This Middle Schooler Is Showing Thousands of Teens to Embrace Their Acne

Ladies First highlights women and girls who are making the world better for the rest of us.

All throughout middle school, Leia Immanuel, a 14-year-old eighth-grade student from New York, has dealt with hormonal acne. She always knew that her acne was natural but, like so many teens, she struggled to feel confident in herself and her imperfect skin. As a way of coping, she started @artdr3am, an Instagram account where she could start documenting her skin struggles.

“It was supposed to be an account for just my friends,” explains Immanuel, who says she didn’t think much of it at the time. Except people caught on. Now, just over a year since making her initial post, the teen has nearly 90,0000 followers.

View this post on Instagram

PSA: to all my girls n guys acne, all of the hormonal preteen monsters and all of the adults with acne and EVERYBODY in between that's been insecure of their acne, YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL! With all the people speaking out w their experience in the petty fight, I wanted to address this. I'm a teenager and I have acne! Non inflammatory, mild acne. I've had it so far for 3 years. I've had ups and downs with it, but every day I learn to accept it a little more. Acne would take over my mind and stress me out to the point where I was in tears! I would be afraid to look people in the eye, and even talk to my best friends. It took a toll on me physically and psychologically, which completely destructed my self esteem. I don't even have it so bad, but as someone who's dealt and is dealing with it, it does have great affects on me. If I had to list all of my knowledge on products and remedies that I've gone through, it would go on forever. Acne still frustrates me for obvious reasons, but instead of tearing myself down for it, I had to realize:its normal! I'm in that 'age,' and that's okay! If you're 20 and you still have it, that's okay,! If you have cystic acne, tons of whiteheads, blackheads, papules, nodules, the list goes on and on, it's okay. You are beautiful. For those people that have tried everything and their skin still won't clear, it's okay! For those of you that were lucky enough to clear your acne, congratulations!! Seriously. A big part of dealing with this is realizing that it is not the only thing about you. Realizing that you are still resilient and incredible. As for me, I'm taking care of my diet, hydration skin and overall health. It'll take time, but its okay. Acne has made me understand myself and others better believe it or not. I feel like after dealing with it I am more open minded and understanding of people going through it or any other sort of condition. Dismiss anyone insisting that you are less than you are for it. They don't understand what you have gone through, they are in the wrong for being ignorant. So this was what I have to say. Disagree or agree. If you want, comment your story. To everyone with acne- You are beautiful.

A post shared by leia (@artdr3am) on

For years, Immanuel’s acne had been an up and down journey and constant battle with dermatologists. “I used to put on SO much makeup just to cover it up,” she recalls. Though she quickly realized that layering on concealer and foundation didn’t help her skin, walking around with the tiny red bumps on her face made her feel “as if I was a monster.” She knew she had to do something about it.

Thus, her Instagram account was born. She explains in an email interview to Brit + Co that for teenagers especially, social media can provide an avenue to connect and reach out to others who are going through the same struggles. For her, this has meant connecting with others via the photos she’s shared and realizing that her acne was, indeed, a normal and common part of growing up.

“I’ve grown more comfortable in my skin and body, and it’s changed the way I’ve seen people and the world,” she says.


Posting to her account daily made Immanuel realize that she was just a teenager who needed to live her life without dwelling on superficial details.

“The energy we spent stressing about body image is insane,” she says. “It could be saved or used for other things. Beauty is subjective and does not define you as a person; you define yourself.”

Each of her photos is usually captioned with something motivational or a bit about her day. The impact it’s had on her audience has been incredible. Since her launch, Immanuel notes that she’s had Instagrammers from around the world direct-message her with their own experiences and comment about how much she’s inspired them to embrace their own bare skin.

“Most of the times people say that they look back on my posts if they need a reminder on how to feel confident again,” Immanuel says. “That, in every possible way, just warms my heart!”


We love that Immanuel’s message of self-love and self-acceptance is spreading and we hope that more follow her lead in embracing their own acne and imperfections.

You like to travel in a pack, have your creativity stand out, and look stylish on Halloween. You could dress up as a Harry Potter character (we vote Luna Lovegood!) or choose a group costume and go as the cast of Grease, but this year, you want something even more… inspired. Stay creative and adventurous with one of these 52 teen Halloween costume ideas.

Brit + Co

French Girl

Oh French girls, you are always so effortlessly chic.

Whether you're a couple or a dynamic duo, these costumes are for you!

Brit + Co

Operation Costume

Remember that old board game you used to love as a kid? This costume is the perfect way to bring back the childhood classic and is guaranteed to be the most fun of any costume around.

Brit + Co

Olympic Gymnast

Go for the gold with this athletic costume that includes warm-up pants, because let's be real — it would be a little uncomfortable (and cold) to wear a leotard around all night.

Brit + Co

Double Stuffed Oreos

What's better than showing your love for your bae on Halloween? Well, each of you dressing up as one half of an Oreo, for starters.

Brit + Co

Harry Potter and Hermione Granger

Looks like a treacherous night in the Forbidden Forest!

Brit + Co

Minnie and Mickey Mouse

Who's the leader of the club that's made for you and me? M-I-C-K-E-Y-M-O-U-S-E!

Brit + Co

Rainbow and a Pot of Gold

You and your friend will undoubtedly have a blast rocking these looks!

Brit + Co

Doug and Patty Mayonnaise

This iconic cartoon duo is surprisingly easy to bring to life.

Brit + Co

La Croix Cans

No matter which flavor of La Croix is your BAE, we can all agree that the sparkling water is life.

Brit + Co

Mean Girls

Here's a little Mean Girls inspo for Halloween, because a classic like this never gets old.

Brit + Co

Alvin and the Chipmunks

This group costumeis cute, comfortable and, most importantly, school-appropriate.

Brit + Co

Landmark Cities

You see London, you see France, you see Lady Liberty's underpants.

Brit + Co

Fruit Salad

Grab a few of your friends and decorate shirts to look like fruits, and you have yourself a DIY fruit salad.

Brit + Co

Ghostbusters

This is totally the year to rock a Ghostbusters costume! All-female cast? Represent!

Brit + Co

Spice Girls

Though we're all about bringing back Sporty, Scary, Baby, Posh, and Ginger, go the clever route and simply dress up as your favorite spices.

Brit + Co

Group Sushi Costume

Yum! Why not grab a few friends and dress up as your favorite roll? Sushi roll, that is.

Brit + Co

Minions

When in doubt, you can always turn to animated movies for a little inspo.

Brit + Co

Inside Out

We're feeling all kinds of emotions about this Pixar film-inspired group look. HBU?

Pop Culture Costumes

Brit + Co

Chuckie from Rugrats

“Things never turn out like they do in the movies." (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Kim Possible

She's just a normal high school cheerleader who happens to fight villains in her spare time. Her style is easy to replicate using items you can actually reuse after Halloween.

Brit + Co

Ariel from The Little Mermaid

“I wanna be where the people are."

Brit + Co

Mary Poppins

This Halloween, why not throw it back and dress up like the classic English nanny?

Brit + Co

Wonder Woman

Diana Prince does it all: She's a peaceful diplomat and a raging warrior. In the 2017 movie starring Gal Gadot, they revamped her retro outfit into a fiercely sexy yet strong ensemble that enhances her inner strength.

Brit + Co

Sleeping Beauty

“They say if you dream a thing more than once, it's sure to come true."

Brit + Co

Aladdin and Jasmine

“I can show you the world!" Or the Google Maps directions to the Halloween party.

Brit + Co

Daenerys Targaryen

The silver-haired queen on Game of Thrones continues onward, never veering from her path toward glory as the ruler of the seven kingdoms. Talk about making a #lifegoal and sticking to it.

Brit + Co

Rosie the Riveter

Here's to our girlies on the front lines, still rockin' out and #RESIST-ing! Show your support for the feminist movement as this iconic lady boss.

Brit + Co

Tinkerbell

Always the sassy one, that Tink.

Brit + Co

Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz

To bring the costume to the next level, pair with accessories such as frilly white socks and a basket to hold your flowers or dog.

Brit + Co

Pokemon

The gang's all here — let's catch 'em all. Pika pika!

Brit + Co

Batgirl

Batgirl here, ready to fight some crime.

Brit + Co

Snow White

She's kind, friendly, patient, and stylish! And even though Snow really only goes for her lovely primary-colored dress, we thought it would be the most fun to DIY her classic red, blue, and yellow ensemble.

Brit + Co

Katniss

To re-create this look, you'll need a serious stance, leather jacket, T-shirt, dark pants (cargos would work, too), boots, a bow and arrow, eyes of fire and, of course, a mockingjay pin.

Brit + Co

Kimmy Schmidt

Take a break from your Netflix binge and get in touch with your Kimmy Schmidt side. Hashbrown no filter.

Brit + Co

Anna and Elsa fromFrozen

Sisters who ice skate together, stay together.

Brit + Co

Rey

This really is the perfect disguise for any gal who has the desire to channel her inner warrior.

Brit + Co

Sansa Skirt

Winter is coming, and this red-headed Stark from Game of Thrones is *not* messing around.

Halloween Costumes

Sally from Nightmare Before Christmas

Being a little older is knowing that Sally from Nightmare Before Christmas is THAT girl.

Halloween Costumes

Captain Hook

Captain Hook is another iconic character that deserves his shine on Halloween.

Halloween Costumes

Queen of Hearts Costume

It's time to rule all the hearts of Halloween with this cute outfit.

Halloween Costumes

Cat in the Hat Costume

If your teen grew up hearing you read ​The Cat in the Hat​, they'll love dressing up as our favorite mischievous character. 

Spirit Halloween

Robin Hood Costume

Robin Hood is universal and makes for a good Halloween costume!

Halloween Costumes

Daphne from Scooby Doo

Daphne was an amazing character who knew she was stylish, smart and supportive of her friends antics. If that sounds like your teen, this is the costume for her!

Halloween Costumes

Carmen Sandiego

Where in the world is Carmen Sandiego? Probably somewhere solving a mystery while others only catch a quick view of her long red coat.

Halloween Costumes

Lava Girl

We had to include Lava Girl on this list. How could we not?

Halloween Costumes

Violet from The Incredibles

Sometimes the best things aren't always on display - like Violet's immense power!

Brit + Co

La La Land

This costume is v. easy to put together, and once you have it on, you'll be ready to dance and sing your way through Halloween.

Brit + Co

Big Bird

Combining our love of feathers with Sesame Street? Yes, please. Plus, that Big Bird face is just too much (in a good way).

Brit + Co

Cookie Monster

An all-time classic and the best possible outfit for the gal who wants to have an excuse to pretty much wear a Snuggie all day.

Quirky Costumes

Brit + Co

Avocado Toast

Everyone loooooves it because, TBH, what's not to love about avocados and bread?

Brit + Co

The Cat's Meow

Calling all cat ladies: We have the purrrfect Halloween costume for you. Enter the OG cat costume, a look that's beyond easy to throw together in a pinch.

Brit + Co

Scarecrow

Can we get a round of applause for overalls coming back into style in time for Halloween?

Brit + Co

Jellyfish

The mystical creatures that live in the ocean will forever win over our Halloween hearts.

Brit + Co

Retro Devil

Get ready for some devil meets *major* Sandy from Grease vibes.

Amazon

Inflatable Dinosaur Costume

Halloween doesn't have to be super serious all the time. Keep things lighthearted and silly with this inflatable dinosaur costume.

Halloween Costumes

Jolly Rancher Costume

A jolly rancher costume is too cheeky to pass up.

Halloween Costumes

Hershey's Kiss

If your teen wants to join in on the metallic trend in a hilarious way, have her dress up as a Hershey's Kiss.

Halloween Costumes

Glenda the Good Witch from Wizard of Oz

If your teen never needs an excuse to wear something pink or sparkly, have her dress as Glenda the Good Witch from The Wizard of Oz!

What other teen Halloween costume ideas would you like to learn to make? Tell us on Twitter or join our newsletter for more inspiration or explore our creative online classes.

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.

You'd think someone with acne-prone skin wouldn't buy viral beauty finds without doing thorough research, but I'm not above trying to recreate all the latest makeup trends at home. All this did was remind me that everything isn't for everyone — and that's okay! Well...it's not okay I fee like I wasted money, but at least I know what to stay away from. And now I'm here to help you figure out what to avoid as well!

Even though this products didn't work for me, that doesn't mean you can't or shouldn't use them. These are just my least faves of the year — take 'em or leave 'em!

Here are all the overrated beauty finds I wish I wouldn't have bought

Amazon

1. MILK Hydro Grip Primer

I should've known better than to buy this again, but I wanted to see if my skin would react better to it. The first time I tried to use this, I broke out along my jaws in tiny, red bumps. They were itchy and eventually turned into dark spots that took me over a year to get rid of.

Instead of letting that be the red flag that kept me away from this beauty find, I decided to use it in place of my trusted e.l.f. Cosmetics Power Grip Primer I've been relying on. Two things happened:

  1. It created a beautiful base for my makeup.
  2. I didn't break out, but my faced still felt itchy.

I even switched my makeup brushes and checked to make sure other makeup products weren't expired. The culprit continued to be this primer so it's made it to my overrated list.

Amazon

2. KORA Organics Kakadu Plum Vitamin C Serum

I was initially sent this to test, but I decided to buy it myself to see if I truly like it. While it was easy to add to my skincare routine lineup, I realized I actually didn't need to spend $70+ for an effective Vitamin C serum. The only difference between this serum and the one I truly love are their colors and textures.

This one has a slightly yellowish-orange tint to it while being a little thicker compared to the Timeless Skin Care Vitamin C serum I use. The latter is thinner and 100% transparent, plus the odor is slightly stronger. However, both of them aid in smoother skin, smaller pores, and a healthy glow.

I honestly wouldn't buy this one again just because I can get the same benefits for a lesser price.

Amazon

3.NYX Cosmetics Fat Oil Lip Drip

This is a controversial take, but I honestly didn't love the NYX Fat Oil Lip Drip. Although I love the color payoff, it was too sticky for my liking. I saw reviews that mentioned this, but I've purchased lip glosses other people didn't love that worked for me in the past. However, the reviews are telling the truth: the stickiness takes away from what could've been a great formula.

I'll just stick to my Tower 28 Lip Softie Hydrating Lip Treatment in Ube Vanilla!

Amazon

4. L'Oréal Voluminous Panorama Washable Mascara

I know people love this beauty find because it is great. I just didn't think the hype was enough to convince me to buy it again because my essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara gets the job done for $5. I will say I love the washable feature of L'Oréal's version, but it's still not enough to make me willingly spend over $10 for it.

As great of a product as this is, it's overrated to me because of the price tag.

Sephora

5. Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Medium Coverage Foundation

Sigh...it's so hard for me to admit this, but this Haus Labs foundation has become my most overrated beauty find of 2024. It's not that it doesn't work for a few hours, but my skin prefers tinted moisturizers more than anything. I talked about it briefly on TikTok, but skin tints feel like you're not wearing anything on your face.

I'm always really oily after wearing this foundation for a few hours, but I can get extended wear out of the Danessa Myricks Yummy Skin Tint I've been wearing. I like to think it's because it has vegan collagen, ceramides, and cactus extract in it whereas this foundation has ingredients like fermented arnica in it.

Both do a great job of calming inflammation, but something about this foundation makes my skin think it's incredibly dry.

Visit our Amazon Storefront for a list of beauty products we do love!

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

We all have a person on our gift list that's hard to shop for, but somehow, shopping for a teen feels harder. They are discerning, but their interests can change direction like a breeze. And as the adults in their lives, we are expected to keep up. Sure, gift cards will do in a pinch, but we believe it's possible to surprise a teenager (in a good way) with a gift. It's why we rounded up presents that the youngest members of Gen Z will love. From cozy winter gear to Y2K accessories to clean makeup and skin-care products, these 44 perfect presents are good teen gift candidates for the holidays.

Faux Pearl & Flower Drop Earrings ($5)

If earrings could be a tropical vacation, it'd be this pair.

Storets Miracle Fuzzy Scarf ($43)

What winter look isn't improved by a colorful scarf?

Riley Hubatka x Peppermayo Laguna Cross Body Bag, Green Check ($45)

This green-checked crossbody has a slim, '90s-inspired silhouette, but it's still big enough to carry the essentials.

Lauren Sadler Tie Dye DIY Kit ($38)

Crafty teens can experiment with tie-dye using this DIY kit that contains everything they'll need to get started as well as two bandanas and a cotton pouch to tie-dye.

InnBeauty Glaze for Days ($65, was $97)

Inside this pink makeup bag, there are five different flavored lip oils to test out: Candy Apple, Frosé, Fruity Cereal, Cookie, and Glazed Donut.

Madewell Confetti Wide-Cuff Beanie ($52)

This snuggly wool-blend hat will be a go-to all winter long.

Anatomicals Deep Cleansing Mud Mask ($4)

Bring the spa to their room with this mud sheet mask that gives pores a thorough cleanse.

Juraté Brown and Johnna Green Raw Birthstone Studs ($50)

A raw, freeform take on the classic birthstone, these minimalist earrings have sterling silver posts and backs.

Alo Plush Luck Sock ($20)

These soft, fuzzy socks have a bit of Spandex to keep them from getting too stretched out.

The Modern Witch Tarot Deck ($27)

This deck by Lisa Sterle combines classic tarot symbolism with 2022 style.

The Sill Philodendron Green ($78)

Ideal for first-time plant parents, this low-maintenance beauty grows quickly and can survive less-than-regular waterings.

SuperWorld The Super Puff New Mitten ($55)

Finally, mittens that are like a puffy jacket for the hands.

Madewell Sherpa Scuff Slippers ($50)

Faux shearling makes these clog-style slippers a cozy go-to.

Storets Mely Buttoned Wrap Top ($40)

Part cardigan, part wrap top, this colorful shirt is definitely cute.

Odcuple Original 12oz Reusable Coffee Cup ($30)

A reusable cup made with biodegradable plastic, ceramic, and silicon is perfect for hot drinks, both on the go and at home.

Pretti.Cool Incense Holder Square Grey & White ($32)

Incense-loving teens will adore this concrete holder that doubles as decor.

Youthforia Y2K Bundle ($55, was $62)

You'll get two Youthforia favorites in a Y2K-inspired pack: the award-winning blush oil that uses your skin's pH to create a just-right shade and a glossy, hydrating lip treatment.

Wildflower On Pointe iPhone 14 Case ($35)

If your teen loves ballet, they'll want a pretty-in-pink ballet case for their new iPhone.

Snif Ditch Plains Candle ($44)

Inspired by a day at the beach in Montauk's Ditch Plains, this candle will hold summer-lovers over until June.

Casetify Custom Phone Charm ($42)

They'll never lose their phone (fingers crossed) with a charm that can be customized with up to six letters.

West & Arrow LED Flexible RGB Strip Lights ($17+)

With 20 preset colors and seven different effects, this USB-powered strip light is easily customized. And with a peel-and-stick back, setup is a cinch.

Hatch Restore ($130)

This sunrise alarm clock lets you customize your bedtime and wake-up routines with 22 colors and a sound library that has music, white noise, guided meditations, and more.

Pink Floyd London Tour T-Shirt Dress ($39+)

What is nostalgia for a time before you were born called? A Pink Floyd T-shirt with artwork from its 1966 tour.

Baggu Crew Sock ($14)

Made from bamboo rayon, these soft, stretchy socks will add a fun pop to any outfit.

Jones Road Miracle Balm ($38)

Perfect for a no-makeup makeup look, Miracle Balm's magic is in its light-reflecting abilities. Use it on cheeks, lips, and eyelids — anywhere, really.

Urban Outfitters Icon Book Light ($20)

Ideal for anyone with a roommate, this cute reading light also comes in frog and flower shapes.

Lululemon Everywhere Fleece Belt Bag ($58)

Made with soft and cozy fleece, this crossbody bag is perfect for winter.

Chunks Checker Claw in Black/White ($18)

A 3.5-inch hair claw can hold some of the longest, thickest strands.

Ana Luisa Venus ($55)

With a .8-inch diameter, these 14k gold-on-brass hoops with titanium backs are just the right size.

Carhartt Knit Cuffed Beanie ($20)

A cuffed beanie is a classic you can't really go wrong with.

Copic Alcohol Sketch Marker Set ($75)

Considering these markers are refillable and compatible with Copic's Air Brush system, they make a gift that lasts.

Polaroid Hi·Print 2x3 Starter Set ($130)

This Polaroid starter set comes with a pocket-size printer and 20 sheets of 2x3 photo-ready papers.

BoxLunch x Sanrio Hello Kitty Mood Light ($25)

A Hello Kitty battery-operated light manages to make darkness cute.

Aerie Oversized Cozy Cardigan ($78)

Fuzzy and oversized — is there a better way to sweater?

Am I Overthinking This? A Journal ($15)

Overthinking is a great teenage pastime. Give them a place to do it.

Princess Polly Henderson Crossbody Bag ($36)

This faux leather bag comes with an adjustable and removable crossbody strap, but regardless of how it's worn, it'll bring a pop of green.

Pleasing Shroom Bloom Set ($65)

This mushroom-inspired nail polish set comes in pale green, mushroom beige, bright red, and sheer holographic — not to mention the cutest containers.

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Seasonal Color ($65)

A teen classic, these special-edition Chuck Taylors come in desert-inspired colors.

Nintendo Switch Joy-Con L/R ($80)

Compatible with Nintendo Switch consoles, Joy-Con controllers can be used separately in each hand or together as one game controller.

Sculpd Pottery Kit With Paint Set, Floral Tones ($89)

Crafters can explore pottery with a kit that comes with air-dry clay, carving and shaping tools, floral-toned paint, and everything else they'll need to get started.

Valfe Celstia Libra Candle ($28)

The Libra candle is vanilla-lavender, but each sign's candle comes with its own scent and design.

Terrain Ceramic Base Terrarium ($48)

Air plants, succulents, and other greens thrive in this mini terrarium/candle holder. But maybe a fake candle is best?

Glow Recipe Pore Care Kit ($85)

Together these three products — a toner, serum, and mask — can clear congested pores for clearer skin.

Carley Sheehy DIY Mochi Ice Cream Kit ($34)

DIY mochi with a kit that lets you freeform flavors with whatever you have on hand, though it comes with matcha and cocoa powder. And it probably goes without saying, but ice cream is not included!

What are you gifting the teens in your life this year? Share with us @BritandCo!

Studio McGee has spent the last decade inspiring us with a blend of accessible and elevated designs, creating beautiful and totally livable spaces. In her 2025 Home Decor Trends report, Shea McGee emphasizes that home decor trends evolve gradually over time, and I couldn’t agree more. Unlike the fast-paced world of fashion, where trends shift every season, these design moves develop organically over time, and that's good for your wallet and taking your time to create a space you love. Get inspired to refresh your home in 2025 with a few new accents, from embellishments like fringe to maybe a little western or seaside art.

Here are Studio McGee's 2025 Home Decor Trend Predictions, with a few surprises!

Photo: Shade Degges | Design: Studio Mountain

Romantic Silhouettes

Take Romantic Silhouettes, for example. This is a trend we've seen steadily gain traction over the past few years. Think curvy furniture, delicate floral prints, and soft blush hues — when curated thoughtfully, these elements can become timeless staples in your home.

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

Watch Shea's take on designing your home for 2025!

Photo: Michael P.H. Clifford | Design: A1000XBetter

Western Cowboy

This is a design trend that totally surprised me, but I'm so happy to see it in the mix. Elements like leather furniture, rustic accessories, equestrian art, even wood walls, shown in this office designed by A1000XBetter, are making an impact in 2025 and beyond. But Shea notes that you can take this trend literally or just be inspired by the look. You can also mix it with other styles to personalize it for you. Add romantic pillows or ruffled tablecloths like McGee & Co. x Loeffler Randall Gardenia Ruffle Border Tablecloth – things you love that make it yours vs. based solely on one trend.

Gavin Carter| Design: House of Rolison

Saturated Colors

Shea predicts that rich hues like deep browns, oxblood red, and earthy greens will continue to dominate home decor colors going into 2025. House of Rolison's bathroom brown is an excellent example of this beautiful trend.

courtesy of Stewart-Schafer

Pattern Drenching

Embracing a single pattern and drenching an entire room in it — from walls to pillows, headboards, and curtains — is a surprise trend for 2025. This maximalist approach, which has been quietly gaining traction, draws inspiration from Arts and Crafts designers like William Morris and has been in and out of vogue since the Victorian era.

McGee & Co.

Embellishments

This is a trend you can easily DIY to add an extra layer of charm to your decor. Think playful details like fringe accents —beautifully shown in McGee & Co.'s Philippa Settee — along with tassels, pleats, ruffles, and rope. It’s all about embracing texture and whimsy, so have fun with it!

McGee & Co.

Seaside Inspiration

Coastal decor has long been an influence in design and you can be inspired by it in many forms, from shell accents to beach-inspired artwork like McGee & Co.'s Distant Coastline art to textured seagrass baskets and jute rugs. Even the soothing hues of the sea — think soft blues, sandy neutrals, and gentle greens — can inspire your 2025 spaces.

Check out the full list of Studio McGee 2025 Design Trends!

Check out our online newsletter for more 2025 home decor inspo!

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

If there’s any holiday where you’re encouraged to take shots, it’s New Year’s Eve. But, that doesn’t mean you should limit your NYE party beverages to champagne. These sparkly, glittery and all-around enticing shots are sure to please and won’t induce any bad-idea hangovers from too manytequila drinks. You can let your resolution ideas start when the calendar reads 2025. Meanwhile, cheers to enjoying these shots you’ll actually want to make (and take) this New Year’s Eve.

The 14 Best New Year's Eve Shots To Throw Back For 2025!

Brit + Co

Apple Cider Shooter

That caramel vodka you bought on a whim once can finally be put to good use with this spiked apple cider shooter. Whip it up as a shot or a large punch that will last all night long. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Root Beer Float Shooter

This soda shop classic gets an adult upgrade with ROOT, a traditional alcoholic Native American tea. And tea is healthy, right? ;) (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Rainbow Shots

Meet your new party trick! All five of these shots come out of one shaker. Prepare to amaze your guests with your bartending skills this NYE. (via Brit + Co)

Sprinkle Bakes

Champagne Chantilly Shooters

Be sure to add these cake-inspired shooters to your after-holiday to-do list to start 2016 with a little bit of deliciousness. (via Sprinkle Bakes)

Feast + West

Champagne Jell-O Shots

Turn your champagne into a shot! If you’re hosting a large party, these are a way more affordable option than a case of champagne. (via Feast + West)

Dine and Dish

Blackberry Gin Shooters

This shooter is *almost* too pretty to drink. Plus, we can all pretend that the blackberries are doing you some good. (via Dine and Dish)

A Year of Cocktails

Butternut Rum Lifesaver

A shot that tastes like candy is a sweet way to start your year off right. (via A Year of Cocktails)

Holly's Cheat Day

Tipsy Spritzer Shots

Not every shot needs to be super strong. If you’re looking for something you can enjoy throughout the night, this sweet, bubbly and tart “spritzer” shot is low in alcohol content and big on flavor. (via Holly’s Cheat Day)

Bubbly Nation Creations

Sparkling Jello Jigglers

Swap out champagne for the grape juice in this recipe to make a fancy, adult version of a JELL-O jiggler. Sprinkles and edible gold stars required. (via Bubbly Nation Creations)

Broma Bakery

Champagne Jello Shots

Awww, Jello Shots are all grown up in this festive recipe. They have a nice flavor that won’t leave you wincing afterwards. (via Broma Bakery)

The First Year

White Chocolate Champagne Cheesecake Shooters

This shot is delicious enough to be dessert. Top yours with edible glitter sprinkles to get even more festive. (via The First Year)

Cookin' Canuck

Cranberry Kamikaze Shots

NYE calls for a fancier drink than a go-to beer or wine. Ring in the new year with cranberry kamikaze shots that look pretty and taste delicious (via Cookin' Canuck)

Tablespoon

Banana Split Shooters

This shot requires five ingredients that'll send your taste buds soaring. I mean, what could be better than taking a shot of something that tastes like dessert? (via Tablespoon)

Something Swanky

Sparkling Cider Jello Shots (Non-Alcoholic)

If you want to be extra careful not to induce a hangover when you wake up in 2024, your best bet are these sparkling cider jello shots. They're made with unflavored gelatin, distilled water, cider and your choice of berries, cherries, or gummies! (via Something Swanky)

Looking for more NYE recipe or drink ideas? Check out Brit + Co on Pinterest and check out our New Year's Eve dinner ideas for more inspiration.This post has been updated.