Taylor Swift Reveals the Songs That Have Helped Her After ‘Bad Breakups’

Taylor Swift’s music has been the soundtrack to many a broken heart. (Who among us hasn’t blasted Red after a breakup?) But while the singer herself often uses the details of her personal life as inspiration for her songwriting, she has her own go-to artists to get her through difficult times in her life.

“I’m convinced that ‘You Learn’ by Alanis Morissette, ‘Put Your Records On’ by Corinne Bailey Rae, and ‘Why’ by Annie Lennox have actually healed my heart after bad breakups or let downs,” she wrote in a new essay for Elle UK. “I love writing songs because I love preserving memories, like putting a picture frame around a feeling you once had. I like to use nostalgia as inspiration when I’m writing songs for the same reason I like to take photographs. I like to be able to remember the extremely good and extremely bad times.”

Although Swift has been through a number of high-profile relationships and breakups over the years, the “Delicate” singer has been happily coupled up with British actor Joe Alwyn since early 2017. Much of the lyrical content of Swift’s most recent album, 2017’s Reputation, was thought to be about the beginning of their romance, which started after the singer’s short-lived fling with Tom Hiddleston.

In her Elle UK essay, Swift touched on a few other times in her personal life where music has played an important part, from screaming along to Panic! at the Disco while driving down the streets of Tennessee with her best friend Abigail (same, TBH), to quietly recalibrating after months of touring as a teenager.

“When I hear ‘How to Save a Life’ by The Fray, ‘Breathe (2AM)’ by Anna Nalick, or ‘The Story’ by Brandi Carlile, I immediately flash back to being seventeen and on tour for months on end,” she wrote. “When I’d get a day at home in between long stretches on the road sharing a van with my band and crew, I would spend my rare nights off painting alone with candles lit in my room — just being alone with those songs. (Those are all from the Grey’s Anatomy soundtrack. My commitment to that show truly knows no bounds).”

It’s that kind of personal attachment that turns a good song into a great song. “I think these days, people are reaching out for connection and comfort in the music they listen to,” she wrote. “We like being confided in and hearing someone say, ‘this is what I went through’ as proof to us that we can get through our own struggles.”

(Photo via Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for dcp)

Outer Banks season 4 part 2 finally dropped November 7, and after theories were swirling around our favorite Pogues — is Sarah pregnant? Will JJ die? Will the group FINALLY get their hands on some treasure (and NOT lose it?) — we got the answers we'd been waiting for. And unfortunately, not all of them were answers we wanted. Sarah is indeed pregnant but the Pogues finally avenged Terrance, but in the final moments of the Outer Banks season 4 ending, we also lost JJ which is something I literally can't believe I'm writing. JJ and Kiara are the one couple fans latched onto (and that the cast and crew never saw coming) and to finally see them in a relationship only to lose JJ 10 episodes later? I'm heartbroken.

Creators Josh & Jonas Pate and Shannon Burke recently revealed Outer Banks season 5 will be "an epic fifth and final season," and there's one theory going around that makes that finale even more emotional. Here's everything you need to know aboutOuter Banksseason 5. Bring it on home John B.!

  • Outer Banks season 5 will be the last season of the hit Netflix show.
  • The series will follow Kiara and the Pogues getting revenge on Chander Groff for JJ's death.
  • Josh & Jonas Pate and Shannon Burke say "it will be our best [season] yet."


Is JJ really dead?

@unsiredd#obx#outerbanks#jjmaybank#johnbroutledge#johnb#sarahcameron#obx4#fyp#foryou#fireworks♬ Where'd All the Time Go? - Dr. Dog

There are a few theories about how Outer Banks season 5 will handle JJ's death (aside from Kiara's chilling vow to get revenge, of course). Some fans have their fingers crossed the group will use the Blue Crown to wish him back to life, while others are holding onto hope he was simply unconscious. But there's one theory that stands out among the rest to me: JJ is really dead, and this whole time, John B.'s narration has been telling his unborn child about his namesake.

The show teased Sarah and John B. will name their baby JJ, and since Outer Banks is all about family, friendship, and spending time with one another, the reveal that all along, Outer Banks has been the story of the Pogues' adventures would literally be the perfect way to send them off. I'm literally crying just thinking about it.

Will there be a 5th Outer Banks?

Yes, we're getting a fifth and final season of Outer Banks coming to Netflix soon. While we don't have an official release date yet, we're expecting to see the last installment in 2025 or 2026.

In their official letter "to all Pogues," creators Josh & Jonas Pate and Shannon Burke explain how a photo of teenagers on a beach during a power outage inspired them to create the hit show we've all come to know and love. "From this beginning, we imagined a mystery that would lead to a five-season journey of adventure, treasure hunting, and friendship," they say in an official letter. "At the time, seven years ago, it seemed impossible that we would really get to tell the whole five season story, but here we are, at the end of our fourth season, still chopping away."

"Now, with a little sadness, but also excitement, we're putting Season Four behind us and turning to Season Five, in which we hope to bring our beloved Pogues home in the way we imagined and planned years ago," they continue. "Season Five will be our last season, and we think it will be our best yet. We hope you'll join us for one more paddle out to the surf break."

I can't wait to see Outer Banks season 5, and TBH five seasons will round out the show perfectly considering each season focuses on a different Pogue. That means season 5 will probably focus on Sarah alongside Kiara's revenge. 👀 Stay tuned for all the OBX5 info you need to know.

Here's Yep, Outer Banks Season 4 Just Killed Off THAT Character in case you're still processing.

If you're playing Santa this holiday season, you'll want to pay extra attention to Targetbecause they've got so many goodies for every budget. From what we've seen, you can find a gift in just about any category, ranging from tech to beauty and wellness. Between us, some of our editorial team already has some good gets from this list in their carts — the gifts are that good. So whether you're shopping for Christmas, Hanukkah, birthdays, or just because, I've rounded up plenty of options for you!

Scroll down for 22 great gift ideas from Target!

The Best Gifts For Your Beauty-Obsessed Bestie

Target

SLF LED Face Mask

Soon your beauty-obsessed bestie will be able to say she has an LED face mask in her possession thanks to this version that's only $100 at Target! So far it has 8 5-star ratings which means it's going to give you the same benefits as a pricier one. What benefits, you ask?

The 7 different light therapy colors target everything from circulatory to scarring issues over time, leaving one's face refreshed each time it's used. It also makes sure your skincare goodies do their job more effectively.

P.S. It comes with a rechargeable USB and accompanying bag so it can be easily stored when not in use.

Target

Osea Bestsellers For Face & Body Kit

Beauty sets are ever popular this year because they truly make for the best gift ideas! With Osea's bestseller's kit, you can surprise the beauty lover in your life with products designed for their face and body. From the cleanser to the hydrating body oil, someone may fall in love with Osea and look for ways to incorporate more products into their daily routine!

Target

Cantu Sleigh All Day Holiday Gift Set

Give your sister or bestie the gift of slaying the holidays and new year with this cute set! It includes the following:

  • Cantu Extra Hold Stay Gel
  • Cantu Edges Styler
  • Cantu Coconut Curling Cream
  • Eylure Luxe Marquise False Eyelashes
  • Elegant Touch Press On Nails in Cocoa Crush
Their Christmas hairstyle and nails will be on point if you decide they need this before December 25.

Target

Rael Blemish Essentials Care Gift Sets

Pimples won't be able to crush anyone's holiday plans thanks to this blemish kit. It has 54 pimple patches and two amazing tea tree face masks for anyone who doesn't have time for beauty setbacks. From spot covers to overnight treatments, there's something that tackles breakouts in a cinch!

The Best Gifts For Whoever's Booked & Busy

Threshold Wood Lidded Glass Wellness Calm Candle

An at-home spa day always requires things that will help set the tone. One of the best ways you can help that booked and busy person in your life is to gift them with a candle that smells like lavender & sage. Both are known to invoke a sense of calm which is often needed for the person who's always on the go.

Target

Oura Ring 4

Forget the beloved Apple Watch and surprise your sister or bestie with the Oura Ring 4! It has Smart Sensing that'll provide insights about their health in ways they'd never expect. With 30 biometrics, sleep, activity, stress, and heart health trends will be recorded in real time. Though it looks bulky, it have a comfortable fit for daily wear and can be used with apps like Apple Health, Flo, and more.

Target

Therabody Theragun Relief

Our affiliate writer Meredith Holser gave her honest reviews about the Theragun before so we can vouch for how well it works. If you know someone who does physical labor or complains of intense neck or shoulder pain from sitting at a desk for 8 hours a day, you need to surprise them with this. It's an investment that'll provide them with the relief they're looking for because chronic pain can lead to more stress!

It comes with:

  • 3 massage attachments
  • Standard Ball
  • Dampener
  • Thumb
  • USB-C charging cable

Target

Sharper Image Portable Sauna

Forget booking another spa day and opt for something that'll always be in reach for the person who needs an intense sweat session. Its spacious design will allow the user to fit comfortably inside and receive the steam treatment of their dreams.

if you've ever been to a sauna then you know how amazing your body feels afterwards, plus it promotes a good night's sleep that rivals the benefits of sleepmaxxing!

Target

Green Inspired Guided Journal Softcover Sewn Today with Intention

Once that person's done pampering themselves, they'll love reaching for this intentional journal that helps them practice reflective self-care. Filled with different journal prompts that encourage practicing gratitude, it's the perfect gift for the person whose mind can't stop filtering from one task to the next.

The Best Target Gifts For The Book Lover In Your Life

Target

WITHit Quad Light LED Reading Light

This is for the book lover who won't stop straining their eyes to read at night when they're supposed to be sleeping. This LED reading light is secure enough to attach to any book and makes it easier to see the words on the page thanks to its 4-level brightness design.

Target

Threshold 2 Pack Marble and Wood Bookend Set

Has your bestie been raving nonstop about bookends to hold her books together? Look no further than this gift idea from Target.

Target

Brightroom Bamboo Bathtub Caddy

And if they insist on reading books while taking a bath, help them keep their latest read dry wit this bathtub caddy.

Target

DesignWorks Inc Book Lovers Journal

If 2025 is the year your bestie has declared she's going to track her reading habits, she needs a cute and compact book journal to help her do it. She can even write her own reviews of everything she's read — for better or worse!

Target

City Creek Prints

For the fun of it, gift your bestie with this canvas tote print and watch their eyes light up.

The Best Gifts For Anyone Obsessed With #FoodTok

Target

Gatherings

We all know that one person who can't stay away from #FoodTok and we get it. Help them start recreating meals in the comfort of the home with this casual-fancy cookbook.

Target

Half Baked Harvest Super Simple by Tieghan Gerard

We love Tieghan Gerard's recipes that she shares on her Half Baked Harvest site because they're flavorful and simple to make! She's got everything from cocktails to holiday-themed desserts that make our mouths water every time we see them.

Surprise the foodie in your life with her Super Simple cookbook in case they're on the hunt for quick and easy meals that'll happily fill their bellies.

Target

Hot Ones Hot Sauce Trio Pack

There's at least one person you know who's seen every episode of Hot Ones by now so we think you should surprise t hem with this hot sauce kit. They'll get to taste the mildest and hottest of flavors which may produce similar hilarious results as seen on the show!

Target

Figmint 7.5qt Enamel Dutch Oven in Blue

Target gift ideas often include a range of things - like this Dutch oven. Needless to say, it's mandatory for the cook in your life to have one.

Target

Hearth & Hand With Magnolia French Press Coffee Maker

Is there someone in your inner circle that won't stop chatting about French press coffee? It's a great idea for anyone who doesn't want to rely on a machine to brew their cup of coffee.

Target

Polder Twist Digital Kitchen Timer with Extra Large Black Display

I know it's seems lazy but a digital kitchen timer simplifies the cooking process.

Target

Ninja Luxe Café 3-in-1 Espresso, Coffee, and Cold Brew

But, you can splurge and surprise them with this Ninja Espresso machine! It has all the bells and whistles that'll make anyone feel like they've been working evening shifts at Starbucks. We can't get enough of the coffee bean grinder and attached milk frothing option that gives us the warmest or coldest foam we've ever tasted!

Target

Threshold 4pk Coupe Ribbed Glass Set

We already know your bestie needs the perfect glassware set for your upcoming Christmas gathering so why not gift her with this fancy set? You'll love looking at your peppermint cocktail recipes floating in these pretty glasses.

Which Target gift ideas are you adding to your Christmas list? Share with us below and subscribe to our newsletter for more holiday inspo!

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.

Christmas wreaths are great way to elevate your front door, entryway, or mantel during the holidays. From faux cedar and pine wrapped in velvet ribbon to a beautiful mix of dried fruit and flowers, these wreaths satisfy any holiday aesthetic and budget. To preserve your wreath outdoors, try to keep it away from direct sunlight and limit its exposure to rain, snow, whatever elements come your way. Prefer to make your own? Check out our pom pom, succulent, and holiday wreath DIYs you can make at a fraction of the cost.

Here are 20 wreaths you'll want to deck the halls, doors, mantel, and more this holiday season.

Real Touch Norfolk Pine Wreath with Velvet Bow and Bell

A simple velvet bow will elevate your door wreath for the season. This handmade and customizable faux Norfolk pine and juniper wreath is a very demure, very mindful way to decorate for the holidays, indoors and out.

Anthropologie Faux Cedar Wreath (optional trimmings)

Add velvet ribbon and ornaments to this faux and luxe cedar wreath and you have a colorful wreath for many years to come.

Crate and Barrel Faux Red Mini Berry Wreath

Available in holly berry red or winter white, this faux wreath brings holiday cheer to your door or mantel or even as wall art!

Food52 Vintage Bell Olive and Eucalyptus Wreath

Handmade in Monterey, CA, this stunning olive and eucalyptus wreath is very woodland vibes with two vintage bells strung with jute.

West Elm Faux Shimmer Wreath

Bring an instant glow to your holiday decor with this pre-lit wreath and matching garland.

Anthropologie Mistletoe Iron Wreath

For those who love kissing under the mistletoe, this wreath is the perfect holiday addition and tradition.

Maisonette Berry & Bright Ball Wreath

Go for vintage holiday party vibes with this cheeky glass wreath.

World Market Faux Eucalyptus and Red Berries Wreath

Deck your trad door with this lifelike eucalyptus wreath in two-tone green hues.

Afloral Real Touch Norfolk Pine Wreath

This super natural-looking pine wreath is faux and fabulous all year-round. Add small ornaments, ribbon, lights or just keep it au naturel.

William Sonoma Rainbow Kaleidoscope Live Wreath

Holiday wreath, but make it rainbow with air-dried botanicals like delphinium, larkspur, craspedia, strawflower, avena and eucalyptus. So fun!

DIY Holiday Wreath

Say hello to our embroidery hoop mixed with fringe, florals and wood. Take it a step further and add in succulents and some gold detailing to make it the cutest DIY Christmas wreath on the block. (via Brit + Co)

Etsy Large Beaded Natural Dried Wreath

This mix of boho botanicals on a lovely beaded wreath include: baby’s breath, banksia flowers, brunia stems, phylica, and flowers in green, red, yellow, and pink hues.

Anthropologie Paper Village Wreath

How cute are these colorful paper houses? Add a little village to your wreath this year for a whimsical look.

Etsy Boho Wreath

This boho-inspired pampas wreath is lush and beautiful and would look stunning on a dark-colored door.

DIY Pom Pom Wreath

Here's a wreath that's festive, colorful, and could be hung year-round. All it takes is some pom-pom skills (read: scissors) and a good Netflix binge to get you there. Get ready to bring pom-pom holiday decor to your home. (via Brit + Co)

ETSY DRIED FLOWER PAMPAS WREATH

Dried flowers combined with oats, wheat, pampas grass, and mixed cereals will turn your front door into an actual conversation piece.

Terrain Iron Constellation Wreath

This wreath is made up of a constellation of weathered iron stars for a little celestial vibe.

Cost Plus Mini Pinecone and Faux Greenery Wreath, Set of 2

Why go with just one big wreath when you can adorn your door with these sweet 6-inch wreaths with real pinecones, snowy faux pine sprigs and white eucalyptus leaves. Add them to doors, tablescapes or chair backs during your holiday feast.

Amazon Prime Snow-Covered Faux Spruce Wreath

With a mix of white berries, brown pine cones and festive stars, this "Welcome" wreath will cheer up your door instantly.

DIY Succulent Wreath

Here's a holiday wreath refresh, desert-style. It also makes a great handmade gift! (via Brit + Co)

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