This Grown-up Version of Millennial Pink Is Taking Over Our Instagram Feeds

Millennial pink had its moment in 2018, but there’s a new hue leader in town — grown-up pink. The dustier and more *mature* version of the cheery color is being showcased on wall backsplashes, couches, and beds alike. (And TBH, we’re not complaining.) If you’re ready to introduce a little brightness into your life for 2019, turn to the below ‘grams for a stylish dose of inspo.

1. @nudeandthenovice: Love (and grown-up pink) is all you really need.

2. @chambersaustelle: Kick back and relax on this velvet stunna all done up in the hue of the moment.

3. @atthelisles: Splash it on a statement wall for an eye-catching backdrop in your sleep space.

4. @ellie.lillstrom: We’d pick this lunch spot any day of the week. (Pass the rosé, please!)

5. @betsustudio: Velvet loungers and a luxe throw make for one dreamy bedroom. The only thing missing? A good book to curl up to.

6. @claireeliseinteriors: Two minutes or two hours, either way, we won’t mind passing the time on this rosy sofa.

7. @jmarquephoto: Nap queens get on board. Here’s one cozy set-up that’s bound to give your favorite pastime a serious upgrade. (Image posted on @apartmenttherapy.)

8. @_emi_road_: Two basic items never looked more beautiful.

9. @studio11_minsk: Scoot up a chair and stay awhile at this welcoming bar.

10. @nataliejayne_semmens: We’ve got all the heart-eye emojis over this room.

Searching for a hue for your next project? Check us out on Pinterest for more trending colors!

I've always loved a pop of blue, red, or yellow in an otherwise neutral space. And while I admire anyone who can masterfully combine all three, blue has always been my clear favorite. Now, IKEA has officially crowned 'Electric Blue' as their 2025 Color of the Year. Inspired by the seas and skies, Electric Blue is a hue that IKEA describes as “contemplative and calm, yet versatile enough for modern and traditional spaces.”

Whether you’re looking to refresh a bedroom, energize a living room, or add a cool pop to your kitchen, this happy, bold shade delivers in the form of wall art, plush throws, or statement-making furniture. The best part? It plays well with others. Pair it with sunny yellows, vibrant oranges, soft lavenders, or even a daring hot pink. Will you be embracing this blue wave in 2025? From rugs and pillows to accessories and more, here are our top picks to embrace the new year with a splash of blue.

Wayfair

Iryanna Upholstered Armchair

This playful elephant trunk design calls for a color that doesn't take itself too seriously, creating a look that's minimalist and modern yet anything but boring.

IKEA

IKEA KLIPPOXEL Throw

This yarn-dyed throw feels just like mohair and it's made from recycled materials. It's a great way to commit to this bright color while on a budget.

West Elm

WE Checkered Shag Washable Rug

This 100% wool rug is actually washable and adds a bit of play and pop of blue to any space.

IKEA

IKEA KYRRE Stool

These stacking stools are so versatile and can be added to the corner of any room for extra seating or tables.

Urban Outfitters

UO Lola Nightstand

This cylindrical side table is perfect for holding your best reads, phone, other bedside essentials.

Amazon

Knot Pillow

Go blue on this iconic pillow for a whimsical and cozy addition to any room.

IKEA

IKEA SLATTUM Upholstered Bed Frame

This affordable bed frame will brighten up your bedroom and day.

Amazon

AllBlue Modern Eclectic Wall Art, Set of 12

For just $10, you can channel your own Blue Period with this striking and eclectic gallery wall.

Etsy

Twist Candles By Lex Pott

Designer Lex Pott combined both base and candle so you don't need a candle holder. Brilliant idea and color!

IKEA

IKEA KRYLBO Chair

Pull up a chair in Electric Blue with this upholstered piece that works in dining rooms, kitchens, and offices.

All Modern

Gemmell Hand Tufted Wool Rug

This 100% hand-tufted New Zealand wool rug makes a bold statement with simple geometric shapes.

IKEA

IKEA PRUNKHALLON Mirror

This wavy mirror in Electric Blue pairs perfectly with the IKEA BLÅSVERK Table Lamp in the same color.

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

Am I really that delusional to think reading the best romance books of the year had something to do with the deepened connection between my fiancé and I? Maybe, maybe not. What I do know is that these books sparked my imagination which led to more dates and the growth of a love language I used to cringe at — consistent physical touch.

If you love the classic romance troupes, you'll enjoy getting to know the many ways people can fall in love with these 10 books.

Here are 10 best romance books that were so spicy — & I totally fell in love with this year!

Amazon

1. How to End a Love Story by Yulin Kuang

How many times will I add this book to a "best of" roundup? It's hard to say, but this probably won't be the last time you hear about How to End a Love Story.
I don't want to cheapen it's plot by saying it follows the familiar enemies-to-lovers troupe because Helen Zhang and Grant Shepard's trajectory stems from a tragic situation they couldn't control. What readers will discover is they were unfairly thrust in the middle of something that requires a lot of them and have had to try to build their lives after it.
The fact they get to work together on an adaptation of one of Helen's most popular books is just the beginning of the dismantling of their rigid shells.

Amazon

2. The Paradise Problem by Christina Lauren

The Paradise Problemis the other book I'll forever champion because you couldn't tell it was written by two authors! That's right, Christina Lauren is a bestie duo that managed to craft Anna and Liam's story in a way that makes me wish I could meet them in my mind for the first time.
Unknown to them, they're both dealing with family issues. The only difference is that Anna's always know what it's liked to loved and supported by her dad while Liam's had to face a cold, calculating one. Together, they'll learn that a fake relationship can give way to something beautiful if they're able to work past the looming disaster that's waiting for them.

Amazon

3. Slow Dance by Rainbow Rowell

Rainbow Rowell created magic with Slow Dance and it has everything to do with the fact two best friends didn't realize they were in love with each other. Their names? Shiloh and Cary.
They used to be really close when they were younger, but adulthood pulled them in separate directions and things sort of fell apart. For Shiloh, being a single mother whose dreams didn't pan out the way she wanted feels particularly tough.
Still, attending a friend's wedding gives her a spark of hope and anxiety because she knows she'll see Cary again. When they do lay eyes on each other, all of their memories and unspoken words come rushing back.

Amazon

4. The Slowest Burn by Sarah Chamberlain

The Slowest Burn is the only piece of fiction that inspired me to start cooking recipes with my fiancé again this year. It's full of tasty glimpses of recipes and a little spicy romance that'll make you blush.

Ellie Wasserman and Kiernan O'Neill couldn't be more different than each other, but yet they're forced to get a little more acquainted when they get into a verbal spat during the latter's big night at the restaurant he works at. Ellie's supposed to be the ghostwriter for Kiernan's cookbook, but he has no idea what he wants to include and that aggravates Ellie because she thinks he has the privilege of not caring.

However, a weeks days together proves they've misjudged each other and things start heating up in more ways than one.

Amazon

5. Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez

Just for the Summer is another fun rom-com that I enjoyed reading for it's interesting plot. Justin and Emma find their way into each other's lives as they grapple with having back luck in the love department. They've both watched countless exes find love and happiness after dating them so they decide it's worth date each other for a while before calling it quits. The problem is that their little time on Lake Minnesota comes with a lot more than they bargained for.

Amazon

6. This Summer Will Be Different by Carley Fortune

What is it about flings that makes us think they're a good idea? I don't think we have the answers, especially Lucy and Felix. They have a great time together while she's visiting Prince Edward Island, but Felix has very close ties to Lucy's best friend. Over time, Lucy's trips to the island with her bestie Bridget become more frequent and she swears off having another intimate moment with Felix.
One day, Bridget gets a case of the wedding jitters and leaves for Toronto. Wanting to come to figure out what's going on, Lucy trails behind her. She'll have to ease her friend's fears and pretend she doesn't feel anything for the man she can't stop thinking about.

Amazon

7. Summer Romance by Annabel Monaghan

Ali Morris reminds me of everyone who's know how to help other people keep track of things while their own life is a mess. She's still grieving her mom when her marriage crumbles so she kind of gives up on life. When she decides to at least get out of the house, she meets Ethan...while wearing overalls of all things.

She's not sure what will happen, but she decides to let herself get caught up in Ethan for the summer. She's genuinely surprised when it genuinely seems like Ethan likes her and wouldn't mind having something more than a summer romance.

Amazon

8. A Novel Love Storyby Ashley Poston

Eileen Merriweather is a girl after my own heart because she loves reading romance books too. At least they keep her mind off the fact her soon-to-be-husband decided to call off their wedding during the ceremony. The one thing she has to look forward to is the book club retreat she's going to. She's filled with so much excitement until a mishap leaves her stuck in the small town of Eloraton.
It's a place she's read about before which lessens the blow of what's happened until she realizes nothing's progressed from the author's story who's no longer alive. The only person is her way is an irritatingly moody and sexy bookshop owner who doesn't want her meddling in things.
It could be that she and him are the key to putting things on the right track, if only they can get aligned on a plan.

Amazon

9. Wild Love by Elsie Silver

Ford Grant doesn't care about having his accomplishments or looks celebrated. He'd actually prefer to set up shop in Rose Hill, but his plans are interrupted when his alleged daughter finds him. So, he runs his business and tries to connect with the moody pre-teen that's become a regular part of his life. Further complicating his life is the presence of Rosie Belmont — the sister of his best friend.

He doesn't hesitate to give her a job when she asks, determined to keep things professional. However, the more he tries to create distance between them, the more she inches closer.

There's so many reasons why Ford should stay away from Rosie, but emotion keeps overriding logic.

Amazon

10. A Love Song for Ricki Wilde by Tia Williams

Tia Williams painted a lovely picture of love between two creative artists who find love in Harlem, NY. It starts with Ricki Wilde understanding she's nothing like her sisters or wealthy family in Atlanta. She'd rather pursue a more freeing experience that's not bound by so many stuffy rules and the terrible romantic picks she keeps running into.
As Ricki gets settled in Harlem, she ends up meeting Ezra and that's when time and love begin to give way to something greater than she could've ever imagined.

Don't miss out on the overall best books I read in 2024! Check out our storefront for even more good reads to pick up this year!

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

Finally — a Pantone Color of the Year that I can totally get on board with. PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse is a deliciously warm brown that blends two of my favorite things: coffee and chocolate. This cozy, yet refined hue is the ultimate neutral for anyone embracing the earthy tones that make your home decor feel grounded, organic, and effortlessly elevated. It's rich without being overpowering, with a muted sophistication (think: coffee with a splash of cream) that instantly warms up a space. Pantone describes it as the color of comfort, and I couldn’t agree more.

“Mocha Mousse is the perfect choice for 2025," says designer Ashely Stark. "Mocha Mousse offers endless possibilities for decorating, whether it’s through a plush rug, a soothing carpet, or as a base for bold pops of color like deep jewel tones or metallics. This versatile shade opens up a world of design options, making it a timeless and adaptable addition to any space." Ready to infuse your home with a Mocha Mousse aesthetic? Here are 15 easy ways to embrace the look for 2025.

See how to decorate with Pantone's Color of the Year, Mocha Mousse, here!

Mocha Mousse Soft Goods: Bedding + Pillows + Throws + Rugs

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Lustered Velvet Alastair Quilt

Velvet is making everything cozy for 2025 and this lovely set with mocha tones will instantly refresh your bed for the season.

McGee & Co.

McGee & Co. Polly Pillow Cover

This plaid pillow in 100% linen is luxe yet approachable for that sophisticated McGee vibe, mocha style!

McGee & Co.

McGee & Co. x Loeffler Randall Gardenia Pillow Cover

This warm plaid pattern, designed in collab with Loeffler Randall, is a perfect pairing for your mocha decor.

Lulu and Georgia

Lulu and Georgia Behren Wool Rug

This handwoven rug feels organic, fresh and modern with a literal grounding palette.

Pottery Barn

Pottery Barn Faux Fur Mink Throw

This luxe faux mink fur in deep brown and creamy tones is the throw we want to cozy up with all winter.

Statement Mocha Mousse Accents

Lights and Lamps

Avero Concrete Table Lamp

The mocha cast in this concrete lamp is stunning in a bedroom or living room.

Minted

Minted Earthy Cascade I

This abstract print of a mountain and river landscape is earthy and modern and perfect for your wall decor. Pair it with Earthy Cascade II.

Pottery Barn

Pottery Barn Artisan Studio Handcrafted Ceramic Collection

Ceramics have a way of making a home feel less sterile. The organic shape and rustic finish of these vessels are gorgeous in any mocha decor.

CB2

Regine Brown Glass Vase by goop

Inspired by midcentury Murano glass, this handblown brown glass vase by goop transitions from clear to earthy brown and looks lovely with a dried or fresh bouquet.

Mocha Mousse Furniture

Lulu and Georgia

Lulu and Georgia Baird Accent Chair

Let the overstuffed arms hug you while you read a book in this inviting accent chair.

Joybird

Joybird Denna Sectional

Get cozy in this dreamy oversized sectional with so many pillows, perfect for your winter weekend Netflix binge!

Mocha Mousse Paint

Sherwin Williams

Sherwin Williams SW 6067 Mocha

This muted chocolate neutral is perfect in a home office or living room. Try it as an accent wall or go full color drenching.

Benjamin Moore

Benjamin Moore Whipped Mocha CSP-350CSP-350

This color literally looks like a whipped mocha delivered straight from your favorite barista.

Graham & Brown

Graham & Brown Hot Mocha

This mocha leans into the warmer side, bringing a warm, inviting and luxe feel to a room.

Pair Mocha Mousse With These Colors

Wayfair

Chris Loves Julia x Loloi Matilda Collection

Lean into natural colors like creamy whites, beige, and taupe for a sophisticated mocha vibe. Olive, greige, and burgundy reds with a smidge of gold will also bring out the mocha warmth for 2025!

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

Fashion trends come and go, but not all of them are missed. Just like outdated shoes or makeup, there are some things we'd rather leave in our confused or wild party days. From thinking it was cute to wear teeny vests to not caring if our boobs spilled out of scarf tops, we cringe every time we think of these 10 nostalgic things we used to wear.

We're also sure you happily wore one or few of them at some point. Like us, it's possibly you have a relic from the past stuffed in the deepest part of your closet.

All we can say is that we sincerely hope you don't plan to wear any of these cringey fashion trends next year!

Here are the 10 outdated fashion trends you definitely need to retire for 2025!

1. Cropped Vests

Brandon Ricketts

You didn't have to look far if you wanted to spot a celeb wearing a variation of a vest. From under boob designs to cropped versions, they used to dominate fashion. We're willing to bet you even wore the latter in middle or high school. If think we've been sneaking to look at your closet, we haven't nor are we psychic.

We know you had at least one cropped vest because we did too. Some of us had a punk rock era while others thought we were adopted the business casual style that seemed appropriate for our younger selves. Needless to say, this trend won't cut it in 2025.

2. Ponchos

Ayoub Moukhliss

If you didn't own a poncho when you were younger, what were you doing? It was one of the 'it girl' trends that dominated whether you were deemed stylish or not, and guess who couldn't get enough of wearing it? Us...and maybe you too!

Thankfully, we've outgrown our desire to be seen in something that wouldn't get us in trouble at church because we realize it's actually not flattering. Besides, the goal is to let your outfit shine without hiding it under a shapeless garment.

3. Scarf Tops

David Gari

Unless you're headed to a festival or vacationing somewhere where wearing minimal clothing isn't given a side eye, scarf tops are to be left in the past. We actually don't have the words to describe just how much we'd prefer for you to wear everything BUT this trend. Since we're currently glitching, we'll say that we'd prefer to see you wear a poncho in 2025 before you try to revive this.

4. Shorter Leather Jackets

Anna Shvets

This is more of our more controversial takes, but we'll say it anyway: shorter leather jackets don't belong in your closest in 2025. They were great when we were in college, but now? It just seems like they're reserved for 20-year-olds who are still trying to figure out who and what they want to be in life. An oversized, vintage-esque option always looks best!

5. Puffy Faux Fur Coats

Following NYC

Sigh, It seems like everyone wanted their hands on a faux fur coat, but we think this is one of the most outdated fashion trends. It looks like it belongs to the street style during 2016-2018's fashion weeks. While we're add it, please don't pair it with anything camo if you decide this is one thing you're not ready to give up yet.

6. Low Rise Jeans & Skirts

Mizuno K

All we can think about when we see super low rise jeans or skirts are our middle school days. Unfortunately, we saw too many pairs of thongs being exposed because of this style and it scarred us! Unlike other styles we've mentioned, we're adamant that you shouldn't pass 'go' for the sake of reviving low rise anything. Gen Z may say otherwise, but let's just let these lie where they belong: the 2000s.

7. White Sunglasses

Following NYC

Sunglasses are a cute way to spice up your outfit when you're looking for an accessory that doesn't feel distracting. BUT, it's possible to still get that wrong if you're wearing sunglasses that have glaring frames. They're known for making a statement, but not in a good way. Let's leave the white sunnies behind, please!

8. Page Boy Hats

Following NYC

We're sure you can pull of a great page boy hat, but it's the quickest way for most stylish people to wonder if you're trying to hold on to a time where they made everyone look great.

Sigh...Okay, we're just not a fan of this trend, and find that it may unintentionally age you.

9. Overdone Ruffles

cottonbro studio

Unless you're trying to show Lord Farquaad you would make an excellent wife, leave the overdone ruffles alone! They're not going to make anyone look good even if you've pulled them off in the past. Honestly, the above outfit would be really cute if it weren't for the layered ruffles around the neck so let this be a lesson to keep them in the past.

10. Tiny Denim Shorts

Nicolas Postiglioni

"Who wears short shorts?" Well, we used to before we realized that they're not the most stylish option. They're great for summer vacation or days where you want to give your legs breathing room, but we don't think they should be a part of your everyday uniform anymore. There's other denim styles you can rely on like balloon jeans, dresses, or even longline shorts!

Which of these cringey fashion trends did you used to wear? Let us know on Facebook!

Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco's engagement is the marquis diamond ring heard 'round the world — and Justin Bieber may have just reacted to it. Our collective jaws were already on the floor after Hailey Bieber liked the Instagram, but this has taken everything to a whole other level. The "Sorry" singer took to Instagram himself, making a post that fans couldn't help tying to the recent engagement news. Here's what he said (in not so many words).

Here's how Justin Bieber (maybe) reacted to Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco's engagement!

Instagram/selenagomez

We all know that Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco announced their adorable Taco Bell picnic engagement on December 12, 2024. The post is chalk-full of friend, fan, and celebrity support — including a 'like' from Hailey Bieber, herself. If you're wondering why that may be a big deal, let me break it down for you.

Hailey and Selena both dated Justin Bieber in the 2010's, and there was seemingly a bit of back-and-forth between the three for a few years there. This erupted a "feud" of sorts, leaving Hailey and Selena at odds in the public eye. However, they've continued to show us that any remaining "beef" is squashed.

But now? Now, Justin is sorta stirring the pot a little bit.

Instagram/justinbieber

On December 16, 2024, Justin posted a selfie with Hailey kissing his cheek — innocuous enough, right? Well, fans noticed he attached "All My Ghosts" by Lizzy McAlpine to the post. The song has since been deleted, but Page Six still has the screenshot to prove it.

People attach songs to posts every day, but this tune in particular caught everyone's attention. In the very sentimental song, Lizzy McAlpine sings:

I can see it now, the wedding of the year

I can see it now, he stands up there and wipes his tears

I can see it now, when all my ghosts disappear

I can see it crystal clear.

Sensing any parallels to Justin's life? Yeah, us too. He could have truly just liked the song — it's great! — but it's pretty hard to ignore the underlying message there. All I know is, I hope these ghosts "disappearing" mean the drama between this trio is officially gone for good. We don't want the girls fighting anymore!

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