plated Multi Stone Crystal Baguette Necklace

Give us all the color! This $15 chain necklace is crafted with high-shine materials and a variety of little artificial gems for incorporating the entire rainbow into your look. It's available in different chain lengths (16, 18, 20 and 24 inches), plus you can find it in a more pastel color theme if this vibrant one doesn't quite resonate with your personal style.

Amazon

Nuzon 2-Tone Interlocking Heart Pendant Necklace

The thick chain on this $15 gold piece makes an elegant statement, so much so that you may not have to layer any more chains to complete your outfit. The heart-shaped pendant is fitted with an eye-catching green agate stone, plus this pick flaunts a unique bar clasp that closes up front.

Amazon

Miabella Bee Medallion Pendant Necklace

This $44 mixed-metal necklace lands around 18 inches, making it a great layering necklace if you like to rock both silver and gold. It's crafted from Italian sterling silver with a thin coating of 18K yellow gold for durability. The subtle hexagonal frame that surrounds the bee medallion hangs from a chic, thin chain.

Amazon

Funeia 14K Gold-Plated Birthstone Necklace

The dainty charm on this gold-plated pick is so femme, providing a small pop of color. It also has the perfect amount of personal flair, since you can shop it in all 12 birthstones based on your birth month. The box chain part of this design is crafted without nickel or lead, so it's conveniently hypoallergenic for the sensitive skin-havers out there! Layered or not, you'll be reaching for this $10 Amazon necklace every single day.

Amazon

Lydow Starfish Charm Necklace

This $13 Amazon necklace is beachy AF, and truly an unexpected affordable find. It flaunts charms of starfish, shells, conchs, suns, and turtles to really channel the summer energy! It's made with an adjustable paperclip chain with a 3-inch allowance, so you can play with adding more necklaces to your look.

Amazon

Foxgirl Gold Initial Necklace

When it comes to looking expensive, a tiny charm is gonna do it every time. This $14 necklace measures around 16 inches with 2-inch extension, making it instantly layer-able. The whole piece, including the sleek, skinny chain, is made from hypoallergenic materials – mainly brass and a 14K gold plate layer for durability.

Amazon

Kendra Scott Elisa Pendant Necklace

A classic Kendra Scott design, the Elisa Pendant Necklace, is now on sale for $48 (was $55). There are tons of colors and materials to shop on Amazon, too! This pick measures around 15 inches long with a 2-inch extender. Plus, it arrives in a luxe gift box and soft jewelry bag, so it can be prepped and ready for gifting purposes.

Amazon

Mauzew Dainty Chain Necklace

Someone might mistake this dainty $11 (was $13) chain for a Catbird or Mejuri design, but it's actually much more affordable. The best part is it still gives the same fancy look! Whether you wear it alone or tack on your favorite charm, this 14-inch, tarnish-resistant piece will become an everyday must-have.

Amazon

Skqir Teardrop Initial Letter Necklace

The teardrop-shaped pendant on this tiny $10 necklace is everything. You can pick the initial letter based on your first or last name, which makes personalizing it so fun. This pick measures 16 inches with a 5-inch extender chain that closes with a lobster clasp. it might be best to avoid moisture of any kind when you wear this necklace to maintain its shine. The shower or pool, or even perfumes may be a no-go.

Subscribe to our newsletter to shop more accessories, and make sure to check out our Amazon storefront for our top product recommendations for fashion, home, and more!

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

Images on Amazon.

Though Black Friday is traditionally the official start of the holiday shopping season, we argue that it’s been kicking since mid-October. We know, we know: it still feels extremely early to start thinking about the holidays, but they’ll be here before you know it! Plus, many brands and retailers are already promoting their holiday goodies with plenty of sales and discounts available right now.

If you’re ready to embark on your holiday shopping journey, but still need answers to questions like ‘when’s the best time to shop?’ and ‘where should I shop for gifts?’ and even ‘how the heck do I save money this season?’, you’ve come to the right place. Consider this your go-to guide for holiday shopping in 2024.

Scroll on for our best guidance on navigating this busy time of year and finding the best gifts possible!

When's the best time to do holiday shopping?

Kaboompics / PEXELS

The best time to do holiday shopping really all depends on your personal shopping goals. Do you want to get a jump on items you know will sell out soon? Do you want to save the most money possible? Do you want to focus on handmade, personalized gifts? These factors will undoubtedly influence your holiday shopping schedule.

Cottonbro Studio / PEXELS

Shopping early can be advantageous for all of the aforementioned goals. A lot of retailers start promoting their holiday products early on, giving you ample time to snatch up that limited-time lip kit or fancy water bottle you’ve been eyeing way before the holidays.

Plus, some of the best deals for holiday shopping happen ahead of Black Friday and Cyber Monday – in 2023, Experian observed a surge in early spending in October, thanks to early discounts, a trend likely to continue in 2024.

Finally, shopping early can be especially helpful if your plan is to focus on handmade or personalized gifts, giving the artisan you buy from (or yourself, if you’re DIY-ing your gifts) plenty of time to craft the item with love and care.

Gallup reported in 2023 that one in four shoppers start shopping as early as September, a trend likely to continue in 2024 – so you might already be embarking on your shopping spree!

Mikhail Nilov / PEXELS

If right now is just still too darn early for you to start holiday shopping, Black Friday and Cyber Monday are some of the best times to shop since so many retailers offer their largest discounts of the entire year. Plus, the late November-early December timeline can feel a bit more appropriate for the gifting season opposed to late October-early November, when everyone’s still recovering from Halloween.

The only thing to consider during this time is the shipping timelines for the items you purchase – but most retailers will typically advise their specific shipping schedules, so you don’t risk your goodies arriving late.

Where should I shop for gifts?

Ron Lach / PEXELS

You have three main options when it comes to where to shop for holiday gifts: online, in-store, and via our amazing gift guides. Of course, each method has its advantages and disadvantages.

Shopping in-store offers a tangible experience: the opportunity to hold specific items in your hands and gauge exactly what they’ll be like when you give them as a gift. The pitfall with shopping in-person is that it typically requires a commute and journeys through potentially very busy malls and shopping strips, which can add to the already-stressful holiday experience.

In-store shopping can be more physically exhausting, but it’s all about preference! Sometimes strolling through the stores that get all dolled up for Christmas is the best part of the season.

Andrea Piacquadio / PEXELS

Per Google, 65% of those planning to shop for the holidays say they will shop online more. Shopping for gifts online can be super helpful since you can centralize your findings in your browser’s bookmark tab or via virtual cart(s). Plus, shopping online can pose more opportunities for saving some money: lots of retailers typically offer discount codes for online users, especially if you sign up for their digital marketing channels (like email and text) and make a purchase.

Shopping online isn’t just shopping, either. The internet can be a stellar research tool to help you vet whether certain products are worth it, where they can be bought, and when they’ll be available. In fact, Google reported that more than half of U.S. holiday shoppers who went into a store last year say they looked up product reviews online and/or located an item in-store by checking it online.

Kaboompics / PEXELS

Last but not least, scrolling gift guides has to be our favorite place to shop for gifts – and not just because we write and publish them.

At their very core, gift guides help streamline the holiday shopping process, alleviating the stress that bubbles up when you’re wondering what the heck to shop for in the first place. Our gift guides are backed by real people, real experiences, and real opinions from our editorial team. We only promote products that we really love and believe in, oftentimes ones we’ve tested and reviewed ourselves.

We have gift guides for just about everyone on your list, with more on the way! Check ‘em out:

What are the best kinds of gifts to give?

Kaboompics / PEXELS

The best kinds of gifts to give are thoughtful gifts that consider the giftee’s interests, wants, and needs. These gifts can be sentimental, practical, or both simultaneously. What matters most in a gift is that it’ll be meaningful to them past just the holiday season, whether it’s helping them get through daily tasks, reminding them of a memorable trip or event, or giving them small doses of joy.

“Shoppers are increasingly looking for personalized and unique gifts that reflect the recipient's personality and interests,” says Mia Anderson, Owner of ChicSew. “With the rise of online shopping, many consumers are opting for curated gift boxes or experiences that add a special touch.”

Cottonbro Studio / PEXELS

Gift boxes, personalized items, books of interest, self-care goodies, and even gift cards can all be thoughtful gifts depending on the recipient. If you have no clue what your giftee is into, it’s not a bad idea to ask them what they want the most!

“My idea of a great gift is something that is in tandem with the recipient's interest and offers something new to the person, be it learning a new skill, enjoying a calming activity, or simply spending quality time with the family,” says Alfred Christ, Sales Manager & Marketer at Robotime. “This season, we encourage shoppers to shift their focus on quality and the memories their gifts will create and not just merely material aspects.”

When is Black Friday?

Sora Shimazaki / PEXELS

Black Friday is always the Friday after Thanksgiving. This year, Black Friday lands on November 29.

When is Cyber Monday?

Kindel Media / PEXELS

Cyber Monday is typcally the Monday after Thanksgiving. This year, Cyber Monday will land on December 2. Oftentimes, retailers and brands extend their online offers through the week (coined Cyber Week) after the event. Salesforce reported that 67% of shoppers in 2024 plan on shopping during Cyber Week!

Subscribe to our newsletter to stay up-to-date on our best 2024 gift guides, shopping advice, and all things holiday!

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!

Sign up for our newsletter to stay up-to-date on all our other favorite jewelry picks!

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

Header image via Sézane

The holidays at Starbucks are creeping up on us, people! Peppermint Mocha season will return on November 7. If you’re a die-hard Starbucks fan, you know Red Cup Day is a whole holiday in itself – the frenzy for a free reusable cup is truly no joke. There’s even an entire website dedicated to counting down the madness! Even though there’s no official word on when Red Cup Day 2024 will be, there are several clues that cue us into the annual event. Scroll on for details!

What is Red Cup Day?

Starbucks

Red Cup Day is Starbucks’ highly-awaited annual event that marks the start of holiday beverage season at the coffee chain. For one day only (and while supplies last), customers who order any of Starbucks’ holiday drinks will receive a reusable red cup that features a bespoke design for the respective year.

Starbucks

Here’s a list of all the drinks rumored to be available on the Starbucks holiday menu starting November 7:

  • Peppermint Mocha
  • Peppermint White Chocolate Mocha
  • Caramel Brûlée Latte
  • Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte
  • Chestnut Praline Latte
  • Salted Pecan Crunch Cold Brew
  • Iced Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai

What do the red cups look like for 2024?

Starbucks

Starbucks hasn’t officially announced when Red Cup Day will be for 2024, let alone what the famed red cups will look like this go-around. The one obvious point is that the cups will be red! They’ll also likely feature some festive motifs that echo the holiday season. Last year’s red cups boasted playful white and green stars and ornament-like shapes.

Why should I participate in Red Cup Day?

Starbucks

Red Cup Day = freebies, which can feel really rewarding if you’re really into receiving free goodies. Plus, it’s just a fun way to lean into the holiday spirit. The red reusable cup keeps giving beyond Red Cup Day, though! Every time you use the reusable cup for future Starbucks orders, you get a 10-cent discount as well as 25 bonus stars toward your Starbucks Rewards account to save up for more discounts on drinks, food, and merchandise.

When is Starbucks' Red Cup Day 2024?

Starbucks

Again, Starbucks hasn’t alerted us on when Red Cup Day will be for 2024, but based on previous Red Cup Days, we can infer it’ll land on the third Thursday of November. In 2022, Red Cup Day happened on November 17, and for 2023, it was November 16. The third Thursday of November in 2024 hits on November 21, so mark your calendars, everyone!

Additionally, check back here for official info as Red Cup Day approaches.

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This post has been updated.

It seems Thanksgiving is barely a week away by the time we start thinking about the menu. But while ovens all over the country will be working overtime this year, don't forget your secret weapon — the crock pot! Kitchen strategy is key when you're trying to factor various cook and prep times for both oven and stovetop dishes. There just never seems to be enough time (or counter space).

Whether you're already finalizing your menu for the day or are just in charge of a few side dishes, we've scoured the web and found 18 Thanksgiving crock pot recipes that are perfect for any gathering.

Creamed Corn

Damn Delicious

Cornis a standard side dish for most Thanksgiving meals, but this recipe is a total game-changer. Five simple ingredients go in your crock pot, and three hours later you’re greeted by corn that is so creamy and delicious, you’ll never be able to eat the canned stuff again.

Wheat Bread Stuffing

Recipe Runner

Free up some room in your oven and cook the stuffing right on the counter this year. Crusty whole wheat bread, celery, onions and chicken broth will have you going back for seconds. Once it’s cooked, turn the heat to low and it will be ready whenever you are.

Brussels Sprouts

Damn Delicious

These aren’t Grandma’s Brussels sprouts. Covered in a brown sugar balsamic reduction and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, these sprouts will have you converted after just one bite.

Sweet Potatoes

The Magical Slow Cooker

This one takes minimal effort, but packs maximum flavor. Wash and dry your sweet potatoes before wrapping them in tinfoil and piling into the crock pot. Cook on high for six hours, and resist the urge to open the lid so the steam doesn’t escape. Serve with butter, brown sugar and mini marshmallows.

Apple Cider

Damn Delicious

Your guests are going to need something to sip on. Made 100% from scratch, this apple cider recipe will definitely steal the show: Combine apples, cinnamon sticks and spices and cover with water, and drink in the delicious smell while it simmers in the slow cooker.

Candied Sweet Potato Casserole

Creme de la Crumb

Okay, so this does require a little oven time, but it’ll be the last thing you heat up before you can dig in (and it’s totally worth it). Peel and chop 5lbs of sweet potatoes and let your slow cooker do all the work for the next four hours. Transfer to a casserole dish, spread a layer of pecans over the sweet potato mixture then bake for 20 minutes to achieve maximum crunch before adding the mini marshmallows. Bake for five more minutes (or until marshmallows are golden brown) and dig in.

Caramel Fondue

Creme de la Crumb

From apple slices to pretzels, there’s no wrong way to dunk with this dip, made from only three ingredients — caramels, heavy cream and marshmallows. Say hello to your new post-Thanksgiving party trick.

Garlic Ranch Potatoes

The Cookie Rookie

Tender red potatoes are a great alternative to the typical mashed variety. Top the wedges with ranch seasoning, chives and garlic for a fresh side dish that no one will believe you made entirely in the crock pot.

Cranberry Sauce Crock Pot Recipe

Gimme Some Oven

This is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it recipe. Toss in the ingredients and come back in three hours for cranberry sauce that is the perfect combination of tart and sweet. Add a splash of vanilla extract right before serving.

Cinnamon Apples

A Spicy Perspective

The best side dishes double as dessert. Cover thinly sliced apples in brown sugar, cinnamon and bourbon, then simmer for four hours. Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy as is — they’re delicious either way.

Cranberry Meatballs

Spicy Southern Kitchen

Trade out the usual jar of grape jelly in your famous meatball recipe for cranberry sauce to give it a holiday update. The sweet and tangy flavor will keep you coming back for more. In fact, you better double the recipe.

Maple Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix

Averie Cooks

This tasty party snack is perfect for clearing out your cabinets: cereal, peanuts, pretzels, dried fruit and graham crackers all come together in a salty sweet crunch. Drench the mix in butter, maple syrup and pumpkin pie spices before testing your willpower for the next two hours.

Apple Pie Oatmeal

The Healthy Maven

Breakfast is still the most important meal of the day (especially on Thanksgiving), but this oatmeal couldn’t be easier: Toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker before you go to bed and you’ll wake up to the aroma of nutmeg and maple syrup.

Buttery Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creme de la Crumb

A pile of fresh herbs, butter and garlic make these mashed potatoes stand out on the buffet table. Use red potatoes and leave the skins on for a rustic flair that not only adds a ton of flavor, it also saves you some work.

Spinach + Artichoke Dip

Damn Delicious

Keep your guests from getting hangry while they wait for dinner: Serve this creamy spinach and artichoke dip with bread, pretzels or pita for a Thanksgiving staple made super easy, thanks to your crock pot.

Butternut Squash Soup

Life Made Sweeter

Combine coconut milk with chunks of butternut squash and sweet potato, then cook in the crockpot for four hours. Once everything is fork tender, break out your immersion blender to make the texture velvety smooth. Top with extra coconut milk and toasted pumpkin seeds before devouring.

Pumpkin Cobbler

The Gunny Sack

Trade in your standard pumpkin pie for a cobbler that is made in the crock pot from start to finish. Pro tip: place a paper towel underneath the lid to keep the condensation off the food and ensure a crispy crust. Top the plated perfection with a dollop of whipped cream and caramel syrup.

Dinner Rolls

Lil Luna

The slow cooker might be the last place you'd think to bake dinner rolls, but trust us on this one. This trick comes in handy year-round, especially on hot summer days when you don't feel like blasting that oven. Genius.

Don't miss out on knocking out a dish or two this year with these Thanksgiving crock pot recipes and if you need more inspiration, join our newsletter or explore our new cooking classes on B+C Classes.