Victoria’s Secret Is Getting Called Out Over Accusations of Cultural Appropriation

The 2016 Victoria’s Secret Fashion show hasn’t even aired yet, and already, it’s all we can do to keep up with the drams! Even prior to the show, controversy was abrew, with Jasmine Tookes taking to Instagram to speak out against haters that claimed she bleached her skin.

But the latest grievances against the retail giant are a bit more serious in nature.

Following a 2012 sh*tstorm over cultural appropriation that ensued when model Karlie Kloss donned a Native American headdress on the runway (pulled prior to airing), Helen Jung, a writer for Cosmopolitan, unleashed a series of now-deleted accusations in an essay on the site against the company over some of this year’s outfits.

With many of the looks featuring both Asian (specifically Chinese) and Mexican elements, Helen went so far as to call the lingerie racist.

Obtained by E! prior to deletion, Helen’s essay also pegs what she calls the company’s nod to worldliness a “hack job.”

“The dragon that Elsa Hosk wore wrapped around her body, the embroidered stiletto boots seen on Adriana Lima, the tail made of flames worn by Kendall Jenner…the Orientalism on display here doesn’t show an understanding or an attempt at dialogue. It doesn’t close any gaps,” she wrote. “The brand and its creative shamelessly cherry-picked imagery, breaking apart aesthetic references from wherever they wanted and stitching them back together again.”

Yikes! Though E! reached out to VS for comment, there’s no updates as of yet, or word as to whether or not some of this year’s looks will also be pulled prior to airing.

What a mess!

Do you think VS should pull the looks? Share with us @BritandCo!

(h/t E!, photos via Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty)

Whether you’re coupled up or playing the field, there’s always a reason to treat yourself, and Valentine’s Day is as good as any to scoop up some sexy bras + undies. Don't wait for someone else to buy you some sultry undergarments – with these Valentine's Day lingerie styles, you can pick out something special for yourself like, say, a floral bra or a lacy bodysuit. This way, regardless of your relationship status, you’re guaranteed to feel totally foxy this V-Day (and beyond)!

Scroll on and shop our favorite Valentine's Day lingerie pieces for every body type that are very much worth wearing in the bedroom, even after the holiday ends.

Torrid Floral Lace Strappy Bralette

This black number will make you feel like an absolute baddie. The strappy design highlights your top while still leaving something to be desired. Plus, it's wire-free, so you can embark on your Valentine's ventures with the utmost comfort.

Bluebella Catalina Bra

This sheer, lacy bra taps into floral motifs to bring on the romance!

Wild Lovers X Out From Under Sweetie Lace Underwire Bra

This light pink + magenta color palette is everything for V-Day! Make it a complete set with the matching thong.

Coquette Underwire Bra, Garter Belt & Thong Set

This 3-piece set is super affordable, but looks like pure luxury. If you've never experienced the sheer power of a garter belt, now's your chance!

Harper Wilde Bliss Scoop Bralette

Let the gals sit nicely with this ultra-comfy bra. The bust hugs your bod flawlessly, so you can focus on your self-love sesh or together time with your boo. This is an excellent everyday bra to sport once Valentine's szn is over, since it's very lightweight and sleek. We also adore the Harper Wilde Luxe Mesh Plunge Bra if you're shopping for a cheekier Valentine's Day lingerie piece!

Cacique Intimates Embroidered Lace-Up Bodysuit

Embrace your soft girl era this February with florals and frills! This bodysuit has it all, plus flaunts a sexy mesh feel and tiny bow details for added cuteness.

Intimately Heart To Heart Bralette + Bikini Undies + Garter

This Valentine's Day lingerie combo might be delicate, but it'll make you feel super powerful once you've slid into all three pieces. The light pink color is girly AF, allowing you to tap into your divine feminine this Feb 14th.

Out From Under Flora Embroidered Bustier

Hearts are super fitting for the holiday, but this bustier has small embroidered hearts *and* sweet lil' cherries?! We're obsessed. The demi cup neckline only adds to the delicate coquette vibe!

Oh La La Cheri Kinsley Underwire Lace Trim Sheer Chemise

Pair this see-through chemise with a cheeky G-string (or nothing at all 😉) to feel your absolute sexiest this V-Day. Your partner will be ready to play once they see you wearing it!

Fleur du Mal Queen of Hearts Balconette Bra + V-String + Garter Belt

Shopping for heart-covered lingerie? We got you! This trio is just the thing you should rock this Valentine's Day if you wanna go the more revealing route.

Out From Under Budapest Love High Sheer Lace Undie

These lace-covered panties are a great piece of Valentine's Day lingerie that you can *also* wear for sexy sessions all year long! The silhouette is fairly modest, but the cutout in the back is truly what makes this pair flirty enough for the holiday.

Savage x Fenty Baroque Bondage Unlined Balconette Bra + Panty

Okay, this lingerie set is giving burlesque dancer, and we love it. Tap into your most sultry self by donning a black get-up like this lacy, fishnet-clad look.

For Love & Lemons Cordelia Slip Dress

If managing multiple pieces of Valentine's Day lingerie sounds a little too high-maintenance for your liking, a slip dress is what you need. They're usually super silky like this fiery red one is, only upping your comfort levels as you navigate the bedroom (or wherever else you like to get it on 😏)!

Out From Under Cherie Sheer Lace Babydoll Cami

This sexy top can double as some seriously girly nightwear once V-Day passes. Self-care has never looked cuter!

Cacique Intimates Lace-Trim Lightly Lined Balconette Bra + Panty

This has got to be our fave Valentine's Day lingerie set so far. The bra + panties feature some red-hot strap adjusters that'll guide you toward the perfect fit around your shoulders and hips. Not to mention those darling bows!

Victoria's Secret Rosebud Embroidery Unlined Corset Babydoll Set

The only thing better than receiving flowers for Valentine's is wearing them! This baby pink set boasts a bountiful bloom around the bust that'll leave your partner looking all night long. 👀​

Harper Wilde Luxe Mesh Thong

This thong flaunts a uniquely thick upper band that won't cut into you. This is a truly practical lingerie pick that infuses sexy vibes whether you're wearing in the day-to-day or exclusively for Valentine's.

Adore Me Ivana Unlined Bodysuit

With this bodysuit that ties up in a bow, you'll be the real gift this V-Day.

Playful Promises Eddie Crossover Thong

This bold, layered panty has something new to explore with every turn. Between the cutie crossing panels and the visible pieces of hardware, it still does a seamless job at supporting you in every position. 😋

Anthropologie Giselle Lace Bustier

We adore the fact that you can easily take this bustier from the bedroom to the streets – there's enough coverage for everyday wear (especially under a sweater or denim jacket), but when it comes to cozy time, this piece will look iconic with some matching undies.

Intimately Lady Lux Bodysuit

This sheer bodysuit will turn the heat up for sure. Wear it with absolutely nothing for an unforgettable piece of Valentine's Day lingerie.

Gooseberry Intimates Wildflower Bra + Thong

This bra + thong pairing doesn't shy away from color, as it features an array of embroidered floral blooms along all sides.

Torrid French Hearts 3 Piece Cup Babydoll Slip

It's not Valentine's Day lingerie if there's no hearts involved! That's why this black + pink slip is the perfect 'add to cart.'

Intimately Lacey Essential Cami

This cami top is adorned in lovely lace that amps up its feminine air. For a cozy Valentine's Day lingerie ensemble, wear this design with matching panties or boyshorts that invite a lazy day in bed.

Kilo Brava Embroidered Mesh Underwire Teddy

The boning in this bodysuit work to sculpt your figure, drawing in the waist for a sensual feel. The lace design feels super Victorian, adding a dash of romance into your V-day (and beyond)! ❤️​


Want more sexy style inspo? Follow us on Pinterest and shop our Amazon storefront!

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

Images via brands.

This post has been updated.

Surprise proposals are always magical (hi, Benny Blanco & Selena Gomez!), but we've gotten picky about which engagement rings make us swoon these days. Some of our prior favorite trends have become outdated, and it would more sad if they weren't other gorgeous options on the market. Even so, it's not easy to narrow down which ones will overpower or age your hands. Thankfully we've solved the big mystery for you so you can flaunt your fiancée title with the best accessory!

Scroll for engagement rings that aren't worth adding to your "secret" Pinterest board!

Gabriel & Co.

1. Double Halo Engagement Rings: Gabriel & Co. 14K White Gold Double Halo Ring

Once upon a time, double halo engagement rings were widely popular and a good indicator that someone was willing to make your hand look extremely good. But that's not the case anymore! As coveted as this style used to be, it now comes across as gaudy and overpowering.

If you're dropping hints to your partner, perhaps leave this "outdated" style in your drafts!

Kay Jewelers

2. Princess Cut Engagement Rings: Kay Jewelers Lab Grown Princess-Cut Solitaire Ring

We were sure princess cut engagement rings meant we were going to embody the lives of our favorite Disney princesses — mainly Cinderella. We even told ourselves we'd be 100% okay with just a single diamond in the middle of a plain band. Now we know there's other options we can choose from. From cushion to emerald cut, none of us have to relegate ourselves to a style of the past!

Brilliant Earth

3. Thick Band Engagement Rings: Brilliant Earth Alden Ring

Did you just yelp or was that us? Maybe it was a collective sound heard around the world because wearing an engagement ring with a thick band seems like something our grandmothers would love. Though we don't always question their personal style, there's something "vintage" about this trend that doesn't make us feel great. Also, this ring will likely swallow your finger if your hand is on the slender side!

Shane Co.

4. Excessively Vintage Engagement Rings: Shane Co. Natasha Lab-Grown Engagement Ring

Hear us out — vintage rings are gorgeous and have the rare ability of being unique in a sea of familiar engagement choices. But reaching for something that feels like you can buy it from somewhere like Shein for way less than the market price shouldn't make anyone feel good.

Believe us when we say this trend is "outdated!"

Vrai

5. Rose Gold Engagement Rings: Vrai Side Cluster Cathedral Oval Engagement Ring

Rose gold engagement rings were an alternative to the general metals we're used to seeing (i.e., white gold, platinum or yellow gold), but we think they're losing their touch. We've also noticed that some jewelers have their own definition of how this trend looks so it's not as easy to tell what people consider to be "rose gold."

Your best bet is to try engagement rings on in person to see what looks best on your skin so your partner's able to make a more informed decision!

Subscribe to our newsletter for more trends you should and shouldn't invest in!

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

The Valentine’s Day pajamas in Victoria’s Secret never fail to catch my eye. Every time I see them, I immediately think, “OMG I need that lace bodysuit RN!” Luckily, I don’t have anyone to wear the lace bodysuit for, so by the time I get to the end of the block I realize that I don’t actually need it. (The only true reason I would need it is when I dress up like Beyoncé.) To me, these lace lingerie pieces are super sexy, but not that practical — they’re “once in a blue moon” items that are most likely a hefty investment. So this year, I decided to take away my internal lacy bodysuit struggle and create a sultry satin PJ set that is wearable, sexy and enjoyable for any date night.


Materials and Tools:

  • 1 yard Lycra satin
  • 1/2 yard lace
  • 3/8 inch satin ribbon
  • fabric scissors
  • sewing pins
  • marker
  • sewing machine

www.brit.co

Pajama Shorts

Instructions:

  1. Fold your fabric in half, place edge of shorts on the fold side of the fabric and then trace around the shorts. Trace the front and backside of the shorts and then cut out.
  2. Pin the curves of opposite cutouts together — then sew.
  3. Pin the perpendicular area to the curve together and then sew.
  4. Hem the bottom edges of the shorts.
  5. Cut out small squares about three inches down from the top of the shorts and then sew a small square around the hole.
  6. Fold the first 1.5 inches of the shorts over, pin in place and then sew to create the waistband.
  7. Feed ribbon through the waistband.

My favorite way to make new clothing is to use old favorites as patterns for new pieces. Fold one short leg inside the other to create a tracing pattern. Fold your fabric in half, place the straight edge of the shorts along the fold of the fabric and then trace with a half-inch buffer. Trace and cut out two pieces to create your shorts.

Pin the curve of one cutout to the curve of the other cutout — then sew.

Match up the curves of the shorts and then pin and sew together the bottom edge.

Hem the bottom edge of the leg holes to give your shorts a polished and professional look.

Create two small holes in the front of the shorts, about three inches from the top edge. Sew around the holes and then fold the waistband down. Pin in place and then sew.

Use a safety pin to snake ribbon through the waistband.

Pajama Top

Instructions:

  1. Trace the front of your favorite tank onto your fabric with an extra half-inch buffer — then cut out.
  2. Draw in pleats on the edge of your tank. The pleat should be about one inch from the underarm and about three inches in length.
  3. Pin the pleat together and then sew.
  4. Hem the vertical edges of the tank.
  5. Trace the back of the tank top onto your lace fabric.
  6. Pin and sew the lace fabric to the satin fabric.
  7. Hem all edges of the tank top.

Lay your favorite tank on the backside of your fabric and trace with a half-inch buffer.

Ladies, we’ve got to add some pleats into this top to help fit our boobies. Follow these instructions for a size small — for a medium, multiply x2 and a large x4. Start your triangle about one inch from the armpit curve. The triangle should be about three inches in height. Draw an imaginary line from right before the armpit cut starts to curve — the point of the triangle should hit this line.

Cut out the front of your shirt, fold in half and make sure all curves and pleats match up.

Pin the pleat together and then sew.

Fold and hem the long edges of the tank top.

Trace the back of your tank top onto the lace fabric. Remember to add a half-inch buffer — then cut out.

Pin the front of the shirt to the lace and then sew.

Match up the straps of the shirt and then sew.

Hem all edges of the tank top.

Pretty in pink!

Dress up in these silky PJs this Valentine’s Day, and then feed your face with conversation hearts :)

Show us your latest DIY pajamas by tagging us on Instagram and subscribe to our email newsletter for more inspo!

DIY Production and Styling: Kelly Bryden
Modeling: Paige Weber
Photography: Brittany Griffin

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.

Adam Brody and Leighton Meester are definitely one of our favorite celebrity couples, but they’re also some of our favorite celeb parents. The couple has two children together, and they keep their family life pretty private.

But while getting all dolled up during a video interview on February 27, Leighton Meester offered a rare update about their kids, including a glimpse into their work-life balance as a family of 4.

Adam Brody & Leighton Meester’s kids aren't "fazed at all" by the Hollywood life.

Leighton Meester's kids understand the Hollywood of it all.

Amy Sussman/Getty Images

While recording a Vogue Beauty Secrets video, Leighton Meester revealed that her kids are pretty used to traveling for her and Adam Brody's work.

“My kids, they get what we do," she says. "They come on location a lot." And while both Leighton and Adam have worked on some pretty big projects (and Leighton just joined Nobody Wants This season 2!), the Gossip Girl actress doesn't "think they're fazed at all."

"They get a lot of us off set and a lot of us not working, which has been always a really big benefit for both of us," she continues.

She also revealed to Brit + Co exclusively that Arlo is pretty helpful in the kitchen. “What I try to do is meal prep as much as I can. Sometimes that doesn't work out for me, but for my kids — I'll make things ahead of time," she says, adding that she's in “one of the luckiest positions that a mom could be.”

“When I was still nursing or my babies were still young, I had plenty of space and time to [be with my kids]," she continues. "And I know most women who are mothers don't have that opportunity at all.”

What has Adam Brody said about his parenting style?

Stefania Rosini/Netflix

When asked about his parenting style with Leighton Meester, Adam Brody told Today's Hoda & Jenna that he feels like their parenting is the "perfect" balance. "Of course, I’m going to feel like it’s the perfect balance of all of it," he says, adding that they're "very honest."

"We have some very truthful conversations, for better or worse. But other than that, I wouldn’t say overly strict," he continues. "There is a helicopter, you know, to keep them safe. I’m not overly strict but I see the sharp edges, literally...I want to keep those heads maintained."

What has Leighton Meester said about their family traditions?

Paulina Stevens/Exmas Film Inc/Amazon Freevee

When it comes to spending time together during the holidays, Leighton also opened up to Brit + Co exclusively about their go-to activities in an interview for her 2023 rom-com EXmas.

"We do a lot of hanging out," Leighton says in our conversation. "It's infuriating to people who live in cold weather but we go to the beach or we go in our pool or jacuzzi. We have snacks by the jacuzzi — we call it jajuterie!" Can I get in on that?

How many children does Leighton Meester have?

Rodin Eckenroth/Getty Images

Adam Brody and Leighton Meester have two children, a daughter named Arlo, and a son whose name they haven't told us yet.

What are Leighton Meester's kids ages?

Leon Bennett/Getty Images

Arlo is 9 years old and was born on August 4, 2015. Leighton Meester and Adam Brody's son was born in 2020 and is 4 years old.

How old was Leighton Meester when she had her first child?

Angela Weiss/Getty Images

Leighton Meester was 27 years old when she had Arlo in 2015.

Check out Ryan Reynolds And Blake Lively Want Their Kids To Have “As Normal A Life As Possible” for the latest news on another Gossip Girl cast member's family.

Millions of Americans tune into award shows like the Oscars, Emmys, Grammys, and Tonys every single year. Yet, you may not know that the Newbery Medal predates all of them — and this great literary honor historically celebrated and exulted some of your favorite childhood reads.

The latest Youth Media Awards took place on January 27, 2025, at the LibLearnX conference in Phoenix, Arizona. There, this year's Newbery Medal winner was officially announced. Keep reading to find out the exciting new winner!

Here's everything you need to know about the 2025 Newbery Medal winning book!

What is the Newbery Medal?

Amazon

The Newberry Medal is awarded to the author of the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children on a yearly basis. The American Library Association (ALA) gave the very first Newbery Medal to Hendrik Willem van Loon, author of "The Story of Mankind," in 1922.

This honor, named after John Newbery, an English children's book publisher, ultimately became the world's first children's book award.

Since its inception, the Newbery Medal has been awarded annually by the Association for Library Service to Children. Numerous revered works have been given this honor, ranging from The Voyages of Doctor Dolittle in 1923 to Summer of the Swans in 1971 and The Tale of Despereaux in 2004.

Who won the 2025 Newbery Medal?

Erin Entrada Kelly

The honor was given to The First State of Being by Erin Entrada Kelly. The book, which came out on March 5, 2024, is set in 1999 and follows a 12-year-old boy named Michael Rosario, who is consumed by anxiety as he prepares for a potential Y2K disaster.

Then, one day, Michael encounters a teenager named Ridge, who stands out with his unusual clothing and strange way of speaking. It turns out that Ridge traveled back in time from the year 2199 with the help of his mom's scientific experiments following a dare from his siblings.

Michael is tempted by the opportunity to find out about the future. However, he realizes that his priority is helping Ridge return to his own time.

This feat represents Erin Entrada Kelly's second Newbery Medal win. She previously won the honor for the first time in 2018 with her book, Hello, Universe.

Along with this prestigious award, the committee also awarded Newbery Honors to other books deemed attention-worthy. These titles included Across So Many Seas by Ruth Behar, Magnolia Wu Unfolds It All by Chanel Miller, One Big Open Sky by Lesa Cline-Ransome, and The Wrong Way Home by Kate O'Shaughnessy.

Amazon

While the Newbery Medal is perhaps the most famous children's book award, the ALA also recognizes outstanding literature across a variety of categories. These awards, including the Randolph Caldecott Medal, the Coretta Scott King Book Award, the William C. Morris Award, and the Michael L. Printz Award, are determined by committees of children's librarians and other literary experts.

This year, the Randolph Caldecott Medal was presented to Chooch Helped by Andrea L. Rogers and illustrated by Rebecca Lee Kunz. It's awarded to the most distinguished American picture book for kids.

Amazon

Twenty-four Seconds from Now... by Jason Reynolds received the Coretta Scott King Book Award, which honors African American authors and illustrators who create exceptional books for both children and young adults. My Daddy Is a Cowboy, illustrated by C.G. Esperanza, won the Coretta Scott King Illustrator Book Award.

The William C. Morris Award, given to books by debut authors writing for teen audiences, was presented to Not Like Other Girls by Meredith Adamo. Finally, the Michael L. Printz Award, which recognizes excellent works across YA fiction, nonfiction, poetry, graphic novels, and anthologies, was awarded to Brownstone by Samuel Teer and illustrated by Mar Julia.

Order 'The First State of Being' Here!

Amazon

The First State of Being by Erin Entrada Kelly

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