Why “Vacation Hair” Is the Next Ombré

There are a lot of beauty benefits that come with summer. Sun-kissed skin, tiny specks of freckles and of course, those natural highlights. While you might be repping all these features come July, that’s a long time to wait. And being the impatient beauty fanatics we are, we want it all now. Sun-kissed skin is an easy fix with some tanning lotion (use responsibly, people), but those highlights are a little harder to fake. Sure, we’ve all attempted a few spritzes of Sun-In every now and again, but let’s be honest: you can’t expect an epic transformation from a $4 bottle you bought from the drugstore. But fret not, you can get that sun-kissed hair even in the early days of spring. Introducing, vacation hair.

The idea for the new hair trend was sparked by the beauty mavens over at Brydie. They asked two top hair stylists to share their spring hair color predictions and they both had the same response: “Basically, you want your hair to look like you just got back from sunbathing in St. Barths.” If you’re not totally sure what that means, think about that sort of color you used to get toward the end of summer when you were a kid – an overall lightened shade with natural, sun-kissed highlights sprinkled throughout. Sounds awesome, but how exactly do you get that look without booking an international flight?

Naturally, we tapped our resident beauty expert Misty Spinney for tips. If you’re headed to your stylist with this look in mind, she recommends simply describing it as “wanting to look like a blonde or a brunette that’s been in the sun too long.” She says, “tell them whatever base color you want and explain that you’re looking for that natural streaked-out look, but not like those ‘90s piecey highlights.”

Misty also mentions that if you’re looking for maximum depth, you should always ask for three colors: a base, highlight and low light. Whether you’re a blonde, redhead or brunette, here are three different color combinations we recommend for sun-soaked hair you don’t even have to leave home for.

Deep Espresso Roots + Toffee Lowlights + Honey Highlights: RitaHazan (one of Brydie’s beauty experts) advises brunettes to stick to “tone-on-tone colors like toffee, honey, and caramels.” Beyoncé’s hair from this year’s Grammys is a great way to get the look without going too light. This combination starts dark at the roots and then lightens up throughout with shimmery notes of toffee and honey. (Photo via Jason Merritt/Getty)

Cappuccino Roots + Toffee Lowlights + Platinum Highlights: Blondies, vacation hair is probably going to be most noticeable on you, so don’t be afraid to really go for it. Be sure to incorporate some face-framing highlights to add dimension. To copy Karlie’s color combo, you’ll want darker roots with toffee notes throughout and even some platinum pieces sprinkled in. (Photo via Pascal Le Segretain/Getty)

Strawberry Blonde + Copper Highlights: We know we mentioned that three different colors is key, but Emma’s hair is somewhat of an exception. Lighten that ronze color by amping it up to a soft, strawberry blonde. Then to get the sun-streaked look, add in copper highlights. If you don’t want to have less than three colors you can always go a little darker towards the roots. (Photo via Jason Merritt/Getty)

What are your thoughts this summer hair trend? Share with us in the comments below.

(Photos via Mark Davis/Frazer Harrison/Getty)

Do you feel like you’re stepping into a time capsule or experiencing a wave of déjà vu lately? It’s no coincidence. As we embrace fall for 2024, fashion and beauty echo the bold yet relaxed vibes of the '90s — a decade profoundly influenced by Saturn in Pisces from 1993 to 1995. This resurgence is more than just a revival of retro aesthetics; it’s a nod to the celestial energies that shaped that era.

Whenever Saturn, the planet of structure and discipline, meets the romantic sign of Pisces, magic is bound to happen. Saturn’s time in Pisces encourages introspection and creativity, stirring a cultural shift now that's currently resurfacing in our beauty and style choices — hairdos included. This planetary influence seems to have set the stage for a revival of '90s trends, blending that era's grunge and romantic elements with a contemporary twist.

Looking around, you’ll notice a nostalgic flair in the current hairstyles, which combine the gritty allure of '90s grunge with an updated, romantic sensibility. Women are channeling the spirit of the era through their choice of fashion and hair, from power suits to oversized knit sweater dresses to the iconic "Rachel Haircut."

As a former hairstylist turned astrologer and beauty expert, I’m here to guide you through this nostalgic transformation by blending beauty advice with cosmic magic. Let’s illuminate your inner and outer beauty with a sprinkle of astrological insight! With that in mind, here's what you can expect for fall hair trends in 2024.

​Fall 2024 Haircuts

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This season, the French Bob — popularized by celebrities like Winona Ryder in the ‘90s — makes a stylish return with a chic, sophisticated edge. The Lob, a favorite of Julia Roberts, continues to bridge classic and contemporary with its timeless appeal. Salma Hayek’s daring Pixie cut and baby bangs from this era are also back, bringing a bold, youthful vibe. The Shag, reminiscent of the rock-and-roll spirit seen in the '90s, and “The Rachel Haircut,” which initially debuted during Saturn’s transit in 1995, are making notable comebacks. Let’s dive deep and look at the haircuts making their mark this fall.

French Bob

Channeling the chic and playful vibes of the '90s with a sophisticated edge. Wearing this flirty cut with your favorite barrette (butterfly clip) can go a long way from work to events.

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Lob

The long bob (AKA Lob) remains a timeless favorite, bridging the gap between classic and contemporary. This low-maintenance cut is perfect for busy moms or those who want to give bobs a chance without commitment.

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Micro Fringe

Bringing a bold, youthful touch reminiscent of the era’s daring looks. These bangs are risqué, yet you can wear them proudly with the right attitude and pomade.

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The Shag (AKA The Wolf Cut)

Embracing the layered, textured appeal of the 90s with a blend of rock-and-roll and romance. This haircut is ideal for those with natural waves that need a boost. Use a diffuser and leave-in product for the best results.

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The Rachel Revival Haircut

I’m calling this “The Rachel Revival Haircut.” It's a mature take on the iconic Rachel, adding a polished twist to a classic favorite. The trendsetter Aquarius, Jennifer Aniston, reawakened this timeless haircut earlier in 2024, and it's definitely making an official comeback this fall! Fun fact: this original haircut was debuted by Aniston when Saturn was in Pisces on Friends in April 1995.

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Long Layered Haircut

This haircut balances nostalgia with modern elegance, offering a versatile and timeless choice. Long hair has been an American girl’s staple, but tresses must be healthy and well-maintained. Schedule routine haircuts with your stylist to ensure health and longevity for your locks. Also, invest in a hair treatment mask and use it every other week.

​Fall 2024 Hairstyles

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The hairstyles for fall 2024 are a vibrant nod to the '90s, as well, channeling the duality of grunge and romance, reflecting iconic trends sported by celebrities of the time. Drew Barrymore embodied the carefree spirit of textured waves, while Pamela Anderson brought Hollywood glamour to the forefront with her voluminous updos. Kate Moss personified the bedhead grunge look with effortless style. These timeless hairstyles are set to make a striking comeback this fall, blending '90s nostalgia with modern flair.

Textured Waves

Loose, tousled waves that evoke the carefree spirit of the 90s grunge scene. The secret to working an effortless look is to use a salt spray.

Sleek Half-Updo (With Gel)

This polished yet relaxed style is a major throwback to the glossy finishes popular in the ‘90s. Use a paddle brush to achieve a sleek look and manage flyways.

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The Pamela Updo

Voluminous and glamorous, reminiscent of the 90s Hollywood glamour that combines practicality with retro chic. From the office to a fall gala, this hairstyle will turn heads.

Sleek Single Braid

This minimalist and refined style echoes the decade’s sleek and structured trends. Apply a hair serum to dry hair to give it a glossy finish.

Bedhead Grunge

To achieve this look, embrace the effortlessly undone aesthetic that defined '90s grunge. Use a pliable leave-in product and apply it to towel-dried hair. Twist random locks and allow them to air dry.

​Fall 2024 Brunette Trends

Netflix

Fall 2024’s color palette embraces deep, rich browns, echoing the earthy tones popular during the early '90s under Saturn in Pisces. This revival mirrors the iconic brunette looks of that era, including Winona Ryder’s natural elegance in Reality Bites, Julia Roberts’ striking deep brown in The Pelican Brief, and Salma Hayek’s dramatic espresso in Desperado. These shades — rich brown with baby lights and bold espresso — capture the sophisticated essence of fall 2024’s color trend. Let’s explore the range of brunettes that can capture your essence this season — and don’t forget to use a color-safe shampoo and conditioner to preserve your new color!

Rich Brown with Babylights

A look that holds onto the memories of summer while transitioning into autumn. It is a warm and multi-dimensional color that includes highlights for dimension.

Truffle Brown

This look will channel Emily in Paris vibes. It's a classic, tasteful, and yet low-maintenance color that will keep you on your A-game this fall.

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Chestnut

A classic, warm brown with a natural shine. This is the perfect color for those who like to rock a shade that emanates intoxicating shades of red, gold, and copper.

Espresso Brown

This is your go-to shade for an alluring yet endearing tone. It is deep and dramatic, offering a bold contrast.

Ebony

An ultra-dark hue that brings a sense of mystery and depth.

Saturn’s influence brings a wave of introspection and transformation, so it’s no wonder the 90s are making a stylish comeback. This fall, let’s embrace the past with a renewed sense of style, celebrating the nostalgia and sophistication of the season’s trends!

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It's official: Blue Ivy looks totally grown up now — especially in her gorgeous gold gown at the Mufasa: The Lion Kingpremiere. It honestly feels like just yesterday that Beyoncé announced she was born, and now she's a star in her own right! She celebrated her Disney film debut with her family by her side on the red carpet (and everyone looking as gorgeous as ever).

While Jay-Z was one of the latest celebrities caught in the crosshairs of P. Diddy allegations, it didn't stop mom and dad from showing their unwavering support. The family put on a united front, smiling for the cameras and praising Blue's work on her latest Disney film, further proving that they're in this together. Here's everything we know!

Details about the Mufasa: The Lion King premiere

Beyoncé & Jay-Z Amazing Support Of Blue Ivy's Role In 'Mufasa'

Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney

Blue Ivy stars in Mufasa: The Lion King as Kiara with Beyoncé voicing Nala again. The highly anticipated film will show Mufasa's origins from a young cub to the majestic king we've come to know, love, and mourn.

In this cute BTS clip, Beyoncé and Blue are initially shown in separate recording booths while the latter says, "Don't stare at me." It's a typical response all kids eventually give their parents, but it doesn't bother Beyoncé. She simply smiles and says, "I can't help it. You're just too beautiful girl." Still, she offers a bit of reassurance to Blue. "I'mma be right here closing my eyes."

Blue briefly talked about what it feels like to work on a movie by saying, "If I like told my younger self that I was in a movie, I'd like never believe myself."

The star couldn't help but tear up as she continued to watch Blue and said, "Give me a second. I'm still...just can't believe that's my baby." While sitting side by Blue, Beyoncé eventually turns to look at her to let her know she's "so proud of her." Even Rumi, Beyoncé and Jay-Z's youngest daughter, makes a quick appearance!

The Mufasa: The Lion King premiere occurred December 9 with Beyoncé, Jay-Z, and grandma Tina Knowles standing by Blue Ivy's side. They looked stunning on the red carpet as they wore coordinating outfits. Although the ladies seemed to be present and excited, Jay-Z temporarily looked distracted while all of them were standing together (via PEOPLE).

If we had to guess, it may have something to do with the recent allegations connecting he and P. Diddy weighing on his mind. After the accusation went public, Jay-Z penned his own public statement and shared it to Roc Nations' social channels. The most heartbreaking aspect of it is realizing his children will be able to see everything.

"My wife and I will have to sit our children down, one of whom is at the age where her friends will surely see the press and ask questions about the nature of these claims, and explain the cruelty and greed of people," he wrote (via X). Only time will tell how everything pans out, but we hope this doesn't overshadow Blue Ivy's success, nor do we want to see people vilify her or her siblings for alleged misdeeds of Jay-Z.

At the end of the day, we're so proud of Blue for letting her light shine bright despite everything else!

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Heatless hairstyles, like boho knotless braids, are a must for me during summer. We've been stuck in continual heat waves in Georgia, so the last thing my natural hair needs is to feel dehydrated.

Braids have always been my go-to hairstyle anyway, but this boho style has summer written all over it. Whenever I see anyone with it, they look like they're on a permanent vacation — and I love that! But, some people may not know what boho knotless braids are or how to care for them.

I spoke with The Doux's CEO and Co-Founder Maya Smith as well as Marquita Lynch, Celebrity Hairstylist at 4U by Tia, to break down every question you've ever had about boho knotless braids.

What are boho knotless braids?

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Tia Mowry at 2023 Essence Black Women in Hollywood

Boho knotless braids are all over TikTok, but you may still be wondering what this style actually means.

"Boho knotless braids are a trendy, versatile hairstyle that combines classic knotless braids with curly or wavy hair extensions that give the braids a relaxed, free-spirited appearance. The style is named for its full and flowy bohemian aesthetic," Marquita Lynch explains.

Maya smith adds, "Unlike traditional box braids, knotless braids start with your natural hair and gradually incorporate additional hair."

How long does it take to install boho knotless braids?

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Zoe Kravitz At The "Big Little Lies" Season 2 Premiere

I've gotten styles that only take two hours, but I always advise people to be prepared to sit for several hours. Every stylist has their own technique, and there are plenty of other factors that can determine how long it'll take to install your braids.

"The installation time for boho knotless braids can vary depending on the desired length and thickness, as well as the skill level of the braider. Generally, it is not a quick style and can take anywhere between 5 to 10 hours – combining the braided hair with the wavy/curly pieces can be a meticulous process," says Lynch.

Jasmine Williams

I decided to get knotless braids for the first time last winter and immediately fell in love with them! It was a process getting them installed, but I decided to trust it. Needless to say, knotless braids have been one of my go-to styles when I'm too busy to style my natural hair daily!

And since I loved the style so much, I wanted to figure out how to achieve the look at home! I watched a few YouTube videos so I could install my own braids and realized just how tedious this hairstyle is. My respect for hairstylists has tripled because it took me 2.5 days to add in the synthetic and wavy hair.

While I don't mind doing this hairstyle again, I think I'll go to a skilled professional to give my neck and shoulders a break!

What type of hair is used to install the braids and boho appearance?

Jasmine Williams

Whether you're going to install your own braids or go to a salon, it's important to know what kind of hair is used for boho knotless braids.

Lynch says, "Stylists typically use synthetic braiding hair for the main braids and add curly or wavy human hair or high-quality synthetic hair for the boho effect."

She and Smith agree that using human hair can make this style look more natural and it'll also last a little longer.

How long can this hairstyle be worn?

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Serena Page On Love Island

As cute as this style is, it's not meant to be worn indefinitely. Lynch says, "Boho knotless braids can be worn for 4 to 6 weeks with proper care and are a go-to when you need a style that will last. Her example of how long this style can last is Serena from Love Island. "She's kept her's [boho knotless braids] for nearly 2 months on screen," she said.

That being said, Smith wants you to be aware that the style won't maintain it's freshness by itself. "Keep in mind that as your natural hair grows, the braids may start to loosen, so timely maintenance is essential to keep them looking fresh."

Is this a high-maintenance hairstyle?

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Gabrielle Union On The 2023 Met Gala Red Carpet

This question depends on who you ask. It could be considered high-maintenance because it takes a while to get them installed, but some people may think it's easy to care for because you don't have to style your real hair for a couple of months. But like Smith said, you still have to maintain the braids.

"Boho knotless braids can be high-maintenance, depending on how much of the human hair you add in for the wispy boho look. The more loose wavy/curly pieces you add into the braids, the higher the upkeep," Lynch comments.

She also advises that you'll have to keep your natural hair healthy and hydrated by "regularly keeping your scalp clean and moisturized." Also, don't forget to keep the braids protected with a satin or silk scarf!

How can one maintain their boho knotless braids at home?

Love Island/Peacock

I've been wearing braids in general off and on for years, so caring for them is something that feels second nature. But it doesn't hurt to have a reminder, especially if you're getting this style for the first time.

Below, Smith outlines how to properly care for boho knotless braids at home:

  • Cleansing: Wash your scalp every 1-2 weeks with a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo. Dilute the shampoo with water and use a spray bottle to apply it directly to your scalp for easy rinsing.
  • Moisturizing: To prevent dryness, apply a leave-in conditioner or lightweight hair oil to your scalp and braids. Focus on your natural hair and the ends to keep them hydrated.
  • Scalp Care: Use a nourishing scalp oil or serum to maintain scalp health and alleviate itching. A gentle massage will promote circulation and moisture retention.
  • Night Care: Protect your braids while you sleep by wrapping them in a satin or silk scarf, or using a satin or silk pillowcase. This helps reduce friction and maintain the style.
  • Frizz Control: Use a styling mousse or gel to tame frizz and flyaways. For a sleek finish around the hairline, a touch of edge control will do the trick.

Do you have product recommendations for washing, styling, and maintaining this style?

Love Island/Peacock

Both Smith and Lynch have a few product recommendations that you should consider when caring for boho knotless braids! Plus, I'm sharing some of the things I use to maintain my braids at home!

Wal-Mart

4U by Tia Clarifying Shampoo

Lynch suggests, "Wash your hair with a gentle product that provides a deep cleanse, like the 4U by Tia Clarifying Shampoo. It's made with apple cider vinegar to remove buildup while preserving moisture."

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The Doux SUCKA FREE Moisturizing Shampoo and FRESH RINSE Moisturizing Conditioner Bundle

Smith says, "This gentle cleanser refreshes your braids and scalp without stripping moisture."

Wal-Mart

TPH BY Taraji Honey Fresh Clarifying Shampoo With Moisture

I started using this clarifying shampoo the first time I had my knotless braids installed and loved how clean my braids as well as my scalp felt.

It removes hard buildup while keeping your braids and hair hydrated. It also has aloe vera, honey, and willow bark extract in it!

Wal-Mart

4U by Tia Curl Refresher Mist

"Maintain your style with 4U by Tia Curl Refresher Mist, perfect for revitalizing and hydrating your braids between washes. It helps to reduce frizz and can maintain the bounce and shape of the curly/wavy human hair pieces," Lynch says.

Sephora

Sienna Naturals Dream Curl Mousse

I've been using the Sienna Naturals Dream Curl Mousse to keep my boho knotless braids fresh and it works like a charm! It refreshes my braids without weighing them down and keeps my scalp looking healthy too! It's geared towards enhancing one's curls, but it also helps combat frizz and will hold your style in place!

The ingredients in this mousse are aloe vera juice, Baobab protein, and a nice curl shield complex that protects your hair from damage.

Wal-Mart

The Doux PUSH IT! Edge Control

Smith says this edge control "provides a polished finish around the hairline."

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Ahhh…Paris Geller. Where does one even begin with the best Gilmore Girl whose name isn't actually Gilmore? The woman we all came to know and love. The purveyor of backhanded compliments, deadpan humor, the quickest wit one can imagine and an absolutely ungodly work ethic. The sole character of the series who I would 100% watch a spin-off of, and love every minute. Sure — she once said that everyone around her needed to be sterilized immediately. And that Rory’s boyfriend offers “nothing to women or the world in general.” And that she can “scare the stupid out of you. But the lazy runs deep.”

She may, in fact, be the only character whose absurdity warrants such unhinged comments, and I am so here for it. You may be reading this because you too believe that Paris Geller deserves way more praise than she receives. Or you hate her. Or perhaps you don’t even know who she is. Regardless, allow me to delight you with the many — shall I say — unique musings of my favorite Gilmore Girls character, and explain exactly why Paris was not only what the cult-classic show needed, but the feminist icon TV needed, too.

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rory & paris (2)

So let’s start from the beginning. Paris Geller (played by Liza Weil) joined the GG crew in Season 1, right as Rory Gilmore (the show’s sort-of protagonist) walked into Chilton Academy, a private school where Paris was attending, for her first day. A far cry from Rory’s relatively timid and soft-spoken personality, Paris tore up the screen with her high-strung personality and immediate rivalry with Rory (Rory did not feel the same), who Paris viewed as the only candidate who could possibly challenge her spot at the top of the class standing. As the year progresses, the two become friends, which of course Paris still highly questioned.

The rest of their high school experience is plagued with repeated ups and downs, from Paris’s parents’ highly publicized divorce to their joint student government campaign and, most notably, Paris’s C-SPAN meltdown, courtesy of a Harvard rejection fueled by what she can only assume to be wide-spread knowledge that she lost her virginity. Despite losing the Valedictorian slot to Rory (which Paris comes to terms with after finding out Salutatorians tend to be more successful), Paris walks across the graduation stage and accepts her diploma from the school’s headmaster, to which she iconically quips, “no hard feelings.”

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Fast forward to Paris’s first year at Yale, a school she knew Rory was attending but had no intention of ever seeing again. Not to the surprise of Paris’s life coach, the two frenemies were placed together as suitemates, a pairing that ultimately served as a catalyst for lifelong friendship. Throughout college, Paris pursues pre-med and pre-law degrees, joins the Yale Daily News alongside Rory, dates an elderly professor (he passes away, leaving Paris to grieve), moves on with the editor of the Yale Daily News, Doyle McMaster, and potentially saves Rory from abandoning Yale forever by admitting to Lorelai that Rory is the only person who ever listened to her, challenged her and motivated her.

Paris then proceeds to become the editor of the Yale Daily News, a position in which her power-hungry tendencies took full-force, resulting in a forcible resignation, kick Rory out of their shared apartment, let Rory move back into their shared apartment (now with Doyle), be accepted to a slew of prestigious medical and law schools. She ultimately chose to attend med school and break up with Doyle, to which he refused, and tells Rory that they’re on their own but she can still do great things (Of course this doesn’t last, the two are meant to be best friends.)

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Somehow this doesn't even scratch the surface of the character of Paris. As you can tell, Paris is a fiercely loyal, protective woman who fights for herself to no end. She (literally) doesn’t care what other people think (so long as they’re not within her immediate circle) and never stops pursuing her dreams, no matter how many times she probably should have. She is the epitome of feminism in modern television — perhaps taken to an extreme — and serves as a necessary counterweight to Rory’s floundering sense of self.

So long as she keeps her need for perfectionism in check, Paris has one of those few personality types whose wild ambition and outspokenness is directly beneficial to her success, a success that she, and only she, can define. Sure, she has an exaggerated sense of self-importance, but when balanced by Rory’s soft-but-straightforward approach, Paris can quickly reset, reevaluate and move forward.

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That's the thing with Paris — she’s always moving forward. She doesn't get into Harvard? Tough. She takes a few days to wallow before considering her other options: Yale, Columbia and Princeton. She doesn’t know whether to choose med school or law school, so she takes stock of her bearings, reflects on her past dreams, and makes a clear, concise decision that she moves forward with.

Her brutally honest nature (both internally and externally) is exactly why Paris works. She’s generous when needed, comfortable with giving tough (and oftentimes tougher) love, is able to express vulnerability with the people she loves, doesn’t allow outside influences to affect her path and never let’s someone (especially a man) tell her she’s less than (*cough, cough*—Rory). For an early 2000s show, she showed women that there is power in education. There’s power in stepping away from a caretaker role. There’s power in expressing your opinion, no matter your age.

Image via WB

There’s no doubt in my mind that she’s inspired countless women over the years — after all, she’s inspired me! Even though she’s had her controversial moments, she’s always been a cheering voice for women, even if it’s behind her resting grimace. For these reasons, and so many more, I am hereby deeming Paris Geller the best of Gilmore Girls — the heroine, perhaps, and a feminist icon to all.

What's your take on Paris Geller? Let us know in the comments, and sign up for our email newsletter for more pop culture musings!

Header image via Netflix, Warner Bros

This post has been updated.

Gilmore Girlstakes up more of my brain space than I'd care to admit. The show is undeniably great. I mean, there's a reason it's become an absolute cultural phenomenon! The banter is witty and memorable, the Stars Hollow, Connecticut setting is warm and friendly, and the character dynamics feel natural and comforting. All of these elements combined create the perfect comfort show thatI personally rewatch again and again. However, despite having an overall positive opinion of the show, there is one bone I have to pick with it. This grievance makes my blood boil and keeps me tossing and turning at night.

While I can't pose my all-too-important question to the creators of the show, I will ask it to you, reader: Why in the world was Lane Kim's storyline such a travesty? Considering the show is not shy about uplifting and celebrating Rory (despite her many mistakes) it feels especially unfair how short of a stick Lane (played by Keiko Agena) truly got. Here are my unfiltered thoughts on the subject.

Lane deserved better after a life of seeking independence

Photo via WBLane Kim's Treatment On "Gilmore Girls" Is The Ultimate TV Tragedy

Throughout Lane's formative teenage years, she was forced to hide her true identity and interests in order to appease her mother. From hiding CDs in her floorboards and changing her clothes when she got to school, Lane was under a lot of pressure to keep her mom happy, while still trying to figure out who she was. Her mother even kicked her out after finding out about her "secret life," causing Lane to have to move into Rory's dorm. Rory, on the other hand, had a mother who supported her every dream and who she could be fully herself with.

I'm not sure why only one of these two besties got to live out their dreams, but if it did have to play out this way, it should have been Lane Kim. Given how difficult her upbringing was, couldn't the show have given her a win by having *her* be the one who gets to follow her dreams?

Lane's love life is lackluster

Image via Saeed Adyani/Netflix

Once again, the show propped up Rory and gave her not one, not two, but three love interests. Whether or not you love all three of them, we can all admit that each boyfriend was compatible with Rory in their own way, and helped her learn and grow. Lane, however, did not get this. Her first boyfriend, Dave, is great. He's kind and sweet and understanding of her family situation, but the show breaks them up because they can't handle being long-distance. (Technically, we know actor Adam Brody had to leave for The O.C. but where is the justice??!)

After Dave, it all goes downhill from there for poor Lane. She ends up with Zack, who isn't bad but isn't great. And, as soon as Lane is finally getting to pursue her passion by going on tour with her band, she finds out she and Zack are pregnant. Considering how long Lane dreamed of getting to be her authentic herself and openly express her interests, it feels cruel that this twist of fate took it away from her at this exact moment.

Lane made the best of her situation

Image via Neil Jacobs/Netflix

Despite Rory having almost every opportunity available to her, we find out in Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life that she is making bad decisions (like, er, sleeping with an engaged man) and is struggling to find her way. Lane, on the other hand, has made the best out of the cards she's been dealt. She's still married to Zack, is taking care of her twins, and has even kept music in her life by joining a band. I can't help but think if Lane can forge ahead despite all of her unfortunate circumstances, how fantastic could her life have been if the writers had served her just a little bit more good fortune?

Lane could have served as the role model so many girls needed

Image via Saeed Adyani/Netflix

Lane's experience mirrors many Asian-American girls' lives. She had a strict upbringing and struggled to strike a balance between fitting in with her American peers and forming her own identity, while still trying to manage her mother's expectations of who she should be. As an Asian-American, Lane's experiences mirrored many of my own, and, at a time when there was such little Asian representation, this was extremely impactful.

With the lack of representation at the time, it was even more important that Lane was dealt an ending that she and her viewers could be proud of. Instead of turning her into somewhat of a cautionary tale, her story could have been utilized to empower an audience of individuals who saw themselves in her. For that reason, Lane's treatment on Gilmore Girls will never quite sit right with me.

What do you think about Lane Kim's storyline on Gilmore Girls? Let us know in the comments and check out our guide to Where Is The Gilmore Girls Cast Now? to keep up with your favorite Stars Hollow residents (even if they're not in Stars Hollow anymore).

Lead image via Warner Bros

This post has been updated.