Wedding Balloon Displays Are Our New Decor Crush

You know we love a fabulous floral showstopper: Flower arches are to die for, and we have heart eyes over the wall of blooms created by Jeff Leatham himself. But to be perfectly honest, we have a new wedding design crush. You guys, balloons are the new wedding florals. (Just check Pinterest!) Dreamy, colorful, sculptural … is there anything balloons can’t do? This roundup of our favorite bold balloons is just what you need to kick-start your planning.

1. Honeycomb & Balloon Arch: For an alter arch, layer in honeycombs in bright colors to create a multi-textured stunner. The only thing that can compete is you! (via Mary Costa Photography / Green Wedding Shoes)

2. Rainbow Balloon Installation: This multicolored amazingness is how you put your mark on the venue the day of your nuptials. It’s the *ultimate* photo backdrop. (via Cynthia Chung Photography)

3. Lots of Garlands: Go big or go home when it comes to love! There’s nothing subtle about these balloons or the giant marquee letters, and we LOVE it. (via Peterson Design & Photography / Green Wedding Shoes)

4. Floral & Balloon Garland: Our two favorite things are even sweeter together. Balloons + blooms 4-ever. (via CBC Life)

5. Suspended Balloon Table Runner: With an unconventional seating arrangement, you can help create intimacy by “lowering” the ceiling in the venue. Adding this large garland achieves this, all while adding some color to a stark rental space. (via Beck Rochi Photography / Ruffled)

6. Glitter Filled Balloons: Fill your display up with these glittery versions for that extra bit of shimmer. We love the interplay of the gold and pink! (via Frank & Frida Photography / Kara’s Party Ideas)

7. Balloon Ceiling: When giant arches or garlands don’t fit the vibe, create a drop ceiling in moody hues. (viaMy Little Company Photography / Lenzo)

8. One Love, One Color: For a more minimalist approach, stay with one shade, and accent with light greenery. The look is simple but hugely impactful. (via Beck Rocchi Photography / Something Turquoise)

How dreamy are these balloon installations? Follow us on Pinterest for more ideas!

Bachelorette parties have been around for decades, but they've come a long way from the days of predictable bar crawls and tacky accessories.

In 2025, modern brides and their besties are ditching outdated traditions in favor of celebrations that feel more authentic, inclusive, and, overall, more enjoyable for everyone involved.

Sure, some classic elements still hold their charm and humor (like gifting the bride-to-be saucy items for her wedding night), but many old trends simply don't make sense anymore, whether they're financially burdensome, aesthetically overplayed, or just plain exhausting.

Here are eight old-school bachelorette party trends that, in our humble opinion, need to stay in the past or be retired once and for all.

Scroll to see which outdated bachelorette party trends you really should stop in 2025...

1. Expecting Bridesmaids To Foot The Bill For Destination Celebrations

Orlando Filho

Life today is already painfully expensive, and while getting asked to be a bridesmaid can feel like an honor, it just piles on even more costs.

You'll have to buy a dress, get your hair and makeup done, purchase a gift, and possibly arrange hotel accommodations or childcare for the day of the event. So, why bridesmaids are expected to drop hundreds if not thousands of dollars on flights, hotels, dining, and activities for a destination bachelorette party is beyond us.

Yes, a weekend in Miami or Las Vegas could be epic, but not everyone can afford to splurge on a mini-vacation just because their friend is getting married. Unless everyone involved feels comfortable spending that kind of money on a bachelorette trip, just pick a more budget-friendly option, like a one-day celebration or even a short road trip closer to home.

2. Matching Outfits

George Chambers

Coordinated bachelorette party outfits definitely had their moment, but nowadays, the idea of forcing everyone into the same cheesy T-shirts or color-coordinated dresses can be overboard.

Again, some bridesmaids may view it as an unnecessary expense that's not worth it for a cute Instagram photo. Plus, personal style and comfort matter, so if you have bridesmaids with different aesthetics and body types, at least one may just end up feeling uncomfortable the whole time.

That's why looser clothing themes or overall color palettes are a safer way to go.

3. Sashes, Tiaras, and Cowboy Hats

King Shooter

If you truly love the idea of parading around in sashes, tiaras, and hot pink cowboy hats during your or your friend's bachelorette party, more power to you. Honestly, though, the accessories have begun to feel more like a cliché than anything.

They can come across as tacky and overdone. Not to mention, they're usually cheaply made and end up in the trash by the end of the night.

Our advice? Save your money and invest in more stylish, personalized touches, like custom accessories or jewelry.

4. Brides Only Wearing White

Los Muertos Crew

Traditionally, brides have stuck to wearing only white throughout their whole bachelorette party celebration. That's still fine, but if the idea makes you feel restricted, don't be afraid to break the mold.

If you want to switch it up by mixing in colors or patterns, don't let anyone stop you. Remember, your bachelorette party is supposed to be fun for you.

You shouldn't allow social media photo ops or general societal expectations to dictate what you can and can't wear during your own party.

5. Cringey Slogans

Yuliia Auer

We've all seen the slogans that brides and their bridesmaids use for their bachelorette parties, either on apparel, decor, or hashtags for social media. For instance, "Bride Tribe," "I Do Crew," or even "Last Fling Before The Ring."

Like sashes and cowboy hats, the slogans are cliché and sometimes just cringeworthy. You don't need a catchphrase to have a good time, and if you want one, maybe go the more unique route.

6. Getting Blackout Drunk Every Night

AMBADY KOLAZHIKKARAN

Spoiler alert: you don't have to get blackout drunk every single night to enjoy a bachelorette party.

We get it: throwing back some shots or sipping on wine all day can be fun, especially with your girlfriends. But if you have a whole day (or even weekend) planned, getting wasted can be a recipe for disaster.

First, you'll probably be hungover or generally unhappy for later activities. Moreover, alcohol has the ability to raise tensions and spark drama, which can bulldoze the group dynamic.

Obviously, you can still kick back and indulge a little. However, keep the bride in mind and strive for a balance to make memories that you'll actually remember.

7. Over-Scheduling The Itinerary

Nano Erdozain

Since multi-day bachelorette parties are so popular, it can be tempting to pack your group's itinerary chock full of activities. And suddenly, things that sound exciting on their own, like brunch, yoga, wine tasting, dinner, or clubbing, feel like an exhausting checklist when scheduled literally back to back.

Realize that the reason for bachelorette parties is for brides to connect and bond with their closest friends. Leave room for spontaneity, downtime, and relaxation. Wedding planning is already stressful enough as it is.

8. Not Considering What The Bride Wants

Melike B

Finally, at the end of the day, a bachelorette party should be about celebrating the bride. So, if bridesmaids are tasked with planning the celebration, the bride's personality and interests need to be considered.

It's time to retire the idea that every bachelorette party has to follow a cookie-cutter formula. If the bride isn't into clubbing, don't plan a huge night out! Or, if she's more of a homebody, don't push for a major trip.

The best bachelorette parties are the ones that feel thoughtful and personal, not just trendy. And if you have any doubts about what the bride wants, all you have to do is ask her.

Looking for more wedding planning tips? Be sure to sign up for our newsletter!

We’re total sneaker heads over here, so we’re uber excited for what spring has to offer in the shoe department. It appears spring 2025 is brimming with fresh sneakertrends that embrace all things colorful and retro – a power combo! If you’re looking to step up your ‘fits with something a lil’ bit different on your feet, this season’s kicks are anything but basic.

Scroll on to see the 4 sneaker trends set to dominate spring 2025!

1. Pink Sneakers

Urban Outfitters

Gola Elan Sneakers

Pink sneakers are popping off this spring, ranging from pastels to bold, hot pink shades. They’re the perfect sneakers to snag if you’re seeking a seasonal pop of color!

Anthropologie

Puma Palermo Sneakers

For a playful feel, wear hot pink kicks with an all-black outfit to make them stand out. For a more femme look, wear some pastel pink sneakers with light-wash jeans and a flowy white top.

2. Retro Track Sneakers

Onitsuka Tiger

Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 Sneakers

Inspired by vintage running shoes from the ‘70s and ‘80s, retro track sneakers are definitely on the come-up. Brands are continuing to bring a mix of nostalgia and sporty aesthetics to the forefront, and we couldn’t love it more!

Saucony

Saucony Trainer 80 Sneakers

These sneaks are not only stylish, but practical, too! Seek out a comfy pair with some chic suede detailing or bold color blocking. Whether you pair ‘em with wide-leg trousers for a vintage-inspired outfit or biker shorts for a lax weekend look, a good set of bold retro sneakers will undeniably turn heads your way.

3. Hiking Sneaks For The Street

Keen

Keen Jasper Zionic Sneakers

We’re starting to spot hiking-inspired sneakers on the street more and more. Technical shoe brands like Keen and Salomon have styles that are both functional and fashionable!

Salomon

Salomon XT-6 Sportstyle Sneakers

With rugged soles, durable materials, and utilitarian designs, these shoes provide unmatched comfort, too. To give your ‘fits a sportier vibe, try hiking sneakers with cargo pants and a fitted tank top. For added contrast, certain styles also look ahh-mazing with mini dresses and denim jackets!

4. Sneaker Charms

Free People

Free People Shoe Charm & Pin Pack

Customizing your look is key in 2025 – so sneaker charms let you infuse your kicks with personality! From pearls and pendants to lace and beads, you can truly find sneaker charms of all kinds… or make your own!

Dolce Vita

Dolce Vita Notice Lace Sneakers + Gold Charm Bundle

Shoe charms also work well beyond sneakers. You can easily tack them onto boots or loafers!

Subscribe to our newsletter to shop more seasonal fashion trends!

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

Did you know the colors you are surrounded with can enhance your mood and energy? Think about the color palette in your closet right now. What colors are you most drawn to? Before you freak out if black or gray are your go-to colors for your daily wear (guilty!) maybe after reading this, it will inspire you to step out of your comfort zone and try to work with new colors. What if I tell you that your astrological sign has a designated color palette to support your journey?

Color therapy, or “chromotherapy,” can supplement your well-being. Integrating astrology will also help you pinpoint the colors you are most attracted to and how to become more in tune with yourself. Astrology is a fantastic modality for gauging self-acceptance while also becoming your best self, and color therapy is the therapeutic means to rebalance and power up your goals.

Working with the colors assigned to your zodiac sign can support your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Read on to learn how color therapy works and which color palette best suits your zodiac sign!

Here's how to make color therapy work for your zodiac sign — and feel good doing it!

What is color therapy?

Helena Lopes

Color therapy is a holistic, non-invasive modality used for the body. Historical figures such as Pythagoras (circa 2,500 years ago) applied “color light” therapeutically, while “color halls” were used as a means of treatment in ancient Egypt, China, and India. The modern medical pioneer patron of color therapy was Niels Finsen of Denmark in 1877. He discovered that visible light was how ultraviolet or red light energy could heal wounds, bacterial infections, or scars. Sounds familiar? In this present, infrared light therapy is used for pain relief, improved sleep, inflammation, facials, detoxes, and more. Knowing this, you can see why color and light restores our mind, body, and emotional needs.

There are many ways in which you can work best with color therapy. To implement physical changes, you can update your selection of colors in your clothing, nail colors, makeup palette, or home decor. For the mind and emotional system, you can work with colors through visualization practices like art, meditation, or a color therapy lamp.

How Can Color Therapy and Astrology Work Together?

let mous

Color therapy works by frequency or wavelengths of colors, which can have a physiological or psychological impact on our well-being. Using appropriate colors guided by your zodiac sign can rebalance or harmonize your body’s energy centers. How can color therapy integrate with your zodiac sign? It begins by knowing and working with your Sun sign, granting you more confidence and understanding regarding your direction. It extends our overall vitality and spreads endless radiance in our lives. It fuels our well-being and emits light wherever it touches in the birth chart. In principle, our Sun sign is our destination point, our identity. Now, the Sun Sign is where we can reach that higher level of understanding about our process and how we will experience fulfillment in this life. Incorporating color therapy guided by astrology can help you obtain confidence, and when you feel balanced, you make sound choices.

​How Colors Align With Zodiac Signs

Brit + Co

Observing the astrological signs, they are all categorized within the elemental values. Starting with fire, the signs Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius are placed within this element. These signs hold precedence over the esoteric realm of spirit as they are meant to initiate, inspire, and teach. Fire tones are within the spectrum of golds, reds, and oranges.

The signs Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn reside within the earthy realm. They are supportive, detailed, and persevering in nature. The earth element enables humanity to take a firm stance involving patience or consistency. Deep greens, grays, and navy are colors that hold a grounded energy for these signs.

The signs Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius inhabit the air element. Those who hold this element strongly have the skill to circulate a constant flow of ideas, remain stimulated, and effectively communicate. Air energy guides humanity in the exchange of information, negotiation, and evolution. For clarity, the colors that best support these signs are yellows, pastel blues, or electric blues.

Ending with Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces, these signs embody the water element. Natives with a strong water element are receptive to others' feelings and can be intuitive. They can also conjure creativity, withstand intensity, and dive deep into the world of dreams. Colors such as purples, deep reds, or soft greens can help these signs invoke self-love and confidence.

Colors for Each Zodiac Sign

Brit + Co

Aries (March 21 – April 20)

Personality Traits: Aries is bold, energetic, and daring, often leading the way with confidence and courage. They are natural-born leaders who take on challenges fearlessly.
Chromatherapy Suggestions: Colors like red and orange help Aries channel their energy and passion. These colors promote confidence, courage, and an enhanced sense of purpose to match their bold nature.

Brit + Co

Taurus (April 21 – May 21)

Personality Traits: Known for their patience, determination, and deep connection to nature, Taurus seeks stability and grounding. They are steady and reliable, with an appreciation for beauty and luxury.
Chromatherapy Suggestions: Earthy tones like green and brown are ideal for Taurus. These colors promote relaxation, groundedness, and stability, aligning with Taurus' need for balance and connection to nature.

Brit + Co

Gemini (May 22 – June 21)

Personality Traits: Gemini is versatile, adaptable, and intellectually curious. They thrive on communication and change, with a playful and creative side. Their dual nature makes them curious and full of ideas.
Chromatherapy Suggestions: Bright yellow and light green stimulate mental agility, creativity, and versatility for Gemini. These colors foster communication and mental clarity, enhancing their natural curiosity and adaptability.

Brit + Co

Cancer (June 22 – July 22)

Personality Traits: Compassionate, intuitive, and deeply connected to family and emotions. Cancer nurtures others and seeks emotional fulfillment. They are protectors and caretakers.
Chromatherapy Suggestions: Soft white, silver, and pale blue promote emotional healing, inner peace, and nurturing energy. These colors align with Cancer’s need for emotional well-being and tranquility.

Brit + Co

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

Personality Traits: Leo exudes warmth, creativity, and pride. With their strong sense of self, they seek recognition and joy, and they inspire others with their vitality and passion.
Chromatherapy Suggestions: Gold, yellow, and orange help Leo amplify their natural creativity and vitality, enhancing their self-expression and sense of pride. These warm colors increase confidence and fuel their dynamic energy.

Brit + Co

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Personality Traits: Virgos are known for their perfectionism, sharp intellect, and organizational skills. They are reliable, practical, and thrive on productivity and efficiency.
Chromatherapy Suggestions: Soft green and blue are ideal for Virgo, promoting balance, healing, and clarity of mind. These colors assist in maintaining a calm and focused environment, supporting Virgo’s need for order and tranquility.

Brit + Co

Libra (September 23 – October 22)

Personality Traits: Libra values harmony, beauty, and fairness. They seek balance in all aspects of life, often striving for peace and cooperation in their relationships and surroundings.
Chromatherapy Suggestions: Pastel colors, particularly light blue and pink, promote peace, harmony, and emotional balance. These soft hues help Libra maintain their sense of equilibrium and enhance their diplomatic nature.

Brit + Co

Scorpio (October 23 - November 21)

Personality Traits: Scorpio is intense, passionate, and deeply transformative. Known for their mystery and depth, they possess great inner strength and are drawn to uncover hidden truths.
Chromatherapy Suggestions: Deep red, black, and maroon channel passion, power, and transformation for Scorpio. These intense colors align with their transformative nature and help them harness their strength.

Brit + Co

Sagittarius (November 21 – December 21)

Personality Traits: Sagittarius is adventurous, optimistic, and philosophical. They love exploring new ideas, cultures, and places and often share wisdom and joy with those around them.
Chromatherapy Suggestions: Purple and deep blue enhance spiritual growth, adventure, and wisdom. These colors stimulate the Sagittarian desire for exploration and wisdom while supporting their boundless optimism.

Brit + Co

Capricorn (December 21 – January 19)

Personality Traits: Capricorn is disciplined, ambitious, and pragmatic. They take a methodical approach to life and are determined to achieve their goals through hard work and patience.
Chromatherapy Suggestions: Earthy tones like gray, brown, and navy support Capricorn’s need for focus, discipline, and groundedness. These colors help them stay on course and maintain a practical mindset.

Brit + Co

Aquarius (January 20 – February 19)

Personality Traits: Aquarius is eccentric, innovative, and idealistic. They value independence and individuality, often challenging the status quo and embracing forward-thinking ideas.
Chromatherapy Suggestions: Electric blue and purple enhance mental clarity, innovation, and independence. These vibrant colors support Aquarius' need for originality and their intellectual pursuits.

Brit + Co

Pisces (February 20 – March 21)

Personality Traits: Pisces is intuitive, empathetic, and imaginative. Known for their dreamy and artistic nature, they deeply connect to the spiritual and emotional realms.
Chromatherapy Suggestions: Soft green, seafoam blue, and lavender promote relaxation, creativity, and intuition for Pisces. These calming colors enhance their dreamlike state and encourage emotional balance and creativity.

​Color Therapy Visualization Technique

Anh Nguyen

Now that you know which color vibrates with your zodiac sign, you can use this visualization technique to connect more with your Sun sign. Color therapy is a powerful tool for balancing energy, emotions, and well-being. By using the healing properties of colors, you can encourage emotional release, relaxation, and revitalization. Each color carries its frequency and vibration, which can help align and support different aspects of your life, from physical health to mental clarity.

This color therapy visualization technique will guide you through grounding, relaxation, and energetic renewal. Connecting with the colors that resonate with you will activate healing energy within your body and mind, clearing away any negative or stagnant energy. It’s a simple yet powerful practice that you can do daily to restore balance and promote a sense of calm and well-being.

Energetic Healing Visualization Technique

Mikhail Nilov

  1. Position yourself comfortably or sit in a lotus position. Place your left hand over your heart area.
  2. Take a deep breath through your nose, then exhale slowly through your mouth. With each breath, feel your body becoming more relaxed.
  3. Focus on the soles of your feet and imagine an energetic pull grounding you, anchoring you in the present moment.
  4. Take another deep breath, feeling a nurturing energy rising from the ground, reaching up to the soles of your feet. Allow this energy to gently move upward, relaxing and energizing your body—feet, calves, thighs, core, shoulders, arms, neck, face, and head.
  5. Imagine a bright, glowing light in the sky above you. This light represents your Higher Self.
  6. See the light spiraling down toward you, entering through the crown of your head and flowing through your body. As it moves, it changes into a vibrant color that resonates with you.
  7. Take another deep breath and allow the colored light to fill your core center. Visualize it growing brighter and expanding with each breath, filling your entire body.
  8. Imagine the light forming a dome or egg-like shape around your body, extending outward, cleansing your physical and energetic space.
  9. Release any tensions, worries, or negative energy, visualizing them fading away into the ground. Trust the process of transformation.
  10. Continue this visualization as long as you need. When you feel light and neutral, place your hands in a prayer position and silently offer thanks.
  11. Visualize the light around you returning to its source, and when ready, gently open your eyes.

This practice can be done 1-2 times daily, ideally in the morning or before bedtime.

Adara Cox

By integrating color therapy with your astrological sign, you can tap into a powerful tool for enhancing your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. These simple yet effective practices allow you to align with the natural flow of your energy and support your unique traits, helping you to feel more balanced and connected to yourself. Whether you choose to surround yourself with the colors that resonate with your sign or engage in visualization techniques, color therapy offers a profound way to nurture your overall health and personal growth.

Remember, your journey toward healing and balance is personal, and using the right colors can be an uplifting part of that process. Take time to explore the colors that speak to you and notice the subtle shifts they create in your life.

Do you wish to learn more about Lumi's work with astrology and her holistic approach? Lumi Pelinku invites you to dive deeper into your journey through an extended reading that can provide tailored insights and inspiration. Click here to book your reading today!

For more astrology advice, be sure to Ask Lumi for advice and follow the conversation on Facebook!

As far as I'm concerned, 2024 was Daisy Edgar-Jones' year. The Normal People actress captured our hearts with her role as Kate in Twisters (as well as her viral Hot Ones interview with Glen Powell and "Apple" TikTok dance). But while Kate led a pretty adventurous life, her risk threshold is nothing compared to Daisy's newest character, Muriel, in On Swift Horses.

Living in post-Korean War California, Muriel's life with her husband Lee is disrupted when Lee's brother Julius arrives in all his addictive, charming glory. The film, based on Shannon Pufahl's 2019 book of the same name, made its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 7. Here's everything you need to know.

What is On Swift Horses about?

Luc Montpelllier

On Swift Horses Plot

Muriel begins a new life with her husband Lee when he returns to California from the Korean War. But the life they're building together — and their future — changes forever when Lee's brother Julius, a headstrong gambler, arrives. Julius is attractive, charismatic, and hiding plenty of secrets.

According to the official synopsis, "when Julius takes off in search of the young card cheat he’s fallen for, Muriel’s longing for something more propels her into a secret life of her own, gambling on racehorses and exploring a love she never dreamed possible."

Luc Montpelllier

The story explores LGBTQ+ identity and desire in the 1950s, but does so with a hopeful tone rather than a devastating one. “The first scenes that we filmed were the scenes we had together, so we got all of that done with—when we were apart, we had put the groundwork in,” Daisy tells Vanity Fair of working with Jacob, who adds, "I believe Taylor Swift calls it an invisible string.”

"I loved the connection between gambling and risk-taking, and pushing the boundaries of her desire and what she’s looking for,” Daisy adds. “Muriel’s rebellion throughout the film is quite quiet, in the small ways in which she takes back her power by concealing things. A lot of what’s happening is behind closed doors.”

Who's in the cast of On Swift Horses?

Luc Montpelllier

On Swift Horses Cast

On Swift Horses stars Daisy Edgar-Jones, Jacob Elordi, Will Poulter, Sasha Calle, and Diego Calva.

"It's not hard to make chemistry with Jacob because he's just so charismatic," Daisy said during a Q&A, via People, adding that the script "felt almost like reading poetry and so much of what happens is in the subtext."

"This movie is just about love,” Calle added. “It’s important to just feel that — whoever that might be, where that takes you. It’s important to feel that and to feel safe in it.”

Has On Swift Horses been released?

Luc Montpelllier

On Swift Horses Release Date

On Swift Horses premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 7, and is currently looking for a distributor. Check back here for news on its release date!

Watch The Teaser Trailer For 'On Swift Horses'

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

As charming as Julius appears in the teaser trailer, his brother Lee tells Muriel they live differently than he does. "He's just not like us," he says before a scene cuts to Muriel exploring her own "passions." Based on this, On Swift Horses appears to blur the lines of love, lust, secrets, and recognizing one's identity.

Read up on Andrew Garfield and Florence Pugh's We Live In Time, which also premiered at TIFF last year!

Lead image via Robin Marchant/Getty Images

This post has been updated.

The 2000s were a wild time for movies. It was an era of debatable fashion, even more questionable humor, and films that, looking back, we can't believe ever made it past a pitch meeting.

While certain movies from this nostalgic period remain classics, others haven't aged very well. Whether they're filled with problematic tropes or outdated stereotypes, here are the 10 cringey 2000s movies that wouldn't stand a chance in Hollywood today.

Scroll to see all the super cringe 2000s movies we wouldn't see today...

Summit Entertainment

1. Twilight (2008)

When Twilight premiered in 2008, it became an instant sensation and sparked a cultural obsession with supernatural romance. However, while it left an undeniable mark on pop culture, this film has some major underlying issues.

Once viewed as swoon-worthy, Bella and Edward's relationship feels problematic in hindsight. He was controlling, exhibited stalker-like behavior, and gaslit her into believing that she imagined his supernatural abilities.

Add in the fact that Edward is technically over a century old when Bella is a high schooler, and it's clear why Twilight might not resonate with audiences the same way in 2025.

Universal Pictures

2. Knocked Up (2007)

Directed by Judd Apatow, Knocked Up was initially well-received despite heavily leaning on outdated gender stereotypes. The movie follows responsible and career-driven Alison, who is forced to navigate an unplanned pregnancy with slacker Ben.

Even though Knocked Up delivers plenty of laughs, it also portrays women, especially Alison, as rigid and joyless. Katherine Heigl, the lead actress, criticized this, too, saying the film "Paints the women as shrews, as humorless and uptight, and it paints the men as lovable, goofy, fun-loving guys."

Dreamworks

3. Norbit (2007)

This movie might've showcased Eddie Murphy's ability to transform into multiple characters, yet Norbit is still more cringeworthy than comedic. The portrayal of Rasputia, an over-the-top and domineering woman whose character is built around fat-shaming jokes, is particularly offensive.

Moreover, Murphy also plays Mr. Wong, a wildly stereotypical caricature of an elderly Chinese man.

20th Century Fox

4. Shallow Hal (2001)

Shallow Hal may have set out to deliver a message about inner beauty, but it really missed the mark. Again, this film relies on fatphobic humor, with Gwyneth Paltrow's character serving as the target of the jokes.

It arguably reinforces stereotypes about weight and attractiveness, and Gwyneth (who wore a fat suit) actually called the movie a "disaster" in 2020.

Columbia Pictures

5. White Chicks (2004)

Featuring over-the-top humor and absurd disguises, White Chicks was a hit in 2004. Nonetheless, it's a tired portrayal of women as materialistic, shallow, and obsessed with their looks.

The premise involves two FBI agents posing as socialites during a Hamptons weekend, and it was always meant to be ridiculous. Even so, there are certain scenes that are especially questionable, like when an athlete at the club attempts to spike a woman's drink.

Universal Pictures

6. Brüno (2009)

Brüno was intended to be a bold satire, Sacha Baron Cohen's specialty, but it crosses the line of edgy humor. He plays an exaggerated, flamboyant Austrian fashion journalist, and the mockumentary was meant to expose homophobia.

Despite that, the movie incorporated a lot of outdated gay stereotypes and might've reinforced the notions as opposed to challenging them. In fact, Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) representative Rashad Robinson called the work "problematic in many places and outright offensive in others."

New Line Cinema

7. Wedding Crashers (2005)

Wedding Crashers revolves around two men who lie their way into weddings to manipulate women into sleeping with them. At its core, the film's plot is unsettling and questionable.

Aside from that, it features gay stereotypes, a racist grandmother, and scenes that blur the lines of consent. All that being said, t's obvious why this movie wouldn't fly today.

New Line Cinema

8. The Notebook (2003)

The Notebook is still one of the most favored romance movies of all time, so this may be an unpopular opinion, but some of its most iconic moments are more disturbing than anything.

There's no denying that Noah and Allie's love story is passionate, but his relentless pursuit of her is borderline manipulative. Remember when he threatened to let go of the Ferris wheel if she didn't go on a date with him?

Plus, once they actually get together, their relationship is filled with constant fighting, including scenes when Allie hits Noah. Female-on-male violence has traditionally been glossed over in films, but today, Hollywood is moving away from these problematic depictions.

Paramount Pictures

9. How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003)

This movie follows advice columnist Andie Anderson, played by Kate Hudson, who wants to write an attention-grabbing piece. She finds Ben Berry, an advertising executive who's arguably creepy and manipulative.

While How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days may be a classic rom-com, it relies on gender stereotypes that can feel more offensive than humorous now.

Paramount Pictures

10. Mean Girls (2004)

Finally, we can't forget about Mean Girls, one of the most iconic teen comedies of the 2000s. Sure, it's filled with endlessly quotable lines and a sharp take on high school cliques, but it also has relentless body-shaming.

Many of the scenes would hit differently in today's more body-positive era, making Mean Girls a more cringey watch in 2025.

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