#no one in 2024 is thinking about jesse’s hair

[exsofa]

(speaking to a wall) i just think that jesse’s “director” cut could have been more girly

[mikawa13]

Every time I look at fanarts of TID I have to take a deep breath because some of the clothes aren't completely period accurate, so I wanted to try to draw them with more accurate dresses.

Charlotte did not take as long as I expected, probably because I always imagined her style in a more simple and elegant style.

I used Cassandra Jean's design for the gear and tried to adjust it a bit following the Codex's information about older versions of the female gear having a skirt, but I just decided to make that padding around the abdomen and hips longer and simulate a skirt (but not too long to not reduce the mobility), whereas the male gear would be shorter and the way that Cassandra Jean did it.

RIP Charlotte, you would've loved jumpsuits QUEEN

(February 4, 2024)

Little Miss Barbie x Regina George (1878 Edition)

Jess was a bit more complicated because she does care about her appearance more and has a more intricate style. And normally I try to not add a lot of detail with Victorian characters because Queen Victoria didn't like makeup and found it vulgar, so women usually went for a natural look. Jessamine paints her dark circles whereas Charlotte naturally has them for obvious reasons. ☠️

Low-key, I loved doing Jessamine's ghost form.

And please let's not talk about my strange doodling attempt with the electrum lace design on the parasol. Halfway through it I started telling myself Henry is not a fashion designer and he tried his best to mimic a lace design with the electrum and hide some runes for her protection.

(February 13, 2024)

I will be honest, I struggled with the color of the dress because I do not imagine Cecily with a plain color dress, but not too intricate as Jessamine's. Everything looked too blue at first and I switched so many colors until it ended up like that. And don't get me started on the hair... It felt ✨WRONG✨ to give her a historically accurate hairstyle considering everyone gives her straight hair down.

So in my head her hair IS straight, she just has to appropriately wear it up. But nothing too complicated. And it's worth mentioning my memory is starting to blur out a lot. I had to check her wiki for the weapon and whatnot, and I found that she was petite and thin. In my head she was about Tessa's height. But I barely remember a lot from the books by now.

But I did try to make her look closely similar to Will. And I think she does look like a female, better, version of him. Also, if you're wondering why she's not wearing the necklace: I didn't realize I didn't add it until I finished coloring the dress and by that point I was so sick of it I left it like that. I had the sketch of the necklace, I just forgot to put it with the dress. 🫠

(March 2, 2024)

Gideon is so lucky. 😩

The suits might discourage me from doing the men because there's not really much difference aside of small details of how each man wears it. But anyway... Back to Sophie.

The damn maid dress. It's simple. It is ten times simpler than Jessamine's dress and YET I was struggling with it. And don't get me started on the scar.

The wiki said it was a big, silver, scar on the left side of her face from the corner of her mouth to her temple. I had an existential crisis trying to figure out how to do it, because in the other set ups of these drawings, I depict them like they're facing me, so the portrait wouldn't have shown the scar.

And it's a problem because I also suck at drawing scars. The first try looked fine but it wasn't silver, then I did this and in one part I guess it's fine because I didn't want to make a pretty scar when it's supposed to be bad and shocking for the time period. But a part of my brain thinks it looks like the fungus from The Last of Us. ☠️

Anyways. You may be wondering, "why didn't you do the Shadowhunter gear?" And it's a simple answer... I wanted to see her in a pretty dress. Of course, I could have done the portrait with the maid dress, the middle with her fancy dress, and the second full-body drawing with the gear but I didn't think about that until 10 minutes before posting. 🫠 And that gear is COMPLICATED (Not really, I'm just tired after the dresses).

(April 10, 2024)

If you are wondering why there is a huge time jump from the last fanart to this, I had a really bad art block and the frustration from the inaccurate dresses brought me back lol

Unfortunately I am currently in another slump 🫠

The next one was supposed to be Tessa but the dresses really frustrated me and I never even started the sketch. Idk if I'll ever finish it. I hope so, but don't get your hopes up.

[deancasbigbang]

Title: Arms Around His Angel

Author: blackhorsedances

Artist: stonelions

Rating: Explicit

Pairings: Castiel/Dean Winchester, minor Benny LaFitte/Garth Fitzgerald IV, Gabriel/Kali. Charlie Bradbury/Meg Masters; Jody Mills/Donna Hanscum. Past Dean and Lee Webb; Past Dean and Lisa Braeden; Past Dean and Benny LaFitte. Sam Winchester/Jess Winchester. Jack is Sam and Jess Winchester’s son.

Length: 36041

Warnings: No major archive warnings Content Warnings: Mention of James and Amelia Novak dying in an MVA (no gore, nothing on screen), mention of the humane slaughter of a steer (no gore, nothing on screen).

Tags: !Inventor Castiel. !Rancher Dean Winchester. Bisexual Castiel Novak. Semi-comfortably Bisexual Dean Winchester. Top Cas/Bottom Dean. Smut and fluff. Mostly safe sex. Hurt/comfort. Happy Ending.

Posting Date: October 14, 2024

Summary: Castiel Novak invented cutting-edge solar technology and left his position as CEO of Angelus, Inc. to protect himself and his technology from his dysfunctional brothers. He found safety on a 20 acre farm in Kansas with a pond, house, barn, and his trailer. When his twin and sister-in-law are killed, he’s drawn back into the business, and into danger, to protect his niece Claire and his technology. Dean Winchester rebuilt Winchester Ranch after John almost destroyed it. He has 500 acres of land, a ranch house, and a big barn. He raises American Wagyu beef. He’s a single Dad with a great son, Ben, a giant moose brother Sam and Sam’s wife Jess, and an adorable nephew Jack who roams around the ranch with his trusty sidekick, Honeybee, Dean’s old palomino mule.  Castiel and Dean meet accidentally at a hotel and share a night of wild–and completely anonymous–intimacy. When Castiel wakes up alone, with no note and no phone number from his ‘Cowboy’, he assumes that the night was a one and done, and regretfully moves on with his life. Dean keeps thinking about the ‘Angel’ that he spent a night with, but is pretty sure that he doesn’t deserve that kind of a guy in his life. Jack and Honeybee discover “Mister Cas” and inadvertently set the stage for ‘Cowboy’ and his ‘Angel’ to meet. But sinister forces are moving in the background. Will they be able to overcome the forces that are trying to keep them apart?

Excerpt: “What’s Jack doing, Sam? Garth says he and Honeybee are out most days from breakfast until well after lunch. Jody says he packs peanut butter and banana sandwiches.” Sam shrugs. “He says he’s out visiting Mister Cas. I think he probably found the fort we built that one summer, and is holed up out there with sandwiches for his imaginary friends. Let it be, Dean. The heifers are out in the north pasture. The steers are in the east pasture. There’s nothing out by the fort to worry about.” “Snakes, Sam. There are snakes to worry about.” Sam looks at Dean across the kitchen island, and shakes his head, hair flopping over into his eyes. “You’re the one that told me that a mule will kill a snake faster than you can say ‘snake’, and I believe you because I’ve seen Honeybee do it. Let him be. Ben will be out of school in a couple of weeks, and he’ll be following Ben around like a puppy.” “Heh, you’re probably right.” Dean runs a hand down the back of his neck.  “I know I am, Dean. You worry about all of us, but you worry too much. You can’t watch over everyone all of the time.”

DCBB 2024 Posting Schedule

[jesterafterdark]

Feedist Kinktober 2024 - Day 4

"Leashed 🔗"

(prompts via @fatguarddog)

"Let's try something a little... Different tonight," Jess loomed over Kayla, straddling her and softly grinding her hips against her.

"Different?" Kayla grinned up at her lover.

"Keep an open mind," Jess insisted, dismounting her partner. "You can feel free to say no." She grabbed something from her bag, pulling out a collar and a leash, dangling it over Kayla.

"Okay," Kayla giggled, "I could be into this."

Jess gently fixed the collar around Kayla's wide neck, her double chin folding over it and swallowing the front of the collar. Kayla groaned as Jess tightened it.

"Is that too tight, babe?"

"No," Kayla whimpered, biting her lip, "it's perfect."

Jess clipped the leash to the collar and stood over Kayla. "Look at you," she cupped Kayla's face in her hand, pulling her leash taught, "you make such a cute little pup."

"Pup?" She looked up with soft doe eyes, "Is that what I am?"

"Would you rather, maybe," Jess leaned close to whisper in her ear, "pig?"

An affirmative moan was all that Jess needed to hear. She squeezed Kayla's belly with one hand while she held the leash with the other.

"You're such a fat little pig. It suits you. Now, get on your knees."

Kayla didn't need to be told twice, dropping, kneeling for her lover.

"That's right. That's where you belong. At my feet, soft and obedient. Now, let's get you something to eat."

Jess set out a trough filled with a mixture of different snack food and guided Kayla to it with the leash. The fat little pig didn't think twice about stuffing her face.

"I love how you look in all fours," Jess stroked her hair, "the way your belly hangs down. How much longer until it touches the floor?" She squeezed the dangling flab, "Probably not much longer, now."

Kayla moaned at the feeling of Jess's hands on her.

"You like eating for me, don't you?"

"Mmph," Kayla groaned without taking her face from the trough.

"And you like growing for me?"

"I'd-" she gulped down a mouthful, "I'd do anything for you."

"Anything?" Jess pulled on the leash, pulling Kayla's eyes up to her.

"Anything."

"Then I want you to eat every last bite. Then, I have a cake in the fridge. I want you to show me exactly how big you can get for me. I want you to show me how bad you want this."

"So bad. So so bad."

"I don't want you to tell me," Jess kissed her on the cheek, "Show me."

[alocon]

A Soulmate Who Wasn't Meant To Be [2] - Max Verstappen

written by alocon

Note: Name and Part One based on the song A Soulmate Who Wasn't Meant To Be by Jess Benko

Summary: After the release of your first song, released the day before the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend, there is some obvious tension in the garage as you and your ex boyfriend have one final fight for the championship.

Warning: Angst? I guess. Use of Y/N (sorry, I don't like using it but there were a couple of times that I had to bc I didn't have any alternatives), some social media at the end.

[The Masterlist] [Previous Part Here] [Next Part Here]

A Soulmate Who Wasn't Meant To Be [Part Two] - MV¹

2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

Thursday - Media Day

"Lovely to see you all," Crofty said, looking around the group of drivers in the press conference. On the couch was Max, Lando, Charles, Lewis and You. "Firstly, Y/N, all of us over at Sky Sports are loving the new song, it’s been the talk of the paddock all morning too. Lots of us want to know, who is it about?”

You chuckled, knowing that you’d be asked at some point. You hadn’t expected it to be so soon. “Firstly, thank you. I’m glad that so many people have been liking it. Lew and I have literally been working on it since like the start of the year. I’m so thankful that he agreed to do the guitar for me because I wouldn’t have been able to do this without him. As for who it’s about.” You paused, looking quickly at Max, who’s eyes were already on you. You looked at him for a moment before turning your attention back to Crofty, making sure to look at glance at the drivers as you did. “It’s about one of my ex’s. I won’t say which one.”

“And the name. How did you come up with the song name? How are you feeling about this weekend, by the way?”

“It was something that he said to explain why we broke up. I like to think that everything happens for a reason, you know? And sometimes, things aren’t meant to be. And that’s just life. I’m just glad that people like it. I’m so excited for this weekend. As you all know, it’s been hard working towards this weekend, and I’m looking forward to giving Max a hell of a hard time.”

He chuckled, looking at you. Your eyes went straight to him, sending him a competitive grin. “Hope you’re looking forward to P2 in the drivers, buttercup.” Him hitting you with the teasing childhood nickname was a surprise. He started calling you that when you were both 14 because he slipped a buttercup into your hand and it scared the life out of you. So since then, he has never let you live it down. You didn’t even hesitate in your response to him.

“I hope you’re looking forward to seeing me on the top step of the podium, Princess Max.” The glare he shot you was almost instantaneous as Charles started laughing, obviously having understood the reference. 

“Right, just for that, I'm taking you out of the race on turn one.” You recognised that teasing tone in his voice, feeling your stomach flutter a little at that beautiful, happy tone that you had missed being directed at you. But you shook it off. ‘He wasn't meant to be, remember?’ you told yourself as the conference continued.

The moment you got out of the press conference, the atmosphere changed. Max walked straight past you, not even daring to look at you. You and Max still rarely talked. Since the start of 2024 you had become more civil, but you were nowhere near friends. 

Max slumped down onto the seat in his driver's room. He ran his hand through his hair, sighing. Fuck. He heard the door open and shut and, moments later, felt a presence on the space beside him on the couch. “Go on, then. What’s up?”

He raised his head to the man, looking at the seriousness all across his face. “I don’t know what you mean.”

“Max. I was your teammate for like 2 years. I saw the way you loved her and I saw the mess after you broke up. I also just watched that press conference. Start speaking.” Daniel was persistent, to be fair to him. But he also had a point. Over the years, Daniel had heard a lot about how he felt but he never talked about you to him.

“I regret it. Basically every day. It’s not left my mind since I listened to her song.”

“Still? Max, it’s been 6 years since you broke up with her. Also, YOU broke up with HER. Why would you do that if you didn’t want to?”

Max sighed, the memories of his prior conversation coming back to him.

[November 2018]

“You need to break up with her.” The seven words he had always dreaded hearing. Never in a million years would he ever consider breaking up with you. You were his muse, his soulmate. You were the person he wanted to marry, the one he wanted to spend the rest of his life with. It was funny, the words that left the man in front of him’s mouth. He knew he had a long shot of ever getting him to do that.

“Give me one good reason why I should.”

“She’ll just distract you, Max!” Jos’ voice was already doing Max’s head in and he had only said 12 words so far. ‘What happened to hello, how are you?’ He thought, rolling his eyes at the poor excuse that he spilled.

“As if she had ever distracted me before. Seriously, dad. We have been karting and racing together for years, for our entire relationship, and nothing will change now that we are in the same team.”

And that’s how it became an argument. The pair were shouting at each other. And then the bomb dropped. Jos handed Max a photo, making a comment about how he wouldn’t want it to be leaked. Max looked at the photo, his stomach instantly turning with disgust as he realised the photo that his father had managed to get ahold of and was now using it to threaten him, attempting to get him to break up with you, his person, because he wasn’t a fan of you. Jos never had liked you. Whilst being with you, you had helped Max realise that Jos was not a good person by any means, and Jos didn’t like that. As if on queue, your head poked around the door, quickly apologising when you realised that Jos was there. Jos smiled at you, before speaking. “No problem, I was just leaving. Think about what I said, Max.”

—

“What a dick,” Daniel declared, having taken a few moments to process what Max had just explained.

“Daniel, I miss her so much.”

“I know, mate. I know.” Daniel paused his speaking for a minute, attempting to come up with some kind of recommendation. He was fully aware that Max couldn’t express how he felt in person, so he came up with an idea. “Maybe write her a letter. She likes displays of affection like that.”

Race Day.

Crossing the line was the happiest you had been in a while. The race was excellent. For most of the race, Max and you had been fighting for P1 until he barely managed to get out of your DRS range. He ended up being a good few seconds ahead with 10 laps remaining. You didn't let that get to you, though, opting to keep pushing to the very last lap. And you did, getting closer and closer. However, you would've been perfectly happy if Max won. You both put up a brilliant fight and the drive against him was superb. But then you saw your golden opportunity. You overtook him, riskily but safely and fairly, regaining the lead of the race. Final lap. You heard the radio sound, being disappointed when Christian could be heard through it. “Give Max back the position, please.”

“Why should I?” You were pissed. Once again, they were attempting to strip you of everything you had worked hard for, everything that you wanted and dreamed of. Everything that you and Max talked about when you were kids. One day, he would say, one day we'll both be world champions, driving for Red Bull together and happily in love. Well, that last part didn't happen but you weren't about to give up on that.

“Max has worked so hard for this.”

“Fuck off, Christian, so have I.”

He said your name with venom, chuckling as he spoke. “We have a meeting to sign your contract extension tomorrow, remember. You've got to respect what your boss says if you want to keep driving.”

You scoffed as you crossed the finish line. No congratulations from Christian, a congratulations from your amazing race engineer, of course, but he was quickly shushed by Christian. You knew at least Crofty and Martin would be cheering in that commentary box, likely would be referring to it as the most interesting race since Abu Dhabi 2021 or Bahrain 2022.

Getting out of the car, you saw the red bull team. But they weren't cheering for you, they were cheering for Max. You hugged your engineer, excitedly celebrating your first world championship. The one you had worked so hard for day in and day out. You then rushed to hug a bunch of the drivers who were there, starting with Fernando who finished P3 in the race, as well as the championship. Then you went to them all, starting with Lewis, then Charles and Carlos, then Yuki, then Logan and so on. And then you saw Max. He walked to you, giving you a congratulatory hug. You hugged back, your arms going around his waist. You felt his hands move around your shoulders to your neck, confusion filling you as you pulled away from the hug, noticing the Dutch flag wrapped around your shoulders. “If I won, I was going to wear it to the podium. But this time, it's your turn. Congratulations.”

The post race interview started with Fernando, then only Max. When he was asked about how he felt about losing to you, he, too, referenced your childhood. “On the 14th of February 2012, she asked me what my dream was. I told her that it was for us to both make it to F1. For us to both be world champions, driving in the same team. Together. And a couple other things. Whilst we didn't get those other things, I'm happy that we have finally achieved most of our dreams.” It then went onto you. 

Jenson asked about the race, congratulated you, the normal stuff. He then brought up the request from Horner about letting Max win. He smiled softly, signalling for you to speak as much as you wanted. “To be quite honest, Jens, I think it was a stupid team order. For them to assume that I would willingly give up a championship to give it to someone else is insane. I’ve been listening to his orders for years, letting Max through most of the time I was asked. However, when I don't, all I would receive is a lecture. ‘You should’ve listened to us’ he would say. ‘You didn’t deserve that win, you are lucky you are even driving for us, don’t push your luck.’” Your eyes scanned the crowd as you spoke. Disgust about Christian’s actions was over all the driver’s faces. Including Max, who was clearly surprised. Christian, on the other hand, looked as white as a ghost. You continued speaking.

“However, I am not, by any means, upset with Max. I know that none of this was his fault. It was Christian’s,” you said, pausing to take a breath before saying the next thing. This whole year had built up to this moment. “Which is why I am incredibly happy to announce that the contract renewal meeting will not be necessary, because I will be driving for Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula One Team in the 2025 season.” You glanced over to Lewis who had grinned at you, winking, having already known the news. You took this opportunity to lightly tease him about his inability to say the team name. “See, Lew? It’s not that difficult to remember the name.”

“So… Mercedes, huh?”

“Yes, Max. Mercedes. You won’t miss me too much when I’m gone, no?”

He chuckled, sitting on your couch as you packed your stuff up. “Maybe I will, maybe I won’t. Are you going to the Red Bull Team Party later?”

“I wasn’t invited. Never have been.”

“Really?” He watched you nod. “Well, come anyway. Be my plus one, show them who’s the boss.” He stood up, stepping closer to you. “I’m sorry they favoured me. I never rewatched the races so I never saw the radio. I truly am sorry.”

“Max, it wasn’t your fault. I’ll think about your offer, I need to go.”

“Wait.” He reached in his pocket, pulling out some paper. “Read that when you get to the hotel, please.”

—

Y/N,

You’ll have to bear with me, I will try my best not to waffle too much. I struggle to express how I feel through words, so Daniel suggested a letter.

When I think back to 2018, I realised that I never gave you a proper explanation on why I broke up with you. It was not a choice which I wanted to make. If given the choice, I would’ve chose the opposite, however, given the situation, the choice was obvious.

My father threatened me with a photo. I know what you’re thinking. “Why would a photo give you a reason to break up with me?” Jos managed to get a hold of an inappropriate photo of you, one which he threatened to release if I stayed with you. Believe me, if the opportunity was there, we would still be dating now. However, I couldn’t do this to you. I couldn’t let your reputation in the F1 community get destroyed because I decided to be selfish and stay with you. I hope I can be forgiven for this. I loved your song. It might’ve been the most beautiful thing I have ever heard.

I know that our break up was irreparable. I handled it way worse than I should have. However, I again have reason for this. I feared that, if I wasn’t harsh, you would’ve been determined to keep us working. And I have a soft spot for you, I always have done. I would do anything for you in a heartbeat.

I know I never said it when we were together, and I know that I should have, but I love you more than I have ever loved anyone before. I have since the day we met to the current day. I’m planning to give this letter to you the day of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, after the race, but it was written before. I hope you know that, no matter what, even if you win the championship, nothing will ever stop me feeling devoted to you. You are my life, my soul, my person. I will love you until the day I take my last breath.

I know we may never be able to repair what we had, but maybe we could just be friends? If so, my number is *** *** *** ***, please message me, schat.

Forever yours,

Maxie xx

-

You messaged him. Of course you did. Deep down, you missed him. He was your person. You were happy he at least wanted to be friends. Sure, he absolutely was a soulmate who wasn't meant to be, but maybe you could at least talk a little more now.

youruser

📍 Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi

liked by maxverstappen1 and others

youruser: and with that, the 2024 season comes to an end. It's been a pleasure, glad to finally have a Championship under my belt x

tagged: maxverstappen1, fernandoalo_oficial, georgerussell63

view all comments

maxverstappen1: Been a pleasure driving with you. Can't wait to have you as proper competition next year x

youruser: It's been a great 6 years, Max. x

----

youruser

liked by georgerussell63 and others

youruser: My time at Red Bull Racing has come to an end. This decision was not one I took lightly, however, it took little to no consideration to make this decision. The treatment that I received from Red Bull Racing over the years and, more specifically, Christian Horner, has been one I would not wish upon any driver. That being said, Max, you have been a wonderful teammate. Can't wait to beat you again next year, just in a Mercedes this time. Goodbye Oracle Red Bull Racing, hello Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula One Team. (P.s. Christian, I am bringing my race engineer with me xoxo)

tagged: georgerussell63, maxverstappen1, mercedesamgf1

view all comments

georgerussell63: Can't wait to be your teammate!!

youruser: so hyped!!

maxverstappen1: Humble yourself, I'll be back to winning the wdc next year

youruser: lmaoooo you wish

mercedesamgf1: What's 4+4??

youruser: ATEEEE

----

f1

liked by youruser and others

f1: bet you didn't expect this abu dhabi plot twist!! Our World Champ moves to Mercedes for 2025!!

-comments off-

----

maxverstappen1 posted an instagram story!

----

twitter

-The End-

-Word Count: 2,483 (not incl. social media comments)-

Hi All, I got asked to write a part two so here we go x Sorry if this was bad, it's unedited and it's also currently 1.40am for me. Goodnight everyone, have a good day! Alocon

[murfpersonalblog]

IWTV S3 Promo/Teaser: Freaking Out - Lestat & Daniel are Unhinged

As usual, Imma try to go frame by frame thru AMC's IWTV S3 promo, but I was laughing so hard I had one hand slapped over my forehead trying not to pass out and die--WHAT am I looking at in the year of our lord 2024!? 🫣 AMC is so goated for doing this!

Daniel oughta be sued for this alone--he should've tracked down Damek if he just needed a random blonde white guy if Lestat refused to show up! XD STUNT QUEENS!

Mark Johnson: "I think he's entertaining someone?" Daniel: "Do we have insurance for homicide?"

Yeah, YOURS! 😂

And they got the gallon of blood in a pewter goblet, WHY? XD That don't even look warm! 😭

Daniel: "That HIM. Jesus Christ, look at him!"

By the tone of his voice I can't tell if Daniel was creaming himself or pissing himself, or both. 😝

LESTAT IS WEARING CLAUDIA'S YELLOW COLOR I AM UNWELL NOBODY TOUCH ME 😭💔

Mark Johnson: Mr. Lioncourt, hi, Mark Johnson, I'm the executive producer. We talked on the phone a couple of times; we're really excited about the-- Lestat: I don't remember you. Mark Johnson: --documentary.... Ok.

GOD. 🤣🤦

Sam's midriff, I can't; Carol Cutshall, Imma send you my therapy bills.

Get this coked out queen off my dang screen. 🤣🤦

Not the blood-red choker where Louis slit his throat-- He wears blood like jewels, y'all! XD You can't talk about Louis now, hypocrite! 😝

Christine Claire: You have 45 minutes and he's gone. Daniel: Who the f**k are you? Staff: This is Christine Claire, Mr Lioncourt's lawyer.

REALLY, Les? Really?

Staff: Hair and makeup, now-- Lestat: Do I look like I need you? 💅💎

💀👻 This diva bish.

Lestat: There's a goblet on the table. 🧿👄🧿🔪 Daniel: You don't like the goblet? Can we get rid of the goblet, please, thank you~!

The way Lestat death-stares the poor sound-man just for being dehydrated, omg.

"Armand told the truth" tattoo--are y'all effing kidding me? 🤣 Daniel Molloy and cinematographer Jesse M. Feldman; you've got a mole in your studio!

Lestat is PIIIIIISSSED! 🤣At long last, the meme has been realized!

Daniel: I see you have my book there, what do you think--*choking*

Oml, Lestat's finna kill Daniel by the end of this interview! 😭 I am DYING of laughter, y'all.

"I am The Vampire Lestat. I'm immortal...more or less. The light of the sun...the sustained heat of an intense fire.... These things might destroy me. But then again...they might not.

Sam, you WERK, bish!

His vocals on the song snippet sound REALLY good! While I'm bummed we won't get that Nu Metal sound from the QotD movie, I'm glad they're going with Euro-sounding Glam Rock for AMC!Lestat!

Nice nod to Count Dracula's ah-ah-ah laugh! XD

They just CANNOT decide which contacts to give this man, it's hilarious at this point.

What on earth is he doing? XD

God, he's killed someone on set. XD

Louis finna show up at the studio with the divorce papers this time. XD

Nope, that face won't save you now! XD

Lestat once Daniel's done tearing his dignity to shreds.

He's cracked, your honor.

This promo was SO much fun, omg, I haven't laughed like that in a hot minute; thank you AMC! ❤️

[callmebrycelee]

9-1-1 REACTION

This week’s episode marks the 100th episode for 9-1-1 and it is a total banger! I figured nothing could get better than Bobby and Athena trapped inside an upside-down cruise ship, but this week’s episode walked up to the bar and said, “hold my beer”. If you’re reading this, you know exactly why this episode is truly *that girl* and I promise you we’re gonna talk about those last 4 minutes and 23 seconds that had us collectively clutching our pearls, pillows, and pets and left us with nary a hair on our scalps. We’ve got a lot of ground to cover so let’s not waste another second. This reaction is for the season 7, fourth episode “Buck, Bothered and Bewildered” which originally aired April 4, 2024. The episode was written by Andrew Meyers and Bradley Michael Marques and directed by actor turned directed Chad Lowe. Spoilers ahead!

“She has anthrax! Or glitter.” – Bachelor Producer, to everyone

We start things off at the Bachelor mansion where we see real-life runner up of season 20 of The Bachelorette and star of season 28 of The Bachelor, Joey Graziadei. I have never seen an episode of The Bachelor, but I have watched the first two seasons of VH1’s Flavor of Love so I’m quite familiar with the concept of a bunch of women competing for the affections of one man. The opening to this episode does a great job of parodying the hit ABC dating and relationship reality television series while also being respectful. After all, the show and it’s many spin-offs are beloved by many, including 9-1-1 viewers. 

We see a handful of hopeful contestants pull up to the mansion in limos, each of them providing a cheesy introduction very reminiscent of RuPaul’s Drag Race and the Real Housewives. I love that two of the contestants are named Ashley because of course there would be two Ashleys cast in the same season of a show like this. My favorite contestant, however, is Ashley A., a flight attendant who looks like she just stepped out of the one-season wonder Pan Am starring Christina Ricci, a pre-Barbie Margot Robbie, and Mike Vogel. Now that I think about it, wasn’t Pam Am an ABC show?

The last contestant arrives with a bottle of glue and introduces herself as Conchata. Joey is all of us and asks her about her name because for those of you who haven’t seen the episode, this woman is the whitest shade of pale and is the last person I expect to have the name Conchata. The producers (played by Jamie Denbo and Rique) scramble behind the scenes trying to find out who this woman is because she is definitely not Conchata. The contestant comes clean about who she really is and introduces herself (again) as Bailey, an aesthetician from Sheboygan, Wisconsin. She takes the bottle of glue and pours it all over the cobblestone driveway. She then lies flat on the driveway in attempt to glue herself to the surface. Our two producers attempt to remove her, but her skin has adhered to whatever glue she poured on the ground. 

Cue title card.

“I love dalmatians.” – Ashley C., Bachelor contestant, to Evan Buckley and Eddie Diaz

Our favorite 911 dispatch, Maddie, gets a call from the season 5 bachelor and host of The Bachelor, Jesse Palmer. We learn Maddie and Josh (played by Bryan Safi) are uber fans of the show and I cracked up when Josh commandeered the phone call and started grilling Jesse about the new bachelor. Maddie deploys the 118 to the Bachelor mansion and it’s heavily insinuated the location of this particular emergency is outside of the area the department usually responds to. Way to keep it professional, you guys!

The 118 arrive on the scene and Chimney and Hen attend to Bailey (played by Sarah Fletcher). Chimney sees Joey and he is awestruck. I can totally see he and Maddie piling up on the living room sofa after they’ve put Jee-Yun to bed to watch The Bachelor. There’s a funny moment where the other contestants flirt heavily with Eddie and Buck. Eddie tells them he’s taken but points to Buck and says that he is single. Buck tells them he has a rule about not dating people he meets on calls which is hilarious considering he nearly got fired in the first episode of the series for taking one of the firetrucks to a booty call with a woman he saved. 

Eddie and Buck breakout the jackhammer to cut away the piece of driveway Bailey is stuck to so she can be transported to the nearest hospital. Meanwhile, Chimney answers a FaceTime call from Maddie and Josh who want to know the identity of the latest bachelor. Chimney flips the camera around and tries to be sneaky about filming Joey, but he gets caught. He ducks behind the limo Bailey pulled up in and sees another woman passed out in the backseat. We learn this is the real Conchata and she has been chloroformed by Bailey. Speaking of Bailey, as she is loaded into the ambulance, she yells for Joey to visit her in prison. Yeah, I don’t think Joey Graziadei is going to be visiting you, Bailey.

“That night was the most fun I’ve had since getting struck by lightning.” – Evan Buckley, to Tommy Kinard

We next head over to Air Operations One which I’ve learned is a part of the Los Angeles Fire Department. Tommy Kinard (played by Lou Ferrigno Jr.), our former 118 firefighter turned helicopter pilot, is giving Buck a tour of the unit. I got so excited seeing these two share a scene together because it’s no secret that Buck is my favorite character on the show, and I really like how they’re brought Tommy back into the show this season. Buck is in awe of everything Tommy’s telling him, but the latter believes he has ulterior motives for being there. He asks if Buck is thinking about changing career paths. Buck tells him that he really got a thrill flying in the middle of a hurricane to save Bobby and Athena. It’s the most fun he’s had since getting struck by lightning. 

Buck asks Tommy what got him into flying. Tommy tells him that he used to be a pilot in the Army. Buck lights up and tells Tommy that Eddie was in the Army, too. Tommy already knows this. Buck then tells Tommy that he met his ex (Taylor) responding to a helicopter crash and then realizes in that moment that maybe that was a sign of things to come. Tommy agrees that saving someone’s life and dating them never turns out the way you want it to. Upon second (and third) viewing of this episode, I find it interesting how the both of them are ambiguous about the genders of the people they are speaking about. Buck could’ve mentioned Taylor by name, but he chose to just say ex instead. Now back to the topic at hand, Buck says he isn’t sure if he’d want to leave where he is now to pursue being a pilot and Tommy assures him he can do both which seems to be the thesis of this episode. Tommy offers to teach Buck how to fly for fun. Buck offers to buy him a beer and Tommy says he’d love that. Again, how did I not pick up on the subtle flirtation the first time I saw this episode. These two’s chemistry is off the charts. 

However, our little meet cute is cut short when Eddie arrives. Eddie is surprised to see Buck there and asks Tommy if he got three tickets to the fight. Tommy says ‘no’ but he wishes he did. Here’s another thing I really liked about this scene. I’m sure, by now, Tommy knows that Buck goes by Buck but each time he addresses Buck he calls him ‘Evan’. I’ve always equated the characters on this show who refer to him as ‘Evan’ as having more of an intimate connection with him, i.e., Maddie his sister or Eddie his best friend. Anywho, Buck is surprised to learn that Tommy and Eddie have tickets to a big fight in Vegas and they’re taking one of the helicopters there. Now I have a question. If Buck wasn’t allowed to drive the firetruck to his hookups back in season one, how is Tommy flying to Vegas with Eddie in one of the LAFD choppers okay? Also, I didn’t know helicopters could fly that great of a distance. Anyway, Tommy and Eddie leave to board the helicopter and our poor Buck is left behind feeling both a little confused and a lot jealous.

“It is so good to have you back.” – Athena Grant, to Harry Grant

Speaking of surprises, Athena does not sleep with her hair wrapped. No shade, but no Black woman I know is going to lay her head down at night without doing something to protect her hair. Okay, I’m gonna leave Athena alone because she is thrilled to have her son back home. Yes, you read that right. Harry Grant is back home but he looks a bit different. The character is now aged up played by a new actor – Elijah M. Cooper. Now, in case you forgot, Harry went to live with his dad in Florida back in season five and we really haven’t seen him since then. When Athena says she can’t believe Michael didn’t say anything about Harry coming to visit. Harry tells her his dad has been really busy and had to fly back to Haiti. Bobby is immediately suspicious of this because he figures that Michael would’ve called about something like this. Athena doesn’t seem to concerned about any of this and is basically just happy to have her youngest back under her roof. 

“I saved a baby in a pipe once although it was a preemie and it didn’t speak.” – Evan Buckley, to everyone

Meanwhile, Buck, Eddie, and Ravi (played by Anirudh Pisharody) respond to an emergency at a restaurant where the dishwasher (played by Jibre Hordges) claims he hears a voice coming from inside the sink. Ravi doesn’t think it’s possible that someone could be trapped inside a drain but Buck reminds him of the time he pulled a newborn out of a sewer pipe. The firefighters do finally hear someone yelling for help and the restaurant manager (played by Cesili Williams) shows them footage of a motorcyclist being struck by a car and knocked into a storm drain. 

Buck, Eddie, and Ravi head outside and Ravi, being the newest member of the 118, is lowered down into a manhole to extract the poor guy. During this time, Buck grills Eddie about his outing with Tommy. He learns that in addition to going to Vegas, Tommy is also teaching Eddie the Muay Thai style of boxing and they’ve even worked on Eddie’s Chevelle together. Buck does his best to hide his jealously, but he can’t help pressing his best friend for more details. He asks Eddie when he plans on seeing Tommy again. Eddie tells him that Tommy has this karaoke/trivia thing he does on Wednesdays and asks Buck what his plans are for that day. Buck perks up and says his schedule is wide open. Eddie asks if he would watch Christopher for him. He would ask Marisol, but she’s already watched Christopher twice already. Yikes! So, a lot to unpack here. First, is Eddie using his girlfriend as childcare? Second, does this mean Buck’s level of importance to Eddie has decreased now that Tommy and Marisol are in the picture. Lastly, is Eddie really that oblivious? I get wanting to have a new friend, especially one who you have a lot in common with, but he knows Buck, or rather he should know Buck, and him saying these things, even though Buck technically asked him for this information, is hurtful for Buck to here. This, I’ve noticed, is a continuing trend of certain characters getting upset whenever Buck does something wrong, but having little to no regard when it comes to his feelings. This isn’t the first time Eddie has done something like this and I have to believe that he really is oblivious because the alternative means that he’s doing these things because he’s trying to get his friend all riled up. Of course, Buck agrees to watch Christopher because of course he’s going to watch Christopher. 

“Is it circled with a heart around it?” – Maddie Buckley, to Evan Buckley. 

A few days later, Buck updates Maddie on Eddie’s new friendship with Tommy. Buck is so jealous of the new friendship that he’s gathering intel from Christopher. Although Buck is being a little bit extra about all of this, a part of me can relate to the emotions he’s feeling. He worries that Tommy has made such an impression on not only Eddie but Christopher in such a short period of time. What I find fascinating is that while Buck is jealous, he harbors no ill-will towards Tommy.  In fact, he agrees with Eddie and Christopher. Tommy is cool. Buck tells his sister that Christopher would not stop talking about Tommy. Maddie wonders if it’s because Buck kept asking him questions about Tommy. Buck mentions that Eddie has a date written down on his calendar and it’s for a weekly pick-up basketball game with Tommy and other first responders. The date is circled. Buck mentions that Eddie has asked him to this before. Maddie reminds Buck that he doesn’t like basketball and he agrees and says that’s why he always tells Eddie ‘no’ but now Eddie is going with Tommy. Chimney hears the tail-end of their conversation and tells Maddie that Tommy flew Eddie to Vegas for a fight in a chopper. Chimney teases Buck by saying that Tommy’s so cool. 

“We have a problem.” – Bobby Nash, to Athena Grant

Back over at the Grant-Nash household, Bobby tells Athena he talked to Michael. Michael is not in Haiti, and he also had no clue Harry had left and come to Los Angeles which means Harry lied to the both of them. Athena wonders why Harry would lie, and Bobby says it’s because the police is looking for him. They showed up to Michael’s house while he was on the phone with Bobby. Bobby tells his wife that Harry got into a fight and assaulted someone. There’s now a warrant out for his arrest due to him fleeing the jurisdiction. Yikes! Poor Athena. You think you know your kids.

“That’s Jeremy. That’s my son, he’s a doctor.” – Dorothy Nelson, to Athena Grant

Maddie receives a call from an older woman named Dorothy Nelson who is reporting an intruder in her home. Maddie instructs her to stay calm and tells her to find a place to hide until the police get there. The woman panics and tells Maddie she has a gun. Maddie tells her that arming herself can only make the situation she’s in more dangerous. Dorothy starts screaming and then we hear a gunshot. 

Athena, Hen, and Chimney arrive on the scene and find a man dead in the Dorothy’s living room. Chimney tends to her and learns she recently sustained a fall in her garden. Athena looks around the room and sees a photo on the mantle above the fireplace. She realizes the man in the photo looks an awful lot like the dead man on the floor. Hen posits Dorothy has face blindness which means she wouldn’t have been able to recognize the guy even if she does know him. This emergency reminds me of a similar one on Lone Star where a kid locked himself in the bathroom because his dad thought he was an intruder.

Athena goes over to Dorothy (played by Meagen Fay) and asks her if she recognizes the man in the photo. She tells Athena that the man in the photo is her son, Jeremy, and he’s a doctor. So, this lady has killed her own son, and the sad part is, she still thinks that it’s an intruder she shot. This is beyond sad, and I felt so bad for her. I also feel bad for Athena who will have to be the one to tell her the truth. Hen asks her if she can imagine looking into her own child’s face and not even recognizing him. Athena says yes she can.

“That’s how they wake you up in jail for sleeping in. Except the water won’t be clean and it probably won’t be water.” Athena Grant, to Harry Grant

Athena returns home and confronts her son. I did not like the way Harry was talking to his mom and I was wondering why Athena didn’t slap him across his lips. Then I realized, she already did this back in season 5 when Harry started mouthing off at her. Athena is extremely patient in this scene while Harry tells her about the incident involving him assaulting a man. The man, in question, is the manager of a convenience store. Apparently this man was following Harry around while he was inside the convenience store and accused Harry of stealing. The man wouldn’t let Harry leave and got aggressive with him which is why Harry hit him. Harry is upset because he believes she is taking law enforcement’s side over his much like he thinks she did when his father was pulled over several seasons ago. Athena reminds him she is a cop, and he counters by reminding her that he is still his mom. He asks her which one is more important to her but says he already knows the answer to that question. 

“Hey, what are you doing on Thursday?” – Evan Buckley, to Howard "Chimney" Han

Over at the 118, Buck is trying his best to get Eddie’s attention, but the latter is too wrapped up in his phone call with Tommy. Buck tries to impress by bench-pressing a lot of weight but he’s clearly struggling with isn’t too believable for me because have you seen Buck? The guy is a tank! Ravi asks him if he needs help and Buck declines. I wish Buck wasn’t so short-sighted because as much as he wants Eddie and Tommy to notice him, I think Ravi wants Buck to notice him. For him, I think, Buck is the cool one. Chimney brings Buck a package addressed to an M. Buckley which I found funny because either Buck doesn’t have his own Amazon Prime account or maybe he shares one with Eddie and didn’t want his friend knowing what he’s ordering. Turns out, the item Buck has ordered is a new basketball. When Buck sees Eddie again, he suggests that they can get a basketball hoop. Eddie barely acknowledges this before returning to his conversation. Yeah, I’m beginning to think Eddie is doing this on purpose. 

“He was shot when he was mistaken as an intruder.” – Athena Grant, to Dorothy Nelson

Athena puts her cutest outfit and goes to see Dorothy Nelson at the hospital. She rips off the Band-Aid and tells Dorothy her son is dead. When Dorothy asks what happens, Athena tells her that he was killed because he was mistaken as an intruder. I like how Athena delivered this news because it wasn’t accusatory. She lets Dorothy figure out the rest and the moment it dawns on her that she is the one who killed Jeremy she is rightfully devastated. Kudos to the actress playing Dorothy Nelson because she really sold this scene for me. This is the most devasting thing I’ve seen on this show since the story back in season 5 where two best friends were struck during the middle of a parade and one of them died. The scene ends and I’m left wondering what will become of this woman. I can’t imagine the pain she’ll have to live with knowing she killed her son. 

“So, I’m your basketball beard. I feel so bonded.” – Howard “Chimney” Han, to Evan Buckley

Buck convinces Chimney to go with him to the pick-up basketball game. Buck pretends to be surprised to see Eddie and Tommy there. Eddie asks Chimney how he managed to talk Buck into playing basketball because every time he asks him, he says ‘no’. Chimney decides to play coy and tells Eddie he has his ways. I love seeing Chimney being supportive of Buck because very soon they are going to be brothers-in-law. The two square off against Eddie and Tommy and the latter are dominating. Buck lets his jealousy get the better of him and trips Eddie up right as he’s about to make a lay-up. We hear something pop as Eddie falls to the ground. Chimney goes into paramedic mode and assesses Eddie’s injury. He thinks Eddie may have a fracture or sprain. Tommy says that Eddie rode with him, so he’ll be the one to take him to urgent care. Eddie gives Buck a hurt look and Buck immediately feels horrible. Tommy lifts Eddie up and takes him away. Chimney looks at Buck and says, “Well you bucked that up, didn’t you?” Geez, I really feel bad for Buck. He is spiraling!

“It seems unjust, but in reality that’s just the way it is.” – Athena Grant, to Harry Grant

With a cooler head, Athena decides to talk to her son. He apologizes for how he spoke to her. He tells her he is not sorry for hitting the convenience store manager. Athena reminds him that he is not only representing himself and their family, but also his community, which means he can’t go around punching people. He tells her that’s a lot of pressure, but she says that’s the reality of the world they live in. She tells him has to be smarter and he asks her if that means he’s not allowed to be angry. Athena tells him it’s okay to be angry because at the end of the day, he’s a human and that’s what humans do – they get angry when they are upset. However, she reminds him that things could have been worst for him. What if the convenience store manager had a gun? Harry asks her what would have been the right thing for him to do in the situation and I like that Athena admits she doesn’t know. At the end of the day, you have to do whatever you have to do to make it home alive. That’s sentiment is so sad to me but as a Black man living in America, in the South to be specific, I totally get it. It’s not fair but it is what it is. 

Athena shows him the footage of what happened at the convenience store. Harry watches as the manager confronts him and even gets aggressive. He also sees himself punch the man. It’s sobering for him to see this video. He says it’s like watching someone else. Athena tells him that everyone has something they’ve done that they aren’t proud of (you hear that Buck?) but the true test of character is being able to face the consequences of one’s actions. Harry tells her he doesn’t know what to do and she tells him they’ll figure it out together. Whatever happens, she will be right there with him because he is her son, and she loves him no matter what.

“I’m not a fourteen-year-old girl.” – Evan Buckley, to Maddie Buckley. 

Buck brings Maddie lunch at the dispatch center and catches her up on what happened with Eddie.  She asks Buck how Eddie is feeling, and he tells her he doesn’t know because he hasn’t talked to him. Maddie is surprised to hear this considering Buck and Eddie are so close. Buck tells her he doesn’t think Eddie wants to hear from him since he’s the one who hurt him. Maddie says it’s an accident, but Buck tells her he was pissed about Eddie and Tommy hanging out so much that he allowed his jealousy to get the better of him. He’s the reason why Eddie got injured. Buck says he was only trying to get his attention. Maddie tells him that is not the way to get someone’s attention. When I first watched this scene, I thought Maddie was going a little overboard with her disapproval of what Buck did. Then I realized, violence is how her husband Doug would get her attention back when they were married. Buck tells her he feels awful for what he did to Eddie, and she tells him not to do it again. 

She admits she knows how he feels because she had a similar situation with her best friend growing up. Her friend became friends with another girl and Maddie did everything she could, including dyeing her hair blonde and attempting to change her name, to get her friend to notice her. It never occurred to her that she could have still been friends with her friend even if her friend was friends with someone else. Maybe they could have all been friends. But Maddie was too jealous to realize this. The situation made her look desperate, and she would’ve been better off just explaining to her friend how she felt. 

“It’s good to see you Harry.” – Captain Elaine Maynard, to Harry Grant

Athena accompanies Harry to the police station, and they are met by Captain Elaine Maynard (played by Claudia Christian). The captain tells Athena and Harry she spoke with the Miami Dade Police Department, and they have no interest in extraditing for a misdemeanor assault. However, both jurisdictions recommended Harry remain in Los Angeles with Athena and complete 100 hours of community service. Harry is surprised he isn’t going to jail but Athena makes it known that him being under her watchful eye will be worse. 

“It’s not like I could ever replace you.” – Tommy Kinard, to Evan Buckley

Now, we’ve finally made it to my favorite scene of the episode. We head over to Buck’s loft. There’s a knock at the door and when he goes to check, he finds Tommy on his doorstep. Tommy asks if they can talk, and Buck invites himself inside. I love the subtle detail of Tommy being in awe of Buck’s loft. Buck offers him a drink and reminds him that he owes him a beer. Tommy declines and says he won’t be staying long. He tells Buck he wants to clear the air between the two of them and he didn’t want to do so over the phone or through a text message. Tommy calls him Evan and says it was never his intention to cause any bad blood between him and Eddie. Buck assures him there’s no bad blood and owns up to his bad behavior. He tells him that he and Eddie make perfect sense as friends. Tommy agrees and reminds Buck that Eddie can have more than one friend. 

Tommy says that he would never be able to replace him. He says that Christopher cannot shut up about Buck. I love the smile on Buck’s face when Tommy says this because it’s a reminder that Buck, seven seasons later, still craves the approval and the acceptance of those around him. Even Christopher. Buck asks Tommy if Eddie is mad at him. Tommy tells him Eddie is not mad at him. If anything, he feels bad (they both do) for excluding Buck. He tells Buck that he and Eddie hanging out was never about Buck, but Buck says that’s the problem. He admits he can get pretty jealous. I’m so proud of Buck for just owning everything in this scene. Lisa Rinna would be proud. 

Tommy admits that Buck isn’t the only one who’s been jealous. Buck is surprised to hear this. Tommy explains that he’s jealous of what’s become of the 118. When we were first introduced to Tommy, it was back during the ‘Begin’ episodes for Hen, Chimney, and Bobby. The 118 didn’t use to be the family it is now. In fact, the previous captain went out of his way to cultivate a highly toxic environment and it’s because of Chimney, Hen, and Bobby that the team is what it is today. It’s the reason why Buck and Eddie and Ravi were able to be accepted right away without having to be hazed by the other firefighters. Tommy admits he wishes he were a part of what the 118 has become and Buck reminds him that he is. He reminds Tommy of how he made fake mouth static at the fire chief during their daring mission to save Bobby and Athena. Tommy says he’s renowned for his fake mouth static, but Buck says it wasn’t very convincing. The banter between these two men is so cute I could actually explode. Buck tempers his teasing by reminding Tommy that he was willing to put his job on the line to help the rest of them out. That was the moment Buck realized that Tommy was cool and that he liked him. He tells Tommy that’s the reason he called him for the tour. It’s not because he’s thinking about leaving the 118; it’s because he wanted to get to know him. It’s Tommy’s turn to be surprised. Buck says things took a turn when Eddie arrive, but he understands why Tommy wants to hang with Eddie. It was so cute the way Buck gushes about how great Eddie is that he’s known Eddie is great since the first day he worked with him. Aww! At this point, I’m literally yelling at my TV.

“That was better than fake mouth static.” – Evan Buckley, to Tommy Kinard

The flirting is turned up to level 100 when Buck tells Tommy it’s his attention he’s been trying to get and frankly he’s exhausted. Again, Tommy is surprised to hear this. Buck reminds him that he maimed his best friend, and that Maddie told him there are better ways to get someone’s attention. Before Buck can even finish the statement, Tommy leans in and kisses him. There’s a brief hesitation in Buck, most likely because he is shocked, the Buck starts to kiss him back. This moment was beyond shocking to me and even now, three days later, I still have to watch the clip to remind myself that Tommy kissed Buck and Buck definitely kissed him back. I spent years thinking something like this would never happen and I’ve gone back and forth with Buddie shippers online telling them that Buck or Eddie coming out as anything other than straight was an impossibility. Yeah, maybe that was the case when 9-1-1 was on FOX but this is a new network baby and ABC said, let them boys kiss! And yes, it’s not Eddie and Buck that are kissing but in my opinion, this is an even better direction for the characters to go in. I’ve always believed that if either character were to come out as queer, it would be Buck. We’ve only seen Buck in relationships with women, but he’s always struck me as someone who is open to whatever experiences come his way. Perhaps this explains why he's always had difficulty in the relationships he’s pursued on the show. Eddie, on the other hand, is a lot more reserved than Buck and the writers are going to have to put in work to convince me he is anything other than a heterosexual man. I’m not saying it’s out the realm of possibility, but I think the writers did a good job getting us where we are now, and they’ll need to do the same for Eddie in the future should that be the direction they want to go in for that character. Also. bringing Tommy into the equation is a brilliant move on their part because rewatching those ‘Begin’ episodes, there are insinuations there that he may be gay or bisexual. 

Okay, back to the scene. The way Tommy is looking at Buck gives me all the feels. The way he’s looking at Buck tells me that if he didn’t have to leave for his shift, they would be going at it on Buck’s new sofa. I’m so happy this isn’t just a one-sided interest. After the kiss, Tommy asks Buck if he’s okay with the moment they just shared. Buck is looking every bit of the bewildered that’s a part of the title of this episode. He tells Tommy that the kiss was better than his fake mouth static. Tommy tells him he has a shift, but he wants to take Buck out on a proper date. Buck tells him he’s free and man is that statement layered. Free to go out. Free to be who he wants to be. Free to kiss anyone he wants to kiss. Tommy tells Buck he will come around on Saturday at eight to pick him up. Tommy goes to leave but before opens the door, he tells Buck to call Eddie. We end the scene with Buck looking the happiest he’s looked in a long time. 

This episode is hands down one of the best of the series and that’s just not recency bias. I feel that way about all the episodes we’ve gotten this season. 9-1-1 is firing on all cylinders at this point and things feel fresh and new again. The plot with Athena and Harry was perplexing at first but then I grew to like it by the end. I like that the show reminds us that Athena being a Black woman and a cop is controversial, especially in today’s climate, and I like that her kids aren’t afraid to call her out. I love seeing Athena reckon with both identities and how they relate to each other. I especially loved her conversation with Harry because it’s very reminiscent of conversations I’ve had with my own mom. Her telling Harry that it’s unfair that he has to always be on his best behavior but necessary rang so true to me. Athena has always known this, even before she had kids, yet she chooses to continue to work within a system that reinforces this kind of thinking. 

The storyline with Buck was also fun. It was a nice balance to the sadness of the story with the woman killing her son on accident. I like how Buck is never afraid to be vulnerable, even if it’s to his detriment. I hope we get a conversation between him and Eddie next episode because I love their friendship and I don’t want it to ever change, and something tells me Buck is going to lean heavy on his friendship with Eddie now that he might be dating Tommy. And I hope that Eddie continues to be supportive of his friend when he finds out the truth about his sexuality. I don’t think Eddie would have a problem with it. After all, Hen is an out and proud lesbian, and we also have Josh who is gay. I do know that some people do question the legitimacy of bisexual people but again, I don’t think Eddie will have a problem with whatever Buck labels himself as. Maybe we’ll even get a double date between Eddie, Marisol, Buck, and Tommy. That would be fun.

Lastly, I wanted to talk about Buck and Tommy. I think the show did a great job getting us to the moment where they shared a kiss this episode. As I mentioned earlier, I have seen this episode quite a few times and I’ve watched the scenes involving Buck and Tommy more than that. If you watch the scene where Buck is visiting Tommy, there’s so many little looks the two are giving each other. I think at that point that Buck is only infatuated but Tommy is clearly interested. Also, if you go back to the previous episode, at the end once everyone has been rescued, there’s a look Buck gives when he is telling Tommy goodbye. I love things like that and it’s proof to me that this isn’t just gaybaiting or queerbaiting. This is the show telling us that one of their beloved characters is queer and they have taken special care with letting us know that. I love how Oliver Stark and Lou Ferrigno Jr. are invested in this story. In fact, the cast is supportive of Buck going in this direction. I’m so happy that the fans have this moment. It’s been so fun engaging with people online about this episode and while there are viewers who have and will balk at Buck being a queer character, I say screw those people. If a character’s sexuality can make you that upset, you clearly haven’t been watching the show and you’re not a fan.

Okay, this reaction has gone on way too long. I’ll say it one last time. I’m so happy Buck is bi!!!! I can’t wait to see what happens next! Until next time …

[cherryflavoredprettyboy]

My 2024 Trend Predictions

Disclaimer! Trends are bullshit!!! What’s “in” and “out” is totally subjective and fashion is an art form, public opinion and new crazes have no impact on the real art and following trends is your choice. Trend cycles are sped up so violently by capitalism and fast fashion as a beast, fashion is supposed to be fun.

This list is my opinions as a 19 year old boy who spends too much time online and read too much vogue as a kid. I am not an expert, I just like to talk.

Indie Sleaze

I’m already seeing this one happening, the colored tights under shorts, the fur vests, I think especially with the popularity of saltburn and it’s aesthetics we’ll see a lot more of this in the beginning of this new year. Graphic t-shirts with ironic phrases were already big in 2023, glitter and silver makeup especially is on the rise, this is already happening and I am excited. I fucking love indie sleaze. Nostalgia is a huge impact on trend cycles, I think we’ll see a lot of 2000 and 2010s trends seeing as the generations looking up to teens following those trends in their childhoods and longing to live those lifestyles are now old enough to embrace that dream. I think for people more into alternative fashion this will translate into a emo and scene resurgence that I’ve already been seeing.

Twee

This is based off the nostalgia again, I think a lot of folks who gravitate more towards cottage core-esque fashions and aesthetics are going to start embracing twee. 2024 is going to be a year of embracing cringe and quirky “individualism”, it is the year of the manic pixie dream girl, is is the year of pissing off boring men with “annoying” femininity. I think cutesy patterns, lace, buttons, diy big jewelry and hair accessories are gonna be on the rise. I can see girls making videos about their craft nights on tiktok already. Skater skirts, Peter Pan collars, bangs, Jess from new girl eat your heart out.

“Humble” Classy/reverse flexing

People are getting tired of the insistence on being “classy”, I think in 2024 we’re going to see a lot of celebrities trying to seem humble and average and down to earth. I think we’ll see a lot of brand mixing, super expensive designer paired with cheap every day brands, I think we’ll see this in clothes and especially in food. I think we’ll see a lot of branding for fast food popping up alongside that “classy” aesthetic. I think that this will also show up more with thrifting becoming popular again amongst influencers but specifically thrifting for designer/up cycling designer (badly). They’ll sell it under a veil of sustainability, it’ll be infuriatingly shallow.

Lightning Round

Pom poms

Feathers (especially hair feathers)

Fur in mens fashion

Metallic makeup

Grungy makeup looks

Full coverage foundations/matte foundations

Peplums (somehow)

Skinny jeans

Jewel toned nails

Short nails

Dainty chokers

Statement earrings

Wood/leather jewelry

Flats

Vintage anime merch

2000s/2010s brand mascots

Mod style

70s resurgence moments throughout (this is wistful thinking I just love the fashion of the 70s)

My Trend Timeline

End of winter into spring- indie sleazing our way into the new year, I think it’s a versatile enough fashion that can be easily executed with what people already have from previous trends in 2023. Everything is set up rolling out into the warmer months.

Summer- I think this is going to be prime time “trashy” early 2000s party girl kind of time. We got a little of it last summer but I think it’s going to really hit this year. Whale tails, chunky low lights, messy makeup, bedazzled jeans. I think we’ll also see some keywest kitten esque looks from the preppier side of things, lots of bright colors and fun jewelry. I think we’ll also get a lot of vintage Americana moments, once again we got a bit of it last year and I think it’ll be brought back.

Fall- peak twee season, especially nearing the holidays. I think we’re gonna see a lot of rich color this fall too, jewel tones, beautiful deep greens and reds, not a lot in clothing but I think definitely in makeup and accessories. Around this time I think the preppier leaning folks will get back into skinny jeans. I think vintage graphic Ts will also get popular around this time, something easy but still interesting. Men’s fashion doesn’t cycle through as quickly so I think the kind of 70s aesthetics I’ve seen a lot of dudes into will continue (but I think they’ll also get in on the indie sleaze, I think for mens fashion it will stick around for fall). I think we’ll see more textures, lace, fur, leather, etc.

Winter- this is right around when I think the forced “casually classy” down to earth bs will start. Twee will continue amongst a smaller group and we’ll see a lot of cute diy gifts and stuff for the holidays, this will also impact the up cycling I think we’ll see from influencers and celebrities. I think hyper-feminine aesthetics will really kick back up, Pom poms, whites and pinks, skirts and big sweaters, Ralph Lauren teddy bears everywhere. It’ll be contrasted by a new interest in grungy/intense makeup looks, thin brows and dark lips, messy eyes, glitter.

I’m very excited for these all to turn out totally wrong and for me to make a fool of myself! But who gives a shit, I’m just saying this all for fun. Happy new year everyone!

- Valentine <3

[jessthetea]

I think Jess was hoping that this photo would be published at the end of December 2024, so that no one would notice, but unfortunately for her, it didn’t go the way she wanted and she must feel ridiculous, knowing that Just Jared posted this old photo in October.

I saw that someone commented on Just Jared that it was Jess who sent him this picture, it means that some people are beginning to realize that this woman is a liar and a manipulator.

This picture was from December 2023 and not from January 2024, because Jamie was in Atlanta to start shooting Stranger Things season 5.

Even if that was Jess’s plan, it would all still depend on Jamie’s hair. So, unless she’s psychic and somehow knew his hair would be longer and blonder by December 2024, the timing wouldn’t line up (if that was even her plan to begin with). You’re also spot on about the timing. Jamie was definitely in Atlanta by then. That’s when that weird comment supposedly 'from Jamie' showed up on Jess’s snowboarding post, and everyone thought it was odd that he’d leave a comment a week late, especially while he was busy filming.

[saintmeghanmarkle]

Labour MP from Birmingham says she'd take her kid to the psychiatrist if her daughter said what Lili did and other scathing commentary about the Nigeria trip (From Have I Got News For You) by u/wonderingwondi

Labour MP from Birmingham says she'd take her kid to the psychiatrist if her daughter said what Lili did, and other scathing commentary about the Nigeria trip (From Have I Got News For You) Jess Phillips MP was in disbelief over Meghan's claim that Lili said "Mama, I see me in You" on last week's Have I Got News For You, a topical comedic news show in its 67th seriesJess is a major Labour frontbencher and could end up as a top government minister in July. She's also based in Birmingham, where Invictus wants to be held in 2027.How to watch https://ift.tt/dk0J9wb (apologies, cannot find an international link right now)transcript:Jason Manford: In a Busy Week, what did the King not have time to do?Jess: Didn't see Harry, who came over, for some reason. I can't remember.Jason: Invictus Games, I thinkJess: Oh, is it the Invictus Games?Ian Hislop, the most sued man in Britain, allegedly: But I mean, they were in the same city at the same timeJess: I'm often in the same city as my dad, and I don't go and see him. I mean, like, not every day. Maybe he's going to pop in another time.Ian: Have you written a book about him called I Hate You?*audience laughs*Jess: No. I don't hate my dad, FYI.Glenn Moore: I think Charles saw David Beckham instead... No offence to my own son, I would do the same...Jason: Where did Harry go next?Ian: Nigeria. he went on a royal tour,Glenn: Oh, that's that prince who emailed meIan: They went on what wasn't a royal tour... but it looked a lot like a royal tourJason: Harry and Meghan went on a three day trip to Nigeria. According to the Daily Mail, all anyone could talk about was Meghan's dramatically long hair. Is that what you guys have been chatting about this week?Jess: Yeah, the people of Birmingham hardly speak of little elseJason: Meghan did make a motivational speech, as per. What did she tell a group of students?Ian: She said her daughter, Lilibet, had said to her, "When I look at you I see you in me" which is pretty good for a two year old. it just makes me feel like my own children were a bit thick.Jason, reading quote: "A few weeks ago, she looked at me and saw the reflection in my eyes, and said, 'mama, I see me in you'. Now, she was talking really literally, but I hung onto those words and I thought, 'yes, I do see me in you, but as I look around this room I see myself in all of you as well'... Jason interrupts; Oh, everybody's gone *audience laughs*Jason continued: I imagine that is what happened on the dayJess: The idea that a two year old said that. about her own kid> She said something with poo in it and then laughed. And if she didn't, then take your kid to see a psychiatrist. What's wrong with them?...Jess talks about another one of her kids running into a wall with a bucket on his head whilst top toff Jacob Rees Mogg's 6 year old was reading a book on the Romans, wearing a suit. post link: https://ift.tt/iPB47A2 author: wonderingwondi submitted: May 25, 2024 at 01:17AM via SaintMeghanMarkle on Reddit disclaimer: all views + opinions expressed by the author of this post, as well as any comments and reblogs, are solely the author's own; they do not necessarily reflect the views of the administrator of this Tumblr blog. For entertainment only.

[jess-moloney]

I believe the picture is new because I don't think Jamie recycles old photos and even though it's black and white you can tell his hair is blonde. The last time his hair was blonde was when Counterfeit was still together. Then he dyed it blonde again in November 2024 and was going to 3 conventions within that same month then the last one at the beginning of December because I don't think he had time to be swimming wherever he is during all that traveling. If that makes sense. I also believe that he is with Sam because he did say that he was going to see his family. I’m positive Jess isn't there because if she was, she would’ve done like she did in June when Jamie had posted first in his story and then an hour later she posted on her story in the same spot that he was standing and then posted more pictures of being with him after that. She would not wait this long to post about being with him, knowing how she wants the attention from being his “girlfriend” (not anymore she is not imo)

Well Jess isn't there because her IG location says she's not (for one) and for two I'm positive that you're right. That she would either be posting pictures of him or herself being there to make sure everyone knew she was with him. Jess isn't in the UK but Jamie and Sam are. Jess must be dying inside because she has no content for her account and she's lost 8K followers in the past year. There no way she doesn't know that Jamie is the main reason anyone gave a shit about her account in the first place and now that she doesn't have him she's a nobody again. I suspect that once the break up is official the 58% of people that still follow her because of Jamie will quit and she'll go back to the 20K followers she started with.

[cartograffiti]

The books I read for the StoryGraph's Genre Challenge 2024

For a nonfiction book about food and/or drink...I read Tasting History by Max Miller. A straightforward choice, recipes and history by a YouTuber I have enjoyed.

For a historical novel set before 1900...I read The Game of Kings by Dorothy Dunnett. Set beginning in 1547!

For a biography or memoir about/by a musician...I read Behind the Seams by Dolly Parton with Holly George-Warren and Rebecca Seaver. A memoir all about clothes people have made for Dolly over her career, also featuring hair and wig styling and make-up artists.

For manga...I read Witch Hat Atelier Vol. 1 by Shirahama Kamome (translated by Stephen Kohler). Another easy fit!

For a thriller or crime novel in translation...I read Malice by Higashino Keigo (translated by Alexander O. Smith). From Japanese, one of the Detective Kaga novels.

For a nonfiction book about psychology...I read On Looking: Eleven Walks with Expert Eyes by Alexandra Horowitz. An inexact fit; this book is also about nature, design and social habits.

For a science fiction or dystopian book by a woman or nonbinary author...I read A Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky Chambers. A robot and a monk in the far future, on an alien moon.

For a middle grade book with queer representation...I read Battle Magic by Tamora Pierce. I have a feeling I wouldn't have counted this as middle grade if I hadn't just read those of the Emelan books that aim closer to that age group. The other Circle Reforged books reinforce that trio being YA, but that wasn't part of my initial takeaway from BM, so I'll stick to it!

For a short story collection by a Black author...I read Filthy Animals by Brandon Taylor. The stories in this collection interlink, and I saw more than one take that they shouldn't therefore count as short stories, which I was happy to find is, in this case, silly. Chapters are a different creature.

For a debut literary or contemporary fiction novel...I read Dial A for Aunties by Jesse Q. Sutanto. Sutanto's first book, this is a genre-straddler, but it's most neatly in contemporary.

I liked or loved all of these! The Dunnett, Shirahama, and Chambers books have sequels I have been devouring as well, and Malice impressed me so much I look forward to trying more Higashino.

On Looking is the book I'm least likely to recommend, with a caveat--I think some of the writing, as it transcribes conversations, only worked for me because I listened to the audiobook. It did work!

The memoir prompt pushed me the most out of my usual reading habits. I was also delighted to have a push back into reading manga, which I hadn't dipped into for several years. And the prompt I had the most fun looking for an eligible book was the crime novel in translation! This was a pleasant, easy challenge, but still specific enough to be inspiring.

[cleverhottubmiracle]

Sometimes I feel bad asking my colleagues to name the best new beauty products. Choosing one can often feel like picking a favorite child: impossible and largely unfair, but I like to think of it as a worthwhile exercise.With 2025 on the horizon, we’re reflecting on the beauty products that got us through the the year so far. From nostalgic makeup products that blew up on TikTok and sustainable skin-care innovations that reshaped our routines to buzzy launches, 2024 so far has been a playground for our beauty editors to rediscover old formulas—and fall in love with new ones.Vogue’s Favorite Beauty Products of 2024For starters, beauty editor at large Arden Fanning Andrews can’t get enough of Louis Vuitton’s LV Lovers. A fragrance whose woody and ginger appeal was so strong, it made her completely ignore the fact that it was created as a men’s cologne. Even Jess Diner, Global Beauty & Wellness Director, is a fan. Senior beauty and wellness editor Lauren Murdoch-Smith, on the other hand, has fallen in love with Hailey Bieber’s Rhode blushes—blending shades Toasted Teddy and Freckle for a sun-kissed glow that looks like she’s always “just back” from vacation. And if its body glow you’re after, I couldn’t leave the house this summer without applying Kopari’s shimmering sunscreen oil that delivered serious UV protection with a head-turning, non-greasy glisten during a New York City heatwave.Below, all these and more beauty finds (both new or old!) that have been truly game-changing for our Vogue beauty editors here in New York and in London. From high-tech gadgets to newfound signatures, read on to discover our picks.Rhode Fall Lip CaseMy beauty launch of the year is not technically a beauty product but it does house a beauty product, so that still counts, right? It’s the rhode Lip Case. The phone cover of a million mirror selfies that is a marketer’s dream and just so brilliantly disruptive in how simple of a premise it was. As a genuine fan of the brand’s Peptide Lip Tint already, it was just a genius concept to me that I could leave the house essentially just with my phone and keys and have all my needs covered (if you include the fact that I have my credit cards in my Apple Wallet) and it consistently remains a talking point wherever I go. The seasonal shade updates have meant that I can update my case colors as I would a key coat or bag for the turn of a new season, and as something that could be considered a fad of 2024, I have no plans of giving mine up and plan to keep using it well into 2025. —Jessica Diner, European beauty and wellness directorU Beauty The Return Eye ConcentrateThe Return Eye ConcentrateA Japanese facialist told me I have dryness around my orbital bone and I have been on the hunt for a hydrating eye cream every since. U Beauty to the rescue! The formula whips hyaluronic acid, beta glucan, peptides, and marine plankton extract together into a silky rich cream that not only moisturizes but addresses fine lines, dark circles, and puffiness with consistent use. My skin loves this stuff! —Kiana Murden, senior beauty shopping writerWestman Atelier Face Trace Contour StickMy biggest makeup pet peeve is extra warm contour sticks that might as well be bronzers. The solution has been Westman Atelier’s contour stick in biscuit because of its ashy base, which mimics natural face contour. —Concetta Ciarlo, beauty commerce writerBraun i·expert Smart IPL Laser Hair Removal DeviceBrauni·expert Smart IPL Laser Hair Removal DeviceLike it or not, I’ve started to think about summer body prep and, in particular, trying at-home hair removal. Braun’s latest technology links the high-tech laser to an app and tracks and guides your at-home treatment—like you would if you were visiting a clinic. It also adapts its intensity according to your skin tone, so it’s a pretty smart machine. —Lauren Murdoch-Smith, senior beauty and wellness editorGlossier Shadow StickI’m actually using Glossier's new Shadow Stick in Amp to do my eyeliner lately and it’s looking good in photos! The right amount goes on with each swipe where you can slowly build up a look without having to fix your mistakes. —Arden Fanning Andrews, beauty editor at largeLoop Experience 2 EarplugsI found an unlikely wellness essential this year in Loop’s earplugs. Their Experience 2 buds have been a godsend for filtering out intense sound, from the screech of the subway on my daily commute to noisy distractions in the office–and especially during the concerts and festivals I spent most of the  summer at. They work by reducing the amount of damaging sound that reaches your eardrums while not deafening you completely, so you can still experience the world around you. I’ve felt so much calmer since adding them to my arsenal. That they sit like stylish jewelry in the ears is only a plus–the rose gold pair has been my favorite find of the year and looks incredibly chic. Whether you find yourself feeling overstimulated by loud sounds or simply want to protect your hearing at the next gig you head to, I can’t recommend them enough. —Tracy Achonwa, commerce beauty and wellness writer*Jo Malone London Hinoki & Cedarwood Cologne IntenseJo Malone LondonHinoki & Cedarwood Cologne IntenseThough Blush Peony & Suede is one of my most-complimented perfumes ever, my true obsession is Jo Malone London's Hinoki & Cedarwood Cologne Intense. The latest from the storied British fragrance house, this is a a warm, spicy, and comforting scent that comes to life via an aromatic clean accord, cedarwood, and hinoki sourced from Japan—inspired by the mind-body benefits of forest bathing. It's the ultimate unisex scent for that person in search of a wintertime cologne to cozy up to. —Kiana Murden, senior beauty shopping writerElysium Basis NAD+ Supplement for Cellular AgingElysiumBasis NAD+ Supplement for Cellular AgingI’m very into the possibilities for NAD+ supplements (even as the studies are still rolling in!) and just started taking Elysium. I’ll report back with how hot I feel throughout 2025! —Arden Fanning Andrews, beauty editor at largeLa Bronne Bosse N.03 The Essential Soft Hair BrushLa Bonne BrosseN.03 The Essential Soft Hair BrushI was agnostic about hair brushes until I tried this one. The combination bristles feel amazing on my scalp (like the best head scratch ever) while also smoothing my incredibly frizzy hair. Plus, the design is so pretty—I’m now becoming a 100-stroke-a-day girl. —Margaux Anbouba, senior beauty editorChanel Joues Contraste Powder BlushChanelJoues Contraste Powder BlushChanel Joues Contraste made me fall in love with powder blush again. It achieves a soft-focus, natural (never splotchy) burst of color to the skin with a single swipe. Keep in mind though: it’s more pigmented than you might expect. Dust a bit onto your brush, tap off any excess powder, then glide along your cheek for the most seamless (and buildable) application. —Kiana Murden, senior beauty shopping writerEx Nihilo Blue Talisman Eau de ParfumEx NihiloBlue Talisman Eau de ParfumThis is my “people stop me on the street” scent. Ginger, musk, and amber make this a big, powerful scent—but the notes of orange blossom and pear make it juicy and fun. Everybody goes in for a second hug when I’m wearing it. —Margaux Anbouba, senior beauty editorVictoria Beckham Beauty EyewearA go-to of mine for any quick eye look has been Victoria Beckham Beauty’s Eyewear. Available in 10 matte and shimmer shades (Pecan, a matte brown, is the ultimate all-over lid shade; whereas, Caramel is a delightful bronzed shimmer), these eyeshadow sticks blend like a dream. I like to color the lids with a few swipes of pigment, then blend with a brush. They’re buildable and crease-proof, too, meaning one can customize the look to their desire. —Kiana Murden, senior beauty shopping writerTopicals Like Butter MoisturizerAt the risk of sounding terribly juvenile, I find moisturizing my entire body to be so boring and time consuming. Now, that doesn’t mean I don’t do it—I moisturize after showers regularly. Topicals is a brand that I love with my whole heart, and consistently enjoy their launches. The Like Butter mist is one of my favorite products in existence because not only is it a fabulous moisturizer, it’s so quick to apply. If you want someone to touch your arm and exclaim that your skin is so soft—purchase this. —Concetta Ciarlo, beauty commerce writerCult Gaia Mast Eau de ParfumIf you didn’t know, 2024 was the year that Cult Gaia brought its design savoir faire into the fine fragrance realm. With its frosted glass, marbled sphere caps and gold hardware accents, the bottles are veritable objets that sit like ornaments atop your vanity. The scents themselves are just as artfully done, and Mast is my personal favorite. It’s got an addictive–and slightly unusual–blend of bergamot, coconut, and vetiver that really uplifts the senses. I’ll be keeping mine as decor long after the last drop–it’s got serious shelf appeal. —Tracy Achonwa, commerce beauty and wellness writerBeauty of Joseon Glow SerumBeauty of JoseonGlow Serum: Propolis + NiacinamideI do not know what I did before testing Beauty of Joseon’s Glow Serum. Finally, I have an elixir that keeps my acne at bay without removing my natural oils via a blend of 60% propolis extract, 2% niacinamide, and 0.5% BHA. These are whipped into a viscous, hydrating serum that my skin drinks up in seconds. I like to layer this K-beauty formula with a milky toner to lock in the moisture day or night. —Kiana Murden, senior beauty shopping writerDolce & Gabbana Mint Lip Oil PlumperI love lip oils; I can never seem to have enough of them. My insatiable need to purchase every lip oil led me to D&G’s lip oil plumper, and I especially enjoy the minty, fresh feeling. —Concetta Ciarlo, beauty commerce writerD.S. & Durga Debaser Buffing BarOur fashion king Mark Holgate has influenced the entire Vogue office with his beauty routine and now we’re all talking about bar soaps—one of his rules is that you always lather in your hands, nowhere else! If you have sensitive skin, the logic is perfect for this Debaser Buffing Bar that D.S. & Durga created with Soft Services. I even used it to get self tanner out of my whites and it left the nicest scent—figgy! Fresh! —Arden Fanning Andrews, beauty editor at largeAugustinus Bader The Rich CreamEasily one of the most lauded face moisturizers on the market, Augustinus Bader's The Rich Cream is worth every penny. As someone with oily skin, I kept a bottle of its The Cream in my bathroom but as the temperatures continue to drop, my skin is getting drier by the day. To suit, I swapped the lightweight version for this rich formula that does an excellent job delivering deep hydration via its TFC8 complex, evening primrose oil, squalane, and vitamin E. —Kiana Murden, senior beauty shopping writerRhode Pocket BlushersVogue beauty and wellness editor Hannah Coates trying the Rhode Pocket Blush.Video: Courtesy of Joris HendrikI imagine Rhode’s Pocket Blushers will be on every Vogue editor’s best product list this year.  As a department of blusher obsessives and the brand’s Peptide Lip Tint fans, we had high expectations but they didn’t disappoint. The creamy formula blends seamlessly, is buildable and the packaging is, well, cute.  I love that I can wear all shades but I have a soft spot for Freckle and Toasted Teddy blended together. —Lauren Murdoch-Smith, senior beauty and wellness editorDanessa Myricks Yummy Skin Lift & Flex ConcealerDanessa MyricksYummy Skin Lift & Flex ConcealerI’ve always been a fan of Danessa Myricks (the makeup artist and the brand), but I became something of a devotee watching fellow makeup artist Sir John work with her line backstage at Sergio Hudson’s FW24 show. Seeing the way he beautifully painted models’ faces with an assortment of pigments into a dreamy, skin-like finish inspired me to test every single piece from Myricks’ collection. The latest launch, however, has my heart captured at the moment. Depending on the day, I toy between hydrating and blurring concealers, but Yummy Skin Lift & Flex pairs the best of both. When blended out with a brush, sponge, or fingers, this lightweight concealer offers medium-to-full coverage—applying weightlessly for a natural, skin-like finish. Meanwhile, the featured caffeine, centella asatica, and plant extracts improves skin's moisture levels and alleviates puffiness for a better-looking complexion over time. —Kiana Murden, senior beauty shopping writerDermalogica Pro-Collagen Banking SerumDermalogicaPro Collagen Banking SerumI have been seriously impressed with the cumulative results of this serum. Having seen the results of the clinical trials at the launch (collagen preservation, firmer cheeks and jawline, a more hydrated, plumper-looking complexion), I committed to using this morning and night to see if it would work for me and, one month later, I would say I concur with all the aforementioned. If you’re looking for a new serum to switch up your spring skin care routine, you’re looking at it. —Jessica Diner, European beauty and wellness directorL’Ange Le Duo Standard 360° Airflow StylerLe Duo Standard 360° Airflow StylerI recently chopped my waist-length Cher hair to a short French bob, which led me to realize you need specific hair tools for short hair. Who knew? L’ange’s Le Duo Standard 360 Airflow Styler helps me fake a bouncy blowout because the barrel is small enough to capture even my shortest pieces of hair. Plus, because it also doubles as a straightener; and because it has tiny air vents to cool down curls, I’m not at risk of constantly burning myself. —Concetta Ciarlo, beauty commerce writerMerit Signature LipI’ll admit that, when I first heard of Merit’s new lipstick, I was not immediately intrigued. I am a gloss girl through and through, so why should I be interested in a matte lip? But, when I saw makeup artist Yumi Lee paint model’s pouts backstage at Diotima’s latest show, I was impressed with how comfortable it looked. Not dry, patchy, or stiff like the matte lips I’d become accustomed too. Armed with samples of each shade, I took it for a go. I am shocked at how weightless this feels on, how modern the shades look, and how nourished my lips remain even after all-night wear. Merit, you’ve converted me! —Kiana Murden, senior beauty shopping writerLouis Vuitton LV LoversLouis Vuitton is my family’s heritage brand, so attending this year’s Fragrance Foundation Awards (go Margaux!) with them to celebrate their perfumer Jacques Cavallier Belletrud’s Lifetime Achievement Award was such a blast and introduced me to the house’s new scent with Pharrell, Lovers. The goal was to bottle sunlight with a men’s perfume (won’t stop me!) and it’s kind of woody and gingery with this note of galbanum that I had to look up: an earthy, aromatic plant gum sometimes called “Mother resin.” —Arden Fanning Andrews, beauty editor at largeClarins Lip Comfort OilIn my mind, the perfect lip product must be three things: hydrating, fun to apply, and lightly pigmented. Clarins’ lip oils tick every box and I can’t leave the house without throwing one into my handbag. Packed with plant oils including organic sweetbriar and jojoba, it can even be used as a nourishing lip mask. —Ranyechi Udemezue, associate beauty & wellness writerGlow Recipe Watermelon Glow Facial SprayGlow RecipeWatermelon Glow Facial Spray + Hydrating MistI seem to have a different face mist for every occasion these days and for a fun pick-me-up I’ve been reaching for this Glow Recipe spray. What I love most about it is its sweet watermelon scent, though its generous, fine mist is a close second. The formula itself includes hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and rice germ oil but also hibiscus which delivers naturally-occurring AHAs to improve skin texture and tone. —Kiana Murden, senior beauty shopping writerSarah Chapman Clinic Range Vitamin C Power 1Sarah ChapmanC1 Vitamin C Power 1 SerumI can’t get enough of vitamin C—I need all the brightness I can get, trust me, so when powerhouse facialist Sarah Chapman launched a trilogy of “in-clinic” inspired skincare, I took note.  The vitamin C serum has two forms–oil and water soluble vitamin C to utilise absorption in both lipid and water phases of your skin. Chapman has also added niacinamide and tranexamic acid to the formula to further help the brightening process. Also note that despite the slender tube, the original testing pump I received is still delivering daily doses three months in. —Lauren Murdoch-Smith, senior beauty and wellness editorPrada Beauty Reveal Skin-Optimizing Refillable Soft Matte FoundationPrada BeautyReveal Skin-Optimizing Refillable Soft Matte FoundationI didn’t think the world needed another foundation—even if it was in glamorous metallic packaging—but Prada’s high-performing formula had me make room in my makeup bag. It’s one of the lightest formulas I’ve ever used, which makes the coverage payoff (somewhere between light and medium) so incredibly impressive. And the stay-all-day effect, which controls my shiny forehead but always looks skin-like, means I look good from morning meeting to evening face wash. —Margaux Anbouba, senior beauty editorPat McGrath Labs Dramatique Mega Lip PencilPat McGrath LabsDramatique Mega Lip PencilAt Vogue World Paris, the looks backstage, the vision of make-up marvel, Pat McGrath, were serving major drama, but it was this lip pencil—shade matched for me by McGrath herself—that left a lasting impression (quite literally). Mauvemoiselle, the perfect shade of mauve that works really well to enhance the natural purple tones within the lips, the pigment did not budge the entire day—even in the sweltering Paris heat. It’s a keeper. —Jessica Diner, European beauty and wellness directorSaie Glowy Super GelEverything about the Glowy Super Gels appeals to me.  The lightweight texture, subtle, non-shimmery glow plus its ability to perform various tasks make it a must-have in my make-up bag.  I am still a fan of the original Starglow shade but this season I’ve switched to Sunglow. I wear it as a base primer for my foundation and it gives me natural, healthy bronzed skin. —Lauren Murdoch-Smith, senior beauty and wellness editorFara Homidi Smudge & Contour Lip PencilFara HomidiSmudge & Contour Lip PencilFara Homidi’s line is unquestionably my most asked-about products of the year–the packaging is so beautiful it’s always the first thing our art team asks to try when it comes to the offices. Her Smudge & Contour Lip Pencil includes my favorite item: her powder blue pencil sharpener! I use it for everything, not just her liners, it cheers me every time I see it. —Arden Fanning Andrews, beauty editor at largeLisa Eldridge Seamless Skin Enhancing TintVogue beauty and wellness editor Hannah Coates trying the Lisa Eldridge Seamless Skin Enhancing Tint.Video: Courtesy of Joris HendrikLisa Eldridge BeautySeamless Skin Enhancing TintI can’t get enough of this lightweight, beautifully dewy skin tint. Delivering next-level luminosity via the perfect balance of coverage and translucence, skin looks natural and healthy, rather than done. Obsessed doesn’t cut it. —Hannah Coates, beauty and wellness editorChanel Le Vernis Longwear Nail ColorChanelLe Vernis longwear nail colorI am by no means a pro nail artist, but Chanel's polish is the only one that seriously never chips for me. Perhaps its the sturdy brush that allows me to paint my beds with streak-free precision, or its the composition enriched with camellia eco-ceramides that helps avoid chipping. Either way, it’s become my go-to for my biweekly pedicure (when I’m not using gel polish). What’s more, Chanel comes out with new shades each season so there’s always a fresh, fun color to choose. —Kiana Murden, senior beauty shopping writerCeraVe Oil Control Moisturizing GelCeraVeOil Control Moisturising GelThis is one for my oily-skinned girlies. As a CeraVe devotee, this new gel-cream is super affordable and contains oil-absorbing technology to prevent the kind of shine you have to touch up throughout the day. It’s comfortable on the skin and sits well under make-up too–you can’t go wrong. —Hannah Coates, beauty and wellness editorOribe Desertland Revitalizing Hand WashOribeDesertland Revitalizing Hand WashI haven’t be particularly fussy about my hand soap, but after trying Oribe's Revitalizing formula, I’m afraid I’ll never be able to go back. You can feel how nourishing this is with just one pump of product—I’d go as far as saying it feels as lush as my favorite moisturizer. Once it touches water, it works into a rich lather than cleanses without stripping. And in expected Oribe fashion, leaves a delightful scent long after the suds have been washed away. —Kiana Murden, senior beauty shopping writerMorphe Huephoric Rush 3-in-1 Silk BlushMorpheHuephoric Rush 3-in-1 Silk BlushOne of the most underrated blush drops of the year was this primer-blush hybrid from Morphe. It delivers a gorgeous, glassy dumpling cheek that I can’t get enough of and is pigmented while being packed with skin-care ingredients that condition the skin.  What’s most impressive is how well it performs compared to its pricier counterparts–bounce it on with a Beautyblender, and you get a radiant skin finish that stays all day without fading. A hidden gem. —Tracy Achonwa, commerce beauty and wellness writerGuerlain Meteorites Setting & Finishing Pearls of PowderGuerlainMeteorites Setting & Finishing Pearls of PowderI pack so, so, so light—I’m at the DNC right now and flew from NYC to Chicago with only my Vogue tote. Still, I’ve been making room all summer for two shades of Guerlain’s new Meteorites in their bulky-yet-beautiful reusable tins. The lightest is a soft-focus finishing powder, the darkest a believable bronzer that doesn’t look dirty—people keep thinking I’m not wearing makeup. Recommend! —Arden Fanning Andrews, beauty editor at largeCurlsmith Defrizzion Travel DryerThis hair dryer epitomizes the term small but mighty with its foldable, space-saving design. It’s incredibly light in hand, with comb pick and diffuser attachments that curly-haired girls will appreciate. Every time I’ve used it I’ve been impressed by how well it blow dries coils for a smooth finish that I can run my fingers through. —Tracy Achonwa, commerce beauty and wellness writerLa Prairie Skin Caviar The MistVogue commerce editor Joy Montgomery trying the La Prairie Skin Caviar The Mist.Video: Courtesy of Joris HendrikDo not sleep on the benefits of face mists—especially when they come as potent as La Prairie’s. Housed in a vanity-worth cobalt blue bottle is a treasured elixir meant to energize and smooth skin instantly. Powered by the brand’s Caviar Hydroessence and Micro-Nutrients, this comes out as a super fine mist that spritzes evenly onto the skin—leaving skin feeling hydrated and balanced. The best part? Skin is not left overly dewy, rather refreshed, radiant, and glowing without excess shine. I like to use it at all steps of my routine—before bed, as a toner pre-serums and moisturizers, or for a pick-me-up throughout the day. At 1.7 oz, it fits seamlessly in my carry-on. —Kiana Murden, senior beauty shopping writerEscentric Molecules Escentric 02 Eau de ToiletteEscentric MoleculesEscentric 02 Eau de ToiletteLove at first spritz, this fragrance is everything I love about layered fresh scents in just one bottle. Infused with jasmine bud, mandarin and bergamot, it’s delightfully crisp, and comes in a super sleek bottle, too–wonderful for when you’re on the go. —Ranyechi Udemezue, associate beauty & wellness writerByredo Kajal PencilFor anybody who is into tightliner, these Byredo pencils are key. Gorgeously pigmented and smooth, I have the entire collection—because while a classic black is fun, the colors like navy or silver are oh-so-cool. —Margaux Anbouba, senior beauty editorAdwoa Beauty Melonberry Spray Leave In ConditionerAdwoa BeautyMelonberry Hair Milk Leave-In ConditionerUnder my extensions, I’m all about protecting the length and strength of my natural coils. Adwoa Beauty’s milky spray is like an essence for scalp and strands, silky, nourishing, and easily spritzed on cornrows between wefts. What’s more, its blend of berry seed oils smells leaves your hair smelling incredible, and when you take down your braids, you’ll find super soft and detangled tresses. —Tracy Achonwa, commerce beauty and wellness writerL’Oreal Paris Volume Million Lashes Panorama MascaraVoluminous Panorama MascaraL’Oreal’s latest mascara launch has one of those brushes that delivers well-defined eyelashes but allows you to load up on the formula, if you prefer your mascara on the chunkier front—like me! —Lauren Murdoch-Smith, senior beauty and wellness editorKopari Sun Shield Body GlowKopari Sun Shield Body Glow - SPF 50I was once walking down the street in Fort Greene when someone asked the secret to getting my skin so glowing. Glancing down at my gleaming décolletage, I recalled massaging on a few drops of Kopari’s Sun Shield in lieu of a body sunscreen cream. While the SPF 50 does an excellent job at shielding against UVA and UVB rays, I gravitate towards it because it feels lightweight and non-greasy on the skin, and leaves an eye-catching glisten. I’ve been using the gold shade but think I’ll try the amber hue next. —Kiana Murden, senior beauty shopping writerRefy Lip SculptConsider me the princess of polarizing beauty opinions because I gravitate towards any products that evoke a strong reaction in the court of social media opinion. For starters, there is no lip liner I love more than Refy’s Lip Sculpt—I've worn it through some of the longest work days, the messiest pastas, and many glasses of water. Rather than altogether wearing off, it gently fades (and that’s after a lot of stress testing). —Concetta Ciarlo, beauty commerce writerHair by Sam McKnight Love Me Do Nourishing Shine OilHair By Sam McKnightLove Me Do Nourishing OilA featherlight dry hair oil, this new formula from hairstylist Sam McKnight ticks all my boxes. It’s not just the happy-making packaging I love, it’s also brilliant at taming flyaways, reducing frizz, and lending a subtle healthy shine on mid-lengths and ends. With argan, sunflower, and camellia seed oil, it also smells delicious. —Hannah Coates, beauty and wellness editorIlia Perfecting Buff BrushThere’s not much to say about this Ilia makeup brush except that it truly is perfect (excellent naming on Ilia’s part!). The Perfecting Buff Brush is a compact tool featuring soft densely packed packed bristles just fluffy enough to blend creams and liquids expertly into the skin. It’s my go-to for bronzer and blush. —Kiana Murden, senior beauty shopping writerLoewe Marihuana Body LotionHaving just renovated my bathroom, there was one product I wanted in situ as I took pictures to share with family and friends… Loewe’s Marihuana Body Lotion. Aside from the soothing aroma, I’m also incredibly into the packaging and the fact it makes moisturizing your body a real treat. —Hannah Coates, beauty and wellness editorHaus Labs PhD Hybrid Lip GlazeIf at least 10 people give you a compliment on the product, I feel like it belongs on this list. That’s what happened to me the day I wore this lip gloss-oil hybrid in Macaron—it’s just good and I like it. Clearly, other people did too. Nothing else to say. —Margaux Anbouba, senior beauty editorMaybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Glitter MascaraMaybellineLash Sensational Sky High Glitter MascaraMaybelline’s Sky High mascara was already one of my favorites for a lengthened, fluttery lash, but this new launch has knocked it out the park. Speckled with pearlescent particles, it gives you a sparkling finish that looks insanely good in low light and has comes right on time for the festive party season. —Tracy Achonwa, commerce beauty and wellness writerDior Baby Bonne Étoile Scented WaterDiorBaby Bonne Étoile Scented WaterNot that I’m one to deprive my children, but, when it comes to Dior beauty, I’ll make an exception. With perfumer and Dior perfume creative director Francis Kurkdjian behind the Baby Dior’s scent, I’ve made sure I’ve kept hold of the scented water for myself. A gentle, soft smell that reminds me of newborn skin. —Lauren Murdoch-Smith, senior beauty and wellness editorBondi Boost HG Dry ShampooI’m picky about dry shampoo formulas—this one smells more fresh than sweet (in a good way) and doesn’t turn my hair into a powdered wig. —Arden Fanning Andrews, beauty editor at largeSummer Fridays Lip Butter in Birthday CakeSummer FridaysLip Butter Balm in Birthday CakeI’m a huge fan of Summer Fridays’s Lip Butters and their latest shade, Birthday Cake, is a celebration of the brand turning six.  It’s the same hydrating, non-sticky formula in a very subtle, sugar icing pink tint. A new obsession.  —Lauren Murdoch-Smith, senior beauty and wellness editorSusanne Kaufmann Hayflower Bath OilIs there anything better than a bath at the end of the day? Personally, I don’t think so, and I’m currently obsessed with this essential-oil-infused bath oil by the Queen of them, Susanne Kaufmann. A blend of Alpine hayflower and natural antioxidant astaxanthin, it’s a quick ticket to calm—I finish by wrapping myself in one of Baina’s checkerboard robes. Peace personified. —Hannah Coates, beauty and wellness editorLove Wellness Bye Bye Bloat Lymphatic Massage RollerLove WellnessBye Bye Bloat Lymphatic Massage RollerI've been dry brushing for a decade, so I'm always looking to branch out and try something new to get my body moving. This handheld device has cool (like, cold, but also cool-looking) cryo-balls on it that revolve as you roll it across your skin. You can really feel it stimulating your system, and it's a nice treat for your skin too—I actually like to do it once I have body oil on to help it absorb. —Margaux Anbouba, senior beauty editorKylie Cosmetics Transformative Lip TintIf you’ve never tried a Kylie Cosmetics lip oil, make this one your first. The plush, wide wand effortlessly covers your pout, while squalane and shea butter in the formula leave dry lips feeling thoroughly cared for. Black Cherry has been making waves because it morphs on contact to become a plum shade that perfectly matches your lips, but I’ve been loving the entire range for a glossy finish this winter. —Tracy Achonwa, commerce beauty and wellness writerKiss imPRESS Falsies Press-on False Lash KitKissimPRESS Falsies Press-on False Lash KitPressed for time but still want to look put together? Kiss’s imPress under-lashes are an absolute godsend. Because the clusters are self-adhesive, there is zero faffing or fiddling with tweezers and glue, and the natural set has become my go-to for a lifted feline eye. I’ve taken a tray with me on my travels throughout fashion month and the results have won me endless compliments everywhere I’ve been. Imperciptible and ultra comfortable, trust me when I say you won’t need to waste time with mascara ever again. —Tracy Achonwa, commerce beauty and wellness writerBareMinerals Illuminating Mineral VeilIlluminating Mineral VeilBelieve me when I say this is the best soft-focus filter in my bag, I carry it everywhere, and it’s with me at Paris Fashion Week as we speak. —Arden Fanning Andrews, beauty editor at largeNars Afterglow Liquid BlushMy blusher obsession knows no bounds, and this is my current favorite. A sheer, ever-so-slightly shimmery peach liquid in texture, it can be built up for the intensity of blush required, but it’s also the large doe-foot applicator that makes it a dream to apply. Consider this your spring flush in a tube. —Jessica Diner, European beauty and wellness directorEpi.logic Master Plan Collagen Renew Growth Factor SerumEpi.LogicMaster Plan Collagen Renew Growth Factor SerumSomeone somewhere is tired of hearing me wax on about Epi.logic’s Master Plan serum. Over the last year or so, it’s become a skin care staple of mine for its refreshingly hydrating texture and skin barrier-boosting composition. The brand’s signature Cell Service complex of growth factors and peptides essentially boosts skin’s collagen and elastin production, while promoting firmer, bouncier skin. It’s also incredibly gentle (thanks, in part, to hyaluronic acid, sea kelp bio ferment, and snow mushroom); so much so, I relied on it to heal my skin following my last MOXI treatment. —Kiana Murden, senior beauty shopping writerDior Addict Lip GlowI wrote in our March issue “Quick Change” story about how this product is one of my favorite of all time—I wore it to my wedding, I wear it all over my face! At their FW24 show, models wore the clear version on their lips and now I want that too, though… —Arden Fanning Andrews, beauty editor at largeI Don’t Know What DS & Durga Set

[chilimili212]

Sometimes I feel bad asking my colleagues to name the best new beauty products. Choosing one can often feel like picking a favorite child: impossible and largely unfair, but I like to think of it as a worthwhile exercise.With 2025 on the horizon, we’re reflecting on the beauty products that got us through the the year so far. From nostalgic makeup products that blew up on TikTok and sustainable skin-care innovations that reshaped our routines to buzzy launches, 2024 so far has been a playground for our beauty editors to rediscover old formulas—and fall in love with new ones.Vogue’s Favorite Beauty Products of 2024For starters, beauty editor at large Arden Fanning Andrews can’t get enough of Louis Vuitton’s LV Lovers. A fragrance whose woody and ginger appeal was so strong, it made her completely ignore the fact that it was created as a men’s cologne. Even Jess Diner, Global Beauty & Wellness Director, is a fan. Senior beauty and wellness editor Lauren Murdoch-Smith, on the other hand, has fallen in love with Hailey Bieber’s Rhode blushes—blending shades Toasted Teddy and Freckle for a sun-kissed glow that looks like she’s always “just back” from vacation. And if its body glow you’re after, I couldn’t leave the house this summer without applying Kopari’s shimmering sunscreen oil that delivered serious UV protection with a head-turning, non-greasy glisten during a New York City heatwave.Below, all these and more beauty finds (both new or old!) that have been truly game-changing for our Vogue beauty editors here in New York and in London. From high-tech gadgets to newfound signatures, read on to discover our picks.Rhode Fall Lip CaseMy beauty launch of the year is not technically a beauty product but it does house a beauty product, so that still counts, right? It’s the rhode Lip Case. The phone cover of a million mirror selfies that is a marketer’s dream and just so brilliantly disruptive in how simple of a premise it was. As a genuine fan of the brand’s Peptide Lip Tint already, it was just a genius concept to me that I could leave the house essentially just with my phone and keys and have all my needs covered (if you include the fact that I have my credit cards in my Apple Wallet) and it consistently remains a talking point wherever I go. The seasonal shade updates have meant that I can update my case colors as I would a key coat or bag for the turn of a new season, and as something that could be considered a fad of 2024, I have no plans of giving mine up and plan to keep using it well into 2025. —Jessica Diner, European beauty and wellness directorU Beauty The Return Eye ConcentrateThe Return Eye ConcentrateA Japanese facialist told me I have dryness around my orbital bone and I have been on the hunt for a hydrating eye cream every since. U Beauty to the rescue! The formula whips hyaluronic acid, beta glucan, peptides, and marine plankton extract together into a silky rich cream that not only moisturizes but addresses fine lines, dark circles, and puffiness with consistent use. My skin loves this stuff! —Kiana Murden, senior beauty shopping writerWestman Atelier Face Trace Contour StickMy biggest makeup pet peeve is extra warm contour sticks that might as well be bronzers. The solution has been Westman Atelier’s contour stick in biscuit because of its ashy base, which mimics natural face contour. —Concetta Ciarlo, beauty commerce writerBraun i·expert Smart IPL Laser Hair Removal DeviceBrauni·expert Smart IPL Laser Hair Removal DeviceLike it or not, I’ve started to think about summer body prep and, in particular, trying at-home hair removal. Braun’s latest technology links the high-tech laser to an app and tracks and guides your at-home treatment—like you would if you were visiting a clinic. It also adapts its intensity according to your skin tone, so it’s a pretty smart machine. —Lauren Murdoch-Smith, senior beauty and wellness editorGlossier Shadow StickI’m actually using Glossier's new Shadow Stick in Amp to do my eyeliner lately and it’s looking good in photos! The right amount goes on with each swipe where you can slowly build up a look without having to fix your mistakes. —Arden Fanning Andrews, beauty editor at largeLoop Experience 2 EarplugsI found an unlikely wellness essential this year in Loop’s earplugs. Their Experience 2 buds have been a godsend for filtering out intense sound, from the screech of the subway on my daily commute to noisy distractions in the office–and especially during the concerts and festivals I spent most of the  summer at. They work by reducing the amount of damaging sound that reaches your eardrums while not deafening you completely, so you can still experience the world around you. I’ve felt so much calmer since adding them to my arsenal. That they sit like stylish jewelry in the ears is only a plus–the rose gold pair has been my favorite find of the year and looks incredibly chic. Whether you find yourself feeling overstimulated by loud sounds or simply want to protect your hearing at the next gig you head to, I can’t recommend them enough. —Tracy Achonwa, commerce beauty and wellness writer*Jo Malone London Hinoki & Cedarwood Cologne IntenseJo Malone LondonHinoki & Cedarwood Cologne IntenseThough Blush Peony & Suede is one of my most-complimented perfumes ever, my true obsession is Jo Malone London's Hinoki & Cedarwood Cologne Intense. The latest from the storied British fragrance house, this is a a warm, spicy, and comforting scent that comes to life via an aromatic clean accord, cedarwood, and hinoki sourced from Japan—inspired by the mind-body benefits of forest bathing. It's the ultimate unisex scent for that person in search of a wintertime cologne to cozy up to. —Kiana Murden, senior beauty shopping writerElysium Basis NAD+ Supplement for Cellular AgingElysiumBasis NAD+ Supplement for Cellular AgingI’m very into the possibilities for NAD+ supplements (even as the studies are still rolling in!) and just started taking Elysium. I’ll report back with how hot I feel throughout 2025! —Arden Fanning Andrews, beauty editor at largeLa Bronne Bosse N.03 The Essential Soft Hair BrushLa Bonne BrosseN.03 The Essential Soft Hair BrushI was agnostic about hair brushes until I tried this one. The combination bristles feel amazing on my scalp (like the best head scratch ever) while also smoothing my incredibly frizzy hair. Plus, the design is so pretty—I’m now becoming a 100-stroke-a-day girl. —Margaux Anbouba, senior beauty editorChanel Joues Contraste Powder BlushChanelJoues Contraste Powder BlushChanel Joues Contraste made me fall in love with powder blush again. It achieves a soft-focus, natural (never splotchy) burst of color to the skin with a single swipe. Keep in mind though: it’s more pigmented than you might expect. Dust a bit onto your brush, tap off any excess powder, then glide along your cheek for the most seamless (and buildable) application. —Kiana Murden, senior beauty shopping writerEx Nihilo Blue Talisman Eau de ParfumEx NihiloBlue Talisman Eau de ParfumThis is my “people stop me on the street” scent. Ginger, musk, and amber make this a big, powerful scent—but the notes of orange blossom and pear make it juicy and fun. Everybody goes in for a second hug when I’m wearing it. —Margaux Anbouba, senior beauty editorVictoria Beckham Beauty EyewearA go-to of mine for any quick eye look has been Victoria Beckham Beauty’s Eyewear. Available in 10 matte and shimmer shades (Pecan, a matte brown, is the ultimate all-over lid shade; whereas, Caramel is a delightful bronzed shimmer), these eyeshadow sticks blend like a dream. I like to color the lids with a few swipes of pigment, then blend with a brush. They’re buildable and crease-proof, too, meaning one can customize the look to their desire. —Kiana Murden, senior beauty shopping writerTopicals Like Butter MoisturizerAt the risk of sounding terribly juvenile, I find moisturizing my entire body to be so boring and time consuming. Now, that doesn’t mean I don’t do it—I moisturize after showers regularly. Topicals is a brand that I love with my whole heart, and consistently enjoy their launches. The Like Butter mist is one of my favorite products in existence because not only is it a fabulous moisturizer, it’s so quick to apply. If you want someone to touch your arm and exclaim that your skin is so soft—purchase this. —Concetta Ciarlo, beauty commerce writerCult Gaia Mast Eau de ParfumIf you didn’t know, 2024 was the year that Cult Gaia brought its design savoir faire into the fine fragrance realm. With its frosted glass, marbled sphere caps and gold hardware accents, the bottles are veritable objets that sit like ornaments atop your vanity. The scents themselves are just as artfully done, and Mast is my personal favorite. It’s got an addictive–and slightly unusual–blend of bergamot, coconut, and vetiver that really uplifts the senses. I’ll be keeping mine as decor long after the last drop–it’s got serious shelf appeal. —Tracy Achonwa, commerce beauty and wellness writerBeauty of Joseon Glow SerumBeauty of JoseonGlow Serum: Propolis + NiacinamideI do not know what I did before testing Beauty of Joseon’s Glow Serum. Finally, I have an elixir that keeps my acne at bay without removing my natural oils via a blend of 60% propolis extract, 2% niacinamide, and 0.5% BHA. These are whipped into a viscous, hydrating serum that my skin drinks up in seconds. I like to layer this K-beauty formula with a milky toner to lock in the moisture day or night. —Kiana Murden, senior beauty shopping writerDolce & Gabbana Mint Lip Oil PlumperI love lip oils; I can never seem to have enough of them. My insatiable need to purchase every lip oil led me to D&G’s lip oil plumper, and I especially enjoy the minty, fresh feeling. —Concetta Ciarlo, beauty commerce writerD.S. & Durga Debaser Buffing BarOur fashion king Mark Holgate has influenced the entire Vogue office with his beauty routine and now we’re all talking about bar soaps—one of his rules is that you always lather in your hands, nowhere else! If you have sensitive skin, the logic is perfect for this Debaser Buffing Bar that D.S. & Durga created with Soft Services. I even used it to get self tanner out of my whites and it left the nicest scent—figgy! Fresh! —Arden Fanning Andrews, beauty editor at largeAugustinus Bader The Rich CreamEasily one of the most lauded face moisturizers on the market, Augustinus Bader's The Rich Cream is worth every penny. As someone with oily skin, I kept a bottle of its The Cream in my bathroom but as the temperatures continue to drop, my skin is getting drier by the day. To suit, I swapped the lightweight version for this rich formula that does an excellent job delivering deep hydration via its TFC8 complex, evening primrose oil, squalane, and vitamin E. —Kiana Murden, senior beauty shopping writerRhode Pocket BlushersVogue beauty and wellness editor Hannah Coates trying the Rhode Pocket Blush.Video: Courtesy of Joris HendrikI imagine Rhode’s Pocket Blushers will be on every Vogue editor’s best product list this year.  As a department of blusher obsessives and the brand’s Peptide Lip Tint fans, we had high expectations but they didn’t disappoint. The creamy formula blends seamlessly, is buildable and the packaging is, well, cute.  I love that I can wear all shades but I have a soft spot for Freckle and Toasted Teddy blended together. —Lauren Murdoch-Smith, senior beauty and wellness editorDanessa Myricks Yummy Skin Lift & Flex ConcealerDanessa MyricksYummy Skin Lift & Flex ConcealerI’ve always been a fan of Danessa Myricks (the makeup artist and the brand), but I became something of a devotee watching fellow makeup artist Sir John work with her line backstage at Sergio Hudson’s FW24 show. Seeing the way he beautifully painted models’ faces with an assortment of pigments into a dreamy, skin-like finish inspired me to test every single piece from Myricks’ collection. The latest launch, however, has my heart captured at the moment. Depending on the day, I toy between hydrating and blurring concealers, but Yummy Skin Lift & Flex pairs the best of both. When blended out with a brush, sponge, or fingers, this lightweight concealer offers medium-to-full coverage—applying weightlessly for a natural, skin-like finish. Meanwhile, the featured caffeine, centella asatica, and plant extracts improves skin's moisture levels and alleviates puffiness for a better-looking complexion over time. —Kiana Murden, senior beauty shopping writerDermalogica Pro-Collagen Banking SerumDermalogicaPro Collagen Banking SerumI have been seriously impressed with the cumulative results of this serum. Having seen the results of the clinical trials at the launch (collagen preservation, firmer cheeks and jawline, a more hydrated, plumper-looking complexion), I committed to using this morning and night to see if it would work for me and, one month later, I would say I concur with all the aforementioned. If you’re looking for a new serum to switch up your spring skin care routine, you’re looking at it. —Jessica Diner, European beauty and wellness directorL’Ange Le Duo Standard 360° Airflow StylerLe Duo Standard 360° Airflow StylerI recently chopped my waist-length Cher hair to a short French bob, which led me to realize you need specific hair tools for short hair. Who knew? L’ange’s Le Duo Standard 360 Airflow Styler helps me fake a bouncy blowout because the barrel is small enough to capture even my shortest pieces of hair. Plus, because it also doubles as a straightener; and because it has tiny air vents to cool down curls, I’m not at risk of constantly burning myself. —Concetta Ciarlo, beauty commerce writerMerit Signature LipI’ll admit that, when I first heard of Merit’s new lipstick, I was not immediately intrigued. I am a gloss girl through and through, so why should I be interested in a matte lip? But, when I saw makeup artist Yumi Lee paint model’s pouts backstage at Diotima’s latest show, I was impressed with how comfortable it looked. Not dry, patchy, or stiff like the matte lips I’d become accustomed too. Armed with samples of each shade, I took it for a go. I am shocked at how weightless this feels on, how modern the shades look, and how nourished my lips remain even after all-night wear. Merit, you’ve converted me! —Kiana Murden, senior beauty shopping writerLouis Vuitton LV LoversLouis Vuitton is my family’s heritage brand, so attending this year’s Fragrance Foundation Awards (go Margaux!) with them to celebrate their perfumer Jacques Cavallier Belletrud’s Lifetime Achievement Award was such a blast and introduced me to the house’s new scent with Pharrell, Lovers. The goal was to bottle sunlight with a men’s perfume (won’t stop me!) and it’s kind of woody and gingery with this note of galbanum that I had to look up: an earthy, aromatic plant gum sometimes called “Mother resin.” —Arden Fanning Andrews, beauty editor at largeClarins Lip Comfort OilIn my mind, the perfect lip product must be three things: hydrating, fun to apply, and lightly pigmented. Clarins’ lip oils tick every box and I can’t leave the house without throwing one into my handbag. Packed with plant oils including organic sweetbriar and jojoba, it can even be used as a nourishing lip mask. —Ranyechi Udemezue, associate beauty & wellness writerGlow Recipe Watermelon Glow Facial SprayGlow RecipeWatermelon Glow Facial Spray + Hydrating MistI seem to have a different face mist for every occasion these days and for a fun pick-me-up I’ve been reaching for this Glow Recipe spray. What I love most about it is its sweet watermelon scent, though its generous, fine mist is a close second. The formula itself includes hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and rice germ oil but also hibiscus which delivers naturally-occurring AHAs to improve skin texture and tone. —Kiana Murden, senior beauty shopping writerSarah Chapman Clinic Range Vitamin C Power 1Sarah ChapmanC1 Vitamin C Power 1 SerumI can’t get enough of vitamin C—I need all the brightness I can get, trust me, so when powerhouse facialist Sarah Chapman launched a trilogy of “in-clinic” inspired skincare, I took note.  The vitamin C serum has two forms–oil and water soluble vitamin C to utilise absorption in both lipid and water phases of your skin. Chapman has also added niacinamide and tranexamic acid to the formula to further help the brightening process. Also note that despite the slender tube, the original testing pump I received is still delivering daily doses three months in. —Lauren Murdoch-Smith, senior beauty and wellness editorPrada Beauty Reveal Skin-Optimizing Refillable Soft Matte FoundationPrada BeautyReveal Skin-Optimizing Refillable Soft Matte FoundationI didn’t think the world needed another foundation—even if it was in glamorous metallic packaging—but Prada’s high-performing formula had me make room in my makeup bag. It’s one of the lightest formulas I’ve ever used, which makes the coverage payoff (somewhere between light and medium) so incredibly impressive. And the stay-all-day effect, which controls my shiny forehead but always looks skin-like, means I look good from morning meeting to evening face wash. —Margaux Anbouba, senior beauty editorPat McGrath Labs Dramatique Mega Lip PencilPat McGrath LabsDramatique Mega Lip PencilAt Vogue World Paris, the looks backstage, the vision of make-up marvel, Pat McGrath, were serving major drama, but it was this lip pencil—shade matched for me by McGrath herself—that left a lasting impression (quite literally). Mauvemoiselle, the perfect shade of mauve that works really well to enhance the natural purple tones within the lips, the pigment did not budge the entire day—even in the sweltering Paris heat. It’s a keeper. —Jessica Diner, European beauty and wellness directorSaie Glowy Super GelEverything about the Glowy Super Gels appeals to me.  The lightweight texture, subtle, non-shimmery glow plus its ability to perform various tasks make it a must-have in my make-up bag.  I am still a fan of the original Starglow shade but this season I’ve switched to Sunglow. I wear it as a base primer for my foundation and it gives me natural, healthy bronzed skin. —Lauren Murdoch-Smith, senior beauty and wellness editorFara Homidi Smudge & Contour Lip PencilFara HomidiSmudge & Contour Lip PencilFara Homidi’s line is unquestionably my most asked-about products of the year–the packaging is so beautiful it’s always the first thing our art team asks to try when it comes to the offices. Her Smudge & Contour Lip Pencil includes my favorite item: her powder blue pencil sharpener! I use it for everything, not just her liners, it cheers me every time I see it. —Arden Fanning Andrews, beauty editor at largeLisa Eldridge Seamless Skin Enhancing TintVogue beauty and wellness editor Hannah Coates trying the Lisa Eldridge Seamless Skin Enhancing Tint.Video: Courtesy of Joris HendrikLisa Eldridge BeautySeamless Skin Enhancing TintI can’t get enough of this lightweight, beautifully dewy skin tint. Delivering next-level luminosity via the perfect balance of coverage and translucence, skin looks natural and healthy, rather than done. Obsessed doesn’t cut it. —Hannah Coates, beauty and wellness editorChanel Le Vernis Longwear Nail ColorChanelLe Vernis longwear nail colorI am by no means a pro nail artist, but Chanel's polish is the only one that seriously never chips for me. Perhaps its the sturdy brush that allows me to paint my beds with streak-free precision, or its the composition enriched with camellia eco-ceramides that helps avoid chipping. Either way, it’s become my go-to for my biweekly pedicure (when I’m not using gel polish). What’s more, Chanel comes out with new shades each season so there’s always a fresh, fun color to choose. —Kiana Murden, senior beauty shopping writerCeraVe Oil Control Moisturizing GelCeraVeOil Control Moisturising GelThis is one for my oily-skinned girlies. As a CeraVe devotee, this new gel-cream is super affordable and contains oil-absorbing technology to prevent the kind of shine you have to touch up throughout the day. It’s comfortable on the skin and sits well under make-up too–you can’t go wrong. —Hannah Coates, beauty and wellness editorOribe Desertland Revitalizing Hand WashOribeDesertland Revitalizing Hand WashI haven’t be particularly fussy about my hand soap, but after trying Oribe's Revitalizing formula, I’m afraid I’ll never be able to go back. You can feel how nourishing this is with just one pump of product—I’d go as far as saying it feels as lush as my favorite moisturizer. Once it touches water, it works into a rich lather than cleanses without stripping. And in expected Oribe fashion, leaves a delightful scent long after the suds have been washed away. —Kiana Murden, senior beauty shopping writerMorphe Huephoric Rush 3-in-1 Silk BlushMorpheHuephoric Rush 3-in-1 Silk BlushOne of the most underrated blush drops of the year was this primer-blush hybrid from Morphe. It delivers a gorgeous, glassy dumpling cheek that I can’t get enough of and is pigmented while being packed with skin-care ingredients that condition the skin.  What’s most impressive is how well it performs compared to its pricier counterparts–bounce it on with a Beautyblender, and you get a radiant skin finish that stays all day without fading. A hidden gem. —Tracy Achonwa, commerce beauty and wellness writerGuerlain Meteorites Setting & Finishing Pearls of PowderGuerlainMeteorites Setting & Finishing Pearls of PowderI pack so, so, so light—I’m at the DNC right now and flew from NYC to Chicago with only my Vogue tote. Still, I’ve been making room all summer for two shades of Guerlain’s new Meteorites in their bulky-yet-beautiful reusable tins. The lightest is a soft-focus finishing powder, the darkest a believable bronzer that doesn’t look dirty—people keep thinking I’m not wearing makeup. Recommend! —Arden Fanning Andrews, beauty editor at largeCurlsmith Defrizzion Travel DryerThis hair dryer epitomizes the term small but mighty with its foldable, space-saving design. It’s incredibly light in hand, with comb pick and diffuser attachments that curly-haired girls will appreciate. Every time I’ve used it I’ve been impressed by how well it blow dries coils for a smooth finish that I can run my fingers through. —Tracy Achonwa, commerce beauty and wellness writerLa Prairie Skin Caviar The MistVogue commerce editor Joy Montgomery trying the La Prairie Skin Caviar The Mist.Video: Courtesy of Joris HendrikDo not sleep on the benefits of face mists—especially when they come as potent as La Prairie’s. Housed in a vanity-worth cobalt blue bottle is a treasured elixir meant to energize and smooth skin instantly. Powered by the brand’s Caviar Hydroessence and Micro-Nutrients, this comes out as a super fine mist that spritzes evenly onto the skin—leaving skin feeling hydrated and balanced. The best part? Skin is not left overly dewy, rather refreshed, radiant, and glowing without excess shine. I like to use it at all steps of my routine—before bed, as a toner pre-serums and moisturizers, or for a pick-me-up throughout the day. At 1.7 oz, it fits seamlessly in my carry-on. —Kiana Murden, senior beauty shopping writerEscentric Molecules Escentric 02 Eau de ToiletteEscentric MoleculesEscentric 02 Eau de ToiletteLove at first spritz, this fragrance is everything I love about layered fresh scents in just one bottle. Infused with jasmine bud, mandarin and bergamot, it’s delightfully crisp, and comes in a super sleek bottle, too–wonderful for when you’re on the go. —Ranyechi Udemezue, associate beauty & wellness writerByredo Kajal PencilFor anybody who is into tightliner, these Byredo pencils are key. Gorgeously pigmented and smooth, I have the entire collection—because while a classic black is fun, the colors like navy or silver are oh-so-cool. —Margaux Anbouba, senior beauty editorAdwoa Beauty Melonberry Spray Leave In ConditionerAdwoa BeautyMelonberry Hair Milk Leave-In ConditionerUnder my extensions, I’m all about protecting the length and strength of my natural coils. Adwoa Beauty’s milky spray is like an essence for scalp and strands, silky, nourishing, and easily spritzed on cornrows between wefts. What’s more, its blend of berry seed oils smells leaves your hair smelling incredible, and when you take down your braids, you’ll find super soft and detangled tresses. —Tracy Achonwa, commerce beauty and wellness writerL’Oreal Paris Volume Million Lashes Panorama MascaraVoluminous Panorama MascaraL’Oreal’s latest mascara launch has one of those brushes that delivers well-defined eyelashes but allows you to load up on the formula, if you prefer your mascara on the chunkier front—like me! —Lauren Murdoch-Smith, senior beauty and wellness editorKopari Sun Shield Body GlowKopari Sun Shield Body Glow - SPF 50I was once walking down the street in Fort Greene when someone asked the secret to getting my skin so glowing. Glancing down at my gleaming décolletage, I recalled massaging on a few drops of Kopari’s Sun Shield in lieu of a body sunscreen cream. While the SPF 50 does an excellent job at shielding against UVA and UVB rays, I gravitate towards it because it feels lightweight and non-greasy on the skin, and leaves an eye-catching glisten. I’ve been using the gold shade but think I’ll try the amber hue next. —Kiana Murden, senior beauty shopping writerRefy Lip SculptConsider me the princess of polarizing beauty opinions because I gravitate towards any products that evoke a strong reaction in the court of social media opinion. For starters, there is no lip liner I love more than Refy’s Lip Sculpt—I've worn it through some of the longest work days, the messiest pastas, and many glasses of water. Rather than altogether wearing off, it gently fades (and that’s after a lot of stress testing). —Concetta Ciarlo, beauty commerce writerHair by Sam McKnight Love Me Do Nourishing Shine OilHair By Sam McKnightLove Me Do Nourishing OilA featherlight dry hair oil, this new formula from hairstylist Sam McKnight ticks all my boxes. It’s not just the happy-making packaging I love, it’s also brilliant at taming flyaways, reducing frizz, and lending a subtle healthy shine on mid-lengths and ends. With argan, sunflower, and camellia seed oil, it also smells delicious. —Hannah Coates, beauty and wellness editorIlia Perfecting Buff BrushThere’s not much to say about this Ilia makeup brush except that it truly is perfect (excellent naming on Ilia’s part!). The Perfecting Buff Brush is a compact tool featuring soft densely packed packed bristles just fluffy enough to blend creams and liquids expertly into the skin. It’s my go-to for bronzer and blush. —Kiana Murden, senior beauty shopping writerLoewe Marihuana Body LotionHaving just renovated my bathroom, there was one product I wanted in situ as I took pictures to share with family and friends… Loewe’s Marihuana Body Lotion. Aside from the soothing aroma, I’m also incredibly into the packaging and the fact it makes moisturizing your body a real treat. —Hannah Coates, beauty and wellness editorHaus Labs PhD Hybrid Lip GlazeIf at least 10 people give you a compliment on the product, I feel like it belongs on this list. That’s what happened to me the day I wore this lip gloss-oil hybrid in Macaron—it’s just good and I like it. Clearly, other people did too. Nothing else to say. —Margaux Anbouba, senior beauty editorMaybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Glitter MascaraMaybellineLash Sensational Sky High Glitter MascaraMaybelline’s Sky High mascara was already one of my favorites for a lengthened, fluttery lash, but this new launch has knocked it out the park. Speckled with pearlescent particles, it gives you a sparkling finish that looks insanely good in low light and has comes right on time for the festive party season. —Tracy Achonwa, commerce beauty and wellness writerDior Baby Bonne Étoile Scented WaterDiorBaby Bonne Étoile Scented WaterNot that I’m one to deprive my children, but, when it comes to Dior beauty, I’ll make an exception. With perfumer and Dior perfume creative director Francis Kurkdjian behind the Baby Dior’s scent, I’ve made sure I’ve kept hold of the scented water for myself. A gentle, soft smell that reminds me of newborn skin. —Lauren Murdoch-Smith, senior beauty and wellness editorBondi Boost HG Dry ShampooI’m picky about dry shampoo formulas—this one smells more fresh than sweet (in a good way) and doesn’t turn my hair into a powdered wig. —Arden Fanning Andrews, beauty editor at largeSummer Fridays Lip Butter in Birthday CakeSummer FridaysLip Butter Balm in Birthday CakeI’m a huge fan of Summer Fridays’s Lip Butters and their latest shade, Birthday Cake, is a celebration of the brand turning six.  It’s the same hydrating, non-sticky formula in a very subtle, sugar icing pink tint. A new obsession.  —Lauren Murdoch-Smith, senior beauty and wellness editorSusanne Kaufmann Hayflower Bath OilIs there anything better than a bath at the end of the day? Personally, I don’t think so, and I’m currently obsessed with this essential-oil-infused bath oil by the Queen of them, Susanne Kaufmann. A blend of Alpine hayflower and natural antioxidant astaxanthin, it’s a quick ticket to calm—I finish by wrapping myself in one of Baina’s checkerboard robes. Peace personified. —Hannah Coates, beauty and wellness editorLove Wellness Bye Bye Bloat Lymphatic Massage RollerLove WellnessBye Bye Bloat Lymphatic Massage RollerI've been dry brushing for a decade, so I'm always looking to branch out and try something new to get my body moving. This handheld device has cool (like, cold, but also cool-looking) cryo-balls on it that revolve as you roll it across your skin. You can really feel it stimulating your system, and it's a nice treat for your skin too—I actually like to do it once I have body oil on to help it absorb. —Margaux Anbouba, senior beauty editorKylie Cosmetics Transformative Lip TintIf you’ve never tried a Kylie Cosmetics lip oil, make this one your first. The plush, wide wand effortlessly covers your pout, while squalane and shea butter in the formula leave dry lips feeling thoroughly cared for. Black Cherry has been making waves because it morphs on contact to become a plum shade that perfectly matches your lips, but I’ve been loving the entire range for a glossy finish this winter. —Tracy Achonwa, commerce beauty and wellness writerKiss imPRESS Falsies Press-on False Lash KitKissimPRESS Falsies Press-on False Lash KitPressed for time but still want to look put together? Kiss’s imPress under-lashes are an absolute godsend. Because the clusters are self-adhesive, there is zero faffing or fiddling with tweezers and glue, and the natural set has become my go-to for a lifted feline eye. I’ve taken a tray with me on my travels throughout fashion month and the results have won me endless compliments everywhere I’ve been. Imperciptible and ultra comfortable, trust me when I say you won’t need to waste time with mascara ever again. —Tracy Achonwa, commerce beauty and wellness writerBareMinerals Illuminating Mineral VeilIlluminating Mineral VeilBelieve me when I say this is the best soft-focus filter in my bag, I carry it everywhere, and it’s with me at Paris Fashion Week as we speak. —Arden Fanning Andrews, beauty editor at largeNars Afterglow Liquid BlushMy blusher obsession knows no bounds, and this is my current favorite. A sheer, ever-so-slightly shimmery peach liquid in texture, it can be built up for the intensity of blush required, but it’s also the large doe-foot applicator that makes it a dream to apply. Consider this your spring flush in a tube. —Jessica Diner, European beauty and wellness directorEpi.logic Master Plan Collagen Renew Growth Factor SerumEpi.LogicMaster Plan Collagen Renew Growth Factor SerumSomeone somewhere is tired of hearing me wax on about Epi.logic’s Master Plan serum. Over the last year or so, it’s become a skin care staple of mine for its refreshingly hydrating texture and skin barrier-boosting composition. The brand’s signature Cell Service complex of growth factors and peptides essentially boosts skin’s collagen and elastin production, while promoting firmer, bouncier skin. It’s also incredibly gentle (thanks, in part, to hyaluronic acid, sea kelp bio ferment, and snow mushroom); so much so, I relied on it to heal my skin following my last MOXI treatment. —Kiana Murden, senior beauty shopping writerDior Addict Lip GlowI wrote in our March issue “Quick Change” story about how this product is one of my favorite of all time—I wore it to my wedding, I wear it all over my face! At their FW24 show, models wore the clear version on their lips and now I want that too, though… —Arden Fanning Andrews, beauty editor at largeI Don’t Know What DS & Durga Set

[deathandthesoul]

🎂🍃🐉🐷🎶 For both Aidan and Jesse!

🎂 BIRTHDAY CAKE — when is your oc's birthday? how old are they? what are their sun, moon, & rising signs (if known)? what about their tarot card, ruling planet, & ruling number (if known)? do they fit the typical traits of these sun, moon, & rising signs?

Aidan - June 27, 1947. He turned 77 in 2024. Cancer sun, Scorpio moon, Virgo rising. Tarot card is Justice (reversed). Ruling planet I think is the moon. And yes he does fit the traits of those signs Jesse - April 12, 1917. Turned 107 in 2024. Aries sun, Capricorn moon, Scorpio rising. Tarot card is the Tower. Ruling planet would be Mars. I hunted down the exact date that suits him best

🍃 LEAVES FLUTTERING IN WIND — what is/was your oc's favorite subject in school?

Aidan - Science (especially when they got to do dissections for biology) and Art Jesse - Both Science (chemistry has always been his jam), Workshop, and PE

🐉 DRAGON — what is your oc's favorite mythical creature?

Aidan - Angels Jesse - I don't think he has one…

🐷 PIG FACE — what is your oc's favorite animal?

Aidan - Dogs (he grew up with them), cats, crows, vultures, ants, worms, bugs/parasites, frogs, rats, mice… Jesse - Answered!

🎶 MUSICAL NOTES — what type of music does your oc like? do they listen to music very often?

Aidan - Okay so he does listen to punk music and he is active in the scene but it's sort of more like a "how do you do, fellow kids?" type of interest. His heart is in goregrind/death metal, or most metal really, and that's what he creates and wants to mainly listen to. He gets exposure to various goth genres through his coteriemate/bandmate Wes as well. Overall he's a big music listener, usually has something on when he can Jesse - Speed metal, hair metal, synthwave, classic rock, throw in some thrash too, although he's perfectly content to listen to whatever Aidan shows him. Stuff that puts him in the zone and amps him up when he's driving. He's usually got some background noise on and about half the time it's music, especially if he's not home. His life is the Drive soundtrack

[celtfather]

Folk on Foot #685

Put on your walking shoes. Walk out your door and listen to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #685. Subscribe now!

Dancing With Hobbits, Cherish The Ladies, Jesse Ferguson, Ruth Keggin & Rachel Hair, The Friel Sisters, Joseph Carmichael, Dublin Gulch, The Henry Girls, Adria Jackson, Sheridan Rúitín, Skyrie, Socks in the Frying Pan, Old Man Flanagan's Ghost, Kathryn Tickell

GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX

The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items for Celtic music and culture online. Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free.

VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2024

This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create next year's Best Celtic music of 2024 episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now!

You can follow our playlist on Spotify to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2 - 3 weeks. It also makes it easier for you to add these artists to your own playlists. You can also check out our Irish & Celtic Music Videos.

THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC

6:00 - Dancing With Hobbits "Folk on Foot" from Dancing With Hobbits Inspired by the Folk on Foot podcast

3:03 - WELCOME

7:02 - Cherish The Ladies "The Portumna Workhouse _ The Hurling Boys Of Portumna" from Heart of the Home

11:53 - Jesse Ferguson "Tramps and Hawkers" from Ten

17:10 - Ruth Keggin & Rachel Hair "Tri Nation Harp Jigs" from LOSSAN

20:57 - The Friel Sisters "Kelvin’s Purling Stream" from Before the Sun

24:44 - FEEDBACK

28:54 - Joseph Carmichael "For Beany" from Desiderium

33:34 - Dublin Gulch "The River and the Road" from Tap 'Er Light

38:53 - The Henry Girls "Honeybee/ Hard Border" from A Time To Grow

44:33 - Adria Jackson "She Moved Through The Fair from Troubadour

47:30 - THANKS

49:58 - Sheridan Rúitín "Wagoner's Lad" from Rebels in the Night

54:03 - Skyrie "The Lambs" from Hunger Road

57:34 - Socks in the Frying Pan "Shoot the Arrow" from Waiting for Inspiration

1:01:46 - Old Man Flanagan's Ghost "Nelson's Blood" from Simple Little Boat

1:04:05 - CLOSING

1:05:05 - Kathryn Tickell "Joan's Jig / Cut the File" from Return to Kielderside

1:08:18 - CREDITS

The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You’ll find links to all of the artists played in this episode.

Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you’ll get 7 weekly news items about what’s happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage.

Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor.

Finally, remember. Reduce, reuse, recycle, and think about how you can make a positive impact on your environment.

Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/.

WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST

* Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn, Celtic musician and podcaster.

This podcast is for fans of Celtic music. You're gonna hear some amazing artists. Some you’ve heard of. Many you haven’t.

The show is here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast. Musicians depend on your generosity to keep making music. So please find a way to support them. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their communities on Patreon.

You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com.

Yes. This episode is a tribute to the podcast, Folk on Foot. It's the perfect marriage of travel, culture and music.

Do you do Celtic knotwork? Send me your designs. Perhaps I’ll use it for the 2025 shirt and Album Pin.

If you are a Celtic musician or in a Celtic band, then please submit your band to be played on the podcast. You don’t have to send in music or an EPK. You will get a free eBook called Celtic Musicians Guide to Digital Music and learn how to follow the podcast. It’s 100% free. Just email Email follow@bestcelticmusic and of course, listeners can learn how to subscribe to the podcast and get a free music - only episode.

THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST!

You are amazing. It is because of your generosity that you get to hear so much great Celtic music each and every week.

Your kindness pays for our engineer, graphic designer, Celtic Music Magazine editor, promotion of the podcast, and allows me to buy the music I play here. It also pays for my time creating the show each and every week.

As a patron, you get ad - free episodes before regular listeners, vote in the Celtic Top 20, stand - alone stories, you get a private feed to listen to the show or you can listen through the Patreon app.  All that for as little as $1 per month.

A special thanks to our new and continued Patrons of the Podcast: Yoke, Gershon, P Michael Degan

Patreon made a big change recently. You no longer make a pledge per episode of the podcast. Instead, you can make one set, solid pledge per month.

HERE IS YOUR ALL - NEW THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST

Go to our Patreon page.

Decide how much you want to pledge per month, $1, $5, $15, $25.

Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music.

You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com.

TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS

Every year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos.

In 2025, we’re going to the Celtic nation of Galicia in Spain. We’re gonna learn about the history and legends behind the Celts there and experience some amazing Galician Celtic music.

Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/

#celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast

I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK

What are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Please email me. I’d love to see a  picture of what you're doing while listening or of a band that you saw recently.

How are you listening to this podcast? I’d love to know that as well. The show is available on a bunch of podcast apps like Apple Podcast, Podcast Addict, iHeartRadio, Player.FM, Pocket Casts, Cast Box, Pandora, Podbean, and my favorite Overcast

Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic.

Tim Hughes messaged me on Facebook: "Mark, I've been using Podcast Republic for years."

Timothy P. Frier messaged: "Hi Mark   I found your podcast about a year ago and started listening from episode 1.  I'm up to episode 338.  The episodes I enjoy the most are the instrumental only shows and anything with bagpipes.  I have recently run into an issue listening to the podcast on Amazon.  It is no longer available.  I did change to a different source as there are several.  What happened??  Thanks"

Mike Bromund messaged: "I'm just exploring Southern Oregon and happened upon the Black Sheep Pub in Ashland. Every Sunday, they host a jam session with amazing musicians from the area. Highly recommended !"

  Check out this episode!