“I had a rule that I would never drink or do drugs while working,” Perry says. “Because I had too much respect for the five people I was working with. So I was never wasted while working.” When he wasn’t filming, he was taking 55 Vicodin a day. “I weighed 128 lbs, I was on Friends getting watched by 30 million people — and that’s why I can’t watch the show, ’cause I was brutally thin,” he says.
Perry also shares his frustration at the hand he was dealt in an exclusive cover story interview with People. “It’s not fair that I had to go through this disease while the other five didn’t. They got everything that I got, but I had to fight this thing — and still have to fight this thing,” he added.
Perry tells People that his memoir is “[full] of hope.” But he definitely doesn’t shy away from the hard periods of his life, which include multiple gastrointestinal surgeries, 15 visits to a rehabilitation center, and a complicated relationship with sobriety. The memoir even opens with a heavy disclosure: at 49, Perry nearly died.
Perry tells People he experienced a gastrointestinal perforation — a serious medical condition that describes a hole in the gastrointestinal tract — as well as a burst colon resulting from opioid use. After two weeks in a coma and months in the hospital, Perry recovered, but initially, the “doctors told my family that I had a 2 percent chance to live . . . I was put on a thing called an ECMO machine, which does all the breathing for your heart and your lungs. And that’s called a Hail Mary. No one survives that.” The experience left Perry feeling “grateful to be alive,” per People.
Another epiphany Perry experienced happened in rehab when meeting with a counselor who saved his life by simply validating his struggle. Perry shares with CBC, “He told me, ‘Just remember, it’s not your fault.'” Perry then asked the counselor to repeat himself. “I went, ‘What do you mean it’s not my fault? I’m the one who is doing it.’ And he explained addiction and alcoholism to me and he saved my life.” He adds, “Because I then knew I wasn’t weaker, it wasn’t my will that was screwed up, that I have this disease and I need to get help.” He continues, “There are people who will help you. It won’t go away, it never goes away.”
With the memoir, Perry says he wanted to share his story to help others who may be dealing with the disease of addiction firsthand. But he had make sure that he was in a good place before doing so. “I wanted to share when I was safe from going into the dark side of everything again,” he tells People. “I had to wait until I was pretty safely sober — and away from the active disease of alcoholism and addiction — to write it all down. And the main thing was, I was pretty certain that it would help people.”
The writing experience — though it can be intimidating to share your life so publicly — has shown Perry his own strength.
“What I’m most surprised with is my resilience,” he tells People. “The way that I can bounce back from all of this torture and awfulness. Wanting to tell the story, even though it’s a little scary to tell all your secrets in a book, I didn’t leave anything out. Everything’s in there.”
But it’s still difficult for Perry to watch himself struggling on television. Until now, he hasn’t watched “Friends” because he knows exactly what substances he was taking during the show. “I could tell season by season by how I looked. That’s why I don’t wanna watch it, because that’s what I see.”
Now he’s opening up to the idea. “I think I’m gonna start to watch it, because it really has been an incredible thing to watch it touch the hearts of different generations,” he says to CBC. “It’s become this important, significant thing,” he goes on. “It was really funny and all the people were nice. I’ve been too worried about this, and I wanna watch Friends too.”
If you or someone you know is in need of substance-related treatment or counseling, you can reach the Substance and Abuse Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) on its Treatment Referral Routing Service helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
Alex Cooper is everything I hate in a person. She’s fun, blonde, confident, loud, successful, a podcast host, and doesn’t immediately shower after getting off a plane. She’s everything I’m not and wish I was—my inverse psychological classification—and I’m obsessed with her.
“There are two types of people in the world: dumb smart people and smart dumb people,” she says to me as we make our way through LAX airport. “Which one are we?” I ask.
“Smart dumb, obviously,” she replies. A dumb smart person, she goes on to explain, is someone with zero intuition about people but “knows about, like, books, and things.” Smart dumb people, I conclude, are the opposite. We are flying to New York City for the weekend—a plan we made in hopes that, if we flew across the country, there would be no choice but to leave our respective homes. It was meant to be a refreshingly chilly change of scenery from Los Angeles, where we both live. Fall, I’m told by people who live with seasons. It ended up being a frightening 75 degrees and was also, unfortunately, the last weekend in October, known to some as the dreaded “Halloweekend.” Not realizing this until we had already strayed 3,000 miles from our residences, we resigned to yet another weekend of sweatpants and staying in—there was simply no other option.
Alex Cooper and Cazzie David.
Emilio Madrid
I knew Alex was famous, but it turns out Alex is evidently really famous. Perhaps the only person who has ever reached this level of fame from a podcast, rather than become a celebrity who then decides the world would simply be amiss if they did not start a podcast. Walking through the West Village with Alex was like tailing Elvis: adoring, beautiful women throwing themselves at her left and right, screaming “daddy!” at the top of their lungs. But what I also observed was an unusual kind of fan relationship. Alex and her listeners interact as if they are friends from sleep-away camp. Girls who haven’t seen each other in years and have a lot to catch up on. It took me no less than a dozen of these interactions for me to finally stop asking, “How do you guys know each other?”
Unlike some celebrities who covertly strive for a cultish fandom that blindly follows whatever they do, Alex has managed to create a real community—one where she and her listeners exchange stories, advice, and ideas. She is not selling anything. She will never ask you to spend your hard-earned paycheck on her new hair extension line. Her devoted listeners, a.k.a. “Daddy Gang,” (a moniker Alex coined in the early days of the show, predicting it would make people feel like they were a part of something) aren’t afraid to give her constructive criticism, because she takes it like a champ. In fact, she has been publicly called out on more than one occasion, and while this might cause others (me) to flee the country and assume a new identity, Alex has proven herself to be capable of reflection, and possesses an almost superhuman ability to laugh at herself. She’s real with her audience even in conversation about times she wasn’t being real (wow…BeReal really ruined the word “real”).
In September 2021, a TikTok account attempted to expose her for photoshopping the side of her waist in an Instagram post. After a few days that she describes as “mildly embarrassing,” she responded by releasing an episode aptly titled, “I Got Caught Photoshopping.” She doesn’t pretend to be above the things that we as young women living in the nightmare of modern internet culture get sucked into, but also understands how important it is to talk about them.
Another weekend of sweatpants and staying in, apart from taking these photos.
Emilio Madrid
According to a report from Demand Sage, as of June 2022, there are over 2.4 million podcasts in the media landscape. Of those, there are probablyone million podcasts titled something along the lines of Two Girls, One Glass of Wine, each spewing the same given commentary on dating, like, “Girl, listen, if a guy is toxic, you need to cut him out of your life.” Even though Call Her Daddy’s pure existence was ahead of the podcast curve by almost a decade, Alex’s opinions have never been obvious or shallow. “As much as people say [Call Her Daddy] is polarizing, it was me trying to find a way for women in the world we are living in, where we aren’t just bitching and moaning, complaining about the patriarchy,” she tells me. “Oh, you want the power? Here are a couple tips to gain the power from the inside out.”
This mission statement still serves as a north star for Alex, and is partly the reason the legion of people trying to emulate her ascension doesn’t bother her. “I am my own competition,” she says. “I don’t pay attention to what other people are doing and I don’t consume other people’s content so I can maintain an original voice. When I started, I had never listened to a podcast in my life. I focus on who I am rather than trends and quick hot takes that aren’t going to last.” A quality you have to admire in this day and age where fast-moving trends and endless comparison live on a screen that’s permanently attached to us.
Getting ready to go…nowhere.
Emilio Madrid
When I started, I had never listened to a podcast in my life.”
What differentiates Call Her Daddy in such an oversaturated market is how deftly Alex traverses such a wide range of topics. She launched season 2 with a tell-all interview with Hailey Bieber, where she dove into salacious tabloid drama from years past. This episode was followed by a human interest piece in North Carolina, interviewing the workers and women who visited A Preferred Women’s Health Center abortion clinic in Charlotte to examine the impact of Roe v. Wade being overturned.
Call Her Daddy has become a safe space for people to explore everything from sex to mental health. Prospective guests practically run to the pod as their first friend to phone after major public turmoil, while Alex patiently listens to their side of the story without judgment—a skill she attributes to growing up with a professional psychologist for a mother. “When I was younger, and still to this day, I will walk into my house and one of my friends will be sitting on my couch speaking to my mother. Growing up, I would get frustrated that she was so intuitive, because she would always know if I was lying. But now I feel so grateful, because it made her there for me and my friends in a way other parents couldn’t be.” Alex herself often approaches the interviews from a psychoanalytic perspective, making the listening experience feel like what one hopes to gain from their own therapy session—that is, if your therapist called you a “hoe” and gave you explicit tips on how to masturbate.
The consistent through line that draws listeners in week-by-week, though, is Alex’s unabashed authenticity. She comes to the mic prepared to serve up her unfiltered opinion and lead a dynamic, no-holds-barred conversation, and with that, she serves up a piece of herself. Her massive audience isn’t here for her celebrity guests or gossip, they are here for her. “One week I’ll have a comedian on, and the next I’ll have someone who talks about their childhood trauma,” she says, throwing a Cheeto into her mouth and promptly wiping her fingers on the hotel bathrobe. “I have a loyal audience that sticks with me even when I switch up my content. I don’t stick with what I know.”
What Alex does seem to know is how to make people laugh. Many of her stories remind me of the Nora Ephron mantra that her mother told her when she was young: “When you slip on a banana peel, people laugh at you. But when you tell people you slipped on a banana peel, it’s your laugh, so you become a hero rather than the victim of the joke.” For Alex, it’s sharing horrors like the time she vomited her dinner on her boyfriend’s cock, or when she went to the hospital in Las Vegas on her birthday due to a kidney infection she contracted from back-to-front sex. You know, classic Nora…
Emilio Madrid
Cohabitating in a single hotel room for three nights is the kind of thing that can make or break a relatively new friendship. Annoying habits are revealed, and questionable moral principles come to the surface. Before leaving L.A., I had asked Alex to put her hood up on the plane if she wasn’t planning on washing her hair before we shared a bed that night. Thankfully, I don’t snore, as she said if I did, she’d “suffocate me with a pillow with zero remorse.” Expecting to find out what shameful quality of mine or hers would lead to the untimely demise of our relationship, I instead acquired a full grasp on how singular the culture of Call Her Daddy truly is, and that if Alex is a smart dumb person, it’s possible she’s the smartest dumb person alive.
Photographer: Emilio Madrid; hair: Frankie Calire; makeup: Carolina Dali
Cazzie David is a New York Times bestselling author and actor.
The best tracksuits for men have been all the rage since long before Squid Games aired. Think Run-DMC making tracksuits central to hip-hop culture. Or the varied men of The Sopranos sporting matching zip-up jackets and pants as they catch rays outside of Satriale’s. Don’t even get me started about Juicy Couture’s grip on the world with their velour tracksuits boasting a bedazzled ‘Juicy’ across the ass. Though that trend, we can confidently leave it to women (or the early 2000s).
The list goes on and on, but the best men’s tracksuits have and will always be here to stay. They extend beyond pop culture as one of the most practical articles of clothing a man can own. I mean, come on, not having to match your jacket to your pants? Genius.
If you’re looking to upgrade your tracksuit collection or perhaps dip your toe into the water of monochrome, keep reading. We have the best tracksuits for men that will make you look like anything from the Royal Tenenbaums to a rap star. The choice is yours.
Highly coveted streetwear brand Palm Angels has some of the most recognizable tracksuits in the game. Well known for flashy colors, interesting patterns, and materials ranging from soft velvet to shiny silks, these tracksuits define social capital.
You’ve probably seen them on celebs like Future, Louis Thompson, Terry Rozier, and even in Lil’ Baby’s DO DAT music video. The Palm Angels brand screams clout.
This olive green tracksuit keeps it simple. Dual white stripes down the sleeves and pant legs with matching white detailing and exposed seams. The zippered pockets and high collar stick to retro tracksuit roots, and the signature Palm Angels logo is the cherry on top of an effortlessly cool look.
There’s only one word for the Adidas tracksuit: iconic. We can also throw in timeless and classic as this set is still the top pick for the best men’s tracksuits worldwide. Adidas has been perfecting the tracksuit game since the late 1960s, and they’re still pumping out a dependable product. The proof can be seen on every corner of the earth.
The Essentials 3-Stripes Tracksuit stays true to its name. One of the most dependable options for athletic wear, this tracksuit will take you from the field to the court to the track with no issues.
Remember, athletic wear is more ingrained in streetwear than ever (and hip-hop culture, we can’t forget about Run-DMC here). That means this tracksuit can even carry you to social events without so much as breaking a sweat. Plus, at less than $100 for the whole set, it’s hard to find a deal better than this.
Material: 100% Recycled Polyester | Sizes Available: S – 2XL | Colors Available: Black, Navy
Understated but never boring. This tracksuit from Swedish brand Axel Arigato is a top pick for a polished, monochrome look. Featuring a creamy white colorway and eye-catching bird motif, this set stays true to Axel’s roots of simple yet highly functional design.
With a flattering silhouette and contrasting stripes, this tracksuit gives more office than gym vibes. Finished with exposed seams and a comfortable elastic waistband, it really takes the stress out of getting ready. It’s hard to find fault in such good-looking clothing.
It doesn’t get any softer than organic cotton, so this tracksuit gets top marks in the comfort department. While it’s technically more of a sweatsuit than track apparel, it still makes the cut for this list. You can thank the snug design and luxurious offerings for that.
The hoodie is one of the best, with a crossed neckline, ribbed cuffs and hem, and a roomy kangaroo pocket. Topped off with Neurale’s emblem on the sleeve and a smooth green colorway, it’s the ideal accompaniment to the comfy matching pants.
The twist is these are an upgrade from a typical pair of sweats. They have a side cargo pocket in addition to the traditional slash pockets and a drawstring elastic waist.
Material: 100% Organic Cotton | Sizes Available: S – XL | Colors Available: Dark Forest, Cloud Cream
An orange tracksuit may seem a bit over the top. But when you see them on celebrities like Future, ASAP Rocky, Burna Boy, and even Big Sean, it’s easy to understand their pull. This flashy number from Percival will allow you to stay on top of the latest trends without sacrificing coziness.
There’s nothing quite as slick as this well-tailored jacket. Wait, I take that back. There’s nothing quite as slick as this jacket, except when paired with the matching trousers. With a slightly tapered silhouette, faux fly, and matching racing stripes, this captivating set is well worth the splurge.
If you’re worried you’ll look more like the villain from Despicable Me than a rap star, this set also comes in bright green and a dialed-down navy.
The best tracksuits during the summer are a thing, and this set from Unrecorded is a welcome addition to any warm weather wardrobe. Let me just say, whoever invented sweat shorts is nothing short of a genius. And this charcoal, French terry pair is particularly flattering with a drawstring waist and faux fly. The matching hoodie is a delightful bonus.
Though what makes Unrecorded particularly noteworthy are the company values. The brand’s manufacturing partners have a reduced environmental impact and work in fair conditions, allowing Unrecorded to deliver their product directly to consumers. This means transparent pricing and a higher quality garment than something produced unethically. You’ll feel as good as you look in this responsibly-made tracksuit.
Gucci is notorious for bold, flashy designs. But this tracksuit for men keeps things simple in a chic black with the signature Gucci camel-hued stripes down the sides. Rather than a feature-hugging cut, this tracksuit is a tad roomy with an oversized silhouette.
It’s an investment, true, but it also takes the effort out of getting ready every time you throw it on. Simply pair it with a crisp tee and spanking white kicks—you’ll be the talk of every gathering you attend with this easy, breezy, beautiful… tracksuit.
As far as the best tracksuits for men go, it doesn’t get more comfortable or practical than Nike’s tech fleece line. This best-selling set is ready for anything, whether you’re putting in reps at the gym or crushing bags of chips on the couch.
The technical fleece traps heat without the puffy snowman effect, ideal for cold weather and winter wear. Coupled with an unbeatable color selection and multi-tone designs, it’s hard to outdo this well-loved set. That said, it’s worth noting that the Tech Fleece line runs large, so if you’re after a more tailored look, be sure to size down.
After something flashier for the summer months? Opt for Jordan’s brand new ‘Why Not’ track jacket and matching shorts. Whichever Nike tracksuit you choose, it’ll look sharp with your favorite pair of Swoosh kicks or Jordans.
It may be a surprise that brands beyond Juicy Couture pump out velvet tracksuits. But you know if Reiss is partaking in the game, you’re in for a dose of gentlemanly luxury. This one hits the mark if you’re looking for something more Hugh Heffner than Paris Hilton. Don’t worry, there’s not a rhinestone in sight.
The compelling collab between Reiss and sustainable brand CHÉ Studios created the ideal velour tracksuit. It gives off major Y2K vibes with contrasting paneling and ribbed cuffs for a vintage sportswear look. And the contemporary fit is tailored enough for all the casual events on your calendar. It’s a must-have for the sleek man seeking an extra dose of super soft comfort.
You know when it’s not too hot but not too cold? This tracksuit is made for days like those. Crafted from knit seersucker, this tracksuit is the ultimate weekend companion. Barbeques, days on the golf course, and any other warm-weather activities life throws your way.
Dressed up with white piping and seersucker’s signature puckered texture, the breezy jacket features a two-way zipper, dual pockets, and a high neck collar. The pants don’t leave us wanting for much either, and we are especially appreciative of the zippered pockets. For a memorable look, pair this tracksuit with clean Converse high tops, loafers, or boat shoes and a plain white tee.
Japanese denim powerhouse KAPITAL pulls out all the stops for their rendition of the best tracksuits for men. This black number may look simple at first glance, but it’s filled with showstopping details. Paying homage to Jamacia and Japan on the embroidered velvet sleeves, this set has plenty to look at.
Despite the crafty embellishments, the jacket stays true to men’s tracksuit roots. However, the pants break away from the norm with a flared leg rather than a tapered one. Pair this set with boots, Converse, or your favorite leather sneakers. It’s hard to miss with clothing this stylish.
Reebok fits the bill to a tee if you’re on the hunt for an athletic tracksuit. The matching Vector track set comes complete with the signature ‘swish, swish’ fabric symphony.
If you’ve ever worn university-issued warm-ups, this tracksuit will bring back some memories. It’ll still be your go-to outfit for any kind of fitness training. Plus, this retro tracksuit is instantly recognizable and will never go out of style.
Material: 100% Recycled Nylon & Polyester | Sizes Available: S – XXL | Colors Available: Navy, Blue, Black
What to Look for When Searching For The Best Tracksuits for Men
When it comes to picking out the best tracksuits for men, these are the primary considerations to keep in mind:
Material
The Best tracksuits for men come in many materials—cotton, nylon, polyester, fleece, velour, and more. The material also defines the weight of the set. Velour or fleece will contribute to a warmer tracksuit. More breathable fabrics like nylon, polyester, and seersucker make for a summer-ready tracksuit. If you’re looking for a year-round option, consider one made from lightweight cotton.
Fit
Second to material, the fit is the most important consideration for the best tracksuits for men. A retro, athletic style may have a baggier fit than a modern, tailored tracksuit, for example. If you’re looking for something more polished, pay close attention to buzzwords like ‘tapered’ and ‘fitted.’ If you’re after a slouchier look, opt for a vintage style. At the end of the day, it pays to check the sizing chart of individual products to guide you toward the right fit.
Color
Finally, color really factors into the look and feel of the best tracksuits for men. Don’t pick a pink velour tracksuit unless you want to be mistaken for a middle school girl. Do pick something that matches your personal style, whether it’s a funky orange or a dialed-down black.
The best part about tracksuits is they take the guesswork out of putting together a nice outfit. So simply pick a color that speaks to you, then throw on a solid-colored tee and a pair of kicks. You’re ready to rumble.
Traditionally, tracksuits are for athletic wear to regulate body temperature during exercise. Though they’re still common for workouts, today, tracksuits are more of a fashion statement. A matching jacket and pants are great for casual occasions.
How to wear tracksuits for men is shockingly easy. Since they typically come with a matching jacket and pants, all you need to do is thrown on a shirt and pair of shoes. In general, both colored and pattered tracksuits look best with a solid-colored t-shirt and a pair of sneakers. Try Converse high tops or clean Jordans for a casual street style look. For a more polished outfit, trade in the sneakers for loafers or boat shoes.
Though tracksuits and sweatsuits are extremely similar, there are a few key differences. Tracksuits consist of pants and a zippered jacket. Sweatsuits generally feature a sweatshirt or hoodie. Tracksuit pants traditionally have open ankles. Sweatsuits often feature an elastic or cuffed ankle. Tracksuits are often made from a range of materials like polyester, nylon, or velour. Sweatsuits are almost always cotton jersey or fleece.
That said, the two terms are practically interchangeable these days, which is why you can find both on this list. It all boils down to personal preference.
Brendan Fraser’s body has been under scrutiny for most of his career. This past year, he wore a a 300-pound prosthetic, or “fat suit,” for his role in “The Whale.” But in a recent episode of Variety’s “Actors on Actors” series, Fraser opens up to Adam Sandler about what his body went through for the 1997 comedy “George of the Jungle.”
In order to obtain the Tarzan-inspired look, he was waxed and “starved of carbohydrates.” At one point, his diet started to mess with his memory. One night on the way home from work, he stopped to pick up something to eat. “I needed some cash one day, and I went to the ATM, and I couldn’t remember my PIN number because my brain was misfiring. Banging on the thing. I didn’t eat that night.”
“Starved brain” is a common side effect of anorexia, according to studies. Otherwise known as cerebral atrophy, it happens when the body doesn’t receive adequate nutrition regularly. Research shows it can effect concentration, memory, cognitive flexibility, and fear responses.
Starving himself wasn’t the only way the film industry impacted Fraser physically. He says he “destroyed” his body doing movie stunts and spent seven years undergoing various surgeries.
The irony? Sandler admits to feelings of jealousy during their talk. “I was disappointed how good you looked in [“George of the Jungle”]. You weren’t supposed to do that to us. You were supposed to remain like a human!” Jokingly, he adds, “You made us feel bad about ourselves.”
But Fraser himself really struggled with the constant pressure to look good on screen. “The wardrobe was there was no wardrobe,” he says. “George wears a loincloth.” The industry standard of achieving unsustainable and unrealistic body goals for certain roles is still quite common 25 years after the movie’s release. Hopefully, Hollywood is taking notes as more actors like Zac Efron and Kumail Nanjiani speak out about the dangers of these practices.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry dressed to the nines for their big night in New York City, where the couple was honored with the 2022 Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Ripple of Hope Award at the Ripple of Hope Award Gala. The Duchess of Sussex wore a white off-the-shoulder dress with a subtle center leg slit. She had her hair styled up. She and Harry were held hands while arriving to the ceremony, with Harry holding an umbrella for her and helping her out of their car.
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The couple’s appearance comes hours after Prince William and Kate Middleton had their own luxe evening in the U.K., attending King Charles III’s first Diplomatic Corps Reception as king.
It also comes just two days before the first part of their Netflix documentary series, Harry & Meghan, is released on Thursday. Three out of six episodes will be available to stream, and trailers have made it clear that Meghan and Harry are going straight into the royal drama that led them to step back from their senior working royal family roles in the U.K.
“There’s a hierarchy of the family,” Harry says in the latest trailer. “You know there’s leaking, but there’s also planting of stories [in the British tabloids].”
“It’s a dirty game,” he continues. “The pain and suffering of women marrying into this institution is a feeding frenzy.”
Meghan touched on the couple’s feelings about giving their story to documentary director Liz Garbus and her team in an interview with Variety.
“It’s nice to be able to trust someone with our story—a seasoned director whose work I’ve long admired—even if it means it may not be the way we would have told it. But that’s not why we’re telling it,” she said. “We’re trusting our story to someone else, and that means it will go through their lens.”
“It’s interesting,” she continued.” My husband has never worked in this industry before. For me, having worked on Suits, it’s so amazing to be around so much creative energy and to see how people work together and share their own points of view. That’s been really fun.”
Senior News and Strategy Editor
Alyssa Bailey is the senior news and strategy editor at ELLE.com, where she oversees coverage of celebrities and royals (particularly Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton). She previously held positions at InStyle and Cosmopolitan. When she’s not working, she loves running around Central Park, making people take #ootd pics of her, and exploring New York City.
Diamonds are definitely a girl’s best friend, but a watch may be her best investment. Kristen Shirley recognizes that the world of watches is one shrouded in mystery and filled with machismo that makes buying a watch daunting if you’re new to the game. Shirley, an ELLE alum and industry veteran, set out to lift the curtain on watches and their storied past with the Watch Encyclopedia on her new digital platform, La Patiala.
For the uninitiated, La Patiala is a go-to resource and encyclopedia of all things luxury, from how to shuck an oyster, which bottle of champagne to give as a gift, where to travel in Napa Valley, and, yes, how to buy a watch. The Watch Encyclopedia is a collection of 50 articles debunking every watch brand myth out there, with instructions for where to spend your money, what mistakes to avoid when making your first big purchase, and everything in between.
With over 15 years of experience in the industry, Shirley is indeed a trusted source of knowledge for the complicated world of watches, which are not only a utilitarian purchase—they’re investment pieces that stand the test of trends and time (no pun intended). Ahead of the holiday season, we spoke with Shirley about the Watch Encyclopedia, her dream timepiece, and the styles she thinks you should gift (or ask for) this year.
Why do watches make the best gift?
Watches have been a traditional gift for special occasions and memorable moments for decades—and for good reason. Watch design hasn’t changed significantly—a classic dress watch from the 1950s has a similar look to a contemporary dress watch. So even though watches can be expensive, you know you’re giving them a gift that will last a long time and will remain stylish, no matter what the fashion trends are. People also wear their watches a lot and look at them frequently throughout the day, so they will be reminded of you every time they check the time.
What’s your favorite watch that you own? You must own a lot of them.
My favorite is my Bulgari Serpenti Tubogas watch. As a former fashion editor, I am drawn to its distinctive design. It really does look like a snake wrapping around your wrist, and it’s so fabulous. It stops people in their tracks when they see it, and you don’t see a lot of people wearing one, so you stand out from the crowd. I have the double wrap, which makes a really strong statement.
What’s the number one watch on your wish list?
Honestly, there are too many to count! I’ve always loved Dior’s Grand Bal watches. Automatic watches usually have a rotor (a semi-circular weight) on the back of the watch movement that winds the watch as you wear it. Dior took the unusual approach of putting the rotor on the front of the watch and decorating it using different métiers d’art, including feathers, diamonds, and engraved gold. I love how it twirls above the dial as you move. My favorite is the Dior Grand Bal Plume with brilliantly covered feathers. It’s the perfect combination of style and high horology.
What prompted you to launch La Patiala and the Watch Encyclopedia?
I started my career as a fashion assistant at ELLE, and by the time I left, I had an encyclopedic knowledge of fashion designers. In my next job, I started to cover more categories, and I was astounded by how difficult it was to earn about watches. They were so technical, and there wasn’t a resource that could teach me everything I needed to know. Most of the websites focused on watch news and were geared towards enthusiasts and collectors who already knew a lot about watches. I had to learn the hard way—asking a million questions and doing copious amounts of research.
After close to a decade covering watches, I wanted to share the knowledge I had accumulated and make watches accessible to those who appreciate craftsmanship and design. After all, watches can be extremely stylish. The Watch Encyclopedia includes everything from a glossary of watch terms to movement basics and a breakdown of the main types of watches and complications.
I know women who collect jewelry and handbags, but are scared of timepieces. I wanted to strip away all the fear and intimidation surrounding learning about watches and make it approachable to everyone. And even if you’re not interested in watches but spend a lot of time with someone who is, you can quickly learn the basics and know what they’re talking about.
Oscars, schmoscars — turns out, celebrities have the most fun with their outfits at slightly more low-key awards shows. Case in point: the 2022 Governor’s Awards in November and the British Fashion Awards that look place in London on December 5, where top models, designers, muses and celebrities gathered to celebrate all things fashion. Notable names in attendance included legends like Naomi Campbell and Tilda Swinton, model (and newly minted designer) Elsa Hosk and actor Florence Pugh.
And, no surprise here, the British Fashion Awards red carpet looks didn’t disappoint. There was longtime British style muse Alexa Chung in prim Prada, Bridgerton star Simone Ashley in a hooded, crystal-covered 16Arlington creation and TV host Tan France playing with proportions in shorts, knee socks and a long coat. The ceremony was hosted by style star Jodie Turner-Smith who put her fashion chops on display in multiple outfit changes, including the vibrant Gucci gown pictured in the gallery below.
Here, we round up some of the most fun and fearless looks from the 2022 British Fashion Awards red carpet.
Keke Palmer and her boyfriend Darius Jackson spent their Monday night watching the New York Rangers play at Madison Square Garden, and the pregnant actress was glowing alongside her partner. Palmer wore a lime green hoodie and blue baseball cap with green-rimmed glasses. The two held hands and generally appeared very loved-up together in front of the arena cameras.
Michelle Farsi/NY Rangers/MSG Sports
The date night comes just two days after Palmer announced her pregnancy while hosting Saturday Night Live. “I’m especially glad to be here though, because there’s some rumors going around,” Palmer started. “People have been in my comments saying ‘Keke’s having a baby,’ ‘Keke’s pregnant,’ and I want to set the record straight. I am.” She then opened her blazer and revealed her pregnant stomach.
“I’ve gotta say though, it is bad when people on the internet spread rumors about you, but it’s even worse when they’re correct,” Palmer continued. “I was trying so hard to keep it on the down low, because I’ve got a lot of stuff going on. People kept coming up to me [saying] ‘Congratulations,’ I’m like ‘Shh! Can y’all stop, I’ve got a liquor sponsorship on the line. Let the check clear, then we can get to the damn baby shower… But honestly, this has been the biggest blessing, and I am so excited guys—I’m gonna be a mom!”
Palmer and Jackson first started dating last summer.
Palmer reflected on her experience hosting SNL and sharing her pregnancy in a candid Instagram post, giving Jackson a heartfelt shout-out at the end. “Thank you to my other half @dvulton for giving me the things that only true unity can bring,” she wrote. “Love is all we have isn’t it, you do nothing in this world alone and trust me, I am not alone!” Read the caption in full here:
I had such an amazing time hosting SNL! Truly such a unique experience, I learned so much. The cast was incredible, I was so happy to be taken into their home for such a short time. Being around so many others that appreciate and put their all into their craft was especially fulfilling. I love to preform so much.. I love bringing laughter and good vibes and just taking us all away for a moment. Even if not just for myself, but for whoever wants to join. I thank Steven Higgins and Lorne Michaels for sharing their insight with me, I was soaking up every minute. I love being around the goats chile! Forever a student… Who could’ve told little me that I’d be on stage with @kenanthompson and @iamkelmitchell for a Kenan and Kel/Kelly reunion 🤪—I would’ve passed out. These brothers are ICONS. Talent like theirs is hard to come by, there’s a reason why we loved that show and it’s cause they knew what they were doing. Even as kids! Thank you @nbcsnl and also the WRITERS! The incredible writers that give and give and give everyday, no matter what you see or what you don’t see these people put their hearts into it. Art is your heart so it isn’t always easy, but they still get out there and that’s just amazing.
This year has taken me for a ride! And how cool, my baby and I are already doing it all together. Thank you God! Thank you to my amazing parents and family who continuously support me. Thank you @noraradd for being my spiritual sister as ALWAYS! You feel me my little Pisces moon 🥹. Thank you to my team who have been constantly reaching and moving mountains to extend the reaches of my gift, and thank you to my other half @dvulton for giving me the things that only true unity can bring. Love is all we have isn’t it, you do nothing in this world alone and trust me, I am not alone! Very grateful… Happy Holidays!
Senior News and Strategy Editor
Alyssa Bailey is the senior news and strategy editor at ELLE.com, where she oversees coverage of celebrities and royals (particularly Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton). She previously held positions at InStyle and Cosmopolitan. When she’s not working, she loves running around Central Park, making people take #ootd pics of her, and exploring New York City.
Maybe it’s the nostalgic chill in the air or a harkening back to the beauty dates of yore, but it feels like Glossier has gotten its stride back. After undergoing a major restructuring this past year, the direct-to-consumer brand has made a series of good decisions, with a new brick-and-mortar Brooklyn location, an underrated candle launch that’s on everyone’s Holiday wishlist, and the news that Glossier products will be available in Sephora sometime in early 2023.
And the good news doesn’t stop there. Dewy girls everywhere, come together for a most joyous occasion: Lash Slick, Glossier’s cult-favorite mascara, will be available in brown starting on December 7th. A mascara created for people who hate mascara (my interpretation), Lash Slick elongates, strengthens, and separates lashes without that clumpy, makeup-y look. Brown mascara ups the au naturel ante, adding a hint of definition to blonde lashes, and making brunettes look like they’re not wearing makeup–they just have lovely genetics.
Glossier Lash Slick
Glossier Lash Slick
TikTok’s ability to reignite a fervor for past beauty launches (Black Honey, anyone?) seems to be benefiting the millennial-pink clad brand. These days, Glossier’s world-famous Boy Brow gel is getting far less attention than Cloud Paint blushes, Futuredew glowing primer, or Glossier You fragrance–beauty editors are actually carrying Generation G in their purses again. It seems like the new generation of beauty influencers are buying what Glossier is selling again: natural-looking makeup, a skin-first approach, great formulas, and the brand’s signature messaging: You Look Good.
Shop our favorite Glossier products here:
Beauty Commerce Writer
Tatjana Freund is a Beauty Commerce Writer, covering makeup, skincare, and haircare products and trends. She’s a fan of vodka tonics and creepy Wikipedia pages.
You’ve probably seen them plastered across your Instagram feed or on the heels of your favorite influencers: chunky platforms, knee-high boots, and mules in bold patterns that range from gingham to daisies, in playful silhouettes and eye-popping shades like fuchsia and metallic silver. The brand? Larroudé. Over the past two years, the ’70s-influenced footwear has been quietly taking over the fashion industry, thanks in large part to its luxury appeal at a rather accessible price point.
But Larroudé might not have come to life in quite the same way had it not been for some unfortunate circumstances. One month after the start of the pandemic, its eponymous founder, Marina Larroudé, and her husband, Ricardo, both lost their jobs. As they found themselves in lockdown with their kids trying to figure out their next move, Marina, a fashion industry veteran who had previously held positions at Barneys, Teen Vogue, and Style.com, channeled her focus into launching a shoe line. It was something that had been on her mind for years. “Honestly, I remember reading a story about Tory Burch and how she started [her line] right after she had twins. She was home, and that was when she had that aha moment of creating her own brand and bringing it to market. It was when she wasn’t ‘in it’ that she could see it,” Marina explains over Zoom, from Larroudé’s office in Midtown Manhattan.
Marina finally felt like it was her time. She initially thought of designing private label shoes for Barneys, since she had done that at her last job, but some advice from her ex-colleagues to “start your own brand instead of trying to revive something” stuck with her. By December 2020, Larroudé had officially launched, with Marina and Ricardo as co-founders—the former the CCO, and the latter the CEO. “We did everything within a six-month period,” she recalls. The team, which began with five people, now has a headcount of 26, with an additional office in Brazil. Plus, Larroudé has a factory opening there next month.
Marina Larroudé.
Guilherme Benites
Despite launching Larroudé during the pandemic, the designs weren’t exactly fit for the languishing, end-of-the-world vibes at the time. “We had few slides, but we didn’t develop a collection for the COVID era, or for lockdown,” she admits. “We created a brand for the long term.” The Larroudés wanted to introduce “a whimsical brand” that pedaled high-quality products. Marina’s rationale for the timing was simple: during the 2008 recession, retail was in shambles, but by 2010, “it was the best year ever.” That gave her hope. The less-than-ideal timing was, in fact, her sly advantage. While everyone was scaling back, she was able to subtly garner a slew of press and attention. “After the vaccine, [customers] came to us for those whimsical pieces. People wanted to have that joyful moment in their lives. It wasn’t planned, but it really helped us,” Marina says.
Comfort, for Marina, was also key. What makes Larroudé’s shoes special is just that: The landing for the top of your foot is five millimeters wider than any other shoe in the market. The width of where you are landing your feet is considerably wider, even in the high heel. “We put a memory foam inside the entire shoe that we call ‘the Larroudé cloud,’” she says. Having worked in luxury fashion, Marina saw a gap in the market for these kinds of shoes that were high-quality, with a price point that wasn’t too extreme. “I honestly saw it as a blank space, and I think that’s why we are still growing,” she adds.
Larroudé launched with just a few product lines: the Kate, a chic and sleek knee-high boot; the Miso, a chunky, retro flatform; the Colette, a mule with a slim heel; and the Lee, a pointed-toe ballet flat. It wasn’t long until it added several more styles, including its top-seller, the Dolly, a party-ready platform sandal. Larroudé has also expanded on the designs that have become hallmarks of their brand—the Miso, for instance, is now a clog and a boot, too. Many of the items are emblazoned with funky prints that include daisies, strawberries, gingham, and polka dots.
The Miso Platform Clog.
Courtesy Larroudé
After the vaccine…people wanted to have that joyful moment in their lives.”
Marina’s upbringing in Brazil heavily influenced both the shoes’ playful sensibility and timelessness: “I am Brazilian, and I love my summer wardrobe,” she says. “I’ve had my wardrobe for 20 years. When I was thinking about the collection, I thought, I want something that’s collectible, that you can buy and wear and add into your life. Not something trendy you buy one season and are over the next.”
Much of the brand’s popularity and success can be credited to influencers and celebrities. “I knew a lot of people in the industry, so I was able to send them a pair and ask what they think,” she shares. But because Larroudé is a self-funded company, she didn’t have a huge budget. “It was very a mouth-to-mouth brand that we were building up,” Marina adds. After her fashion friends had tested out the goods, Marina began making inroads in Hollywood. Fans of Larroudé now include Amy Schumer, Drew Barrymore, Alicia Keys, and Mary J. Blige. As the brand has gained steam, it’s expanded into handbags and clutches—one which First Lady Jill Biden famously carried (and was subsequently sold out on Larroudé’s website).
Within a 12-month period, Larroudé has also had no less than eight high-profile collaborations, including Oscar de la Renta, Barbie, LoveShackFancy, and Melissa. The range of partnerships is a reflection of Marina’s personality—her affinity for both high-fashion and emerging designers. “I always worked in the fashion industry, but I never took myself too seriously,” she says. Larroudé’s latest collection with jewelry designer Jennifer Fisher launched December 1. “[Jennifer] is someone who loves fashion so much, and she was like, ‘We need to do a boot.’ So we thought, ‘Okay, what do women like us want that we cannot find at our price point in quality and comfort?’ That was when the collection came together,” she says of working with Fisher.
The Larroudé x Jennifer Fisher collection.
Gabriel Amaral
More brand partnerships are indeed on the horizon, but Marina is remaining tight-lipped about them for now. However, she has some dream collaborations in mind—a sneaker with Nike or something with Uggs since they’re “so cute and fuzzy” and are “having a moment” themselves. She also hopes to expand Larroudé into a full-fledged ready-to-wear brand. “We view Larroudé as a Vince Camuto—a bigger company that can host other brands,” Marina says. “That’s where we see ourselves in the future: growing beyond our own name into a multifaceted type of group.”
Ilana Kaplan is a writer and editor based in Brooklyn. She covers music, culture and entertainment and has written for Rolling Stone, The New York Times, NPR, GQ and more.
If you haven’t seen Jenna Ortega’s viral dance scene as her titular character in Netflix’s “Wednesday,” you probably haven’t been on the internet in a while.
Netflix’s Addams Family spinoff came out this November and follows a teenaged Wednesday (Ortega) after she transfers schools and begins unraveling a murder mystery. In the now viral scene, Ortega dances with her date at a school dance — though it’s more accurate to say she performs for her date, as she jives around him “Pulp Fiction” style.
In a later interview with NME, Ortega revealed she actually had Covid while filming this scene.
“I choreographed that myself!” Ortega told NME. “I’m not a dancer and I’m sure that’s obvious. I’d gotten the song [The Cramps’ 1981 single ‘Goo Goo Muck’] about a week before and I just pulled from whatever I could… it’s crazy because it was my first day with COVID so it was awful to film.”
Ortega went on to detail her symptoms, telling NME, “Yeah, I woke up and – it’s weird, I never get sick and when I do it’s not very bad – I had the body aches. I felt like I’d been hit by a car and that a little goblin had been let loose in my throat and was scratching the walls of my esophagus. They were giving me medicine between takes because we were waiting on the positive result.”
Once Ortega was confirmed positive for Covid, NME reports that MGM, “Wednesday”‘s production company, removed Ortega from the set and that “strict Covid protocols were followed.” However, some fans are criticizing the decision to have a sick actor on set.
Everything wrong with America’s reaction to Covid is encapsulated in people applauding Jenna Ortega for doing her Wednesday dance scene while she had Covid.
One user wrote, “this is a bad thing right? we all agree that this is not some “persevering through hardship” moment, its a why the fuck didn’t she get sent home, she could get horrendously sick or infect others kinda moment.”
Another user added, “Everything wrong with America’s reaction to Covid is encapsulated in people applauding Jenna Ortega for doing her Wednesday dance scene while she had Covid… she should have been masked and home.”
The American work ethic is tied up in this conversation — the idea that people should be celebrated for working while ill or in pain — as well as the pandemic, COVID safety, and our collective responsibility to protect not just ourselves, but others, from infection.
The scene, of course, is excellent. But it probably could’ve waited until Ortega was healthy and no longer contagious.
For Matthew Gallagher, the pandemic has been a time of reflection — and rethinking the shirt dress. After falling in love with a Parisian and moving outside of Toronto, the Nova Scotia-born designer found himself re-evaluating his namesake brand. “I felt like my voice had altered from when I first started in fashion,” he shares via email. “I was starting to fall out of love with the work and was feeling a bit lost. That was my cue to take a step back and figure things out.”
Before 2022, Gallagher was known predominantly as an eveningwear designer. He launched his label in 2013 after studying at the prestigious Istituto Marangoni and Istituto Europeo di Design in Milan and Gallagher quickly became a fixture at Toronto fashion shows and events.
But nearly ten years after founding the House of Gallagher, he knew something had to change. “I had always planned on relaunching; I just didn’t know how I wanted to do it,” he reveals. “I wanted my brand to be more approachable and for my pieces to be worn on more than just fancy occasions.”
Enter Season One, his new collection that features streamlined silhouettes combined with an effortless edge and feminine accents. Blending the past with the present, the assortment of dresses and separates has notable mod touches (made more evident by the Jackie O-inspired styling) but stays current with cutouts and bold colours (hello, Barbiecore shirt dress!).
FASHION chatted with Gallagher about his time in the industry, why he loves bows and his current obsession with the shirt dress.
Photography by Peter Nguyen
After all these years, how would you describe your relationship with the fashion industry?
My personal relationship with the fashion industry is better now that I feel more true to who I am. I used to feel like I had to go to every event or party, but that isn’t who I am. At my core, I am a more introverted person. Now that I really understand and accept that, I no longer place as much pressure on myself when it comes to the social aspect of the industry. I now understand my value as a designer doesn’t have anything to do with where I am seen.
How would you describe the style of your brand now vs. when you first launched in 2013?
When I first launched, the core values of what I saw for my brand were there: historical references with clean, modern lines. After a few seasons, I began to lose sight of my vision and started designing for what I thought people wanted rather than what was true to me. This next chapter allows me to continue my original idea for the brand.
Photography by Peter Nguyen
What are the benefits of doing drops instead of following a traditional seasonal schedule?
As students, we were told that a fashion show was the end goal, but financially, it can be nearly impossible to achieve when you first start. The world has changed so much since I was in school, and it is great that designers can create a community via Instagram. I like the idea of drops over the traditional seasonal schedule because I can pivot quickly based on my client’s wants and needs.
Where do you find your inspiration?
I find my inspiration everywhere. I am a sponge for visuals, saving anything and everything that makes me happy or intrigued. I often pull from a feeling I get from a beautiful movie or a style of architecture.
What’s one piece that is especially meaningful to you from your new collection and why?
There is something so timelessly classic yet still modern about my shirt dress from this season, and that brings me a lot of happiness. It is an item that feels easy, seasonless and simply chic. I love the idea that you don’t have to sacrifice style for comfort.
Photography by Peter Nguyen
What do you think is the eternal appeal of bows?
Bows can often be seen as childish, but there is something very timeless and elegant about them. I love how they are often seen as decorative, feminine and delicate but can be used in a functional way. Pretty and practical are a beautiful combination.
What is your favourite and least favourite trend this season?
I really like the preppy trend. There is something so polished yet cool about how people do it — it isn’t uptight and stuffy.
I am ready to never see athleisure ever again. I understand people want comfort, but I cannot wrap my head around why people are seemingly always wearing clothes fit for a yoga class when they aren’t doing a yoga class.
Photography by Peter Nguyen
How would you describe Toronto’s style?
I see Toronto’s style as eclectic. There are so many cultures and people from all different cities and countries melded together. It is a revolving door of different aesthetics, which I find inspiring.
What are you watching or reading right now?
I am a big TV and movie person, so the list is embarrassingly long. Currently, my notable top five are The White Lotus, Master, Suspiria, Euphoriaand Fleabag.
What are five items that are bringing you joy right now?
If you could travel back in time, what year would you go to? Often asked of acquaintances during a lull in casual conversation, it’s the kind of question that serves as a one-and-done personality test. Are you the type to drop acid during the Summer of Love or sip bathtub gin during the Roaring Twenties? Mad Men or The Gilded Age? Empire waist or the New Look? Of course, even when speaking in hypotheticals, time travel is a subject that can spark a touch of apprehension for Black Americans. If the long arc of the moral universe bends toward justice, as Martin Luther King, Jr. once told us, then the idea of stepping backwards in time—before so many of our hard-won freedoms were enshrined in law—is by definition an exercise in “grim fantasy.” Those are the words that author Octavia E. Butler chose to describe her novel Kindred when critics attempted to classify her time travel story as science fiction. Published in 1979, the book chronicles the horror that ensues when Dana, a Black woman living in Los Angeles, begins to be transported between present-day and a Maryland plantation in the year 1815 by forces beyond her control.
Kindred has long served as an unflinching look at the ways in which the legacy of slavery continues to reverberate through Black and white America. Despite being written more than four decades ago, its message is still urgent and relevant, which is why FX’s upcoming TV adaptation of the novel, which premieres Dec. 13, feels especially timely. “I didn’t really know how iconic Octavia Butler was until I read that book,” says Mallori Johnson, who stars as Dana in her debut leading television role. “I was like, ‘Wow, this story is really revolutionary.’”
Kindred
Kindred
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Spearheaded by playwright Branden Jacobs-Jenkins, who serves as the writer, showrunner, and executive producer on the show, Kindred boasts a roster of blockbuster creative talent: Darren Aronofsky is an executive producer; the pilot episode was directed by Janicza Bravo. While Johnson is a relative newcomer to the scene–she has a theatrical background and landed a small role in Apple TV+’s WeCrashed–her performance throughout the series all but guarantees a quick ascent to stardom. As the emotional center of the show, her character navigates a near-constant torrent of grief, loneliness, and terror, oftentimes needing to tuck these emotions away at a moment’s notice as a means of survival. Johnson walks this tightrope with aplomb onscreen. “I feel like I really matured as an actor and as a person as the show went on,” the recent Juilliard graduate says.
Here, the burgeoning star talks about her time as a student, her love for Sally Field, how she approached playing the role of a lifetime, and what comes next when you debut on such a high note.
Have you always known you wanted to be an actor?
Yeah. I just always knew that this was what I wanted. My mom always tells me that when I was three, we went to go see my brother in The Wiz. He played the scarecrow and she was like, “That was the quietest you ever were as a child. You sat through that whole play and you never talked. You never moved. You were just focused.”
What are some of the shows or movies that made an early impression on you as a child?
My mom actually was the one who introduced me to so many amazing movies and television shows. I love her so much. She’s always supported me. I don’t know if you’re familiar with Sybil, but I was obsessed with that movie. I watched it so many times—at a very early age—over and over again. I’m obsessed with Sally Field. She’s my biggest inspiration. I wanted to have that power and that grit and really master my craft in the same way that I feel she’s done.
Mallori Johnson as Dana and David Alexander Kaplan as Rufus Weylin in FX’s Kindred.
Tina Rowden/FX
How did you go about studying your craft at that age?
I grew up in San Diego, and because I developed such an interest in it in middle school, my mom was like, “Let’s get you in a performing arts high school.” So I really started exploring my love for theater at the San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts. I was a theater major and I got to do plays every quarter. I never knew that you could be educated in acting, so I’m really grateful to that school for giving me that.
And then came Juilliard.
I spent a year at Cal Arts before I went to Juilliard, and that was just such a crazy environment. I knew I could not stay there. When I got to Juilliard, I was just very unfocused. I wanted to go back because I missed my friends. You know, going to a predominantly white institution as a young Black girl is always gonna be difficult, no matter where you are.
When I got to Juilliard, my teachers were really hard on me because they knew that I could do better. By the third year, I really started to fall in love with where I was and what I was doing. The education started unlocking for me. I was like, oh my God, this is an entire different level of this love that I have for this art form that I never thought I would access.
Were you still in school when you began auditioning for television roles?
Our teachers were teaching us how to audition—we were learning what to wear and what people respond to, which was really cool. At the same time, we were also transitioning out of theater into film. They’d never touched the idea of film, so I had no experience in what it meant to be on a set. Everything that I knew was theater. So it was this whirlwind, like okay, now suddenly we’re doing an entirely different art form. I was trying to learn all that at once and then I ended up getting the audition for WeCrashed.
When my manager texted me about Kindred, I literally called my mom, like, “Mom, guess what I get to audition for?” Because she was the one who introduced me to the book. I was just excited to do it, to see the script for it. And then the further it went, the more calls I got for it, the more flabbergasted I was. I mean, I just never expected it. When I got the final call, I was shocked.
Johnson (right) shares a scene with Sheria Irving (left).
Tina Rowden/FX
What was that call like?
It’s funny now, but at the time it wasn’t—my dog had just died, my dog of 16 years, and I remember I was actually crying. I was walking up the street to my apartment, and I was crying. I’d just graduated. I was a mess, I felt so weird. I didn’t know what I was gonna do next or what was happening with my life. I picked up my phone when my manager called and they were like,” How are you?” with this huge smile on their face. I was like, “Oh, my dog died.” But when they told me I got the role, my whole mood shifted.
When did you first read Kindred?
I read the book for the first time in my first or second year of college. I had actually read Fledgling first, the summer before my first year at Juilliard. I love science fiction, so my mom was like, “There’s this really cool science fiction writer that I think you might like.” Seeing a science fiction world that centered Black people, that was something that was really cool and really new to me. Everything I read as a kid was centered around a white narrative, so to have this main girl who was a vampire, that was so dope.
“Seeing a science fiction world that centered Black people, that was something that was really cool and really new to me.”
But then when I read Kindred, I fell in love. I didn’t really know how iconic Octavia Butler was until I read that book. I was like, oh, this is touching me on a whole different level, intellectually.
I love that it was your mother who put you on to both Sally Field and Octavia Butler.
My mom sparked everything for me artistically. My dad and my brother are like the math and science guys, and my mom is an author, so we’ve always shared that bond over love of art, which I’m so grateful for.
How much time did you have to prepare for the role of Dana?
I didn’t have much time, but I had enough time to kind of freak out. I was so scared. I had no idea what I was doing. When I think back on it, I don’t know how I got through that. I’m so grateful to have had the creative team around me that I had. Everybody was just so open, so willing to reach out a helping hand to me and be like, “Listen, we know it’s your first time on set. We got you. We’re holding you, we’re here for you.”
Particularly with the pilot, Janicza was an inspiration for me. I wanted to emulate her because she was just so powerful. She knew what she wanted.
How did you navigate the natural growing pains of leading a series for the first time while also dealing with the harrowing subject matter of the script?
Fortunately, we had Brandon Jacobs-Jenkins as our showrunner. I adore him. He’s one of the most responsible, intelligent and sensitive creative leaders I’ve ever met in my entire life. He created an environment in which we all felt safe, so we knew that at any time, we could step away. And we were so tight-knit as a cast. We were such a team on that set, and it was really all because of Brandon. He wanted to depict the truths of this historical fiction in the most respectful, sensitive way he possibly could, and I feel like he really succeeded in that.
There are a number of differences between the novel and the show, perhaps most notably the “present-day” time frame being updated from 1976 to 2016. As someone who already had such a connection to the novel, how did you react initially to these changes?
Oh my God, it was a lot of going back and forth between the script and the book. I was like, oh, okay, there’s a lot of differences, but I was really excited by the changes and understood where they sprouted from in the story. Eventually, there were two Danas in my head—there was Dana in the book and there was Dana in the show, and they were intertwined with each other. When I needed to draw from something, like a fundamental piece of who this person was and the way that this person would react or feel about something, I always went back to the book and I always tried to see it from that perspective. The book was like an encyclopedia for me to go back to whenever I needed to connect to something deeper than what I was seeing on the page.
Johnson as Dana and Micah Stock as Kevin in Kindred.
Tina Rowden/FX
What were some of the scenes that you found particularly difficult to film?
Everything. [laughs] No, I’m kidding. There were a lot of days where I was just really doubting myself. I was one of the youngest people on set, and I was also the most inexperienced person on set, and at the same time, I was there doing a scene every single minute of every single day. Endurance-wise it was difficult, but psychologically, I just wanted to give this show everything I had, and it was really hard on the days I felt like I failed at that. I was just coming out of school and I felt like I had to prove myself. That was the hardest part about this, and I feel like that’s gonna be the hardest part about me watching all of this back—remembering those days, remembering those scenes and just being like, “Oh God, I could’ve done so much better.”
And, I mean, the brutality and horror of some of the scenes were excruciating, but that’s just what the story required of me, I guess. The story kind of starts to have this insidious effect on you. I was feeling really disoriented and tired towards the end, like I had no idea what I was doing, where I was…but then I also had to remember that that is also what Dana is feeling.
On that note, have you ever found yourself exhausted by the brutality of slave narratives onscreen as a viewer? Before Kindred, did you have any predetermined notions on whether or not you wanted to be part of slavery-related projects as an up-and-coming Black actor?
I was just coming out of school, so I wasn’t thinking too hard about it, to be perfectly honest. At the same time, as an artist in general, it’s always been a hard rule for me that I never want to do anything that’s going to show my people, my culture in a negative light or in a light that is harmful or re-traumatizing. That’s never something I want to be a part of.
I knew Brandon, I knew some of Brandon’s work and I trusted him as a storyteller. Once I figured out that it was him, and saw all the producers that got this show’s wheels turning, I was like okay, these are smart and very aware Black artists who are trying to do something that is an homage to Octavia Butler, someone who was also smart and very aware and impactful. Her work was saying something beyond: This is what happened in slavery. It was a reflection of something much bigger and brighter, and I think that’s what attracted me to her story in the beginning. It looks at slavery with such fresh eyes, in a reflective way.
“Every time I tell a story that is about my ancestors…I feel like I’m holding a candle for them”
I also felt that I never want to forget what has happened historically. That’s just not my standpoint. Now I understand if other people don’t feel that way, I get that some people do not wanna see that on television. Some people have gotten to a point where, you know, they don’t wanna see the actual brutality and the exploitation of it and I completely understand that. If that’s how you feel, that’s how you feel. But personally, I don’t want to forget my history. I feel that every time I tell a story that is about my ancestors or might lift my ancestors up in a light of strength and endurance, I feel like I’m holding a candle for them, like I’m remembering what happened to them and how they have gotten me here.
With the release of this show, you’re about to transition very quickly from being relatively unknown to being well-known by the industry and audiences, too. How are you preparing for that?
I’m not thinking about it. Maybe I should be, but I just have never really wanted to have a huge presence online. Even though I participate—I have Instagram, Twitter, TikTok and all the things—at the end of the day I want my work to speak for itself.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
Contributor
Roxanne Fequiere is a New York–based writer and editor who might just make it after all.
What makes a beauty product “great” in 2022? For the beauty team at ELLE, the secret sauce to a Future of Beauty-worthy launch goes something like this: a breakthrough formula, never-before-seen level of inclusivity, and advancements in results. We gazed into our crystal (makeup) ball—reviewing hundreds of submissions—and selected the most exciting launches in the market right now to bring you this year’s Future of Beauty winners. Check them out—and shop them!—below.
Getty + Design Leah Romero
Shani Darden by Déesse PRO LED Light Mask
Facialist Shani Darden incorporates LED when she’s treating clients like Jessica Alba and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley. Now, the benefits can be replicated on your couch with Shani Darden by Déesse’s PRO LED Light Mask, which has triple the number of lights as its direct competitors and is the strongest on the consumer market.
Therabody TheraFace Pro with Gel
Customers using the Theragun massage tool on their faces and necks (to ease tense foreheads and jaws) is the origin story behind the TheraFace Pro, which has three face-safe percussive attachments plus cleansing, LED light, and microcurrent rings to lift, cleanse, and much, much more.
NuFace TRINITY+ Starter Kit
It took over a decade and 42 revisions before NuFace released an update to Trinity, its popular microcurrent device. Now named the Trinity+, the new tool comes with 25 percent more power and an app for a more precise lift and tone.
LYMA LYMA Laser
The Lyma Laser device combines red LED lights with a 500 milliwatt laser into a handheld anti-aging device that’s safe for all skin tones.
OLEHENRIKSEN Banana Bright+ Vitamin C Eye Crème
Giving one of Sephora’s top sellers a makeover? Brave. Ole Henriksen’s best-selling eye cream has a new name and an even better formula: the glow-inducing vitamin C that shoppers know and love is more potent than ever.
Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow AHA Night Treatment
Glow Recipe also did the R&D to make its beloved facial-in-a-tub product more universally tolerated—but still as smoothing and brightening.
Decorté Liposome Advanced Repair Serum
Japanese brand Decorté started researching liposomes (tiny vesicles that help kick-start the delivery of active ingredients to the skin) in 1984, later bringing to market the Moisture Liposome Serum in 1992. This year, the brand revised that technology for the first time in 30 years, releasing the Liposome Advanced Repair Serum, a gel formula made with ceramides that hydrates via time-release over 24 hours.
Ourself Lip Filler + Lip Conditioner Set
Ourself’s Lip Filler, complete with “subtopical” plumping technology, goes places typically only reachable by a dermatologist—by wrapping hyaluronic acid in a delivery system that infuses it deep into the skin.
Eighth Day Reparative Moisturizer
Board-certified dermatologist and reconstructive skin cancer surgeon Antony Nakhla’s work with more than 10,000 skin cancer patients inspired Eighth Day’s Reparative Moisturizer. The PRP blend inside the thick cream also has proven skin-beneficial ingredients like resveratrol, CoQ10, and vitamins C and E to plump skin immediately but also deliver long-term hydration.
Shiseido Bio-Performance Skin Filler Serums
Shiseido’s Bio-Performance Skin Filler Serums work in tandem to deliver hyaluronic acid—the Night serum has a compacted version of the HA, and the Day serum triggers the molecule to expand, subtly adding volume.
Relevant One & Done Everyday Cream with SPF 40
The inaugural product by beauty industry veteran and e-retailer Thirteen Lune founder Nyakio Grieco took on one of the products women of color find the most challenging: mineral sunscreen. On top of being a truly universal mineral sunscreen formula (the secret for getting such a high SPF rating in boosters), it’s also your morning moisturizer, serum, and primer.
Soho Skin 24/7 Treatment
Soho House used its discerning clientele (which is of a certain age) as test dummies when it came to creating its skincare line. The results include the 24/7 Treatment, which works whether you get a full eight hours of restful sleep or a not-so-great four post-dance club. The overnight mask uses lactic acid and fermented ingredients to smooth with ATP—yes, the energy inside of cells—to help the skin function better.
Getty + Design Leah Romero
Juvederm Volux XC
Credit: jacoblund
In the post-Zoom world, patients are looking for new ways to enhance their unmasked faces. See: Juvéderm Volux XC, which is FDA-approved as the only hyaluronic acid filler to give you a more defined jawline.
Cutera Aviclear
Credit: jacoblund
AviClear by Cutera is the first FDA-cleared laser to treat acne by zapping sebum glands to produce less oil, which means fewer breakouts.
RHA Redensity
Credit: jacoblund
Having a stiff upper lip isn’t what you want when it comes to fillers. RHA Redensity smooths severe lines around the mouth with a breakthrough level of flexibility.
Vivace Vivace Ultra
Credit: jacoblund
The Vivace Ultra offers the first-ever bespoke version of radiofrequency microneedling; each session starts with ultrasound photo mapping to create a custom program that includes optimal needle depth for each area.
Owen Bruce + Design Leah Romero
Half Magic Beauty Magic Flik
Euphoria’s lead makeup artist Donni Davy reinvented liquid liner with the Half Magic Magic Flik Liquid Calligraphy Eyeliner Pen. Its paddle-shaped brush (rather than the usual cone) makes shaping a flick or wave super easy. (Trust us.)
Yves Saint Laurent The Bold High Pigment Lipstick in Revenged Red
Now 15% Off
Your body heat triggers YSL Beauty’s The Bold High Pigment Lipstick to create an ultra-vibrant effect. It subtly separates into two layers, invisible to the naked eye: Pigment remains on the bottom, while the oil rises to the top—and your lips become bold and glossy, just like that.
Velour Lashes Second Nature Plant Fibre Lashes
Vegan and cruelty-free brand Velour Beauty added “sustainable” to its résumé with the Plant Fibre Lash Collection. The lashes are made of 90 percent biodegradable hemp fibers and can be worn more than 20 times.
Hue Hue Twins
You may not have an identical twin to walk the Gucci runway with, but there’s probably somebody out there with similar coloring and skin type. Hue Twins, a collaboration between Hue and Credo Beauty, maintains a database of over 1,300 real people, so you can see what your beauty doppelgänger is buying from brands like Exa Beauty and more.
Lancôme Lash Anatomy
Lancôme Lash Anatomy, available at the brand’s counters across the nation, takes ultra-high-def photos of your eyelashes and grades them on stats like length, thickness, and density to help you find your best mascara.
Guide Beauty Easy on the Eyes Brush Collection
Diversity in beauty doesn’t just mean releasing a line of 50-plus foundations; it’s also about welcoming consumers where they are in their journey. In 2018, actor Selma Blair announced that she’d been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, and this year joined Guide Beauty, helping to launch the Easy on the Eyes Brush Collection. The thoughtfully designed vegan makeup brushes are geared toward those with different levels of hand control. Each has a shorter, ergonomic handle that can be held in several ways.
Aprés Nail Gel Couleur Fall Set
Hesitant at-home manicurists and nail art pros alike will love the densely-packed brush that comes with the newly-launched Aprés Nail Gel Couleur kits; each one is handmade and densely packed to evenly distribute color in a single swipe.
OTM Collection Monaco
While we would never—like, ever—suggest you take your makeup bag out into the desert, OTM gives you that option. All three of the bags are lined in a heat-resistant shield that’ll keep your lipsticks, vitamin C serum, and all other precious top-shelf routine items safe from high temperatures, no matter where you’re going.
Getty + Design Leah Romero
The Unseen Colour Alchemy
For hair, colors like the glow of the Northern Lights or gleam of a scarab’s shell are now attainable with Colour Alchemy. The five holographic tints are triggered by heat and light, and work on many different hair shades—even dark ones.
Parfait Custom Wig
Parfait combines artificial intelligence and the know-how of seasoned hairstylists to solve pain points in the wig-creation process. AI helps capture sizing, so a custom wig can arrive in less than a week, compared to the standard five weeks or more.
Pattern Transition Mask
At Tracee Ellis Ross’ Pattern Beauty, the team noticed the need for products to support processed hair that’s phasing back to its natural texture, because breakage can happen as a strand goes from straight to coiled. The Transition Mask strengthens hair during this delicate time with white tea and manuka honey.
Dyson Airwrap Multi-Styler
In 2018, Dyson debuted the Airwrap Styler, a combo hot tool and the first to harness the Coanda effect in a hair-curling device—using the law of physics to manipulate hair. It sold out almost immediately, and at one point had a 113,000-person waiting list. The version released this year, the Airwrap Multi-Styler, has enhanced that same technology, so the Airwrap can switch directions midstyle, as well as work on more hair types.
K18 PEPTIDE PREP pH Maintenance Shampoo
Forget the notion that shampoo needs to be stripping. This shampoo puts its patented molecule (named the K18Peptide, which reconnects the bonds that are broken in a strand of hair every time you dye, style, or every aggressively brush) back into hair so that each cleanse is a step toward shinier, healthier hair.
JVN Embody Volumizing Foam
If your crunchy curls of the ’90s swore you of foam mousse forever—it’s time to give it another try. Queer Eye and Getting Curious‘s Jonathan Van Ness formulated their version of volumizing foam with hydrating hemi-squalane, so you’re getting lift and shine without hair feeling stiff.
R+Co Bleu F-Layer Deep Conditioning Serum
This lightweight treatment caters to the little-addressed F layer, a three-nanometer area between the cells of the cuticle that must be hydrated for hair to look shiny. This leave-in, which should be used post-wash, has fruit extracts, the BLEU molecule (which will give you bond-building benefits), coconut fruit water, and sunflower seed oil.
Ceremonia Pequi Medium-Hold Styling Hair Gel
Founder Babba Rivera was inspired by the important role that gel plays in Latinx community’s hair routine when it came to formulating her own version. But this one has an oil (we know, an oil and a gel seem like they wouldn’t mix) from the pequi, a Brazillian fruit, for a flake-free medium hold that adds shine to all hair types.
Anna Dabrowska + Design Leah Romero
Dior J’adore Parfum d’Eau
It took multiple revisions to perfect the water-based Dior J’adore Parfum d’eau, which uses a high-pressure nano-emulsion technique to give the purest aroma of uplifting orange blossoms sans alcohol.
Costa Brazil Aroma Eau de Parfum
Costa Brazil’s first fragrance, Aroma, is blended with a mixture of natural Amazonian notes that evoke the calming chemicals given off by trees—so wearing it feels like you’re wandering through a lush forest.
The Nue Co. Water Therapy
The industry continues to merge wellness and self-care with innovative new ingredients. The Nue Co. expanded its collection of functional fragrances with Water Therapy; a single spritz swaddles the wearer in a blend that evokes a day at the beach (and the serenity that comes along with it).
Credo Worthy SuperCharged SkinScent Travel Pen
This fragrant blend of apricot kernel, grape seed, and meadowfoam seed oil locks into the skin and lasts all day.
Elliot Page is bringing his story to the forefront. On Dec. 5, Page shared the cover of his new, in-depth memoir — a photo of the actor in a white muscle shirt and jeans against a maroon backdrop — on Instagram. “Writing a book has come up a few times over the years, but it never felt right and quite frankly, it didn’t feel possible,” Page — who came out as transgender in 2020 — captioned the photo on Monday. “I could barely sit still, let alone focus long enough to complete such a task. At last, I can be with myself, in this body. So, I’ve written a book about my story.”
The “The Umbrella Academy” actor continued: “It’s out next June, and I’m so excited to share its cover with you now. At many points in my life, it felt unbearable to be in front of a camera, but making this cover with acclaimed photographer Catherine Opie (@csopie) was a joyful experience that I will never forget.” In the comments, thousands of fans chimed in with words of praise and congratulations. “This [is] amazing. Can’t wait to read, Elliot,” Uzo Aduba commented amid stacks of red heart emoji from other celebrity friends and allies.
“Trans people are facing increasing attacks, from physical violence to the banning of healthcare, and our humanity is regularly ‘debated’ in the media.”
Flatiron Books first announced Page’s 2023 memoir in February, according to Associated Press. Per the book’s synopsis, the 272-page memoir will include “never-before-heard details” and explorations of “gender, love, mental health, relationships, and Hollywood.” Featuring “behind the scenes details and intimate interrogations on sex, love, trauma, and Hollywood, ‘Pageboy’ is the story of a life pushed to the brink,” the book’s website reads.
For Elliot, the memoir is a candid exploration of his trans identity, mental health, and pursuit of joy. He added in his Instagram post that he hopes the book will serve as a pivotal stepping stone for other members of the transgender community to share their stories. “Trans people are facing increasing attacks, from physical violence to the banning of healthcare, and our humanity is regularly ‘debated’ in the media,” he wrote. “The act of writing, reading, and sharing the multitude of our experiences is an important step in standing up to those who wish to silence and harm us. Books have helped me, saved me even, so I hope this can help someone feel less alone, feel seen, no matter who they are or what path they are on.”
“Elliot often stayed silent, unsure of what to do, until enough was enough.”
An excerpt of the Amazon description for the book reads, “With ‘Juno’s’ massive success, Elliot became one of the world’s most beloved actors. His dreams were coming true, but the pressure to perform suffocated him. He was forced to play the part of the glossy young starlet, a role that made his skin crawl, on and off set. The career that had been an escape out of his reality and into a world of imagination was suddenly a nightmare. As he navigated criticism and abuse from some of the most powerful people in Hollywood, a past that snapped at his heels, and a society dead set on forcing him into a binary, Elliot often stayed silent, unsure of what to do, until enough was enough.”
“Pageboy: A Memoir” ($30) is currently available for pre-order at retailers like Barnes & Noble, Target, and Amazon, and will be available worldwide on June 6, 2023.
Ryan Reynolds shared a very rare look at one way he and his wife Blake Lively are celebrating the holiday season—by meeting Mr. and Mrs. Claus. The actor posted a photo of the gathering on Instagram and also gave fans a glimpse at how Lively is dressing late into her pregnancy with the couple’s fourth child. Lively wore Christmas pajamas with a long cream wrap sweater. Her long blonde hair was styled down with a side part.
Reynolds honed in on his experience meeting Mrs. Claus in particular, opting not to name Santa as part of the joke. “We met Jessica Claus and her husband on the Polar Express,” he wrote. “She was everything I’d always dreamed since I was a kid. She smelled like cinnamon buns and sangria. 🎄”
Lively herself previously shared photos from her pregnancy in September to deter paparazzi from hounding her, Reynolds, and their family.
“Here are photos of me pregnant in real life so the 11 guys waiting outside my home for a 🦄 sighting will leave me alone,” she wrote. “You freak me and my kids out. Thanks to everyone else for all the love and respect and for continuing to unfollow accounts and publications who share photos of children. You have all the power against them. And thank you to the media who have a “No Kids Policy”. You all make all the difference 🙏♥️. Much love! Xxb.”
Reynolds spoke to Entertainment Tonight at in mid-November about how his and Lively’s children are prepared to welcome their newest brother or sister. The couple already is parents to James, 7, Inez, 6, and Betty, 3.
“They’re in. They love it,” he said of his daughters. “They’re ready.”
“I’m very excited,” Reynolds said regarding his own sentiments. “We’d have to be. You know, you’d have to be a moron to do this four times if you didn’t like it. It’s gonna be nuts, but we’re very excited.”
Senior News and Strategy Editor
Alyssa Bailey is the senior news and strategy editor at ELLE.com, where she oversees coverage of celebrities and royals (particularly Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton). She previously held positions at InStyle and Cosmopolitan. When she’s not working, she loves running around Central Park, making people take #ootd pics of her, and exploring New York City.
Girls that love to glow, get your coins together, because Rare Beauty, Selena Gomez’s vegan, cruelty-free beauty brand, has a new product for you. Beginning today, you can purchase the Positive Light Silky Touch Highlighter and its accompanying makeup brush, the Positive Light Precision Highlighter Brush. If you’re ready for a powder highlighter that gives you a natural-looking, glass-like glow sans the stress a liquid highlighter can cause, we suggest you get your hands on this release, stat.
Rare Beauty’s Positive Light Silky Touch Highlighter compact and brush.
Rare Beauty
The Positive Light Silky Touch Highlighter is perfect for beginners and makeup experts alike. The talc-free formula goes on in powder form, but instantly melts into your skin for a glowy, dewy, and smooth look. Using prismatic microshimmers, the highlighter creates a semi-sheer shine, enhancing your skin’s natural warmth and light.
Rare Beauty
“It’s truly lightweight and goes on like silk, and I love the natural sheen it gives you—I’ve never seen a highlighter like this,” Gomez shares exclusively with ELLE.com.
The product also comes in a compact that can slide easily into your makeup bag for a weekend away, or your bag for a day at the office. Not to mention, the Positive Light Precision Highlighter Makeup Brush picks up a lot of product, and a little goes a long way. Gently sweep the brush across your powder compact and apply in light strokes, or press it into your skin and blend in. Once you apply, you won’t need to do a touch-up for hours, if at all. “It’s small enough that it gives me full control of where I highlight, but fluffy enough to make blending easy,” the Only Murders in the Building star adds. The Positive Light Silky Touch Highlighter gives your skin a more subtle, sheer shine in comparison to the Positive Light Liquid Luminizer. If using the highlighter brush on the Liquid Luminizer, you only need one or two drops (take our word for it).
Rare Beauty’s Positive Light Silky Touch Highlighter on a model.
Rare Beauty
I’m happy to report that I gave the new Positive Light Silky Touch Highlighter a whirl during Art Basel weekend, and it withstood not only the Florida humidity, but occasional cheek-to-cheek kisses, and didn’t transfer onto my mask, either. The highlighter boasts being waterproof, transfer-proof, and smudge-proof for all-day wear. Like most of Rare Beauty’s products, this highlighter has a barely there feel, which I love, and doesn’t weigh down your face. It mixed nicely with my other (admittedly non-Rare Beauty) products and creates a beautiful, glazed gleam to boot.
It glides on silky smooth, and the Flaunt color brought out the natural golden hues of my undertones. While the Positive Light Liquid Luminizer comes in eight shades, the Positive Light Precision Highlighter only comes in four: Enlighten, a cool champagne; Exhilarate, a champagne gold; Flaunt, a true gold; and Mesmerize, a rose bronze. I hope they expand the palette offerings, as I’d love a deep bronze or copper too. I should note that the names of the color profiles don’t match their liquid counterpart, which may make it confusing for some shoppers.
If you’re looking for an easy-to-apply natural highlighter that won’t overpower your face, then this is the product for you. While it officially launches tomorrow, December 6th, on sephora.com and rarebeauty.com or in Sephora and Kohl’s retail locations, if you are feeling a little impatient, today only, you can shop the new Positive Light Silky Touch Highlighter and Positive Light Precision Highlighter Brush on the Sephora app.
Freelance Writer
Danielle James is an award-winning entrepreneur, fashion and beauty journalist, and co-founder of Safe Space, a show that encourages viewers to have tough conversations with people in their respective lives. She has bylines with Allure, Essence, Nylon, The Grio, Huffington Post, and more, with an expertise is in retail, fashion, and beauty. Danielle enjoys writing about new trends and focuses on making beauty and fashion accessible to all. She is the founder of Model Citizen, a sustainable fashion company that encourages peer-to-peer clothing sharing and supports emerging designers. When she is not working, Ms. James enjoys brunch, travel, volunteering, and spending time with friends and family.
Selena Gomez is talking vulvar health. In a recent TikTok stitched with the prompt “Women who don’t wear panties,” Gomez finished the video with a deadpan “. . . can sometimes can UTIs.”
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a type of bacterial infection of any part of the urinary system — including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. According to Mayo Clinic, a UTI usually involves the lower urinary system, namely the bladder and/or urethra. Though UTIs are very common, people with vulvas are particularly vulnerable to this type of infection, with more than half of people with vulvas having an infection at least once in their life, according to the US Department of Health and Human Services. Anyone can get a UTI, however people assigned female at birth (AFAB) are particularly susceptible as the average length of the urethra is about 1.5 inches, whereas for people assigned male at birth (AMAB), the urethra is much longer, making it harder for bacteria to travel to the bladder, according to Cleveland Clinic. In fact, American Family Physician Journal found that people AFAB get UTIs up to 30 times more often than people with penises.
UTI symptoms can be very uncomfortable, ranging from frequent urination and pain or burning during urination to fever and back or neck pain. If left untreated, UTIs can cause serious health problems including repeat infections, permanent kidney damage, and sepsis.
No, going commando will not directly cause a UTI. This type of infection is caused by bacteria, not your choice of underwear. However, your risk for a UTI does increase if you are having sex (especially internal or “penetrative” sex), are dehydrated, use a diaphragm for birth control, or wipe back to front after using the bathroom.
In fact, Cleveland Clinic says that wearing tight-fitting underwear can contribute to yeast infections, as the fabric can trap heat and moisture. Sleeping naked — or wearing loose-fitting bottoms — can allow for air circulation on the genitals, helping keep the area cooler and drier. If you are sleeping naked or commando, though, be sure to wash your sheets regularly, as the dead skin cells, sweat, and potential bacteria that would have been transferred to your pajamas or underwear, will now have direct access to your sheets.
When it comes to going commando during the day, be mindful that certain, rougher materials (think: denim or wool) can cause chafing and irritation. Plus, “materials like nylon and lycra can trap moisture and heat, which is a breeding ground for infections,” certified obstetrician and gynecologist Jodie Horton, MD, previously told POPSUGAR. Cotton will be the most vagina-friendly fabric, Horton says.
As the majority of people will experience a UTI at some point, preventative measures are important to avoid future infections. Drinking plenty of water, peeing after sex, avoiding douching, and wearing cotton underwear is your best bet to prevent UTI.
Each episode of The White Lotus is more tense, uneasy, and anxiety-ridden than the last, and no one brings this intensity quite like Aubrey Plaza’s Harper Spiller.
The hit HBO series, written and directed by Mike White, has become known for its clever critiques of wealth gaps, privilege and power dynamics, using all-inclusive resorts as a backdrop. The second season once again follows the twisting storylines of wealthy Americans in a foreign location, this time set in Sicily, Italy. Throughout the show, flashy vacation wear, carefully selected by costume designer Alex Bovaird, is juxtaposed with the dark mood, eerie music and impending knowledge of a fatal ending. Employment lawyer Harper — who undergoes a drastic change in style throughout the season — arguably embodies this foreboding arc the most.
Photography courtesy of HBO
Episode one opens with Harper and her husband, newly minted tech millionaire Ethan (Will Sharpe), beginning their double date vacation with an out-of-touch couple: Ethan’s former college roommate, the conceited finance bro Cameron (Theo James) and his bubbly wife Daphne (Meghann Fahy). Right away, Harper sticks out in the group. Her conservative, sharp, structured ensembles stand in contrast to Daphne’s light, breezy, floral looks — and this is no coincidence.
While Harper’s style is chic and fashion-forward, it portrays her unsubtle anxiety about the trip: she’s uncomfortable with her husband’s newfound extreme wealth, she’s grappling with the lack of passion in her relationship and she’s on edge about the motives of the couple they’re with.
Daphne and Cameron are in a comfortable bubble of privilege: they don’t care about politics, world issues or anyone below their tax bracket. This sense of divide in the group is further felt by the opposing romantic dynamics: Daphne and Cameron have an affectionate, PDA-filled relationship while Harper and Ethan seem to be merely tolerant of one another.
Photography by Fabio Lovino/HBO
Right off the bat, Harper suspects that something is off about their travel companions — especially Cameron. In the first episode, while borrowing a pair of Ethan’s swim trunks, he strips down naked within strategic eyeshot of Harper. She wonders if this suggestive move was intentional, but when she brings these concerns up to Ethan, he writes them off as cynical and negative, asking her to be less judgemental.
At the request of her husband, Harper makes an effort to be agreeable in episode three. Her attitude switches alongside her style, as she wears a light green dress with her hair pulled back in a silk headband and sticks to surface-level pleasantries. In this preppy, girlish ensemble, she’s suppressing her apprehensive gut feelings. Almost immediately, Daphne compliments Harper on this new look — which is, in fact, not really her.
Photography by Fabio Lovino/HBO
But as the trip continues, she ventures further from her buttoned-up first impression and continues to dress more feminine and playful. It’s no coincidence that this evolution takes place as she spends more time with Daphne while growing distant from Ethan. During a girls’ trip off the resort, the pair bond and Harper even lets her new friend buy her a beach-y, bohemian dress.
On this outing, however, Daphne divulges that she and Cameron aren’t as perfect as they appear. She says they play psychological “games” with one another, implying that they both have extra-marital affairs. Notably, while this conversation is happening, Cameron and Ethan are back at the resort hanging out with prostitutes, whom Cameron proceeds to sleep with.
Photography courtesy of HBO
But despite Cameron’s cheating, Ethan won’t tell Harper the full truth about it when asked, leading her sense of worry to spiral. From Daphne and Cameron’s misleading honeymoon-phase marriage to Ethan’s inability to communicate, Harper notices the laissez-faire dynamics of this moneyed group are built on artificiality — so that’s what she starts to give.
Harper begins to put forth a manufactured cheery attitude in the group setting. As such, she goes from being the antithesis of Daphne to almost matching her. This is shown the most when the couples visit a vineyard in episode five, where Bovaird purposely put Daphne and Harper in coordinating high-waisted pants and fitted cropped tanks. Despite carefree appearances, Harper’s suspicion towards the men is still top of mind.
Photography courtesy of HBO
It becomes clear to Harper that the unwritten rules within this wealthy circle are to play along with the illusion that everything is perfect. Case in point: at the end of the episode, Cameron brazenly feels Harper’s thigh under the dinner table with both their spouses present — confirming her initial suspicion about him that was dismissed by her husband.
As she develops an alliance with Daphne while feeling both isolated from Ethan and preyed on by Cameron, Harper’s main conflict is the sense of mistrust about the men around her. This culminates in episode six when she and Ethan are more distant than ever. In her first scene, she confronts him about their non-existent sex life. She says, “You’re not attracted to me,” a statement that he never denies. She asks, “Do you even want me?” prompting him to dance around the question by saying he loves her.
Photography by Fabio Lovino/HBO
Style-wise, she spends the majority of the episode in a bikini and pink beach cover-up. This stripped-back, sexier side emulates Daphne and further demonstrates her disconnect from Ethan. And as she and Ethan struggle to communicate, she spends the day talking with Cameron. In one crucial scene, they even leave the beach together to go back to their adjoining rooms, forcing Ethan to wonder if she cheated on him with his frenemy, even going into his own spiral of worry.
The truth? Viewers may never know, and that’s the point. As her skepticism evolves, Harper’s style continues to deliver the unexpected. By trading conservative matching sets for ultra-feminine frocks, her manufactured ensembles add to the sense of worry inThe White Lotus. What will Harper wear next? We’ll be watching the season finale on December 11 to find out.
The royals are already spiraling over Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s docuseries, Harry & Meghan, and all that’s been released so far is one single trailer. But a lot was packed into that 1:12 minute sneak peak—including this photo of Meghan and Harry that was, apparently, taken at Buckingham Palace without permission. And already, the one photo alone is creating drama in the palace because of protocol. (Yes, one photo, despite the trailer’s far more problematic claims about the treatment of women who marry into the family.
Netflix
According to The Telegraph, this image was snapped inside Buckingham Palace’s garden entrance, and the outlet “understands that the presence of the photograph was the subject of a written palace complaint at the time” due to the lack of permission. Apparently, the Sussexes “are not thought to have been made personally aware of the warning,” and the photographer wasn’t asked to leave.
“It’s fair to say there was surprise to see there was a photographer. In usual circumstances, you need permission to take pictures in that area,” one source tells the outlet, while another adds, “There is very strict protocol about bringing a film crew or photographer. Usually a memo would be sent to the Queen to get approval.”
Another source described the photographer’s presence as a “genuine violation” of the Queen’s household, saying the news of his presence “wouldn’t have taken long for it to go round the building.”
The first three episodes of Harry & Meghan premiere on December 8, while the second three premiere on December 15. Per Netflix, “The series explores the clandestine days of their early courtship and the challenges that led to them feeling forced to step back from their full-time roles in the institution. With commentary from friends and family, most of whom have never spoken publicly before about what they witnessed, and historians who discuss the state of the British Commonwealth today and the royal family’s relationship with the press, the series does more than illuminate one couple’s love story, it paints a picture of our world and how we treat each other.”
Mehera Bonner is a celebrity and entertainment news writer who enjoys Bravo and Antiques Roadshow with equal enthusiasm, She was previously entertainment editor at Marie Claire and has covered pop culture for over a decade.
Hailey Bieber deemed 2022 the year of glazed donut everything, and slowly but surely, she’s been revealing how she gets that signature look. In addition to her own cult-favorite skincare line, Rhode, the supermodel and beauty entrepreneur reaches for Dieux’s Instant Angel Skin Restoring Moisturizer to keep her skin hydrated and supple. “Couldn’t love this moisturizer more,” she previously wrote in an Instagram Story sharing the product.
Made with ingredients like free fatty acids, ceramides, and squalane, Instant Angel helps support the skin barrier as it provides that glazed donut halo effect. It’s also fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, though the brand notes it may be a bit rich for acne-prone skin.
Dieux Instant Angel Skin Restoring Moisturizer
Dieux Instant Angel Skin Restoring Moisturizer
Now 15% Off
Credit: Dieux
Dieux Dieux-ing Great Bundle
Dieux Dieux-ing Great Bundle
Now 20% Off
Credit: Dieux
Dieux Glow Gospel Bundle
Dieux Glow Gospel Bundle
Now 11% Off
Credit: Dieux
Thanks to Dieux’s (and founder Charlotte Palermino’s) popularity on social media, Instant Angel has already sold out at least once, but it’s currently on sale for Black Friday 2022.
The celeb-favorite is available to shop for 15 percent off as a standalone essential, and in two of the brand’s discounted skincare bundles for 20 percent off, which also happen to make great gifts. Whether you shop the Dieux-ing Great Bundle, which contains Instant Angel, Dieux’s culty under-eye patches, and hydrating Deliverance Serum, or the Glow Gospel duo that features the serum plus Bieber’s go-to, we’re betting you’ll walk away looking more glazed and dewy than ever.
In addition to her love for Instant Angel, the supermodel also previously shared her five-minute skin care and makeup routine on TikTok, ahead of her brand’s official release, which included a few of her other holy-grail beauty favorites. “Honestly, the most important thing for me, when doing my own makeup or getting my makeup done, is the skincare, the base for the makeup,” she said in the video. “I feel like that’s always how I achieve the glowiest, best looking makeup.”
Shop more of the trendsetter’s product favorites below:
Lindy Segal is a beauty writer and editor. In addition to regularly contributing to BAZAAR.COM, she also writes for Glamour, People, WhoWhatWear, and Fashionista, among other publications. She lives in New York City with her Chihuahua mix, Barney.
As we enter the holiday season, let’s have a little refresher on how to elevate our basic winter style, shall we? We took inspiration from today’s It-girls like Bella Hadid and Zendaya as well as the hottest runway shows to give you the best foundation for your cold-weather looks. It’s easy to cling to the safety of those all-black outfits, but now, it’s time to venture outside of your comfort zone. From smile-inducing sweaters and animal prints to furry accessories worn by Rihanna, there are plenty of ways to brighten up your winter outfits this season.
Don’t be afraid to bust out those favorite summer pieces in your closets. We’ll show you how to winterize those shorts and sandals to keep you feeling and looking hot in the colder temperatures. We often feel the chilly months mean we have to hide our fashion-forward sides under our puffer coats and thick ankle boots for the snow. Nevertheless, incorporating these statement styles will make sure you don’t miss a beat when it comes to your street style.
Scroll on for 10 cute winter outfit ideas that will serve as inspiration throughout the chilly months ahead.
Platform Boots
Rachpoot/Bauer-Griffin
Platforms are back with a vengeance and are making no plans to leave again. This time around the 2022 shoe trend has taken on the iconic Y2K Ugg boot. Step out in this redesigned classic to take your winter wardrobe to new heights.
UGG Classic Mini Platform Boot
Express Ultra Soft Balloon Sleeve Duster
Now 73% Off
Express High Waisted Ruched Side Midi Skirt
Now 56% Off
Moto Jackets
Pierre Suu
The best moto jackets have proven themselves a timeless staple. The zipper details, ribbed padding, and shoulder pads give you that extra power to take on these city streets. Be a babe and a total badass!
Veronica Beard Jylan Leather Moto Jacket
Rumored Union Cargo Pants
Steve Madden Fink Studded Knee Boots
Bermuda Shorts
Marc Piasecki
Remember those Bermuda shorts we wore in middle school (that we also had in a million different colors and prints)? Well, the plaids may be gone, but the Bermuda shorts are becoming a must-have for a chic schoolboy look. Pair them with tights, knee socks, or knee-high boots to beat any wind chills.
Banana Republic Twill Shirt Jacket
Now 60% Off
Nili Lotan Dillon Bermuda Short
Now 40% Off
Isabel Marant Cener Knee Boot
Fur Bucket Hats
Pierre Suu
It’s ugly and outdated until Rihanna says it’s not. This furry accessory is impractical, weird, and just what you need to slay the day. Who cares about practicality when you’re turning heads? Added bonus if you get your favorite color in faux fur.
Tyler Lambert Faux Fur Bucket Hat
Khaite Birdie Denim Shirt in Kirk
Binge Knitting Island Mini Bowl Bag
Bold Color
Arnold Jerocki
Monochromatic outfits are the easiest choice for the cold months ahead, and black and neutrals are usually what come to mind. Think outside the box this season and flaunt neon from head to toe. After all, the ’80s called, and they want their colors back, but they won’t be getting them anytime soon.
Karen Millen Italian Wool Double-Breasted Coat
Now 20% Off
Jeffrey Campbell Edie Satin Platforms
Agnelle Moor Leather Gloves
Puffer Coats
Andreas Rentz//Getty Images
One of the biggest dilemmas for winter dressing is finding something that feels warm, lightweight, and breathable—the solution: a puffer coat. This winter closet staple is a must-have for anyone who plans on surviving this winter season.
Socks and sandals are the most interesting solution to spicing up your footwear game in the winter. Give your heels another life by pairing them with bright-colored socks made in cashmere or wool for maximum warmth. Your outfits will still feel and look like your own personal style, just with more personality.
Socks with Sandals
BHLDN Leila Satin Charmeuse Dress
The Row Bare Satin Asymmetrical Slingback Sandals
Falke Cashmere & Wool-Blend Cozy Socks
Now 25% Off
Animal Print Mania
Kate Green/BFC//Getty Images
Animal prints were once a bold fashion choice, but lately, we have been spotting this trend down the runway—and even on our sidewalks. If you aren’t ready to rock a head-to-toe look à la Shania Twain, search for the right animal print for you and start with one clothing item. You’ll soon discover that this is just what you need to take your outfits to the next level.
Animal Print Mania
Statement Sweaters
Victor Virgile//Getty Images
If you’re looking to cure your winter blues, a statement sweater is just what you need. Pick a sweater that will fill you with joy whenever you read it because sometimes a cheesy saying is just what we need to lift our mood. Pair your eye-catching knit with trousers and bold-colored shoes for a head-turning outfit.
Statement Sweaters
Rowing Blazers x Gyles & George Gyles & George Women’s “I’m a Luxury” Sweater
Nili Lotan Dillon Virgin Wool Wide Leg Pants
Now 56% Off
CamperLab Yellow Traktori Loafers
Now 50% Off
Karissa Franklin is one of the fashion assistants at ELLE Magazine. She loves traveling, trying new recipes, and hunting for vintage designer goodies.
In a sneak peek of his forthcoming appearance on National Geographic’s “Running Wild with Bear Grylls: The Challenge,” Ashton Kutcher is seen revealing that around two years ago, he’d been diagnosed with vasculitis, a rare condition that the actor said affected his ability to hear, see, and walk.
“I had this weird, super rare form of vasculitis, that like knocked out my vision, it knocked out my hearing, it knocked out like all my equilibrium,” Kutcher said in the clip, which was shared exclusively with Access Hollywood. During the “Wilding Running” clip, Kutcher tells host and survivalist Bear Grylls it took him “about a year” to recover.
Vasculitis is a rare but serious group of conditions that cause blood vessel inflammation. Due to this inflammation, the blood vessel walls can thicken, reducing blood flow, and causing organ or tissue damage, according to Mayo Clinic
There are many types of vasculitis and the condition can be short-term or chronic, with symptoms ranging from mild to life-threatening. In general, the American College of Rheumatology reports that vasculitis can affect people of all genders and ages — but certain forms of the condition affect specific populations. For example, Kawasaki disease, a type of vasculitis, occurs only in children.
Symptoms can include fever, headache, fatigue, weight loss, and pains. And as Kutcher experienced, the Mayo Clinic reports that the effects of the condition can extend to the ears (including dizziness and sudden hearing loss) and include temporary or permanent blindness and weakness in the hands and feet.
It’s not well understood what causes the condition, although genetic factors, immune system disorders, and drug reactions are among the factors that could contribute to it, the Mayo Clinic notes. The treatment for vasculitis depends on the type and the severity, as well as which organs are affected. It may require medication. Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, are most commonly prescribed to help control inflammation caused by the condition, reports the Mayo Clinic. But it sometimes requires surgery.
Saying he’s “lucky to be alive,” Kutcher appears to be on the mend while hiking with Grylls in the clip. “You don’t really appreciate it until it’s gone,” Kutcher said. “Until you go, ‘I don’t know if I’m ever going to be able to see again, I don’t know if I’m ever going to be able to hear again, I don’t know if I’m ever going to be able to walk again’.”
Image Source: 
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