Taylor Swift's influence is undeniable: whether it's crashing Ticketmaster with her sold-out concert tickets (here's how to buy Eras tour tickets if you weren't one of the lucky ones who managed to nab tickets), setting streaming records, or causing a measurable boost in the US economy, almost everything the singer touches turns to gold. 

The same can be said about her effect on fashion. Business Insider reporter Juliana Kaplan spoke with several small businesses about the "Swift Effect;" Taylor's ability to sell out items and create big business for small brands she wears. One brand, Wove Made, saw a 2,000% increase in sales when Swift was spotted wearing a custom bracelet to a Chiefs game.

While Taylor Swift is reportedly now a billionaire, you can still find a surprising number of affordable brands in the singer's wardrobe. Sarah Chapelle, the fashion reporter behind Taylor Swift Style (which was the first to identify most of the pieces named in this article) and author of a forthcoming book of the same name, told Kaplan that one of Swift's signature style choices is pairing designer pieces with items from accessible retailers. "This kind of approach really underlines her approachable, relatable image," Chapelle said.

Below are 12 affordable items that Swift has been spotted wearing recently and that are still in stock (or at least available for preorder). We've also rounded up Taylor's favorite red lipsticks, plus many more of her favorite accessories in our guide to the best Taylor Swift gifts.

An $60 exercise skirt from Popflex

This size-inclusive exercise skirt was spotted in Swift's "Fortnight challenge" video on YouTube Shorts. It's available in 11 colors and sizes XXS to 3X. 

A $40 Halara skirt and a hat supporting Travis Kelce's podcast

Swift and her boyfriend Travis Kelce recently attended Coachella to cheer on several of their performer friends, including Ice Spice and Jack Antonoff (her longtime collaborator and front man of Bleachers). Taylor was spotted in the crowd wearing a $40 mini skirt from Halara with a buckle garter detail. She paired the skirt with a hat supporting Kelce's podcast New Heights, which quickly sold out.

Read our Halara review.

Under $100 jewelry from Mazin Jewels

Swift has an extensive jewelry collection that spans an impressive price range — from pieces that cost tens of thousands of dollars, to several affordable items from brands like Mazin Jewels and Awe Inspired. She's been seen wearing pieces from Mazin at least half a dozen times in the past year, including at her 34th birthday party.

A $150 Aritzia mini dress

According to Aritzia, the Sunday Best Trix Dress is also known as the "Taylor Swift" dress because of its popularity after the singer was spotted wearing it.

Never-rip tights from Sheertex (and a $10 pair from Calzedonia)

Who doesn't love rip-proof tights? Swift is among the many fans of Sheertex, a brand making durable, comfortable tights. She's been seen wearing the brand's diamond pattern tights several times, including out to dinner in New York City and at Chiefs games. She's also been spotted in a $10 pair of tights from Calzedonia.

Sub-$100 lululemon tights

Swift is rarely pictured in athleisure, but when she is, she's often wearing lululemon. The tights pictured above come in numerous lengths, and Swift is wearing the 28" to accommodate her tall frame. 

Skorts from Free People

Swift is a big fan of Free People's skorts and has been seen in a number of the brand's styles, including the Emmy Denim Skort pictured above and its Heartbreaker Skort. 

A $70 crushed velvet dress from a small UK business

Swift wore this crushed velvet dress by the small UK brand Little Lies while out to dinner with Blake Lively in 2023. The dress is currently sold out, but you can sign up to be notified when it's back in stock. 

• If you're looking for affordable fine jewelry, specifically minimalist gold pieces, Stone and Strand should be at the top of your list. 
• It sells solid gold jewelry and conflict-free, fairly sourced diamonds and gemstones in a variety of beautiful, elevated styles. 
• We tried pieces from Stone and Strand to show you what they really look and feel like. They're even daintier than they appear online, and as versatile and luxurious as we expected. 
• Sign up for Insider Review's weekly newsletter for more buying advice and great deals.

Lately, we've been seeing and sporting a lot of dainty, minimalist gold jewelry. It's a popular look right now, but because it's so simple and versatile, it's also one of the few trends that will age gracefully as a smart, long-lasting investment. 

There are a handful of online jewelry startups where you can shop these types of pieces — the tiny, sparkly, and highly covetable rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets made for luxurious, everyday wear. One we love is Stone and Strand.

Stone and Strand was founded by Nadine McCarthy Kahane, who conceived of the idea of a better high-end jewelry shop while pursuing her MBA at Wharton. 

Stone and Strand makes and sells its own fine jewelry and also serves as a marketplace for other like-minded jewelry designers to sell their creations, which come in and out of the site on a constantly rotating basis. 

The majority of its gold pieces are made with 14-karat solid gold, and all diamonds and gemstones used are 100% natural and conflict-free. With these high-quality materials, you can find surprisingly accessible prices. While they're not cheap by any means, the difference becomes clear, and the decision made obvious, when comparing Stone and Strand's prices to those of traditional fine jewelry brands. 

The experience of shopping on Stone and Strand also feels more intentional, curated, and enjoyable. There's always something new to shop, and the designs cater to a variety of personalities, from the tough and rebellious to stylish traditionalists. 

Like fellow brands Mejuri and Vrai, Stone and Strand seduces jewelry-obsessed shoppers with beautiful photos of its pieces. Hand models with slender fingers stacked with rings of various thickness and textures, carefully perched earrings and necklaces that perfectly catch the streams of light trickling in from a nearby window — you know what I'm talking about.  

They're gorgeous, no doubt, and they give us a hint of the effect we expect when wearing these pieces: for our days to feel a little more elevated and special, whether we're simply heading into another day at work or dressing up for a special event. 

We wanted to see, however, how Stone and Strand's jewelry pieces looked and made us feel in real life, not just through our screens. Could the same promises of beautiful, everyday luxury transfer over effectively, and on women who weren't jewelry models? 

We tried an earring, ring, and necklace from Stone and Strand. See how they looked on us and why we loved the pieces below. 

I don't have a lot of ear piercings, but I wanted to do something creative and cute with the two that I do have. This chain stud caught my eye because it was simultaneously delicate and edgy. I love how subtle it is, and it's such a reward when someone with a sharp eye notices and compliments it. Because of its small size, it can be a little tricky at first to put in, but the ultimate effect is worth the effort. 

There are so many more pieces from Stone and Strand that I'd love to own because I can truly see myself wearing them all the time. I also have these double hoop earrings (no longer available), which I wear at least once a week and are the only earrings I bring while traveling (when I don't want to pack anything I don't need). —Connie Chen, senior reporter 

I have quite a few little gold stacking rings, and though I do have some hesitations about the price for how teeny tiny the diamonds are this one is still, by far, my favorite. I got it because my engagement ring features baguette diamonds, and I thought this would be a nice complement. I was right, it looks very cute next to my Heidi Gibson Oval Gatsby ring, if I do say so myself. I wear it every day.

However, I'd say it's only worth the cost if this is an easy-to-swallow price for you. If you're looking for a "bang-for-your-buck" kind of ring, this isn't it. It's very understated and dainty — worth it for those who like tiny diamonds, less worth it for those who want something that'll stand out. Oh, and beware the corners of the diamond arrangement — they can catch on delicate materials (and your partner's hands, if you hold them often). —Sally Kaplan, senior editor 

Two-year update: I've worn this ring every single day for two years now, and one of the diamonds just fell out of it. I'd say that's a pretty good track record considering how rough I can be with my hands (I cook a ton, work in the garden, and work out with the ring on, plus I never took it off to sleep or shower). If you're at least somewhat careful, I truly don't see this being an issue for you, but if you're as active as I am and you never take your rings off, you may want to avoid this style.

I ordered the Teeny Round Diamond Necklace, and I really haven't taken it off since I first put it on more than four months ago. I prioritize finding everyday jewelry that looks high end, doesn't cost a fortune, and can wear well with virtually any outfit. In other words, subtle elevation. Stone and Strand nails that niche.

This necklace's stone is smaller and more dainty in person than I had expected, but that turned out to be completely fine. The price for quality is fair, and the slight-of-hand advantage of a faint bright glimmer atop your collarbone is exactly the upgrade I was looking for. —Mara Leighton, senior reporter 

Shop fine jewelry at Stone and Strand.

If there's one type of shoe I can never have enough of, it's a comfy, casual-yet-elevated sneaker. I love that I can wear the same pair of shoes to run errands, take a long walk, or style with a dress for a dinner date. 

But looks can be deceiving, and the cutest sneakers are not always the most comfortable. A top-notch everyday sneaker should gently hug your foot, providing support without stiffness or squeezing. It shouldn't slip or slide as you walk around, and it's even better if there's no break-in period. 

In my latest endeavor for the perfect pair, I took a deep dive into reviewing Rothy's sneaker collection. There were some sizing discrepancies, and I wish there were more color options. But overall, I was really impressed with how comfortable Rothy's sneakers felt from the first time I put them on. Plus, the fact that they're lightweight and machine washable makes them ideal for traveling and adventures.

The Original Slip On

Sizing: True to size

Comfort: Mostly comfortable but I felt a bit of rubbing on my heel

Material: The knit was flexible and the sole felt sturdy

I'll be honest, I've never been much of a slip-on sneaker gal, usually preferring the real deal with laces or slides. For my Rothy's sneaker review, however, I learned the right pair of slip-ons could make me change my mind. Lightweight and breathable, these shoes were comfy even without socks. They were a perfect choice for a summer outing when I didn't want to go full on with sneakers and socks, but also didn't want to wear sandals. 

The only slight negative was that I felt a bit of rub at the back top of my heel where the shoe ended. That could be because I wore them sockless, or maybe my feet just needed to get used to them. Still, I appreciate that the sole felt sturdy despite being lightweight, and the knit top hugged my foot without feeling constricting. 

At first I was a bit averse to the look of the shoe because they reminded me of those slip-on Vans sneakers that everyone wore when I was in high school… many years ago. But the latte color gave a bit of a modern feel to the vintage style, and I could see myself wearing them again with a pair of jeans and a chunky fall sweater.

The Lace Up Sneaker

Sizing: Run small

Comfort: Besides being a bit snug, the stretchy material was very comfortable

Material: The knit fabric was super comfortable and had a lot of give due to the laces

A low-top lace up sneaker in a neutral hue has pretty much become my go-to look on a daily basis (regardless of if I'm dressing up or down), so I had a lot of options in my closet to compare these to. Rothy's Lace Ups stood above the rest for their lack of break-in period. They were cushy and stretchy from minute one, whereas many similarly styled sneakers I own require a bit of getting used to.

That said, the shoes ran a bit small, and they felt quite snug at the toe despite the fact that I have fairly narrow feet. This made it difficult to fully assess the overall comfort level, since I think I'd size up if I had to do it again. 

Looking at the Rothy's sneakers dead-on, I thought they were pretty cute. Nothing out of the ordinary, but nothing brash either. The blonde colorway gave me a nice bit of subtle contrast at the heel. When I looked down at my feet from up above however, the shoes gave off an appearance similar to bowling shoes since the tongue seemed to extend down to the toe. I had to remind myself throughout my Rothy's sneakers review to look at them from the side as another person would see me, rather than looking down at my feet.

The High Top Sneaker

Sizing: Run large

Comfort: Roomy and comfortable, didn't rub despite the high tops

Material: The knit was perfectly stretchy, and the laces had nice give

I really appreciate a pair of classic high-top sneakers, since they offer a bit more support than low tops for when you're walking or standing for long periods of time. Rothy's version was exceptionally comfortable thanks to the knit upper and stretchy laces. These hugged my feet but weren't too tight, even at the top.

The overall look was cute, clean, and classic — although I do wish there were a few more color options to match my fall outfits. I didn't have the opportunity for this Rothy's sneakers review to wear them with a pair of thick wool socks, but I definitely look forward to it when the weather cools off. 

These did run a bit large, as I felt the toe area was much too roomy. I was disappointed in the sizing mostly because it was inconsistent between pairs, with some running large and others running small. 

If you can find the right size for you, I think Rothy's high-tops could be a great, versatile, comfortable wardrobe staple.

About Rothy's materials

Rothy's was founded in 2016 by Stephen "Hawthy" Hawthornwaite and Roth Martin with a mission to create footwear that provides all-day comfort and style, while maintaining an eco-friendly construction. 

Recognizable by their signature blue stitching on the heel, Rothy's footwear utilizes a knit material that's crafted from recycled plastic water bottles. Plus, the insoles contain recycled foam, the rubber soles are carbon-free, the adhesives are non-toxic and vegan, and the brand uses biodegradable post-consumer recycled materials for their packaging. Since its launch, the company has repurposed 12 million water bottles (and counting).

Read our full Rothy's Flats review. 

The bottom line

Rothy's shoes don't come cheap. If I'm spending $120-$190 on a simple sneaker, I want to know that it'll be top-notch. And in terms of comfort, these were. The fact that they're machine washable also helps justify the price, since you can easily return them to a good-as-new state.

Thanks to their lightweight, sock like feel, I see a good opportunity for Rothy's to become my go-to travel sneakers, since they won't weigh down my suitcase much and don't constrict my feet.

Still, the sizing proved to be quite tricky when certain pairs ran small while others ran large. Luckily, Rothy's doesn't charge for exchanges, so if you get it wrong the first time you can swap for another size. 

All this, coupled with the eco-friendly mission, leads me to categorize Rothy's sneakers as an overall solid choice.

• Birkenstock's two-strap Arizona sandals are perfect for anyone who takes comfort seriously. 
• The footbed is supportive for my normal-to-high arches, though it takes a few wears to break in.
• It doesn't hurt that they're now popular among fashion elites and have designer collabs popping up.

It's funny how the things we were once teased for back in the day often become "cool" again. I've been wearing Birkenstocks since middle school (circa 2003), when they were hardly considered fashionable by anyone but my summer-camp friends. 

Thankfully, Birkenstocks have had quite the renaissance since then.

Nowadays it's hard to go a day without seeing someone in a pair of the brand's signature two-strap Arizona sandals out in the wild. This is the pair that hooked me on Birkenstocks so many years ago, and the same style I continue to wear today. 

Now, let me clear one thing up: This Birkenstock Arizona review is specifically about the leather and Birko-Flor pairs, not the EVA foam pairs. I've also written about those, so you can read my review here. Suffice it to say that I truly love both pairs of Arizonas, but this review is dedicated to the more durable version of the sandals.

The molded footbed: how it feels and what it's like to break in

The classic Birkenstock Arizonas have a contoured cork-latex footbed topped with either a layer of suede or a faux-suede-like material called Birko-Flor. In my experience, both the leather/suede pairs and the Birko-Flor faux-leather pairs feel exactly the same on the foot since the base of the footbed is the same, but it's up to you to decide which material you prefer to wear. 

The Soft Footbed pairs, which come in leather or suede or the Birko-Flor material, have the same footbed but with a thin layer of responsive foam between the cork-latex base and the suede or faux suede material on top.

Regardless of which material you choose, the footbed shapes to your feet over time, though not without a break-in period. To help the process, I usually wear a new pair of Birkenstocks around the house for a few days before I venture out in them. Living in the city, it's a no-no to go walking around for hours in a new pair of shoes anyway.

Most people who try Birkenstocks for the first time either love or hate the way the footbed is shaped. As someone with plantar fasciitis, which leads to uncomfortable pain and cramping in my arches, I happen to love it. However, it does take some getting used to. There's arch support, yes, but there's also more toe support than most people are used to from their sandals, which can cause discomfort on the bottom of the toes for the first few wears. 

I find that it takes a couple weeks of consistent wear to fully break in the footbeds and the leather straps. But, once they've been worn for long enough to mold to your foot shape, they only get better with time. 

The sizing

Birkenstock offers widths of "regular" and "narrow" to accommodate most people's feet. The "regular" width works well for wide feet as well thanks to the sandals' two adjustable straps. 

The company uses European sizing, so a size 38 women's shoe is intended to fit American shoe sizes 7 to 7.5. 

If you're a half size who often sizes up in brands that only carry whole sizes, I recommend opting for a size up in Birkenstocks. For example, I'm a 7.5, but I often wear a size 8 when brands only offer whole sizing. In Birkenstocks, I size up to a size 39, which fits sizes 8 to 8.5.

Style and color options

The Arizona sandals come in a ton of different styles and color options. While they all maintain the same general two-strap shape, variations include larger buckles, suede straps, leather straps, monochromatic color schemes, patent finishes, etc. There are limited-edition designer collaborations that cost $400, but most run in the $100-$135 range. 

As someone who's owned three or four pairs of different Arizonas over the years, I can pretty confidently say that the style you choose really has no bearing on its comfort. But it's worth noting that the color will determine a pair's longevity. My current pair is a white colored Birko-Flor style, but the scuffs show more clearly than they did on my last pair of tan suede sandals with a black sole.

Cons to consider

The cons here are going to depend on which material you choose. Cons of leather include the fact that it's generally not as sustainable a material, but it does often last longer than synthetics. The cons of synthetics, conversely, include the fact that they tend not to last as long, but they are much more sustainable. 

The other thing to consider is that the footbed isn't for everyone, and that it can cause discomfort or blistering, particularly for people with flat feet. If you can handle a short break-in period, though, this con is far outweighed by the personalized comfort you'll experience over time.

The bottom line

Everything I love about Arizonas is also what makes me a fan of the brands' other styles, like the clogs and Gizeh sandals. They have superb arch support, are easy to slip on and off, and they last a long time. You can even get pairs resoled by local cobblers who are authorized by the company. 

If you really just want them for the look, or you're interested in something waterproof for beach weekends, I highly recommend the EVA foam version of the Arizonas. You can read my full review of the foam pairs here.

• Women's shoe company Keds, which launched 103 years ago in 1916, is synonymous with the Champion Originals white sneaker ($39.95). 
• As an accessible, versatile, and comfortable sneaker, it inspired women "to be who they want to be and go where they want to go." 
• Today, this silhouette is still beloved and iconic, but the brand is also evolving by offering limited-edition collaborations and expanding its styles to further address the needs of modern women. 

Jennifer Grey laced up these bright white shoes in "Dirty Dancing." So did Yoko Ono on her wedding day. At some point in your life, you, a friend, your mother, or your grandmother probably all did at some point, too. 

We're talking, of course, about the iconic Keds Champion sneakers. 

American culture is peppered with shoes that have stood the test of time, from Air Jordans to Converse All-Stars. Keds is one of those beloved few. 

The shoe company has a rich history, going all the way back to 1916, when the US Rubber Company consolidated its 30 footwear brands under one name: Keds. That year, Keds introduced a canvas-topped, rubber-soled shoe and stamped it with its blue label. 

Why the Keds Champion was and is so important 

Today, a canvas, rubber-soled shoe isn't much cause for celebration, but its introduction then was nothing short of revolutionary. Because it was one of the first women's footwear options to be simultaneously accessible, fashionable, and comfortable, the Keds Champion stood as a symbol of mobility: If a woman wanted to do something or go somewhere, she could with a pair of Keds. 

The company's roots in blazing a path for women are still central to how it conducts business today. Keds has an all-women leadership team and an all-women product development team, and the company as a whole is 88% women. Worn by athletes, actresses, and First Ladies alike, it has never prescribed specific behaviors that its fans and customers should abide by. Its only mission, from the beginning, has been an open and empowering one of "Ladies First." 

Its most popular and recognizable silhouette, the Champion Originals, hasn't changed much since it first entered the American consciousness 103 years ago, and its popularity even today is a testament to the simplicity, versatility, and forethought of this design. 

How Keds continues to innovate

Though it probably could ride on the success of the Champion Originals alone for the next hundred years, Keds continues to find new ways to keep the brand fresh and interesting.

Its full collection of styles includes lace ups, slip ons, flats, and boots in a variety of materials like wool and leather. You can get a fresh new pair of white Champion Originals, but you can be more adventurous with tall platform sneakers or glittery shoes if you want. The company is also experimenting with stylish athleisure options with its Studio collection of lightweight sneakers. 

Collaborations with other brands are best-selling favorites as well. The Rifle Paper Co. collection of pretty embroidered and painted floral patterns is the much nicer execution of all those times you tried to paint your own canvas shoes, while the Ladies for Ladies collection currently features the work of a handbag designer who uses the same marine-grade material as lobstermen's bait bags.

Beyond comfort and variety, Keds is the ideal brand for the value-conscious shoe lover — most of its styles cost around just $50. In fact, the three styles we tried from the brand, which perfectly capture its range from classic to modern silhouettes, cost $40 to $60. 

Keds, then and now 

More than a hundred years ago, Keds snagged the first-mover advantage with its game-changing Champion sneaker for women and set the wheels in motion to change the way women walk, run, skip, and dance. 

Gillian Meek, the President of Keds, says, "Keds has stood the test of time by staying true to our roots, making the best sneakers for women. In today’s environment, our classic Champion sneaker is our icon that empowers women to be who they want to be and go where they want to go. The Champion is and always has been a versatile, feminine and accessible style to women of all ages and lifestyles."

To learn more about our experiences wearing the Champion Originals and two other Keds styles, keep reading below. 

Shop all Keds sneakers here: Keds, Amazon, Nordstrom, Zappos

Champion Originals

Keds Champion Originals, from $39.95, available here: Keds, Amazon, Zappos

Before realizing that Keds was a women-specific brand, I associated it with the women in my life. My mom, my grandmother, my sisters, and my cousins have each, at one point or another, been recorded in my memory running around the backyard or watering flowers on our home's sunny porch in slight white sneakers. I enjoy thinking of them while wearing my own pair. And I'm happy to know that, unlike most companies, Keds team is comprised of mostly women.

As an adult, the things I love about Keds haven't changed much since being a kid. They're versatile enough for any outfit, cheap enough to regularly re-up if they're worn into the ground, and there's something wonderful about functional, rubber-soled sneakers that are simultaneously so lightweight and feminine in style. They're the perfect choice for sundresses, loose jeans, and everything in between. —Mara Leighton, Insider Picks reporter 

Studio Jumper

Keds Studio Jumper, $59.95 (originally $89.95) [You save $30], available here: Keds

Keds' foray into athleisure-esque styles through its Studio Collection is a successful yet underrated part of the brand that I wish more people knew about. The intersections of style, performance, and comfort are best highlighted in the slip-on Studio Jumper sneaker, which comes in four attractive colors: white, peach, light pink, and light gray.

I opted for the gray one, and it has become the easiest shoe to pull on in the mornings — the light color goes with everything, they look casual but they're also more sleek than a full-on running sneaker, and I can walk for miles in them with no complaints. 

The stretch knit uppers give a sock-like fit that mold to your feet, but are also breathable, and elastic bands wrap over the fronts for an additional layer of support. Despite the close fit, you can still wear socks with your usual size since the material is stretchy. Meanwhile, the foot beds and soles are made from lightweight, cushioned foam, plus Keds adds neoprene padding at the heel for even more comfort. Because they're so light, they make a great travel or summer sneaker. —Connie Chen, Insider Picks reporter

Double Decker

 

Keds Double Decker Perforated Suede Sneaker, from $34.06, available here: Keds, Amazon

As much as I love sneakers, I never had tried a pair of Keds until recently — I was always more of a Converse girl. After learning more about the company's history, though, I'm excited to rock my new pair of Keds. Keds released the first ever women's sneaker in 1916 — and you can still find that classic Champion style worn today.

While I loved learning about how Keds puts their motto, Ladies First, into action, there's got to be more than just a great mission to keep a business running for over 100 years. It's all about the product, and Keds really are great. They're doing well at making simple, cute styles that are comfortable and affordable.

I didn't realize, though, that Keds had so many other options besides their classic Champion style. I tried the Double Decker Slip-Ons in a nice light gray color that's perfect for spring. They have a perforated detail on the suede that adds some interest, and the inside of the shoe is super comfortable, thanks to Keds' new Dreamy Foam cushioned footbed. If you're between sizes though, I would choose the bigger one, as I did find them a little tight. But, I think the suede will stretch with wear, so I'm excited to bring these out come spring. —Remi Rosmarin, Insider Picks reporter

• One of the most recommended fabric masks by our Reviews team is the Vida Face Mask ($10). 
• It's breathable, comes with an adjustable nose bridge and ear loops, and includes filter inserts. 
• This article was medically reviewed by Aimee Desrosiers, PA-C, MS, MPH, a practicing infectious diseases physician assistant in Washington, DC.

For the last 11 months, the Insider Reviews team has gone through patterns similar to much of the US: cooking comfort food in our homes and shopping for cloth face masks and hand sanitizer. We've also been interviewing infectious disease experts and doctors to answer questions about whether it's safe to rent a car or stay in a hotel.

Recently, I asked my coworkers to share their favorite fabric face masks for preventing the spread of COVID-19 — and a clear preference emerged: Vida's non-medical grade, reusable face masks.

The Vida Face Masks are made of two 100% cotton layers and they come with multi-layer filters that can be easily added or removed from the mask. The masks also have an adjustable wire nose bridge and adjustable ear straps for a secure, custom fit. They're affordable, comfortable, and well-designed, and they adhere to the guidelines put forth by the CDC about what to look for in a good face mask.

Personally, I've found my Vida mask gives me the most secure and comfortable fit for the best price —  a sentiment echoed by senior editor Sally Kaplan and deputy editor Malarie Gokey. 

The adjustable ear loops and long-but-not-too-long metal bridge over the nose help keep the material flush against my face while remaining breathable. The metal nose bridge is also helpful for preventing glasses from fogging up. And, along with being secure under the chin, it covers ample ear-to-ear surface area, so there aren't gaping holes on each side of the mouth like there are with many cheaper or disposable face masks. Plus, filters don't need to be purchased separately, and it holds its shape after being washed.

One thing to note is that if you put your mask in the washing machine, it's more likely that the wire will end up poking out or become misshapen. We recommend washing them on a gentle cycle and then laying them flat to dry.

Currently, they're available in 14 colors. But, you can also pick up the Vida masks in organic cotton artist prints or limited-edition prints, though they're more expensive ($18/single) than the basic collection ($10/single). The original Vida masks are recommended for kids older than 5, but you can also shop a kids' collection that serves kids ages 3 to 12.

• Three experts weigh in on how to keep your timepieces safe when you're not wearing them.
• To protect the value, hold on to authenticity papers, proof of purchase, and the original box.
• Regardless of the price tag, many of the same proper storage and protection principles apply.

Where watches are concerned, there's a spectrum of collectors and daily wearers whose timepieces run anywhere from the price of a two-person dinner in New York City to a four-year degree at New York University. But, in many ways, the best practices for storing and protecting your watch remain the same. "It has some sort of value, whether it's material or sentimental to each individual," explains Jorge Ramirez, Timepiece Manager for luxury consignment reseller Fashionphile, of each watch owner's property. "You want to have it protected, whether it's a less or more expensive watch."

With this in mind, we turned to three experts to walk through the most important care advice they preach and — as collectors themselves — practice. They include Ramirez, as well as Paul Boutros, Head of Watches at Phillips, and Zoe Abelson — also known as @watchgirloffduty — an 11-year vet of the luxury watch industry and owner of Graal Limited which sources watches for private clients. 

For each of these insiders and enthusiasts, the emphasis is not simply on keeping your timepiece in tip-top shape and safe from any potential scratches or damage to the gears, but also preserving the value of your purchase for as long as possible. Read on for advice that applies to beginners and advanced collectors alike.

The best practices for storing and protecting your watch:

Choosing the best box or case

It may seem obvious to toss your rings in a dish on your nightstand or hang a bunch of necklaces on a rack for better access to your collection, but such casual storage of your watch is a huge misstep, according to those who work with some of the most prized timepieces in the world. "Personally, what I recommend is keeping it within a watch box or case, rather than having it sit on a shelf or nightstand," says Ramirez, adding, "the original box is ideal."

Ramirez, who's worked in the watch industry for eight years, explains that any watch's original box will offer the best storage design for it, including an interior pillow or cushion for the piece. Of course, if you don't have the original, there are still plenty of options. "Any good quality box will have the watches separated by dividers and secured around a little pillow so that they don't move around," says Phillips' Boutros. "And in case you drop the box for some strange reason, it's locked or latched and it will prevent everything from falling out of the box and preventing further damage." Among his favorite watch box brands are Venlo, Scattola del Tempo, and luxury fashion icons including Cartier, Hermès, and Goyard.

Another option, specifically for automatic watches, is a winder box that acts as storage, protection, and to keep the internal mechanisms (which are usually instigated by the motion of wearing the watch on your wrist) working when you're not wearing it. "If you have a huge watch collection I would definitely recommend getting a specific watch winder because obviously, you're going to be changing out between watches every day, week, or month," Ramirez shares, suggesting brands such as Wolf, Versa, Diplomat, and J.Queen for winders. "Keeping some of those watches on a winder would be a best practice, especially when you get into the more complicated watch movements, such as moon phase, a perpetual calendar, anything that's much harder to set."

However, the use of a winder box is personal and not necessarily a must-have for every watch owner. For instance, Boutros does not recommend automatic watch winders. "Winders turn so that the routers wind the watch, and that keeps it constantly running and increases wear on the parts and it accelerates how soon you'll need it serviced," he says. "It's like keeping your car engine running all the time." Still, watches shouldn't simply remain untouched and packed away for months at a time, either. "If it sits for a very long period of time, the oils" — which allow for the watch to run properly — "dry out." He recommends once-per-month use and manually winding the watch to keep the movement lubricated.

How to travel with your watch(es)

There can be some risk when traveling with one or more watches as you want to ensure they're safe from scratches or any aggressive jostling in your luggage. In short, a proper travel case is essential. Boutros says there are many reputable options, ranging in price, from brands such as Louis Vuitton, Buben and Zorweg, and "at a more entry-level price, there's Casebudi, a round little container you can put a bracelet watch in and has a hard shell that protects it."

Abelson, who recently spent over three years helping open the Watchbox offices in Hong Kong, is also a fan of cases that make it easy to have options when on the road. "I love the ease of travel cases and watch rolls that fit multiple timepieces together since I am constantly on the go and usually want options with me," she says, with specific reference to a favorite case by A Collected Man. "You can store or travel with up to eight pieces but the size of the case is compact yet still protective."

Furthermore, Abelson likes to use travel cases for home storage as well. "For my special occasion/less worn watches, I keep them in a travel case that is long enough for my timepieces on straps to lay flat," she says. "I prefer my strap watches laid flat to keep the strap from setting to the curvature of a typical watch box pillow or travel case." 

For a pillow or roll option, she recommends the Amaryll Watch Roll by IFL Watches. "For my bracelet watches, I need watch rolls with small/flexible enough pillows for my bracelets to wrap around and close properly since I have a relatively small wrist. Many travel cases have large firm pillows that don't compress so they are only suited for larger bracelets to fit but this product from IFL Watches works well for me."

Keeping them on display

There's agreement among experts that, above all, protection is the top priority when choosing where to store a watch. But it's worth mentioning that a collection needn't always be tucked away out of sight. "Having a nice presentation box protects the watches but also allows you to present them in a great way to close friends and family members to share your collection," says Boutros. He recommends a display box that ensures watches are padded, spaced out, and can be locked for security. 

Additionally, collectors may appreciate Abelson's approach. "I like to keep my watches in sight and accessible so picking out my timepiece is a part of my everyday routine. I have watch stands by The Watch Stand that are beautifully designed and minimal enough to fit in with other home decor," she shares, explaining how watches can serve as more than a personal fashion accessory. "I love having my watches on display as pieces of art."

The best storage conditions

While a solid box or case is imperative for watch storage, full protection means avoiding any of a timepiece's worst enemies: direct sunlight, moisture, crowded spaces, and magnets.

"It really comes down to the small things," says Ramirez of watch-protection tips. "UV radiation can cause the dial to fade, the glass to discolor, it does the watch no good." As with the products he oversees at Fashionphile, Ramirez says watches should be stored in places that are cooler than room temperature and dry. "Even if you sweat a lot, perspiration can penetrate the watch," adds Boutros of the dangers of moisture on watches, including those that are water-resistant. He recommends using a soft microfiber or 100% cotton cloth to wipe away any excess moisture/sweat build-up and visiting a watchmaker once every two years to have the water-resistance checked.

"Another basic tip is to avoid scratching your watch," adds Boutros. "Don't store them next to metal objects, don't hit them against other watches, and avoid wearing them alongside metal bracelets." This further emphasizes why a box is preferred over keeping a watch in a dresser drawer next to anything that could cause a shock or scratch to it. Better still, keep it stored away from your computer, phone, or smart home devices. "I recommend keeping your watches away from your electronics to prevent magnetization which affects the timing of your watch," says Abelson.

Leave the polishing to the professionals

Despite the advice above, scratches do happen. And while a clean, microfiber cloth may be okay for wiping away dust or sweat, experts insist that you leave the polishing to professionals only. "If you decide to polish it, take it back to an authorized dealer who will make sure it's finished and polished properly," says Ramirez. "Once you polish a watch you remove metal" — be it steel, gold, or platinum — "that can never be put back and with that polishing you remove the original factory-created edges, contours, and curves that give the watch a lot of character. You lose that completely when you polish."

Protect your paperwork

Watch protection isn't only about maintaining the integrity of the piece of jewelry itself, but also protecting the value of a prized item. So, in addition to the above habits, experts stress the importance of holding onto all paperwork, including the certificate of authenticity, records of purchase, and even consider taking videos of your collection that you could share with your insurance company should anything happen. "Anything that comes with the watch when you buy it, even the box," says Ramirez, "adds hundreds of dollars of value to the watch, so keep all that stuff safe."

• Thanks to many direct-to-consumer watch brands, it's easy to find a good men's watch for under $250.
• Our favorite watches come from brands like Timex, Seiko, MVMT, and Linjer.
• We've gathered 9 options for the minimalist, traditionalist, and everything in between.
• For more watches, read the best women's watches and the best watches on Amazon.

A man's watch is one of the most visible signals of his personal style. Whether it's a funky neon digital throwback, a sporty chronograph, a racer, or a simple dress watch with a leather band, a good watch is the icing on the cake that is any good outfit. And today, thanks to a direct-to-consumer watch brand boom, a well-crafted and stylish timepiece can easily be found at or under $250.

Since these options feature either a standard quartz movement or are fully digital, you definitely won't be comparing movements or mechanisms like you would between luxury mechanical watch brands. Those watches feature complicated hand-crafted mechanical clock movements to keep time, which justifies the higher price tag. They also require winding and are incredibly difficult and expensive to repair. Thankfully, the watches on this list are all made of high-quality steel and boast real leather straps and other fine details. 

Another bonus at this price point? All are fully automatic, so no winding is required. In fact, the most maintenance you'll have to do for any of these is drop by a jeweler to have the battery replaced when it happens to run out every few years. Otherwise, clean with a soft cloth, store in a watch case or watch pouch, and enjoy for decades to come. 

And while the watches in this guide are marketed to men, we think anyone should feel free to wear any type of watch, regardless of gender or how the accessory is labeled. Just note that the faces of these watches are larger and the bands are wider than those marketed toward women. 

So, whether you're a horological aficionado looking to add another watch to your collection or a guy who just wants to complete his "fancy outfit" without breaking the bank, any of these options under $250 will make for a solid and stylish buy. And for some more information on water resistance and sizing, check out our tips below.

Here are 9 of the best men's watches under $250:

MVMT Blacktop International Waters

The moody monochromatic look of the MVMT Blacktop International Waters makes this one a big winner in our book. 

As one of the first and biggest direct-to-consumer watch brands to hit the market, MVMT built its reputation by selling beautiful timepieces for half the price of competitors. This particular matte gunmetal version made from stainless steel links paired with a blue-back dial is priced at under $200. Along with complementary brushed gunmetal hour and minute hands, the Blacktop International Waters also features both a 60-minute timer subdial and a running seconds subdial, which make this watch useful for everything from monitoring speaking times to timing laps. The overall sleek look means you can wear it casually to the office or dress it up with a suit.

Timex Waterbury Classic Chronograph

Hewing close to tradition, the Timex Waterbury Classic Chronograph could be mistaken for a watch ten times its price. 

A bright white dial with large, clear numerals surrounding three chronograph subdials are the main features of this classically styled and beautifully crafted timepiece. Timex's Waterbury Classic Chronograph is an example of the brand's reputation as a provider of inexpensive, but functional watches for nearly a century. This particular style goes one better with a polished stainless steel case, a rich tan leather strap, and a date window. 

And, when you want to know what time it is without waking your partner with your smartphone, there's an Indiglo light-up dial to help keep the peace. 

G-SHOCK DW5600TGA-9

As rugged as it is bright, the G-SHOCK DW4600TGA-9 may be hard to say but easy to wear during exercise or activity. 

Standing out from the rest of the watches thanks to its brash neon yellow hue, the G-SHOCK DW5600TGA-9 earns a top spot for its shock resistance, water resistance, and easy-to-program digital interface. It provides the day, date, time, and running seconds all on your wrist. If you're active and don't have a smartwatch, the G-Shock's alarm feature helps out with timed runs, while a backlight allows you to read the time in the dark. One final bonus? The throwback 90s styling scores plenty of nostalgia points with vintage tech fans. 

Seiko Essentials SNE361

Simple in style and powered by the sun, the Seiko Essentials SNE361 is understated and elegant. 

Crafted with Japanese precision and attention to detail, the Seiko Essentials SNE361 is solar-powered, with one charge providing 10 months of continual use. A rich, blue dial is highlighted by Lumibright hands, which contrasts nicely with the stainless steel of the case and bracelet. Topping it off, a rectangular window displays the day and date. At just $250, you'd be hard-pressed to find a better entry-level watch into this beloved brand.

Nixon Patrol Watch

Boldly black and gold, the Nixon Patrol Watch is perfect for looking like bling without the bill. 

Big, bold, black, and gold, the Nixon Patrol Watch is a masterpiece of contrast. The gold-colored stainless steel band and case is eye-catching, and the black face with pronounced gold markings provides beautiful contrast. Large, even numbers line the circumference of the watch face — a unique deviation from the standard odds. Plus, the watch's black second and hour hands tipped in gold. Altogether, this high-contrast piece will stand out in a crowd.

Linjer The Minimalist Watch

For a simple watch that you can wear with just about anything, the Linger Minimalist Watch is where it's at. 

Simple in design but high on style, Linjer's The Minimalist Watch takes its name seriously with its vegetable-tanned leather strap and a numberless lacquered dial. Its brushed silver case holds a sapphire glass with anti-reflective coating, as well as silver hands that sweep with a Swiss movement. A date window completes the package. 

Tissot Everytime Medium

An alligator-like leather strap and cursive numerals add a dash of class to the Tissot Everytime Medium watch. 

The cursive, slanted numerals of the Tissot Everytime Medium watch read pure class. When combined with its slim hands and classic black and white color scheme, this watch truly stands out from the rest of those on the market. Elevating this option even further is the embossed faux alligator strap — a timeless design you'll love pairing with a sleek blazer and slacks.

Tsovet JPT-CC38

A rose-gold and gray color scheme is an unexpectedly cool combination in the Tsovet JPT-CC38.

The Tsovet JPT-CC38's rose gold-plated case and gray leather strap are vastly different from the other options on this list, but that's what makes this watch special. Its hour and second subdials are set against a white matte dial with printed balck numerals and markers, and would pair well with a deep navy sweater or a gray suit. 

Bering Solar

A rose-gold and gray color scheme is an unexpectedly cool combination in the Tsovet JPT-CC38.

The Tsovet JPT-CC38's rose gold-plated case and gray leather strap are vastly different from the other options on this list, but that's what makes this watch special. Its hour and second subdials are set against a white matte dial with printed balck numerals and markers, and would pair well with a deep navy sweater or a gray suit. 

What to know about size and water resistance:

Men's watches are sized by measuring the watch case diameter. Typically, sizes range from 38mm up to the mid to high 40s. Larger cases work best with larger arms and wrists, while smaller cases can work with both small and large arms. With water resistance, a rating of 3 ATM (30m) or less means a watch is suitable for everyday wear and will resist moisture from rain and weather. A resistance rating of 5 ATM (50m) or more is suitable for all water activities and watersports aside from scuba diving.

• Senators gathered Tuesday for Fed chair nominee Kevin Warsh's confirmation hearing.
• Warsh's hawkish monetary outlook and recent financial disclosures have raised questions among lawmakers.
• Business Insider is rounding up the best Fed takes from economists and lawmakers.

Kevin Warsh is in the hot seat.

The former central bank governor is President Donald Trump's nominee to succeed Jerome Powell as chair of the Federal Reserve. Warsh has a reputation for favoring hawkish monetary policy that is tough on inflation, and he is optimistic about how AI could boost the economy.

On Tuesday morning, Warsh sat before the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs for an hourslong confirmation hearing. Senators asked the nominee about his qualifications, economic outlook, and future plans for the Fed.

Business Insider rounded up what top economists and Congressional leaders are saying about Warsh, and how he would fare as Fed chair.

Economist Paul Krugman

Krugman, a Nobel Prize-winning economist, has previously been critical of Warsh, saying that he "lacks the intellectual and moral credibility to be effective" as chair.

In a recent video posted to Substack, Krugman said, "Inflation is running hotter than it should be. The Fed has a target of 2 percent inflation on the PCE price index. It's actually running at around 3. That's not good conditions for a rate cut. The economy doesn't need a rate cut, at least it doesn't appear to right now. We're not in a recession. So technocrats at the Federal Reserve will not actually deliver the rate cuts Trump wants unless he's able to exert personal control."

Senator Thom Tillis

Republican Tillis has previously said that he would not support any of Trump's nominees to be the Fed chair due to the Trump administration's probe into Jerome Powell, which he feels threatens the bank's independence. On Tuesday, he said he likes Warsh as a candidate.

"Let's get rid of this investigation so I can support your confirmation," he said, adding, "If anybody thinks the president can appoint somebody and you unilaterally can control things, you're going to be an unsuccessful chair," he said. "If history is any guide, and you've served under some of the best, so I know you're going to do it right. The problem that I have here is that we had some US attorney with a dream thinking it would be cute to bring Chair Powell under an investigation just a few months before the position was going to be open."

Economist Mohamed A. El-Erian

Wharton professor and Allianz Chief Economic Advisor El-Erian told CNBC's "Closing Bell" Monday evening that Warsh will "err on the side of lowering rates earlier."

He added that Warsh "says Fed independence is essential" and that "independence will be protected if the Fed delivers on its dual mandate, particularly inflation." Warsh "draws a very clear line between monetary policy and other responsibilities, stressing that the Fed should stay in its lane."

"I think that statement is very well balanced," El-Erian continued. "Most people will agree with it."

Senator Elizabeth Warren

Democrat Warren said at Tuesday's hearing that she has major concerns about Warsh's financial disclosures, repeatedly calling him a "sock puppet" for Trump.

"The Fed has been plagued by deeply disturbing ethics scandals in recent years involving at least six Fed officials," she said. "So it's critical that the next chair have no financial conflicts, and you have more than $100 million in investments that you have refused to disclose to ethics officials and the public."

Warsh said he plans to divest from any potential conflicts of interest before taking the oath as chair.

John Cochrane

Chochrane, an economist at the right-leaning Hoover Institution — where Warsh has been a fellow — believes he's the right person for the job.

"A lot of commentary accuses Warsh of becoming Treasury Secretary Bessent's puppet at the Fed, and setting the Fed up to finance deficits without complaint, "Chochrane wrote in a February blog post. "I think this is exactly the opposite of what is likely to transpire. Warsh has spent over a decade saying that the Fed needs to buy less government bonds, shrink its footprint on markets, let long-term interest rate go where they want to go, and do less overall."

Economist Justin Wolfers

The economist and University of Michigan professor posted on X Tuesday morning, "Kevin Warsh just lost me."

Wolfers was reacting to a line of questioning during the confirmation hearing from Senator Warren. She asked about Warsh's ethics, financial disclosures, and commitment to central bank independence.

"He argues he's going to be an independent Fed Chair, but refuses to acknowledge that Trump lost the 2020 election," Wolfer's posted. "If you can't state simple facts when you're in the political spotlight, you aren't independent. You're a coward."

Economist Claudia Sahm

Sahm, a former Federal Reserve and White House economist under the Obama administration, wrote this week that Warsh is towing a challenging line: He "must maintain his support among Republican Senators, avoid rattling financial markets, and convince President Trump to pull the plug on the Department of Justice's criminal investigation of Powell."

She also commented on Warsh's hawkish approach to inflation. He said at Tuesday's hearing that "true inflation" should be assessed based on long-term price changes, not short-term geopolitical supply shocks.

"If inflation is the Fed's choice and forecasting is fraught, as Warsh often claims, shouldn't it be raising rates now to lower inflation?" Sahm wrote.

• Tradesy is an online-only luxury consignment store where anyone can list items to sell.
• I tried Tradesy with a $650 budget and challenged myself to stretch my cash on classic designers.
• After testing the experience, I have to admit that I like Tradesy and think it's underrated. 

Luxury consignment is having more than a moment. Buying pre-loved luxury is often cheaper and has the priceless bonus of being more sustainable. The RealReal is one of the most popular luxury resale stores, but I tried out a lesser-known option.

Tradesy is a peer-to-peer shopping platform for women's fashion. It's a lot like Poshmark but for luxury. Anyone can upload their listing and sell, and Tradesy will use authentication software to comb through photos for signs of a counterfeit. 

Even though Tradesy claims only 0.3 percent of items on the website are fake, I had doubts that any software could detect counterfeit items (which are often nearly imperceptible nowadays). I wanted to try it out and see what the platform offered in terms of product selection, ease of use, and, of course, authenticity.

Tradesy kindly shared a $650 credit. Here's how I turned that into Louboutin heels, a Prada bag, and some sassy sunglasses by Chloé.

The shopping experience

Shopping on Tradesy is straightforward, and you don't need an account to browse. It's easy to find the designers you want and refine your search by things like size, condition, and color. Plus, shipping is free! 

When I found my items, I messaged the sellers with questions like how quickly an item can ship or more about the condition it's in. The best part about the messaging feature is that you can negotiate a lower price with any seller who's open to the conversation.

Each item I purchased was successfully authenticated by Tradesy, which I discuss later. 

A breakdown of what I got and negotiated

Candy red patent pumps by Christian Louboutin, $346

These shoes are eye-catching and glamorous, and the red sole adds to their luxurious feel. They were originally listed for $420, but I noticed lots of scuffs and lots of wear on the insoles while looking at the pictures and was able to negotiate the price to $346. They came with a Christian Louboutin box, though not the original, and a Louboutin-red dust bag.

Vintage red nylon tote by Prada, $200.80

This bag is simple, beautiful, and colored a luxurious red. Though it's listed as gently used, it's still pretty stained and has enough wear on the handles to be noticeable. Taking this into account, I was able to get it for a steal: $200 instead of its original price of $250. Though it didn't come with a dust bag originally, the seller threw one in as a gift.

Burgundy framed square sunglasses by Chloé, $97

Unlike any other item I purchased, these were brand new with tags and everything. A simple pair of sunnies is a necessity for any closet, but these are a bit more of a statement piece that'll look especially good during fall months. The estimated retail price of $255 made these quite the deal.

What the authentication process was like

Once you receive your items, you have four days to start a return or request verification. Once you submit a request for verification, Tradesy will promptly email a FedEx shipping label. 

My heels were authenticated the day they were received at Tradesy's authentication center. My other items, however, took about three weeks to get back to me.

Once each item was authenticated, I received an email with reasoning behind the verification. This made me feel more confident in the verdict.

Cons to consider

Because individual sellers upload their own photos, there's a glaring lack of consistency across product shots that gives the site a cheap feeling. Additionally, sellers can list items in any condition — including falling apart.

The bigger issue is the lack of consistency in product descriptions. On Tradesy, there are fields sellers must fill out related to condition, but there's less consistency because the descriptions are largely up to sellers' opinions and biases.

The bottom line

Tradesy is definitely an underappreciated gem — I almost didn't want to write this and drive a deluge of new shoppers who might go buy all the good stuff. Though you can find some questionable items that appear to be falling apart or marred by unforgivable stains, you can also find classic items, negotiate a better price, and ship each item to Tradesy to be officially authenticated by more than the mythical software.

Writer's note: I wrote this from a buyer's perspective, but a seller may have a completely different experience based on interactions with customers and Tradesy's commission rates.

• Good American recently released Power Stretch Pull-On Jeans — a  collection of body-sculpting jeans.
• Designed to be stretchy, the collection includes three styles: skinny, flare, and straight jeans
• We tested the collection to see just how comfortable the pants really are.

I went through a phase in my early adolescence during which I only wanted to wear pull-on, stretchy pants. Eventually, I grew out of said phase and moved on to favoring jeans. Cut to my early 30s, post-pandemic, and, like most people, I find myself searching for pants that feel comfortable, but won't look like loungewear as I venture out in public again. So when Good American dropped its Power Stretch Pull-On jeans collection, not only was I hit with a tidal wave of nostalgia, I needed to try on a pair ASAP. 

Power Stretch is Good American's ultra-flexible denim. It's described as "body-sculpting" and "curve-loving," and made from a blend of cotton, recycled cotton, elasterel-P (textile fibers), recycled polyester, and elastane. The collection currently includes three styles — skinny, flare, and straight-leg — that are said to feel as lax as sweatpants, so I, and two other INSIDER editors, put the pants to the test to see for ourselves just how comfortable and body-conforming they really are. 

Sizing and fit

One of the reasons why Good American is so popular is because it values size and shape inclusivity. For example, its Power Stretch Pull-On jeans come in alpha sizes, ranging from XS to 5XL, rather than standard sizes, which reflect the average measurements of a select group of people. This is to make sure every customer feels comfortable in Good American clothing and, more importantly, that their unique body shape and size feel represented by the brand. 

When testing the Power Stretch Pull-On Jeans, I ordered a size small, or 1. My size varies from brand to brand, but normally I range from a size 0 to a size 2. I found the fit to be true to size on days when I wasn't bloated, however, because I have a digestive disorder and bloat is something I experience quite frequently, I wish I had gone up a size for a roomier fit. 

Our Reviews of Good American Power Stretch Pull-On Skinny Jeans 

No matter what Gen-Z has to say, I stan skinny jeans and will wear them until I die. The collection's skinny style conforms to the body like, well, a second skin. They're also soft and as stretchy as they're marketed to be. My only major qualm with the pair was its waistband. Standing up, I had no issue; sitting down, the band felt a little restrictive. I found myself tugging them up to my ribs for relief throughout the day. The fit is fine on an average day, but I would avoid the pair when bloated (or buy a second pair and size up). — Julia Guerra, freelance writer, Insider Reviews

This was my first experience with Good American jeans, and I was surprised how quickly they became my favorite pair in my closet. My life uniform is black skinny jeans; I've tried a lot of different pairs, and this one is by far the comfiest and best fitting. The feel is somewhere between yoga pant and traditional jean, so there's a bit of structure, but lots of stretch. They were perfect for wearing around Europe on a recent trip; they're comfortable to walk in all day and they go with pretty much everything in my suitcase. They're true to size: I typically wear a 22/24, and ordered Good American's size 6 (3X) and found they fit perfectly. I'll definitely be ordering these again once I wear this pair into the ground.  — Lauren Savoie, deputy editor, Insider Reviews

Our Reviews of Good American Power Stretch Pull-On Flare Jeans 

I've never been a fan of flare, but this pair might just convert me. I'm 5'2" and usually struggle to find flare jeans that don't swallow me up and bunch and pool at my feet, but these were a great length. Once I put on a pair of heels, the final look was exactly what I'd been hoping for. Similar to the skinny style, my biggest issue was the waistband, but otherwise, I'll definitely wear them again. — Julia Guerra, freelance writer, Insider Reviews

Our Review of Good American Power Stretch Pull-On Straight Jeans

When I first ordered these jeans, I thought they'd fit more like a kick-flare pair since they look a little cropped on the model. But at 5'1", they ended up fitting more like extra-long skinny jeans with a tiny bit of room around the ankle. I had to roll these several times to get them to a reasonable length, so I'd say they probably aren't the best for shorter folks. I did like how stretchy they were, but I'd probably pair them with oversized sweaters to hide the waistband, which doesn't even have the illusion of a button. Overall, they're not my favorite stretch jeans aesthetically, but the comfort level makes them a great work-from-home staple. — Sally Kaplan, executive editor, Insider Reviews

Cons to consider

While stretch is the key attribute of Good American's jeans, they may not be for everyone. If you're looking for traditional denim that's naturally stiff or fitted with a button and zipper closure, you'll want to choose different jeans.

The bottom line

Good American Power Stretch Pull-On Jeans have a place in everyone's wardrobe. Whether you've been searching for jeans to help sculpt your figure or a pair of jeans to wear when you'd rather be wearing sweatpants, these are it. Each of us have different body types, but we all liked them for the comfort and stretch.

Shop the Good American Power Stretch Pull-On Jeans here.

Sometimes the simplest toys are the most enjoyable, and anyone who grew up in the '70s or later likely remembers the thrill of one of the simplest: the Sit 'n Spin. If I hadn't been sent an editorial review sample to test, I undoubtedly would have bought one for my daughter. 

A toy that is so classic and memorable has a lot to live up to, and I hoped it would stand the test of time. My daughter has water tables, dollhouses that are taller than she is, and access to thousands of movies and TV shows at the click of a button. But in the '90s, I had a hose and a TV that only got a few channels. 

Even with so many things competing for my daughter's attention, she's drawn to the Sit 'n Spin. My husband and I gave her a crash course in using it, and just like that, it was a hit. Like many kids, my daughter delights in getting as dizzy as possible, so any time she feels the urge, off to the Sit 'n Spin she goes. 

How the Sit 'n Spin works

If you've never used or seen a Sit 'n Spin before, the concept is simple: Kids sit on a round platform and use a wheel that juts out of the center to spin themselves. They can go as fast or slow as they want, and can operate the toy completely independently. 

I'm well beyond the age of enjoying the feeling of being dizzy, but I remember thinking a Sit 'n Spin was like having my own personal amusement park ride. If you want to take your kids to a carnival or amusement park but aren't sure how they'll handle spinning rides, this is the ultimate trial run. 

The Sit 'n Spin isn't just fun, though. This toy is excellent for developing gross motor skills and core strength. It also helps kids work on their balance and coordination. 

A few pointers before you buy a Sit 'n Spin

The manufacturer recommends the Sit 'n Spin for kids ages 18 months to 5 ½ years. My daughter was 22 months old when she first tried it, and even though she's within the recommended age range, I wasn't sure if she would be able to operate it. She certainly proved me wrong when she picked it up on her second try. 

The Sit 'n Spin is rather small, so I would actually recommend it for kids on the lower end of the recommended age range. My daughter is 2 now and the size is just right for her, but kids closer to 5½ might be too big. Additionally, the weight limit is 42 pounds; some kids might reach this weight before they hit the upper age limit. 

I found that the toy works best on harder surfaces — it didn't spin as well when we tried it on carpet. Of course, if you use it on a hard surface, carefully monitor your child in case they lose balance and fall off. 

The bottom line

When I watch my daughter spin around freely with squeals of delight, I'm instantly transported back to the '90s, when sticky hands from popsicles were a regular occurrence and my biggest concern was keeping my Tamagotchi alive. So, should you buy a Sit 'n Spin for your child? Absolutely, yes. 

There's nothing that compares to the carefree feeling of spinning endlessly, and the joy of passing down a beloved toy and activity from one generation to the next is a bonus. 

• A new study suggests the rise of young colon cancer may be linked to a common weed killer.
• More evidence is needed to tie the herbicide definitively to young colon cancer.
• It's a first clue for what may be behind this trend. Scientists are studying bacterial infections, too.

A new study suggests a common weed killer may be linked to the mysterious global rise of young colorectal cancer.

The first-of-its kind study published Tuesday in the journal Nature Medicine, suggests that picloram — a herbicide used globally to kill woody plants and shrubs while keeping grasses intact — could explain the rising incidence of colon and rectal cancer cases in people under 50.

Picloram did not appear to be significantly linked to cases of colorectal cancer in adults over 70 years old, which are most common.

Jose Seoane, a computational biologist and the senior author of the study, told Business Insider his team set out to look for unique DNA methylation "signatures" in colorectal cancer tumors, which can be imprinted by the things we are exposed to over a lifetime.

Those exposures can leave a tell-tale "fingerprint" on our DNA methylation, the mechanism that controls how and when our genes turn on and off.

Young colon cancer cases tend to have DNA "fingerprints" linked to certain exposures

Seoane's team found that certain "fingerprints" appeared in the DNA of young colorectal cancer tumors they studied, and those fingerprints were linked back to exposures, including:

• Smoking
• Poor diets, lacking fresh vegetables, beans, nuts and other "Mediterranean" staples
• Obesity
• Educational attainment (which is also linked to poorer diets)
• and finally, the weed killer picloram

"When we saw picloram, we were like, okay, this has to be a mistake," Seoane, a principal investigator at the Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology in Barcelona, said.

So, his team set out to look for any other explanation for their results, but they "haven't seen anything" yet, he said.

Then, his team checked to see if this same pattern persisted across populations, comparing the incidence of young colorectal cancer in seven US states, including California, Connecticut, Georgia, Iowa, New Mexico, Utah, and Washington, to the level of county-wide pesticide use. The strongest pesticide signal of all tied to higher rates of young colon cancer was for picloram. (In second place was glyphosate.)

Because this study is observational, it can't prove that picloram is causing the cancers, and more work will need to be done to collect tumor samples from young cancer patients who lived in areas where picloram was in high use.

"It could be that where you live or what you work with could be more associated with the risk," Seoane said.

Picloram, which was developed in the 1960s, was one of many herbicides used in the "agents" the US Military used to clear forest during the Vietnam War. It works by disrupting the way plant hormones normally function, and can persist in the soil for years.

Other scientists are investigating if gut bacteria is linked to young colon cancer

This new research on picloram is simply a first clue, and much more research is needed to confirm that it's contributing to young colon cancer.

Cancer researchers have been racing to find environmental drivers of young colon cancer, which has been on the rise for more than three decades. In 2021, the US lowered the initial screening recommendation for colonoscopies from 50 to 45 years old, due to the mysterious trend, which experts agree is likely caused by a combination of modern lifestyle factors.

Last April, researchers discovered another potential link between young colon cancer and colibactin bacteria infections in early life. It's possible that specially designed probiotics could, one day, help combat that potential threat.

"Everything is on the table right now," cancer epidemiologist Rebecca Siegel, the senior scientific director of surveillance research at the American Cancer Society, told Business Insider.

Siegel, who was not involved in the picloram study, emphasized that more work will be needed to corroborate the finding. "I think this is an important step forward in the exploration of newer exposures that may be contributing to the rise," she said.

Robin Mesnage, a visiting research fellow at King's College London who studies the gut microbiome, said in a statement that the study is "fascinating" and "well done," but also cautioned it doesn't prove a definitive link between picloram and young colon cancer, since exposure to the herbicide wasn't directly measured in any of the patients studied.

It could be, he said, that other substances that were historically mixed in with picloram during the manufacturing process, like the known carcinogen hexachlorobenzene, could also be at play.

"It is always important to remember that real-world exposures involve not just the active ingredient, but also co-formulants and potential contaminants," he added.

The Insider Picks team writes about stuff we think you'll like. Business Insider has affiliate partnerships, so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

• Cuisinart's ICE-30 is a $70 ice cream maker that allows you to easily make healthy, delicious ice cream and sorbet at home. It can make up to two pints of ice cream at once, and it's four-piece single-setting design make it simple to understand.
• I was able to make homemade ice cream that had far fewer ingredients than the store bought brands I was used to, without sacrificing the creamy texture and rich taste I'm used to.
• The ICE-30 does take longer to make ice cream than higher end machines, but they cost several times more. Another thing to consider is that the ICE-30 will take up a fair amount of counter or cupboard space
• If you're looking to make custom ice cream flavors, or want to make healthier sorbets you can indulge in more often, the ICE-30 is an excellent appliance.

Whether you cook every day or once in a while, it's easy to separate food into two categories: something you can make, and something you'll buy at the store. Until recently, I thought ice cream would stay an occasional indulgence I picked up with the rest of my groceries, but Cuisinart's ICE-30 proved me wrong.

The ice cream maker took the top spot in our best ice cream makers guide because of its large size, ease of use, easy-to-clean design, creamy results, and relatively cheap $70 price tag. It's also one of the top-rated options on Amazon, with over 2,400+ 5-star reviews. After using it for myself, the ICE-30 has convinced me anyone is capable of making delicious ice cream at home.

Cuisinart's ICE-30 only has four parts and one setting, so it's almost impossible to mess up.

One of the ICE-30's biggest strengths is its simplicity. It's made up of four parts:

• A base, which houses the motor and electronics. 
• A bowl, which holds your ice cream mixture and rotates when the machine's motor is running. The bowl is big enough to make up to two pints of ice cream at once, and must be kept in the freezer before churning.
• A lid, which fits on top of the base to keeps your ice cream mixture from splattering as you pour it into the bowl. The hole on the top of the lid also makes it easy to add extra ingredients to your ice cream as it's being mixed.
• A disher, which is a plastic piece that sits in the bowl, scraping frozen ice cream off its sides as it turns.

To use the ICE-30, you plug the base into an outlet, take the bowl out of the freezer and place it on top, stick the disher into the middle of the bowl, and put the lid on top. Then you pour in the cold ice cream mixture, flip the single switch on the front of the ice cream maker to turn it on, and wait about 20 minutes

In that time, the ICE-30 will turn the mixture from a liquid to the consistency of a thick milkshake by scraping the mixture that's stuck to the sides of the frozen bowl with the disher. You'll transfer that mixture to a container, place it in the fridge for a few hours, and get ice cream that has the same texture as what you'd expect from a pint you'd get from the store.

Once the ice cream is out of the mixing bowl, you can easily wash the bowl and disher with water, a little soap, and a sponge.

The beauty of using this machine is that it's nearly impossible to mess up because there's only one switch, (on and off,) and one speed setting. The only risk is letting the ice cream maker run for too long. The motor inside the ICE-30 is only supposed to run long enough to churn your ice cream mixture into a semi-solid; if it runs much longer than 20 minutes, the mixture get too thick, and the resistance from the disher scraping the sides of the bowl will burn it out.

Higher-end ice cream makers don't require you to pre-freeze your bowl, or worry about burning out the motor, but they cost several times more than the ICE-30, which makes them a far greater luxury.

I made ice cream using the ICE-30, and it turned out way better than I expected it to. The result was the vanilla you see above. I think it's superior to what you can buy at the store in a couple of ways:

• First, you can create your own flavors, mix in your own toppings, and customize the texture of your ice cream by adjusting how much sugar, milk, and heavy cream you use. 
• Second, you know exactly what ingredients are going in, which means it will be free of ingredients like high fructose corn syrup, or any additives commercial ice cream makers include to help ice cream last longer in supermarket freezer.

Ice cream will never be considered good for you, but the two pints of vanilla I made myself only had five ingredients. If you're a health conscious sweets person, the ICE-30 can help you feel a little better about indulging. 

Although it's earned a place in my kitchen, there are a couple of potential downsides you should consider before getting one for yourself.

First, between the time it takes to chill your mixture before it gets in the machine, and the time it takes to freeze after you take it out, the whole ice cream making process will take almost an entire day. This isn't a problem that's unique to the ICE-30, but it's something you should know before making ice cream at home. 

Second, The ICE-30 is a single-use kitchen appliance that takes up quite a bit of space. It's 10.5" wide, 10.9" deep, and 16" tall, so you'll be giving up a fair amount of counter or cupboard space for the convenience of making your own ice cream. 

If you can get over those two hurdles, Cuisinart's ICE-30 deserves a spot in your kitchen. It's easy to use and produces delicious (and potentially healthy) dessert. I'm not even a huge sweets person, but the ice cream I made was so good I can't wait to use the ICE-30 even more.

Cuisinart ICE-30 Pure Indulgence Frozen Yogurt Sorbet & Ice Cream Maker, $69.98, available at Amazon

• Apple is making a major leadership change this fall as hardware chief John Ternus succeeds CEO Tim Cook.
• Ternus must decide how much he wants to invest in Apple TV, the tech titan's small streamer.
• Apple's CEO decision "reinforces a reality the company has always been a device company first," one analyst said.

Does incoming Apple CEO John Ternus care about the tech giant's Hollywood side hustle?

Ternus has a lot to figure out as he takes over for longtime CEO Tim Cook, from Apple's AI strategy to its next hit product. One lower-stakes decision he'll have to make is what to do with Apple TV, the small video streamer that the company hasn't said is profitable.

"Streaming has long been adjacent to Apple's mission," Mike Proulx, the marketing research director at Forrester, told Business Insider. "With Ternus at the helm, that strategy is unlikely to change."

Ternus, who's been Apple's hardware chief, will have to decide whether Apple TV is worth serious investment.

"Apple TV does not yet make sense as a stand-alone business," said Brandon Katz, the insights director at entertainment research firm Greenlight Analytics.

Hardware is still the core of Apple

Apple's biggest strength, aside from its brand, is category-defining hardware such as iPhones, iPads, and Macs. Under Cook, Apple expanded into wearables like the Apple Watch and AirPods, as well as the pricey Apple Vision Pro headset that never took off.

Cook also built Apple's Services division, which includes Apple TV and Apple Music, into a 12-figure business. Apple uses those subscriptions and Apple One, which bundles services along with iCloud storage, as a way to keep its customers in its ecosystem.

Still, Apple's core is its hardware business.

"Apple appointing John Ternus as CEO reinforces a reality — the company has always been a device company first," Proulx said.

Proulx compared Apple's CEO succession decision to Disney's. The Mouse House recently elevated Josh D'Amaro to CEO after he spent years running its lucrative Experiences business.

While Disney's streaming business is crucial to its future, its cruises and theme parks are the profit engines that power the company. Similarly, Apple's Services division is a key growth lever, though the bulk of its revenue comes from selling phones, tablets, and laptops.

Within Apple Services, some businesses are also especially profitable. The company doesn't break down its financials by service, though taking a cut of in-app purchases is much easier than producing prestige TV shows and original movies.

Apple TV is making progress, but is it enough?

Apple TV has notched some major wins since its launch in 2019, but it's unclear how much its namesake streamer is moving the needle financially — if at all.

Apple's streamer has a growing library of critically acclaimed shows like "Severance," live sports like Formula 1, and mainstream hits like "Ted Lasso," which was the most-watched original show on streaming in 2023, according to Nielsen.

"The streamer is capable of delivering mainstream hits in the competitive streaming marketplace despite its comparatively small size," Katz said.

Last fall, Apple Services chief Eddy Cue said Apple TV had "significantly more" than the 45 million global subscribers that some reports had suggested, though the company has never publicly disclosed figures. For comparison, Paramount+ has close to 80 million subscribers, Disney has nearly 200 million customers across Disney+ and Hulu, and Netflix said it had 325 million subscribers at the end of 2025.

Apple TV has never charted on Nielsen's Gauge measurement of TV viewership share in the US. For reference, Peacock — which had 44 million subscribers at the end of 2025 — generates between 1.5% and 2% share most months.

There are some encouraging signs for Apple TV.

Apple's streaming service averaged 2.1 million monthly sign-ups in the US from March 2025 to last month, according to data firm Antenna. That's in line with Disney+ and HBO Max and well above Netflix, though the already-massive streamer has less room for growth. Antenna also found that Apple TV's monthly cancellation rate had fallen from 6.3% last March to 4.8% last month. (Meanwhile, Netflix's quit rate has been steady at around 2%.)

Unlike its Hollywood rivals, Apple doesn't need hundreds of millions of subscribers to succeed, since it uses streaming to support other businesses like its hardware and its Apple One bundle.

At the same time, Ternus certainly doesn't want to waste money that could be put elsewhere, like into AI investments.

The analysts who spoke with Business Insider didn't think Apple would give up on Hollywood anytime soon. Some said the tech titan should strengthen its streamer by licensing content, though. Katz said an acquisition of Lionsgate could reinforce Apple's library and boost streaming engagement.

"The real test for Ternus will be whether he empowers his streaming team creatively," Proulx said. "Apple TV succeeds not by acting like Netflix, but by acting like Apple."

• The Calphalon Even Sear Indoor Electric Multi-Grill ($149.99 on Calphalon) can help make a ton of delicious bites from pancakes to steak with ease.
• It can be set to temperatures up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit and the removable plates are easy to wash while a drip tray catches any grease or fluids that build up during cooking.
• The ceramic cooking surfaces quickly and evenly distributes heat, ensuring fast and reliable cooking with each use.
• See more: The best cast iron skillets and pans

About a decade ago, I bought a cheap panini press from a discount shop. For the next few months, I enjoyed plenty of hot sandwiches from basic grilled cheese and tuna melts to hot ham and chicken paninis. Then one day, a dim light went off in my mind as I realized what so many had figured out before me: I could use the thing to make so much more than just sandwiches.

The panini press is technically just two hot surfaces that could be pressed close to one another, so I started using it to grill burgers, cook hash browns, sear fish, and so much more. It was less hassle than firing up the grill outside and quicker than baking or even pan frying in many cases. But as to be expected with cheap appliances, eventually the press passed its prime. The nonstick surface suffered multiple scratches, the locking lever failed, and the heating became uneven.

Calphalon's Even Sear Indoor Electric Multi-Grill, however, is not a cheap appliance. When this electric griddle first launched, it was $250 but prices hover around $150 or even lower on sale, which equates to three of the aforementioned cheap panini presses. It's worth the small investment though — this Multi-Grill is easily three times better than any cheap appliance in terms of quality and performance.

Read more: Appliances and tools that we swear by in the kitchen

It features a dial that can be set to temperatures between 200 and 450 degrees Fahrenheit so you can use the grill to prepare anything from delicate fish to a thick steak, or use the low warming setting to keep pancakes warm as you make a big batch. Of course, you can close it over and press down on that panini sandwich or have it lie totally flat as a griddle with enough space for up to eight hamburger patties or plenty of bacon and eggs.

The Multi-Grill has two sets of removable plates, one of which has raised stripes for those perfect grill marks and the other which is flat and ideal for omelets or pancakes. The plates are removable, easy to clean, and have nonstick surfaces too.

The "Even Sear" part of the name is due to a heat distribution system threaded through each plate and the thick ceramic coating on the grill surfaces. The entire cooking area warms up quickly and evenly, so you don't have to worry about any awkward hot or cold spots. And thanks to a digital timer displayed on the LCD screen, you can keep track of your cooking time without having to constantly check your phone.

So is $149.99 expensive for a glorified panini press? Sure. But this isn't a another cheap one-trick-pony panini press, it's a genuine electric grill. And even if it was just a regular panini press, now you've learned how to hack it — and hopefully a lot faster than it took me too. 

• I love to grill, and this BBQ sauce from Kansas City is my absolute favorite.
• The Jack Stack sauce tastes great on everything from burnt ends to chicken.
• You can get a two-pack on Amazon for $20.

Memphis has their ribs, Texas has their oak-smoked brisket, and the Carolinas have their whole-hog cookouts, but Kansas City is the best place to eat all kinds of BBQ. 

From delectable burnt ends to fatty cuts of brisket, Kansas City is known for embracing multiple types of BBQ meat. Unlike the mustard-based Carolina sauces that can taste a little sour, Kansas City drenches their BBQ in a sweeter, tomato-based sauce. 

As someone who worked in a BBQ restaurant for a year to help pay for college, I have firsthand experience making oversized batches of homemade sauce and trying to get that perfect blend of ingredients.

Making BBQ sauce at home can be time-consuming, so this sauce from Fiorella's Jack Stack Barbecue is what I keep stocked in my fridge to lather on almost every kind of meat.

This BBQ sauce from Fiorella’s Jack Stack in Kansas City is delicious, and a two-pack costs $20 on Amazon.

Recently, I used this BBQ sauce when grilling chicken. It also tastes great on ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and French fries.

The sauce isn't overly sweet and has a pleasant, smoky flavor that pairs especially well with chicken. Some of the main ingredients include tomato paste, sugar, distilled vinegar, brown sugar, hot sauce, dehydrated onion and garlic, molasses, and Worcestershire sauce.

I brush the sauce on the chicken while it's still on the grill.

When grilling, I swear by charcoal. (Sorry Hank Hill, no propane grilling for this household.) Brushing the Jack Stack sauce on the chicken while it is grilling really lets the flavors soak in.

In addition, I recommend this dry rub from Jack Stack for seasoning chicken.

A quality dry rub is essential, and this one from Jack Stack has the perfect amount of garlic. The inclusion of celery seeds in the dry rub imbues the meat with a pleasant, earthy flavor.  This rub is salt-based, so I would not recommend it if you are on a low-sodium diet.

Before putting our chicken on the grill, I coat it with the Jack Stack dry rub. It instantly elevates plain chicken into something flavorful and vibrant.

For more products that can take your grill game to the next level, check out Insider's roundup of the best grills and grilling accessories.

• Retail investors who spoke with Business Insider weren't panicking during the Iran war.
• Those who were in the market during the conflict say they were scanning for opportunities.
• Some said they were unbothered by the heavy volatility, as it created openings to buy stocks.

Retail money gets a bad wrap as "unsophisticated," but the Iran war has proven that the cohort is adept at navigating volatility.

In a matter of weeks, the war tanked stocks, sent oil prices spiraling, and scrambled the world economic outlook.

But day traders — a group known for their penchant for meme-stock mania and buying any dip — appeared to do just fine. Some even thrived amid the volatility.

While some admitted it wasn't easy to look at their portfolios, retail investors who traded the Iran war said they largely kept their cool as markets whipsawed. Many opted to hold on to their investments, while others jumped on the opportunity to scoop up more stocks at a discount.

"The volatility is a blessing"

Three traders who spoke to Business Insider said the situation in the Middle East has been a helpful reminder: volatility is a trader's friend.

Carmine Rosato, a 27-year-old day trader based in New Jersey, said he has embraced the big swings. When markets are rocky, he starts to scan the environment more aggressively for opportunities, such as checking markets more frequently after-hours.

"I think the volatility is a blessing. When there's volatility, there's a lot of opportunity, it's how I look at it," Rosato, who's been trading stocks for 10 years and says he has no long-term investments, told Business Insider in an interview.

Rosato said he feels some concern when markets go haywire, but he's used to keeping his emotions separate from work and uses risk management tools like stop losses, which automatically exit a trade once losses reach a certain level. He has also recently reduced the size of his trades by around 50% to cut down on risk.

"As traders, short-term traders, we want this volatility to last forever," he said, describing the opportunities and anxiety that often come with volatility as a double-edged sword. "It's kind of almost having FOMO if you're away from it, because you may miss an opportunity," he said.

Bilaal Dhalech, a 30-year-old trader in Toronto, says he's been stressed since the Iran war broke out, but he's using the volatility as an opportunity to hunt for deals.

"It's never fun seeing your portfolio drop 10% in a couple days thanks to the president's tweets," Dhalech said, referring to confusion in markets during the war as President Donald Trump delivered updates on social media.

"It's stressful monitoring the situation when they announce a war and no war in the same hour. Last year with tariffs, I wasn't too worried, but this time felt different," he added.

Dhalech says he has a few coping mechanisms to deal with his anxiety in markets, such as carving out time to step away from the markets to hit the gym or go for a walk. He also talks out his feelings about the markets with his friends and people in his Discord community.

"At the same time, I stick to my long-term plan — buy good companies when they go on sale," he said.

A bird's-eye view of what retail traders did in March shows a textbook case of buying the dip. Individual traders initially slowed their purchases as stocks slid lower last month, with retail daily net flows trending lower each week through early April, according to data from Vanda Research.

Flows picked up on April 8, about a week after the S&P 500 bottomed. A trader who purchased the S&P 500 that week has enjoyed a gain of more than 4%.

The decline in trading activity reflects both a broader risk-off move in markets and the seasonal trend of retail traders pulling back until tax day, Viraj Patel, a global macro strategist at Vanda, told Business Insider.

Importantly, though, traders also "sold the rip." Data from JPMorgan shows that just as retail bought into weakness, they sold into strength, even timing their sales just before new bouts of weakness struck. On March 23, as the S&P 500 spiked more than 2% in a day, retail became net sellers of stocks and ETFs for the first time in nine months.

Minwoo Lim, a 28-year-old trader based in Dubai, said he wasn't stressed at all about investing when the Iran war broke out. As the conflict escalated, he took profits by creating long positions on oil and short positions on gold, which tumbled as markets repriced their expectations for Fed rate cuts.

Lim said he was actively seeking additional investment opportunities and plans to keep looking for deals as volatility continues to wane.

"I don't know where it's going to move to. It's just based on what Trump says," he said of why he still felt a little uncertain about market moves with the US and Iran still struggling to reach a lasting peace agreement.

• The RealReal is a luxury consignment store. You can shop secondhand, authenticated designer goods online or in the app for a fraction of their original price.
• We've purchased Chanel heels, Dior boots, Equipment silk blouses, Hermès ties, and designer dresses on the site, and have had good experiences so far. 
• Typically, you can return items for a refund or credit. If you return the item by bringing it to a physical TRR store, you'll also save yourself the cost of shipping. 
• There's often a 20% off discount with the code "REAL" at checkout, though some designer goods are excluded. 
• Read more: ThredUP rewards you for cleaning out your closet while donating to those in need — here's what it's like to use

A few years ago, I stopped buying fast fashion and mostly new clothing. The incentives for the "fewer, better" methodology of shopping were compelling: more closet space, nicer clothes, a lower carbon footprint, and far better returns on my investments. 

Alongside a Rent the Runway subscription that fills my wardrobe gaps, an integral part of this new practice has been buying secondhand. And, because I don't have the time nor the eye to unearth diamonds in the rough of my local vintage stores, I've found myself frequently using The RealReal. 

What The RealReal is

The RealReal is an online marketplace of luxury consignment goods — from clothing to jewelry to fine art to home decor. It also has brick-and-mortar stores in select cities. You can find everything from Chanel earrings and bags, Rolex watches, Prada boots, Gucci loafers, and Miu Miu sunglasses to J Brand jeans and Reformation sundresses for a fraction of their original price. It also doesn't hurt that the site seems to have a habitual 20% off discount with the code "REAL" — although items like $3,000 designer Chanel bags are typically excluded. 

Membership options

TRR has three memberships — one free and two paid — that award higher-paying members with upgrades and a head start on deals. Free members get TRR's daily curated sales email, while First Look members ($10/month) also get 24-hour advance access to sales, 24-hour advance waitlist notifications, and First Look only promotions. In the top tier, First Look Platinum members ($30/month) get all those perks plus unlimited upgrades to two-day shipping.

The company has an in-house team that inspects luxury items to verify that they're the real deal

To minimize the chances that you're overpaying for an excellent dupe instead of underpaying for a designer bag, the site authenticates everything. According to TRR, a team of more than 100 experts, which includes gemologists, horologists, and luxury brand authenticators, physically inspects thousands of items every day. The RealReal ensures that everything it sells is 100% authentic (you can read about the qualifications of its authenticators here). However, it's important to note that TRR has not always succeeded; one CNBC investigation in 2019 found the company had room to improve where counterfeits are concerned.

It's also worth noting that not every designer has fetched high-end prices because of characteristics that have made their items an inherently better value, like their use of truly superior design and materials. For some items, their cultural currency has not outlived their heyday. But, the promise that you'll find $400 off something that does deserve a designer price is what keeps you scrolling. And the allure of designer goods makes TRR exciting where other secondhand shops can feel exhausting, with too few treasures to warrant the hours of searching that they require. 

In our experience, your scrolling is often rewarded; I bought my boyfriend an Hermès tie for the holidays and myself Dior boots for under $100 each. Senior editor Sally Kaplan bought a pair of strappy Chanel shoes for her wedding on the site. 

In other words, it's not your average secondhand marketplace. If it were a dating app, TRR would be an unpretentious iteration of The League.

TRR is the best presentation of secondhand designer goods that I've found. The common downfalls of both online and brick-and-mortar consignment shops are converted into TRR's strengths.

Where other platforms feel crowded and busy, TRR is clean and legible. Similar to ThredUp and dissimilar to Poshmark, TRR's marketplace is managed by the company and not by individuals. For this reason, there's a useful uniformity to the presentation and categorization of the items.

TRR photos are also well-lit, high-res, and offer potential buyers multiple angles. Clothing isn't so wrinkled that the length of a dress is hard to determine, which I've found elsewhere. 

And, when searching for a brand, shoppers can type in "Rag & Bone" or "Gucci" and find a singular homepage for each designer rather than 15 different landing pages because sellers used a slightly different spelling or capitalization. If shoppers like a specific style but it's out of stock, they can put it on their waitlist and, the next time someone else sends it into TRR, the company will notify them that there's another one available.

The RealReal's app mimics an upscale department store's shopping app

Mostly, though, I'd be remiss not to mention the app. The interface is clean and intuitive like a department store and decidedly unlike a crowded vintage shop that has so many hangers on a rack that you can only see one-third of every item on it. 

The TRR app also offers personalization. You can create a wishlist of items you've "hearted" as well as folders of saved filters; I have one for my favorite designers, and another for everything on the site in my standard sizes. When I'm in need of a particular item, I head to TRR to see if I can get a great deal on something special, high-quality, and normally out of my price range if it weren't pre-owned.

TRR doesn't offer free shipping, so you're incentivized to buy in bulk if there are multiple pieces you like. Returns must be requested within 14 days of the in-store purchase date or the original shipment date of online orders, and all returns must be received by TRR within 21 days. You can drop it off at a store for free, or the site can email you a shipping label to use for a fee of $11.95.

Here's what it's like to shop using TRR, which you can do on a desktop or through their app: 

You can shop easily by item category, designer, sale, or age group.

You can filter results by size and preferences like color, designer, price, and whether or not you can find it in a physical store near you.

The site also lists the condition of each item. And TRR indicates which designer items tend to hold onto value over time with the "smart investment" sticker.

You can create "saved searches" to save yourself time and utilize customization. TRR will also use these saved searches to create a shopping list of items it thinks you'll like.

Items you "heart" will be saved into your "obsessions" — or, in other words, a wish list.

When you put an item in your cart, you'll have 20 minutes to check out. For other shoppers, the item will show as "on hold" during that timeframe.

Typically, TRR offers 20% off with the coupon code "REAL" at checkout. Shipping isn't free, so you're incentivized to purchase in bulk more often than piece-by-piece.

Once you've ordered something, you can track its movements through the app or by opting to receive text updates.

• While a lot of plastic can be recycled, most of it never makes its way to the recycling bin — instead it ends up in landfills that pollute our waterways. The levels of plastic pollution in our oceans are so high, it's been predicted that by 2050 plastic will outweigh fish in the ocean.
• New York is the latest entity to impose a single-use plastic bag ban. Whether you live in the state or not, this effort sheds light on the fact that we could all reduce our consumption of single-use plastics.
• If you're looking for plastic bag alternatives, check out our list of seven great options below. They're just as convenient and affordable, and they all look much cooler than plastic bags. 

In terms of materials, plastic is about as ubiquitous as they come. It's everywhere — one of the main ingredients in the majority of items we encounter every day. We get our groceries packed in plastic bags. We squeeze shampoo, conditioners, and lotion out of plastic bottles. Our takeout bags are filled with plastic containers and plastic utensils. 

A lot of plastic products can be recycled, but the majority of them just end up in landfills and go on to pollute our oceans. A report from the Ellen MacArthur Foundation predicts that by 2050, plastic in the oceans will outweigh fish. If we keep disposing of plastic at the rate we're going, in 31 years there will be about 850-950 million tons of plastic in the ocean, and only 812-899 million tons of fish. 

Looking at those harrowing numbers can be overwhelming — as an individual, it's hard to imagine that our small actions could move the needle at all. But we have to start somewhere.

Reducing your own single-use plastic bag consumption is an environmentally, not to mention fiscally, responsible move. And, these days it couldn't be easier to ditch single-use plastic — there are so many brands offering reusable alternatives that are more affordable and much better looking than plastic bags anyway.

If you're looking to find some great reusable plastic bag alternatives, keep reading for 7 cool, convenient, and affordable options:

Baggu Reusable Bags

Baggu Reusable Bags, from $10, available at Baggu and Amazon

Baggu's nylon reusable bags can hold between 30 to 50 pounds worth of stuff, but can also fold up into a little five-by-five-inch pouch for easy storage. The bags come in a wide range of cute colors and patterns, made from a non-recycled ripstop nylon ($10) or an option made with 40% recycled nylon, sourced from pre-consumer waste. Use your Baggu in place of plastic bags at the grocery store or as a tote bag to carry literally anything else. Plus, for every reusable bag sold during the month of April, Baggu will donate $0.10 to the Surfrider Foundation to help keep plastic pollution out of the ocean.

BahrEco Produce Bags

BahrEco Reusable Mesh Produce Bags, $8.97, available at Amazon

Most of us have become accustomed to putting all of our fresh produce into plastic bags when we go grocery shopping. These bags offer a solution that's just as convenient, but a lot more eco-friendly. They're made from a breathable mesh that's easy to fold, take on the go, and clean — just throw the bags in the washing machine when it's time for a wash. Drawstrings keep your food secure and the color-coded tops help you separate and organize produce. For just $10, you get five multipurpose bags that can go beyond just produce too — use them to store toys and small accessories, or even in lieu of packing cubes when you travel. 

Society6 Canvas Tote Bags

Society6 Canvas Tote Bags, from $19.99, available at Society6

Swapping plastic grocery bags out for a reusable canvas option is a simple way to lessen your environmental impact, and maybe even save some money doing it — stores like Trader Joe's and Whole Foods will give you a discount on your purchase for bringing your own bags. If you're looking for a bag with a great aesthetic, check out Society6. All of the canvas tote bags have the same simple shape, but each is printed with a unique design from an actual artist. It won't be hard to find something that fits your style, whether that's a colorful abstract print or a group of avocados doing yoga.

Zero Waste Net Bag

Natural Teether Supply Reusable Net Bag, $17.50, available at Etsy

This french filet bag is totally on trend, evoking dreams of strolling through Paris with fresh produce and baguettes in tow. Sling this over your shoulder before heading to the grocery store or out on the town — the crocheted cotton can expand to fit just about anything you want to put inside. These bags are particularly eco-friendly, and are handmade with lead-free dyes. There's also an option (for an extra $4) to get yours made with organic cotton. 

Canvas Market Bag

Italic Home Reusable Canvas Market Bag, $30, available at Etsy

This reusable canvas tote is a fun replacement for plastic, or even for boring paper. It looks just like a real paper bag, but it's much sturdier and you can use it again and again. Even if you're not heading to the grocery store, this makes for a great tote bag. 

Baggain Recycled Denim Bags

Baggain Recycled Denim Bags, from $25, available at Etsy

These bags aren't just a sustainable alternative to plastic, they're made with sustainable processes, too — the outer fabrics are all recycled denim. 

Apolis Jute Market Bags

Apolis Jute Market Bags, from $58, available at Apolis

These bags are definitely more expensive, but they make a great gift for any socially and environmentally-conscious friends. Apolis is a certified B Corp, with a mission to create social change through business. Apolis has created jobs in its local Los Angeles, as well as countries across the world. The price reflects the brand's commitment to not only high-quality products, but environmental and ethical accountability. The bags look very nice, are very sturdy, have a waterproof interior that makes them perfect for towing to the grocery store — plus all of the bags are printed with fun sayings.

Men's ankle boots are one of the most versatile categories of fall footwear. Whether you're looking to elevate a casual outfit of jeans and a sweater or want to give your suit a little swagger, go for a pair of Chelsea boots, chukkas, zipper boots, Jodhpurs, or plain or cap-toe boots. Any of these styles will accentuate the length of the leg, and give you a bit of added height, all with a refined sensibility that helps unify your look. 

A real standout in this roundup is the Taft Dylan boot, which is unique without being over the top. It's handcrafted in Spain using Italian leather and Blake stitching for a comfortable fit and easy resoling. Taft's boots, beyond their stellar looks, are also super comfortable. Another obvious winner is the Blundstone Chelsea boot. We've included the dark green version, which besides being handsome enough for a night out, is built to take on harsh conditions, so you don't have to fret when faced with rain, snow, or mud. 

While the boots in this roundup use standard men's sizing, many brands offer inclusive sizing. The styles you'll see here can suit anyone, but if you're looking for smaller sizes, see our guide to the best ankle boots for women.

New Republic Sonoma Suede Chelsea Boot

New Republic's Sonoma suede Chelsea boot can go toe-to-toe with much pricier brands thanks to its high-quality materials and construction, and impeccable style.

New Republic is a direct-to-consumer footwear brand that produces incredibly stylish, well-made boots that can go toe-to-toe with high-end brands and not drain your wallet. The Sonoma suede Chelsea boot is extremely comfortable straight out of the box, features a beautiful suede upper, is lined in leather, and has a natural crepe sole that's springy and supportive. No wonder The Sonoma is one of the brand's bestsellers.

Florsheim Norwalk Zip Up Boot

Classic looks and comfort make these boots from the American heritage brand perfect for everyday wear.

Florsheim's Norwalk Zip Up Boots have looks and comfort in equal measure. These boots from the American heritage brand have handsome leather uppers and a traditional side zipper, while inside, they incorporate technology designed to keep your feet happy for all-day wear. They feature springy foam insoles and soft yet resilient midsoles — like you'd find in running shoes — and flexible outsoles, all at a reasonable price. They're likely to become your everyday ankle boots.

Milwaukee Boot Company Lakefront Boot

Milwaukee Boot Company's Lakefront boots are the brand's "no-frills chukka" that are perfect for day-to-day wear thanks to straight-out-of-the-box comfort and rugged good looks.

Milwaukee Boot Company is a newer brand launched by the folks behind Moral Code, a DTC footwear brand we love for both its products and ethical stance. The Lakefront boot is the Milwaukee Boot Company's "no-frills chukka" and has become one of my everyday boots, thanks to its straight-out-of-the-box comfort and rugged good looks. These pair well with all my fall favorites — cords, cardigans, chore coats, and Western fedoras. 

Frye Paul Inside Zip Boot

Frye, an American heritage brand, goes all out with the Paul Inside Zip Boot. Hand-burnished leather uppers, antiqued hardware, and Goodyear welting make for one elegant boot.

Frye is a heritage boot brand that continues to produce outstanding footwear. The Paul is simply beautiful with its hand-burnished pull-up leather uppers, antiqued hardware, and Goodyear welting that allows for a cobbler to replace the outsole when the time comes.

Blundstone Men's Classic Chelsea Boot in Green

You can't have an ankle boot roundup without Blundstone. Their classic Chelsea boots in dark green are both tough and stylish.

You can't have an ankle boot story without Blundstone. The Australian heritage brand (still family-owned more than 150 years on) is the epitome of the hard-wearing Chelsea boot style beloved by everyone from farmers to fashion editors. This version in a dark green combines the best of what makes the brand so beloved: toughness (waterproof premium leather upper, a durable thermoplastic polyurethane outsole) and style (bold color, iconic look). 

Mark Nolan Lincoln Boots

The vibrant Marc Nolan Lincoln boots made using top-notch materials and techniques that are anything but ordinary. 

If you're looking for ankle boots that stand out from the crowd and come in at a reasonable price, Mark Nolan is the brand for you. The Lincoln Boots, especially the Rose Pink colorway, highlight what makes Mark Nolan so special. Besides the eye-catching color, these cap-toe boots feature top-quality Mohawk suede and soft calf leather lining, Blake stitching for flexibility and easy resoling down the line, and leather outsoles with traction inserts. The other colorways are equally captivating, from a rich brown snakeskin to a bright white calf leather, each of these boots are a standout.

La Canadienne Luca Boot

La Canadienne's Luca Boot is rugged yet refined and crafted in Italy from a gorgeous waterproof nubuck suede.

Montreal based-brand La Canadienne has recently ventured into men's footwear, and are clearly off to a strong start. The company combines style, sustainability, quality, and comfort in its products that are all either made in Canada, Italy, or Spain. They handcraft the Luca Boot from a waterproof Italian nubuck suede in Italy and line it in breathable leather. The look is rugged, thanks to its lug sole, but with a refined nubuck upper, to get you from a business casual workplace to a weekend spent outdoors.

Clarks Wallabee Boot

Clarks Wallabee Boots have a distinctive silhouette and several unique colorways. These are great statement boots that you'll never want to take off.

Clarks Wallabee boots are as distinctive as the work of hip-hop legends Wu-Tang Clan, who loved these boots so much they rapped about them. The Wallabee, which is somewhere between a moccasin and a chukka, and is as comfortable as the former and as sturdy as the latter, comes in several colorways as unique as the silhouette, including lime. These should be your fall statement boots.

Unmarked French Toe Chelsea

The Unmarked French Toe Chelsea is a supremely elegant boot that's handmade in  León, the heart of Mexico's renowned bootmaking industry, and has everything you'd want in an ankle boot.

Unmarked is a footwear company that perfectly combines traditional boot-making techniques with contemporary style and a sustainable approach. The French Toe Chelsea is a supremely elegant boot with a squared-off toe, beautiful leather uppers made in an environmentally friendly manner, and Goodyear welting. These handmade boots are manufactured in León, the heart of Mexico's renowned boot-making industry, in a workshop that pays its workers fair wages.

Hush Puppies Detroit Chukka

Hush Puppies Detroit Chukkas are comfortable and casually cool and water resistant, in case you get caught in the rain.

Hush Puppies is known for its casual, comfortable footwear and the Detroit Chukka has both in spades, along with a dose of cool. These boots will pair with all your fall looks, whether it's a sport coat and chinos or jeans and a leather jacket. They come in both full-grain leather and a soft suede, and are water-resistant. 

Astorflex Bitflex Chelsea

The Astorflex Bitflex Chelsea is a sophisticated boot that's handmade in Italy using eco-friendly European leather and comes at a great price for what you get.

The Bitflex Chelsea boot is handmade in Italy by Astorflex — a multi-generational family footwear company — using eco-friendly European leather. These boots are not only well made and sophisticated with leather outsoles and stacked heels, they're also comfortable thanks to ergonomic footbeds. They're also nicely priced for what you get. 

Thursday Boots Rogue Jodhpur Boot

The Thursday Boots Rogue is a Jodphur boot that's urbane yet tough, built to last, and priced right.

Thursday Boots, one of our favorite DTC boot companies, offers the Rogue, a Jodphur boot that's built to last, thanks to manufacturing techniques like Goodyear welting. It comes in at under $200. The dark olive suede is a particular standout. And like all the company's boots, they're comfortable thanks to glove leather interiors, cork-bed midsoles, and shock-absorbing insoles.

Beckett Simonon Laval Chukka

Beckett Simonon's Laval chukkas are a classic handmade in Colombia using full-grain Italian calfskin and Blake stitching for years of wear.

Beckett Simonon, another DTC footwear brand, uses a made-to-order model for their boots that are handmade by artisans in Colombia. The Laval chukka is made from Italian full-grain calfskin that's supple yet resilient, and will only get better with age. These boots are a true classic that will dress up whatever you pair them with and thanks to their Blake stitching, which (like Goodyear welting) means they can be resoled, and you'll get years of wear out of them.

Taylor Stitch Trench Boot

Don't be fooled by the good looks of the Taylor Stitch Trench Boots. Yes, they have a buttery soft sheepskin lining and antique brass hardware, but these boots are made to take whatever you throw at them.

The Taylor Stitch Trench boot takes a utilitarian style first used by soldiers during World War I and punches it up with a handmade version, incorporating a soft sheepskin lining, Goodyear welting, a Vibram outsole, and antique brass hardware. But don't be fooled by their good looks. These boots are built to take whatever you throw at them. Like some of the other selections in this roundup, the Taylor Stitch trench boots are made in León, Mexico. 

Tecovas The Chance Western Chelsea

The Chance, by the digital-first Western wear brand Tecovas, is a Chelsea boot with some cowboy swagger. It features calfskin uppers, a leather outsole and stacked heel, and Goodyear welting.

Tecovas, the "Warby Parker of cowboy boots," is a digital-first brand that offers beautiful handcrafted boots below the price point of older Western boot companies without sacrificing quality. The Chance is a Chelsea boot with Western flair that's made in León, Mexico, and features a leather sole and stacked heel; Goodyear welt construction; waterproof leather; and hand-hammered lemonwood pegs, a traditional Western boot manufacturing technique that helps maintain a tight fit between insole and outsole. Besides all that, it's a fine-looking boot.

Read more in our full Tecovas Dean boots review.

To Boot New York Providence Jodhpurs

To Boot New York's Providence boots aren't your ordinary Jodhpurs. The boots are made in Italy of full-grain calfskin and will dress up everything you wear with them.

To Boot New York's Providence boots are not your everyday Jodhpurs. These luxe boots are made in Italy of full-grain calfskin, and feature a polished silver buckle on the strap that helps secure them, as well as a side zipper. They're Blake stitched (which means they can be resoled), are lined in leather, and have a cushioned leather-covered insole. These Jodhpurs will add panache to whatever you pair them with. 

Clae Gibson

The Clae Gibson is a boot that wears like a sneaker, for a perfect combination of style and comfort.

The Los Angeles-based footwear brand Clae has mastered sustainability produced minimalist footwear over its two decades as an independent producer. The Gibson is a minimalist boot that wears like a sneaker. It features a premium leather upper on a cushiony rubber outsole, and comes in three colorways, including a striking walrus brown. 

Taft Dylan Boot in Woven

The Taft Dylan Boot in Woven is a stunning interpretation of the Jodhpur boot that's handcrafted in Spain by this DTC company known for unique versions of classic silhouettes.

The Taft Dylan boot is another unique interpretation of the Jodhpur boot from the DTC brand that's unparalleled in creating extraordinary iterations of dress boots and shoes using old-world techniques and high-end materials. There are four styles of the Dylan boot, but we're highlighting the woven version; it's not only unique but extremely attractive. The leather is handwoven in Spain and then burnished by hand using heat and different stains for a gorgeous finish. It's Blake stitched, so it can be resoled down the line. 

Grant Stone Chelsea Boot in Crimson Chromexcel

The Grant Stone Chelsea boot is a stellar example of the style that combines beauty and brawn, for boots that will continue to wow you for years to come.

The Grant Stone Chelsea combines beauty and brawn in one package. The uppers are made from Chromexcel leather at Horween — one of the oldest tanneries in the United States — that's supple but strong, deeply hued and will only get better with age. The boots are Goodyear welted, and have a leather lining, insole, welt, and midsole. Because Grant Stone is a DTC brand, you get a lot of luxury for a fair price. 

Baabuk Sky Wooler Black Edition

The Baabuk Sky Wooler Black Edition is somewhere between a hightop and a boot that's made from Portuguese mulesing-free sheep wool and topgrain nubuck, and is perfect for fall.

We sometimes like to throw in an outlier in our roundups, and the Baabuk Sky Wooler Black Edition fits the bill. Somewhere between a high-top and a boot, the uppers are made from Portuguese mulesing-free sheep's wool that's water-resistant and extra thick for colder fall nights. The Sky Wooler, which is designed in Switzerland and produced in Portugal, has topgrain nubuck at the tongue, ankle, and heel counter and is easy to get in and out of thanks to the no-tie elastic laces. These minimalist beauties are super comfortable and look smart when paired with chinos and a cardigan, but also work with jeans and a henley. 

• On March 26, 1987, Nike released the Air Max 1, the first shoe to feature Nike's Air Max technology.
• To celebrate 34 years of Air Max innovation, Nike is releasing new sneakers today, March 26.
• Shop Air Max sneakers at Nike, Foot Locker, eBay, StockX, Goat, Stadium Goods, and Nordstrom

On March 26, 1987, Nike released the original Air Max 1, a silhouette that's regarded as one of the brand's most iconic sneakers. Created by legendary sneaker designer Tinker Hatfield, the Air Max 1 was the first shoe the Swoosh released that showcased the brand's Air technology with a visible window into the sole.

That single innovative design sparked phenomenons in both performance and fashion. With hundreds of Air Max sneakers released over the last three decades, it's one of Nike's most successful lines of footwear. Whether you're a dedicated sneaker collector or an average consumer, there's a great chance you've owned a pair.

Now, Nike recognizes March 26 as Air Max Day, and there's no better way to celebrate than by adding a new pair to your collection.

As a sneaker collector, I've compiled a list of Air Max sneakers that are worth checking out — including new releases, classics, and the hottest collaborations — along with all of the best places to shop for them.

New Nike Air Max releases:

Classic Air Max sneakers to buy:

The Hottest Air Max Collaborations to buy:

The best places to shop for Air Max sneakers:

Nike

Shop all Air Max sneakers at Nike here

Nike is the go-to place for the latest Air Max releases. The website features a plethora of Air Max styles, from classic silhouettes like the Air Max 1, Air Max 90, and Air Max 95 to the latest performance runners using the technology. 

This year, a new silhouette named the Nike Air Max Pre-Day is being released as a tribute to the brand's early days of making running sneakers. It features a mixture of throwback '70s styling with modern tech and is made from 20% recycled materials.

Additionally, Nike is releasing the Air VaporMax Evo, an updated iteration of the VaporMax.

eBay

Shop all Nike Air Max sneakers on eBay here

For sneaker collectors, eBay has long been a quintessential place to shop. The site has the latest releases, those rare gems you've been after for years, and everything else in between. Now, the site is establishing itself as a formal place to buy sneakers with easy-to-shop category pages and sneaker authentication on items priced over $100.

StockX

Shop all Nike Air Max sneakers on StockX here

StockX is described as a stock market of things. While you can buy all kinds of collectible items like watches, hand bags, and trading cards, sneakers are definitely the biggest attraction to the site. 

The site shows important information like original retail prices and real-time sales data to help you always pay market value for sneakers. Every item is authenticated before it is shipped to you. 

For Air Max Day, you can find popular collaborations, general releases, and even select shoes for less than retail.

Foot Locker

Shop all Nike Air Max sneakers at Foot Locker here

Foot Locker is the next best place to buy sneakers on the retail market, after Nike.com. Here, you'll have access to almost all of the latest releases and a stacked sales section filled with great deals.

GOAT

Shop all Nike Air Max sneakers at GOAT here

GOAT is a great place to buy new and used sneakers with a verified authentication process that takes place before you receive them. 

For Air Max Day, the site has a curated section of all the most popular Nike Air Max sneakers including the latest releases, classics, and collaborations. That way, you can spend less time searching for a cool pair.

Stadium Goods

Shop all Nike Air Max sneakers at Stadium Goods here

Unlike other resale sites that receive and authenticate shoes after they've already been sold, Stadium Goods has all of its consigned products pre-authenticated, in stock, and ready to ship. Their business model gives customers a retail-like shopping experience for exclusive items that that usually sell out quickly.

If you're going for those sold out Air Maxes and don't want to deal with the long wait time that comes with authentication processes, this is the place to shop.

Nordstrom

Shop all Nike products at Nordstrom here

You might think of Nordstrom as a traditional department store, but with the recent opening of the Nike x Nordstrom NYC store, it has put more emphasis on catering to sneaker culture.

Nordstrom stocks some of the most popular sneaker releases, so you won't have to limit yourself to only shopping at dedicated sneaker stores and boutiques. You'll also find great deals on sale items.

Check out Nordstrom's sneaker release calendar here.

 

• Have you ever seen an outfit on Instagram that you loved and wanted to recreate yourself, but didn't know where to start? StyleSnap is a new feature on Amazon made to help shoppers with this exact problem.
• StyleSnap uses AI to help you find looks you love. All you have to do is upload a photo onto the app and StyleSnap will analyze it to give you similar styles to shop. 
• I tried the service and thought it was a cool way to shop and get fashion inspiration, though I felt limited by only having access to Amazon's clothing selection. 
• Amazon Prime Day is coming soon. You can check out all of our Prime Day 2020 coverage here. 

Social media is one of my favorite places to find fashion inspiration. Yet, it's all too often I find an outfit I love and simply cannot figure out how to recreate it myself, no matter how hard I try searching for the exact same pieces. If you've ever encountered this same problem, Amazon has a solution. 

StyleSnap is an AI-powered feature built into the Amazon app, and it's here to help you find looks you love quickly and easily. All you have to do is take a photograph or screenshot of an outfit, upload it onto the Amazon app, and you'll be presented with items that look just like the ones in the picture. Sometimes, they're even the exact same. It's truly that easy.

My experience 

I tried the new StyleSnap feature to see how it fared, and it probably took all of one minute. The results were speedy and the user experience was intuitive, even as a first-time user. I was surprised at just how quickly the app was able to analyze the photograph and provide similar items.

Still, there are limitations. All of the suggested items are ones you can purchase on Amazon. While Amazon has a pretty robust fashion catalog these days, there are many clothing brands that it doesn't stock, which definitely limits the similar styles the app can provide.

A step-by-step guide to how StyleSnap works:

Click the camera icon in the upper right-hand corner of the Amazon app.

Once you find and click the camera icon, select the "StyleSnap" option on the left. This will lead you to the StyleSnap landing page. 

Once you're on the StyleSnap landing page, you can upload a photo or screenshot from the camera roll on your phone.

Choose whether you'd like to upload your own photo or shop looks that are already on the app. 

If you don't have a photo to upload, you can peruse a selection of looks that have already been uploaded by Amazon fashion influencers.

There are lots of looks already uploaded onto the app. Many of these have the exact products already linked up, as well as a variety of similar options. 

To test out StyleSnap, I found a picture from fashion influencer Janette Ok on Instagram.

I love Janette Ok, known on Instagram as @inmyseams, for her amazing styling tips, fashion hacks, and fun outfits. I took a screenshot of this look of hers to see if StyleSnap could help me find any similar items to recreate it myself. 

After I uploaded the photo, StyleSnap quickly started analyzing the image to find similar styles.

This part felt high-tech, was fun to watch, and went by really quickly. 

Once it's done analyzing, you're presented with results of similar styles to those in the photo.

The circles on the outfit are conveniently placed among the different items. When you click the circle, you'll be shown similar styles to that exact piece. I was a bit disappointed that the hat and sunglasses didn't yield any results though. 

Some of the similar styles were on point, while others were a stretch.

The first few results were very similar to the shirt in the photo, while others like the graphic white T-shirt with a cat were a bit far off. I don't think the far-off items are necessarily a bad thing though. As long as there are similar style options being provided, having some that are a bit different gives shoppers the opportunity to recreate a look with pieces that may be more their style than the exact ones in the photo. 

If you like any of the options, you can click right through, add to cart, and buy them on the spot.

This Milly bodysuit was one of the similar styles offered. While it wasn't exactly the same as the one in the photo, I really liked the style and was able to add it to my cart instantly. If you don't love any of the styles, or just don't really want to buy anything, StyleSnap saves all of your uploaded photos so you can always go back if you change your mind. 

Overall, the process was fun, fast, and a cool new way to shop.

The whole process, from uploading the photograph to getting to check out, took just a few minutes and most of those were spent perusing the selection.

Ultimately, I thought StyleSnap was a really cool and fun way to shop. If you browse for clothing on Amazon often, this is a really easy feature to include in your usual shopping trip. Even if you don't love buying clothing on the site, this tool is helpful for finding inspiration and recreating looks on your own. It could even lead you closer to similar styles you love on other fashion sites too. 

Check out Amazon StyleSnap here. 

• Shopping is made a lot easier when the store you choose has a good return policy in place.
• Most stores offer a 30-day window for returns, but many have extended to over 60 days for the holidays. 
• If you received a gift that needs to be exchanged, check the return period so you don't miss the deadline.

Store return policies are here to keep your bases covered for when that new sweater doesn't fit, or you change your mind about a purchase. The option to return products for a full refund also takes a lot of the risk out of online shopping, where you're often buying based on descriptions and pictures alone. 

For the most part, stores tend to limit their return windows to a max of 30 days. However, with the holidays and COVID-19 concerns in mind, many retailers are offering longer return periods for shoppers. 

Below, we gathered up some of the stores offering extended return windows of 60 days or more. If you received a gift that needs to be exchanged, knowing these policies will ensure you don't miss any return deadlines.

Find longer return policies at these nationwide stores:

Style & clothing

• Aldo: Returns must be with their original receipt and packaging, and made within 60 days.
• Anthropologie: Returns made within 60 days of purchase will be refunded to your original method of payment; returns made afterward are only eligible for store credit. For the holidays, orders placed between October 1, 2021 and December 1, 2021 can be returned anytime before January 31, 2022.
• Bonobos: Unwashed, unworn items can be returned within 90 days of the date of purchase for a refund in store credit. A refund to your original payment method is offered for returns that occur within 45 days of the original purchase.
• Bloomingdale's: Most items can be returned within 90 days, so long as they are in saleable condition.
• JCPenney: Effective October 20, 2021, JCPenney extended its return window to 90 days from purchase date.
• Kohl's: Most products can be returned within 180 days of purchase. Exceptions include premium electronics and beauty products, which have shorter return periods.
• Macy's: Macy's offers free returns for products within 90 days of purchase. As part of the store's holiday return policy, purchases made after October 5, 2021 are eligible for return through January 31, 2022.
• Nike: All Nike items fall under the extended 60-day return policy, with a few exceptions. You'll be refunded via your original method of payment.
• Nordstrom: Nordstrom offers returns without any time limit, but evaluates them on a case-by-case basis.
• REI: REI offers returns and exchanges for a full year after your purchase. There are some exceptions, such as outdoor electronics, so check the full policy to make sure your items qualify.
• Urban Outfitters: Throughout the year, Urban Outfitters limits returns to a 30-day window, but orders placed between October 1, 2021 and December 25, 2021 can be returned by February 28, 2022.  
• Zappos: Zappos offers shoppers a full year to return unworn merchandise with original tags.

Home, kitchen, tech, and pet supplies

• Bath & Body Works: Bath & Body Works allows its customers to return anything, anytime, for any reason — no return window limit.
• Bed Bath & Beyond: Shoppers have 90 days to return or exchange purchases for a refund to their original method of payment
• Best Buy: Though Best Buy typically offers a 15-day return window, most Best Buy products purchased between October 18, 2021 and January 2, 2022 qualify for an extended return period that lasts until January 16, 2022. Some exclusions apply, so check Best Buy's site for full details.
• Chewy: Chewy offers returns for a full year after your order is made
• IKEA: Unopened products can be returned to IKEA within a year after purchase, while opened items only have 180 days to be returned.
• Target: Target accepts returns for up to 90 days after purchase; RedCard holders get an extra 30 days added to that for a total 120-day return window.
• Walmart: Most items can be returned within 90 days of purchase for a full refund, with exceptions like prescription glasses and electronics.

Beauty

• Fenty Beauty: Returns made within 60 days of purchase will receive a full refund to your original method of payment.
• Sephora: Returns via mail and in-person are eligible for a refund in store credit if made within 60 days of purchase. Returns made within 30 days can be refunded to your original method of payment.
• Ulta: Products returned within 60 days are eligible for a refund to your original payment method. Returns made after that window will receive in-store credit.

Chances are you've been using the same soap for years, and if you're dealing with issues like dry skin or body acne, switching to a new body wash can do a lot to help. A good body wash is one that leaves you feeling clean, addresses your other skincare needs, and doesn't break the bank.

Over the 6 years I've worked as a grooming reporter, and now editor, I've tested so many body washes that I could probably recommend 50 of them, but I've narrowed this list down to the eight reasonably priced options you just can't go wrong with. Our top picks include Harry's Body Wash for its refreshing scents and Bevel Body Wash for its moisturizing and exfoliating formulas.

Before you dive in, it's worth noting that while anyone of any gender can use any body wash they like, products marketed as men's body washes are specifically formulated for thicker and oilier skin. 

The best body wash for men in 2023

Art of Sport

Founded in 2018 by Matthias Metternich, Brian Lee, and the late Kobe Bryant, Art of Sport is a unisex body and skincare line designed to meet the rigors of athletes.

All of the brand's products have been tested firsthand by athletes at all levels to ensure quality and effectiveness for everyone from top-level pros to everyday people.

Art of Sport uses activated charcoal in its body washes to provide a deep, refreshing cleanse. They're made without sulfates, parabens, or phthalates. Plus, they're vegan and cruelty-free.

In line with the sporty theme, Art of Sports' different scents come are named Compete (Engergizing Citrus), Victory (Cool Eyucalptus), and James Harden's Defy (Deep Sandalwood).

Bevel

Founded by noted entrepreneur and business person Tristan Walker, Bevel is a Black-owned brand that makes affordable grooming essentials for people of color. While the brand is best known for its single-blade shaving system that helps prevent razor bumps, Bevel has a full line of grooming products including body wash.

Coming in three equally amazing scents — Supreme Oak, Black Bergamot, and Dark Cassis — Bevel Body Wash is designed to be hydrating and exfoliating. They all use small bits of charcoal instead of harmful plastic microbeads to exfoliate your skin, which leaves you feeling smooth and fully refreshed. The fragrances are strong enough to last well beyond the shower, but not overpowering. 

As a grooming editor, I've received more than enough different body wash samples to never buy it, but Bevel is one of the few brands I've purchased multiple times after using the samples.

Read our full Bevel grooming review here.

Duke Cannon

Duke Cannon is a military-inspired brand that combines quality grooming essentials for men with light-hearted novelty in its branding.

Despite its fun and catchy theme, Duke Cannon supports a serious cause. The brand gives back to veterans by donating 5% of its net profits to a variety of reputable foundations.

Duke Cannon's Thick High Viscosity Body Wash is exactly what it sounds like. It's a thick body wash designed to stay on your body rather than immediately wash down the drain and a little bit goes a long way. 

In addition to it's intense lather, Thick High Viscosity Body Wash is mineral-enriched to naturally exfoliate and includes aloe vera to moisturize your skin.

Read our full review on Duke Cannon grooming products here.

Bravo Sierra

Bravo Sierra is a unisex grooming brand that draws inspiration from military culture to create utilitarian-style products. Its most notable product is the original hair/body wash and shave gel because it's essentially four products in one. 

It comes in a pressurized canister and goes from gel to foam as you lather it. You can technically use it as shampoo, face wash, body wash, and shaving cream, making it a great choice for minimalists or those travelling light, but we don't love multi-use products for the face, so keep that in mind.

If you're looking for a dedicated body wash, Bravo Sierra also has a collection of scented body washes, too. They have the same gel-to-foam consistency and are free of sulfates and parabens.

Read our full Bravo Sierra Review here.

Harry's

Founded in 2013 as a men's shaving brand, Harry's has since expanded to a full-service men's grooming brand, and its body wash is a standout among its products.

One thing Harry's does particularly well is the way it names each fragrance to clearly describe the scent profile. For example, Redwood is described as brisk, sharp, and woodsy and lists notes of evergreens, sea salt, and sandalwood. The fragrances are a little more mature than what you'd expect from brands like Axe or Old Spice.

Regardless of which one you choose, Harry's body washes are always made without sulfates, parabens, or dyes.

Every Man Jack

Every Man Jack puts an emphasis on being eco-friendly, with 97% of the ingredients in its body wash being naturally derived and bottles made from 50% post-consumer recycled plastic.

Beyond that, Every Man Jack's body washes simply work well. They have a handful of scents and formulas that target specific needs, like exfoliation or acne care.

A little bit of Every Man Jack Body Wash goes a long way, but if you like piling it on for extra suds and lather, the affordable prices won't make you feel wasteful. 

Rudy's Barbershop

Rudy's Barbershop was founded in Seattle, Washington in 1993 to provide people from all walks of life with quality haircuts. Rudy's now makes gender-neutral grooming essentials available online. 

Ingredients like jojoba oil, citric acid, and lactic acid help to exfoliate and then moisturize skin, leaving you feeling soft and hydrated. 

All of Rudy's products feature its signature scent — a combination of citrus, cedar, and juniper. The scent isn't specifically masculine or feminine, it's just bright and refreshing.

Jack Black

While most of the brands on this list were founded in recent years, Jack Black got its start in 2000 (and no, there's zero relation to Jack Black the actor). At the time, there were very few brands making luxurious grooming essentials that catered to men. Jack Black aimed to fill that void by creating high-end shaving and grooming essentials. Today, the Turbo Wash is one of its most popular items.

Designed to be used on both the hair and body, the Jack Black Turbo Wash uses a blend of natural ingredients including rosemary extract, eucalyptus, juniper berry, and arnica extra to both soothe and invigorate the skin while cleaning.

At $24 for 10 ounces of body wash, Jack Black is one of the more expensive options on this list, but showering with it feels like a treat. Even if you don't use it on a daily basis, it's worth splurging on to save for days you want a truly invigorating shower.

• The CDC recommends wearing a cloth face cover in public to prevent community transmission of COVID-19.
• We rounded up 40 brands making stylish face masks, including retailers such as Reformation and Caraa.
• This article was medically reviewed by Tania Elliott, MD, who specializes in infectious diseases related to allergies and immunology for internal medicine at NYU Langone Health.
• See more: A running list of brands giving back during the coronavirus pandemic, and a list of where to buy face masks for kids.

At the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, we learned that a significant portion of people can transmit the novel coronavirus without knowing they're infected — either because they lack symptoms, or because their symptoms haven't developed yet. For that reason, the CDC is recommended the use of cloth face coverings in public settings to prevent community transmission (the general public is still advised to avoid N95 masks so that critical supplies are reserved for healthcare workers). 

Since then, masks have become a regular part of our lives. Yes, they're vital for the health and safety of our communities, but they're also a new means by which to accessorize our outfits. Tons of our favorite fashion brands are now making stylish, reusable face masks, 41 of which we rounded up below.

Just keep in mind that cloth face coverings also don't replace other CDC guidelines; it's still essential to maintain 6 feet of social distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wash your hands frequently. 

For answers to common questions, like when to wear face masks in public and who should avoid wearing face masks, jump down the bottom of our post here.

40 places to buy stylish cloth face masks online:

Nordstrom

Face Masks, 4-Pack, $12.50

Pleated Face Masks, 6-Pack, $12

Nordstrom's washable, reusable non-medical grade face masks are a double-layer option with a built-in filter pocket and adjustable ear loops. You can shop the full variety of Nordstrom masks here.

For every package of masks purchased, Nordstrom will reportedly donate a mask to help protect kids and families in our communities.

Vida

Single Mask, $10

Face Masks, 2-Pack, $18

Face Masks, 4-Pack, $36 

Face Masks, 8-Pack, $72

Bulk Face Masks, 10-500 Pack, $80-$3,200

Vida's mask is made from two layers of 100% cotton and has adjustable straps and a metal nose-piece for a snug, personalized fit. Each mask has a pocket for a filter and comes with one PM2.5 six-layered activated carbon filter which the company says effectively blocks airborne contaminants. They also come in a variety of colors. You can read our full review of Vida's masks here. 

According to Vida, 10% of the profits are donated to SF-Marin Food Bank & Food Bank NYC.

To coordinate donations and bulk orders of 1,000 masks or more, email bettertogether@shopvida.com for more information. 

Caraa

Face Masks, 5-Pack, $25

Donation Face Masks, 5-Pack, $25

Caraa, a popular bag company, has launched Caraa Cares to sell reusable, washable, non-medical grade masks with elastic loops made out of repurposed materials from its production line. Inside, there's also a moldable wire for the bridge of your nose. You can buy a pack of five for yourself or purchase a pack to donate to relief efforts. Caraa will be matching all mask pack purchases and donations. 

Helen Jon

Face Mask, from $15.50

Face Mask with Foam Insert, $18

Helen Jon's Los Angeles factories are making reusable non-medical grade masks out of its swimwear fabric. You can buy masks with or without a foam insert. According to the company, the insert helps hold the shape of the mask around the nose and may make it slightly easier to breathe while wearing. 

The company says it is selling them below their cost and is donating additional masks to Children's Mercy Hospital in Kansas City.

Masks are estimated to ship within 10 days after ordering.

Everlane

100% Human Face Masks, 3-Pack, $9

100% Human Face Masks, 5-Pack, $25 

Everlane's non-medical masks are made with a double-layer knit and either cotton-Lycra or elastic ear loops.

The company launched the 100% Human Face Masks in packs of three or five, and you can choose from neutrals like black and grey or patterns like stripes and tie-dye. For every 100% Human product sold, Everlane donates 10% of the sale to the ACLU.

Etsy

Face Mask, $9.99

Shop all Etsy handmade masks

Etsy has a plethora of mask options. This cotton mask pictured above comes with four disposable filters and has wire sewn over the bridge of the nose for a secure fit. Currently, they'll be shipped out within four to eight business days.

Uniqlo

Uniqlo Airism Face Mask 3-Pack, $14.90

The Uniqlo Airism Face Mask embodies everything that the brand is known for: comfortable and stylish products at a low cost. They're lightweight, breathable, and available in three colors — white, black, and grey. Read our full review of the Uniqlo Airism Face Mask here.

Twillory

Twillory Menswear Mask, $29 each or as low as $9.90 each in bundles

If you're looking for a face mask to go with your workwear, Twillory is a great place to shop. The brand is best known for its performance dress shirts and now they've got masks in matching patterns and colors.

Redbubble

Face Mask, $10

This "Avocado Yoga" mask is one of many Redbubble non-medical face masks that feature prints by independent artists. Each mask is made of two layers of 100% brushed polyester and has elastic over-ear straps for a snug fit. Choose from tons of fun graphic designs on Redbubble.

*Sponsored by Redbubble

Reformation

Face Masks, 5-Pack, $15 

Donation Face Masks, 5-Pack, $15 

Face Masks, 250-Pack, $750

Reformation's non-medical, reusable masks are tied on. The fabrics vary from Tencel to cotton blends, and they take one to two weeks to ship. 

Avocado

Face Masks, 4-Pack, $30

Child Face Masks, 4-Pack, $30

Avocado is best known for mattresses. Its face masks are made out of two layers of 100% GOTS organic certified cotton and based upon a publicly available pattern. The company says they're selling the masks at cost, not for profit. Orders are limited to one per household. 

The brand asks that you allow 10 to 15 days for production time and an additional two to three days for shipping.

Herschel Supply Co.

Face Mask, $14.99

Herschel's three-ply non-medical face masks have an adjustable nose bridge and adjustable ear loops, as well as a pocket for a filter.

Onzie

Face Masks, 2-Pack, $16

Shop all Revolve handmade face masks

Onzie makes non-medical, reusable face masks with elastic straps. They'll come in a two-pack of assorted colors, and the company will donate the proceeds to healthcare workers through a donation to the Center For Disaster Philanthropy. 

Orders are expected to ship within five business days.

You can also find the brand on Revolve. 

Tory Burch

Face Masks, 3-Pack, $35

Tory Burch's patterned face masks are made from two layers of polyester with a filter pocket. Each has a contoured wire at the nose and adjustable ear loops for a custom fit.

The cost reportedly includes a $10 donation that will be divided evenly between the International Medical Corps and the Tory Burch Foundation that works to advance female empowerment and female entrepreneurs, with a maximum donation of $500,000 to each organization.

Summersalt

Face Masks, 3-Pack, $32 

Summersalt's non-medical grade masks are made from three layers of machine-washable, reusable materials (recycled fabrics and 100% cotton) and have adjustable straps for a custom fit around your ears.

For every set sold, Summersalt says it will donate a face covering to "a worthy organization doing their part to help our larger community" and have encouraged customers to send in suggestions of such organizations.

Currently, customers are limited to purchasing three sets. They're currently available for pre-order and should ship in two weeks.

Lele Sadoughi

Face Masks, 3-Pack, $40

Lele Sadoughi's two-ply, reusable non-medical face masks have adjustable elasticized ear straps and have a pocket for a filter.

For every Lele Sadoughi face mask purchased, one Button Headband will reportedly be donated to a healthcare worker. (The Button Headband is meant to relieve the pain associated with wearing a mask for long periods; the mask's elastic loops wrap around a button on either side of the headband).

Cotopaxi

Face Mask, $6.50

Cotopaxi's Face Mask is a light, breathable non-medical grade mask that's made from repurposed 100% tightly woven cotton fabric. It comes with adjustable ear loops, a wire nose adjustment, and accordion-like pleats for a close fit to your face.

The bright, colorful options are also fully reversible (though you'll want to wash your mask before reversing it). 

According to Cotopaxi, the company will also donate another high-quality mask to its nonprofit partner, Mercy Corps, for someone who needs it.

Topo Designs

Face Mask, $9

Topo Designs is an outdoor brand that's making double-layered face masks. The exterior is 100% cotton, and the interior is a blend of polyester and cotton. There's an interior pocket for an air filter insert, adjustable elastic ear bands, and a bendable nose strip for a snug, comfortable fit. Sales of commercial masks help fund the brand's commitment to manufacturing 10,000 masks for the Colorado Mask Project that protects frontline essential workers and vulnerable populations. Masks ship in one to two weeks, and there's a limit of 10 per order. 

Gap

Face Mask, 3-Pack, from $5

Adult Contour Masks, 3-Pack, from $2.99

Patterned Face Masks, 3-Pack, $3

Statement Face Masks, 3-Pack, $3

Gap's three-ply, non-medical grade masks are machine-washable and available in a wide variety of colors and patterns and sizes for both kids and adults. The company has also reportedly donated 50,000 masks to the Boys & Girls Club of America and the Boys & Girls Club of Canada. 

Old Navy

Face Mask, 5-Pack, from $3

Face Mask, 10-Pack, $6

Old Navy's three-ply, machine-washable, non-medical grade face masks are available in perhaps the widest variety of colors and prints. They're available in versions with non-adjustable and adjustable elastic over-the-ear straps. Some colorways are backordered in both packs (currently until late September). 

Athleta

Face Masks, 5-Pack, from $3.99

Kid Face Masks, 5-Pack, $3.99

Exercise Masks, 2-Pack, $3.99

Kid Exercise Face Masks, 3-Pack, $3.99

Athleta's three-ply, machine-washable, non-medical-grade masks come in a basic cotton everyday version and an athletic-friendly polyester/spandex version with a mesh liner, hidden pocket for a filter, and interchangeable head strap. You can also shop each one in a kids' size. 

Customers are limited to purchasing five packs per person. 

Athleta is also reportedly donating 100,000 non-medical masks to a major healthcare organization. 

Baublebar

Kid Face Masks, 2-Pack, $6

Face Mask, 2-Pack, $8

Face Mask, 3-Pack, $10

Face Mask, 5-Pack, $14

Baublebar's double-layered, non-medical grade, reusable fabric face masks come with adjustable ear loops and in a wide range of colors and patterns. 

Food52

Face Mask, $22

Food52's reusable, non-medical grade masks are made from 100% cotton, upcycled deadstock fabric. They have an adjustable wire for the nose bridge and adjustable ear elastics.  The built-in pocket also means you can add a filter for extra protection. The company also says it gives 10% of the retail price to No Kid Hungry.

Alice and Olivia

Face Mask, $10

Alive and Olivia's washable, reusable masks are double-layered and designed so that you can remove the stitching to add a filter.

You can buy as many as five at a time. Since the company is manufacturing them in real-time, they'll ship in approximately two weeks. 

For every mask sold, Alice and Olivia is donating one to communities in need.

Madewell

Face Masks, 3-Pack, from $4.99

Madewell's non-medical cotton masks have elastic ear straps, a three-layer construction that includes a filter, and come coated in an antimicrobial and water-repellant finish that should last for up to 20 washes. Madewell and J.Crew also donated 75,000 single-use face masks to Montefiore Medical Center in New York.

Baggu

Face Masks, 3-Pack, $32 

Baggu's reusable, double-layered, non-medical grade face masks are made from 100% Organic Quilter's Cotton — which the company says it chose for the fabric's tight weave and thick thread — and have both an adjustable nose wire and straps.

The company says it is donating a portion of its proceeds to communities in need for every pack of masks sold.

Sanctuary

Women's Face Masks, 5-Pack, $28

Men's Face Masks, 5-Pack, $28

 Kids' Face Masks, 5-Pack, $25

Sanctuary's masks are made with 100% cotton muslin. They're divided into men's and women's options, but the only difference is in patterns. The company says they will donate one mask for every one bought.

Sanctuary also says credit cards will not be charged until masks are shipped.

Rent the Runway

Face Masks, 5-Pack, $50

RTR is making non-medical washable, reusable cotton masks with elastic earloops out of scraps that have been salvaged from its earlier production runs or purchased as unused surplus from textile mills. They also have a wire insert for shaping at the nose. 

For each five-pack sold, RTR says it will give a five-pack to a community in need through a partnership with Project Renewal, a New York-based nonprofit organization founded to end homelessness.

Nation LTD

Face Masks, 3-Pack, from $20

Nation LTD's non-medical, reusable face masks are available in a handful of animal prints and have a 100% recycled cotton lining. Orders are expected to begin shipping within five business days.

Under Armour

Face Mask, $30

Under Armour's non-medical face mask for athletes is made out of standard UA materials and can be worn all day and when exercising. Currently, it comes in four face sizes. 

Its outer shell is water-resistant and breathable. The polyurethane open-cell foam lets air through but makes it difficult for moisture and sweat to pass, according to the company. Its interior has an anti-microbial treatment, and a fabric that should feel cool-to-the-touch for as long as it's worn (which is also used for the ear straps). 

It has a soft, moldable nose bridge and comes with a washable, anti-microbial carry pouch with a locker tag for your name and number. 

Citizens of Humanity

Face Masks, 5-Pack, $25

Citizens of Humanity has repurposed its sewing facility to produce masks for frontline responders, including hospitals, healthcare workers and children's advocacy groups. More recently, it's started offering 100% cotton, washable masks in five-packs for the general public.

There's a limit of five packs per order, and the brand asks that you allow two to three business days for your order to ship.

Custom Ink

Face Masks, 12-Pack, $7.99

Face Masks, 100-Pack, $79.99

Custom Ink's face masks use a single-ply blend of cotton and spandex, with coverage that's about the same as what you'd get from a single layer of T-shirt fabric (which you can make at home) in comparison to other two-ply options. These masks are similar to the single-ply "quick cut T-shirt" option listed by the CDC.

Buck Mason

Face Masks, 5-Pack, $30

Buck Mason's mask pack includes five non-medical, reusable cotton masks with an anti-microbial coating on the inner layer which should last for 30 washes according to the product description.

Buck Mason has pledged to donate one mask for every one mask it sells. You can also donate directly through its site without buying yourself any. 

Los Angeles Apparel

Face Masks, 3-Pack, $30

Los Angeles Apparel's masks are made from 100% cotton and have an adjustable nose bridge. They also come in a variety of colors and patterns. The company says the purchase of face masks by consumers helps to fund its donations of masks to other essential services. 

Matteo

Face Masks, 5-Pack, $25

Donation Face Masks, 5-Pack, $25

Matteo's face masks are made of 100% cotton with 100% linen ties. They're also double layered with a pocket. Since the masks rely upon whichever fabrics are available, there's no way to tell which color you'll receive.

They should ship within seven to 10 business days.

J.Crew

Printed Face Masks, 3-Pack, $18

J. Crew's non-medical cotton masks are double-layered, have elastic ear loops, and an opening for a removable filter that's not included in the three-pack. They'll come in the brand's signature stripe and gingham patterns, and orders are limited to two per customer.

Mack Weldon

2-Pack Silver Face Mask, $32

Mack Weldon is best known for its comfortable and odor-resistant underwear and it's bringing that same technology to face masks. The proprietary material is made from a blend of Supima cotton and real silver fibers, which are anti-microbial. A bit of Spandex is used for a comfortable stretch, too.

Todd Snyder

Cotton Jersey Face Masks, $14

Popular menswear brand Todd Snyder is known for a unique approach to fashion, and its face masks prove that covering your face can be stylish. Each mask includes a polyester filter pocket and is available in sizes small, medium, and large. They're considerably expensive at $20 for a single mask, but you can always count on Todd Snyder for good quality and even greater style.

Ministry of Supply

3D Knit Face Mask, $25 

Ministry of Supply is offering 3D-knit masks with filter inserts for sale, which the company says were developed with healthcare professionals for comfort over long-term use.  According to Ministry of Supply, the filter element provided has been independently tested by Nelson Labs to provide higher than 95% Bacterial Filtration Efficiency. Each Mask Kit comes with 10 filter inserts, each of which has an expected eight hours of use. You can find replacement filters here (10 filters for $20). 

If you purchase two masks, you'll receive the third free. 

Adidas

3-Pack Face Cover, $20

Adidas' cloth face cover is perfect if you'd like a mask that matches your gear from The Three Stripes. The mask is made from 93% recycled polyester and 7% elastane, which makes it sustainable and comfortable. There's also an insert for adding a filter. The 3-packs come in unisex sizes XS/S and M/L. They currently sold out, but we expect Adidas to restock quickly.

Where and when to wear a face mask in public

You should wear a cloth face covering in public settings where social distancing measures are difficult to maintain, like grocery stores, transit stations, and pharmacies — and especially in areas with significant community-based transmission. If you live in cities such as New York and San Francisco, face coverings are mandatory if you're going out in public. Exceptions to the rule are children under the age of two, and anyone who has trouble breathing or is otherwise unable to remove a mask without assistance. 

Why are face masks important, and how do they help?

Wearing face masks in public is firstly about social responsibility — protecting others from your germs  — more than protecting you from them. The CDC's guidelines say that "cloth face coverings may prevent the person wearing the mask from spreading respiratory droplets when talking, sneezing, or coughing. If everyone wears a cloth face covering when out in public, such as going to the grocery store, the risk of exposure to SARS-CoV-2 can be reduced for the community."

Even if you don't feel sick, you could easily be one of the estimated 25% of contagious people with coronavirus who feel completely fine. "If everyone wears a mask when in public, the ones who have illness in them, whether symptomatic or not, will not contaminate the environment," Chris Ziebell, an emergency medical director for US Acute Care Solutions, told Business Insider.

But, if you properly wear a mask with at least two layers of heavy material (including cotton), you can decrease your own risk. Carbon and/or HEPA filters can help block even smaller particles than regular cloth, so look for those materials if you're opting for a mask with space for a filter. Note that non-carbon or HEPA filters haven't been shown to increase the effectiveness of the masks, but we've noted which ones do have pockets for filters if you choose to use them.

It's also just as important for your own safety to practice social distancing, wash your hands, and avoid touching your face. Lastly, be sure to wash your cloth masks between every use.

Who should avoid wearing masks?

There are some people who should not wear masks. According to the CDC, this includes "children under age 2, or anyone who has trouble breathing, is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance."

How to make your own face mask at home

If you can't buy a cloth mask or don't want to wait for the estimated shipping date, you can make one at home using household items, like a bandana and a coffee filter. You can also find an ASL Video Series: Easy DIY Cloth Face Covering on YouTube. 

• I've been wearing Lululemon for over 10 years and have found it's well worth the price.
• But don't just take my word for it — several members of the Insider Reviews team also agree.
• Below, find 14 of our favorite styles along with details on how they fit and perform.

I've been wearing Lululemon gear for workouts, hikes, and lounging around the house for over a decade. And yes, I was even that person that occasionally paired their leggings with Uggs and wore them to college lectures when that was a style. I am well aware that Lululemon clothes don't come cheap (though you can always browse the "We Made Too Much" section to try to snag a deal). And yes, I agree that $100 or more is a slightly absurd amount to spend on leggings. But hear me out. Lululemon is well worth the steep price tag. 

Over the years I've tried numerous other brands from Athleta to Fabletics in the hopes of finding workout clothes I love just as much. I have other leggings, tops, and bras I like, but none that have lasted me over 10 years and look and feel the same as the day I bought them.

I've worn them on 12-hour treks through Patagonia and on runs through humid Brooklyn streets, and still, nearly everything I own has held up. Because I know I'll own everything I buy for years to come, I'm more than willing to pay the extra price. Several of my coworkers also own and have tested out Lululemon pieces. We've put sports bras, leggings, shorts, and tanks to the test in yoga classes, at our home gyms, and more. You can find all the details on fit, style, and performance for our favorites below.

Generally, sizes run from 0 to 20 to fit a wide range of body types. Prices vary and run around $14 for small accessories like socks and headbands, $58 for sports bras, and $128 for some of their most popular workout leggings.

14 of our favorite Lululemon pieces and what they're like to wear:   

Wunder Under High-Rise Tight

I never wanted to love Lululemon because I knew it would be an expensive habit, but these leggings made me a convert. They're soft and lightweight enough to sleep in but still substantial enough to work out in. And unlike so many other pairs I've owned, the high-rise waist never rolls down. I haven't taken them off since the start of the pandemic, and once I wear them out, I'll be running to the store to buy more. As far as sizing, I typically wear a size 0 in most clothing, but I went with a 4 in these leggings and they fit perfectly. — Ashley Phillips, style and beauty editor

Wunder Under High-Rise Tight

The classic Wunder Under leggings in black were my first-ever Lululemon purchase more than a decade ago now, and I continue to wear them. They're soft, stretchy, suck you in at all the right places, but are still comfortable enough to wear with a cozy oversized sweatshirt all day. Even if you don't hit the gym too often, you'll likely end up wearing these around the house daily. They also still get the job done during workouts, though I've found they aren't quite as good for sweat-wicking or quick-drying as options like the Fast and Free Tight. Additionally, while they do have a small waistband pocket for keys or your credit card, I do now prefer the convenience of leggings with side pockets for hitting the gym or going on runs. — Hannah Freedman, associate travel editor

Enlite Bra

This is probably my number one most favorite sports bra in the world, and I've tested over 20 of them for my job as a style editor. As a short person with a DD chest, I have a really hard time finding sports bras that work. The straps are always too long for my short torso and the padding is often too intense for my taste. But this bra is the ultimate middle ground. The straps aren't too long or too short, and the amount of padding is minimal. 

The cross-back straps help create enough lift that I feel really supported, even for high-intensity workouts, and the material is really soft and seamless for a comfy fit. There's almost always going to be some uniboob action going on with sports bras for large chests, but I find that it's less so with this style versus some of my other high-intensity sports bras. — Sally Kaplan, senior editor

Intent Joggers Shorter 27''

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Lululemon has become my number one destination for whenever I need new joggers or sweatpants. The material itself is incredibly comfortable, but the bigger value for me lies in the versatility of these joggers. The shorter taper at the bottom of the joggers prevents any wear and tear or fraying that I typically see in my sweatpants, which allows me to work from home comfortably, run errands and even workout. I have put a lot of mileage in these joggers and they have yet to fail me and still stand up to the most demanding days. — Frank Massaro, partnerships manager

Down For It All Jacket

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The best part about this jacket is all the pockets. There are front zip pockets for small items like keys and credit cards, and side pockets that are perfectly sized for a phone. I love the lightweight feel (although you'll probably want something heavier for temperatures below 50 degrees) and I reach for it every time I'm going out for a walk and don't want to bring a handbag. The fit is really slim since it was designed for running, so I sized up to a 6 (I'm typically a 2 or 4 in Lululemon) and there's just enough room to layer a long-sleeve top underneath. The hood and water-resistant material have come in handy several times on drizzly days. — Ashley Phillips, style and beauty editor

Read our full review of the Down For It All jacket here.

Fast and Free Tight II

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It's pretty rare for me to drop $130 on a pair of tights unless they're seriously special. But I love the Fast and Free Tights so much I actually own two pairs. I think they are The Best workout tights available. For starters, they are perfectly high waisted for both comfort and for wearing with a crop top. The drawstring means you can tighten the waist so they won't slip down during workouts. Overall, the fabric is silky to touch, sweat-wicking, quick-drying, and holds up well after dozens and dozens and dozens of washes.

These leggings feel like a second skin on runs, throughout CrossFit classes, and while running errands — and they don't become sheer during squats. Most of all, I love the perfect light compression on them which not only contributes to that second-skin feeling but also makes the leggings very flattering, all without being so tight that your organs are being squished (I regularly wear these all day or on long flights). — Rachael Schultz, health and fitness updates editor

Fast and Free Tight II

I've had the Fast and Free II leggings for three years now and they are possibly my favorite pair ever. In fact, I actually have two pairs of this style. The high rise fit, lightweight and stretchy material, and sweat-wicking abilities make these ideal for everything from running outdoors to taking hot yoga classes. I've found the fit to be excellent, and I never need to adjust these pants mid-workout. However, by far my favorite feature is the side pockets, which easily fits my phone and key while holding them tight enough to me that they don't bounce around uncomfortably. After hundreds of wears, these still hold their shape, have plenty of stretch, and haven't become any thinner than the day I bought them. — Hannah Freedman, associate travel editor

Align Tank

If you're large-chested, this top probably won't work for you. But as a 36A, if I could live in one shirt for the rest of my life, it would be this one. That's largely because I wear this both as a top with anything high-waisted, as well as a way more comfortable but equally supportive bra under baggy shirts and sweatshirts. The fabric here is uber-soft and comfortable and just lovely on your skin. The slight v-neck and scoop back are super flattering and it has a built-in bra (it comes with fabric cups too but these are easily removable).

The feature that really sets this apart from other crop tops or bra tops is that something about the cut and the compression delivers the near-impossible for us small-chested ladies: it gives you cleavage. This sounds silly considering it's a workout top, but my tiny chest basically never looks tantalizing in anything without a lot of underwire and padding — yet this tank delivers cleavage and comfort. (For what it's worth, I've heard womxn as big as a C cup be equally excited about its lifting potential, but I imagine it might squish bigger boobs uncomfortably.)

This top is designed for yoga and would definitely hold up through a flow, but I also wear mine a lot on hikes and it's very comfortable to work up a serious sweat in (though it wouldn't be enough support for a run). Because this top is tight, I'd recommend sizing up (I'm a 36A and usually a 6, but wear an 8 in this top). — Rachael Schultz, health and fitness updates editor

All Tied Up Tank

This workout top is super versatile since you can wear it loose and flowy, or, thanks to the slits in the back, wear it tied up. I almost always wear it tied back and I like that I can adjust it to whatever height my leggings or shorts are. The fabric is super lightweight and breathable. It's cotton, but I've always found it quite sweat-wicking in the heat. I like the high-neck for more coverage, particularly when doing barbell cleans. The only bummer is the knot in the back is annoying for floor exercises or carrying a daypack hiking, but it's easy to undo and re-tie. — Rachael Schultz, health and fitness updates editor

On the Fly Woven ⅞ Pant Woven

These are amazing pants to travel in. They're a loose fit overall but have a drawstring waist, so they're comfy to sit for a long time in without being skin tight. The fabric is an unusual poly-blend but it's very comfortable and doesn't wrinkle. I like that they look a little more business casual than your typical legging. The pockets are perfectly placed and rather deep, which is great if you're going through an airport and need an easy-access stash for your phone or passport. I personally wish they were a little more high-waisted, but I think most people would be happy with the just-below-the-belly-button rise. — Rachael Schultz, health and fitness updates editor

Invigorate High-Rise Tight

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Thanks to the fact that these pants use Lululemon's fastest drying fabric, feel nice and cool inside, and are sweat-wicking, I like to wear these leggings to hot yoga classes, on summer hikes, or even, as shown above, ATVing through Tahiti. Like all my favorite styles, these also have side pockets. However, I've found these leggings don't quite suck me in like the Wunder Under or Fast and Free styles, which can be a pro or con depending on what you're going for. — Hannah Freedman, associate travel editor

City Sweat Pullover & Metal Vent Tech Hoodies

During non-pandemic times, I travel frequently. As is well known, planes are freezing and I will not fly without a Lululemon hoodie or sweater, which gives me much-needed comfort, warmth, and good street-cred. The City Sweat Pullover Hoodie (left) is also great for hanging out around the house in the winter. I use it more as a pajama hoodie, and it goes well with jogger pants. Heavier than a lot of classic hoodies, the City Sweat is an ideal layer for added warmth.

I'm also a big fan of the Metal Vent Tech Hoodie. True to its name, this is the perfect hoodie to go to your hip, latte-infused, ping-pong bashing startup where you can comfortably code for eight or more hours. This hoodie is not too warm or heavy, but rather a light replacement of a regular button-down shirt. — Shalom Goodman, SEO strategist

Align Super High Rise Short

I bought and returned a lot of bike shorts over the last six months, and Lululemon makes the best ones for all types of workouts and activities. The Align Super High Rise Short is my favorite pair for everyday wear; it's made of a super-soft nylon/lycra blend that is not too compressive like a lot of other bike shorts, it stays in place all day and doesn't ride up, and it comes in four lengths and tons of colors. I also have and like the Fast and Free Short we recommend in our buying guide; this is the pair I suggest for running and working out. — Ellen Hoffman, executive editor

Energy Bra

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The Energy Bra is a versatile, medium-support sports bra for B to D cup sizes. I'm right in the middle with a C chest and wear it for both low- and high-intensity workouts with no issue. It's comfortable, supportive, and the strappy back makes it a little cute too. Lululemon's bra sizing is honestly very confusing to me, so if it's your first time ordering from the brand, I suggest looking at the size chart and ordering two sizes if you're on the fence. I'm a 34C and the 8 fits me best. — Ellen Hoffman, executive editor

Hotty Hot Short II Long

I love these super lightweight shorts for running and hiking during hot, sticky New York summers. They're sweat-wicking, include mesh panels on the bottom edge for extra ventilation, and the stretchy waistband can be tightened for your ideal fit. Since I'm 5'8", I prefer the long version, but they also have a shorter, two-inch option. My only complaint with these pants is the lack of pockets. While there is one zippered pocket, it's smaller than I initially thought and does not fit my phone, though it does fit my keys. That said, if you tend to run with an Apple Watch or similar, or hike with a backpack, then that may not be an issue. — Hannah Freedman, associate travel editor

• The world premiere of "The Devil Wears Prada 2" took place in New York City on Monday.
• Celebrities attended the premiere, many wearing Prada in honor of the film.
• Some stars looked better than others, though.

Most movie premieres are filled with fun fashion moments, but a movie about style takes the red-carpet looks to a whole other level.

On Monday, celebrities gathered at Lincoln Center in New York City to celebrate the premiere of "The Devil Wears Prada 2," which hits theaters on May 1. Members of the cast, like Anne Hathaway and Meryl Streep, walked the red carpet, arriving in high-fashion looks that would make their characters in the film franchise proud.

However, some of the fashion risks stars took for the event didn't pay off as well.

Read on to see the best and worst outfits celebrities wore to the premiere of "The Devil Wears Prada 2."

Anne Hathaway's all-red look was glamorous.

Hathaway, who is reprising her starring role as Andy Sachs in the movie, celebrated the sequel in a custom Louis Vuitton gown, matching the red "2" on the film's posters.

The strapless dress had a corset bodice, and the full skirt hit her mid-calf for an Old Hollywood silhouette. Red pumps made the look even bolder, as did her Bulgari jewelry.

Gayle King's red look, on the other hand, didn't work as well.

Like Hathaway, King went for a red look to celebrate the film. Her dress had a sweater-style bodice with a high neckline, while the skirt was layered and flowed to the floor.

The dress was cool, but King overwhelmed the look with a large bow purse and a white-and-black patterned jacket. If she had worn the dress without the bold accessories, it would have made a stronger statement.

Barbara Palvin and Dylan Sprouse both looked chic in suitwear.

Palvin's Beaufille ensemble consisted of a white blouse tucked asymmetrically into her tasseled skirt and a blue blazer. Her snakeskin pumps tied the elements together with navy detailing.

Sprouse's black suit was simple, but it looked stylish when paired with a white shirt and no tie.

Sofia Carson rocked a stylish suit, too.

Maison Francesco Scognamiglio designed Carson's tuxedo.

Her pants were high-waisted and flared slightly, offsetting the fitted jacket and white blouse. Details, including a large white bow tie and a rose brooch on the lapel, elevated the outfit.

Emily Blunt's Schiaparelli gown had too much going on.

Blunt, who is stepping back into her role as Emily Charlton in the sequel, arrived at the premiere in a gold-and-cream Schiaparelli gown.

The bodice was covered in shiny, feather-like materials, and it had a sweetheart neckline with a round attachment sticking up from the center. Layers of roughly hemmed tulle fabric made up the full skirt, crisscrossing to reveal her nude pumps in the center.

The dress had pretty elements, but the dramatic skirt and unusual neckline overshadowed Blunt. The dress may have worked better if the bodice were simpler.

Nara Smith's suit wasn't the best choice for the premiere.

Smith, accompanied by her husband Lucky Blue, celebrated the film in a Prada skirt suit from the brand's 2011 season.

Both the blazer and pencil skirt were covered in black and gray horizontal stripes. She wore the blazer without a top, and she tied a ribbon at her neck. Black, open-toed heels completed the ensemble.

The look was pretty, but it leaned more toward a professional tone than a red-carpet one. Smith may have been better off saving the outfit for a different event.

Meryl Streep's coatdress was perfect for the "devil" herself.

Streep famously plays Miranda Priestly, the so-called "devil" in "The Devil Wears Prada" franchise. Her red Givenchy coatdress was a perfect choice for the red carpet, given her role.

The dress had a high neckline that tied like a scarf and flowed to her ankles. Streep paired it with black gloves, black pumps, and black sunglasses, looking effortlessly cool.

Lady Gaga's black gown was a little too simple.

Lady Gaga arrived at the premiere in a black Saint Laurent dress.

The gown had a strapless, V-neckline, hugging her figure before flowing out in a mermaid skirt. She wore Tiffany & Co. earrings and her hair in a ponytail.

The star looked beautiful, but the look was rather simple, especially for Gaga, who is known for her bold fashion. More eye-catching jewelry or other accessories could have taken the outfit to another level.

Ciara and Russell Wilson both looked stylish in monochromatic ensembles.

Wilson and Ciara had two of the most fun looks for "The Devil Wears Prada 2" red carpet.

Ciara wore a custom denim ensemble from Romeo Hunte. She paired a white blouse with a denim jacket, shorts, and a dramatic trench coat that belted at the waist and flowed behind her like a train. She dressed the look up with her accessories, including black pumps, black sunglasses, and a sparkly choker.

Wilson honored the film with a Prada look, pairing a bomber jacket with trousers, a blouse, and a black tie. Black sunglasses and black shoes tied it all together.

A train took Simone Ashley's minidress to the next level.

Ashley, who plays Miranda Priestly's current assistant in the new film, also celebrated the movie with a Prada look.

Her green gown was strapless, and exposed seam detailing gave it structure, as did the pockets on either side of the minidress. A train extended from the back of the gown, hitting the floor and elevating the look.

She accessorized the colorful dress with silver pointed-toe pumps and a silver choker.

Ashley Graham's look felt mismatched.

Miss Claire Sullivan designed Graham's black ensemble, which included a bustier top and pinstripe pants.

The details on the top were fun, including lace at the neckline and feathering at the hem, but they clashed with the more professional-leaning pants.

Graham could have leaned into the top's sexy look and paired it with silky bottoms for a more cohesive outfit.

Texture made Lucy Liu's dress pop.

Liu chose a semi-sheer, black gown designed by Georges Hobeika for the event.

The gown's boat neckline gave way to see-through fabric adorned with sparkly black embroidery in a floral pattern. Tassels of florals scooped across the bodice, giving way to netted material around her midriff.

More tassels sat on her waistline, and the floral embroidery continued on the sheer skirt. Liu kept the look monochromatic, pairing the bold dress with black heels and a black clutch.

The intricate embroidery felt fresh and exciting on the red carpet.

B. J. Novak's suit could have fit better.

Novak wore a pinstripe suit with a blue shirt to the premiere. A red-and-white pocket square added a pop of color to the look.

The outfit was a fine choice, but it didn't look particularly well-tailored. Likewise, the black against the navy shirt was a bit jarring. A shirt that matched the suit's color would have improved the ensemble.

• JPMorgan boosted its 2026 stock market price target, reversing its prior Iran-war downgrade.
• Analysts said Anthropic's new model has reinvigorated the AI trade.
• Expected first-quarter earnings strength will also boost stocks, JPMorgan said.

JPMorgan analysts raised their S&P 500 price target for the year, signaling that AI momentum and bullish earnings expectations should offset the drag from the Iran war.

The analysts boosted the bank's 2026 year-end S&P 500 target to 7,600 from 7,200, indicating potential upside of about 7% from current levels.

The call reverses JPMorgan's prior downgrade on the Iran war oil shock and concerns about investor complacency regarding the impacts of the conflict. JPMorgan cited strong AI momentum and bullish expectations for the first-quarter earnings as factors that sparked its latest upgrade.

"Markets broke out to new highs last week, led by geopolitical de-escalation and strong momentum in the AI theme, with Mag-7 and AI upstream names outperforming in unison," they wrote.

The S&P 500 erased Iran-war losses and climbed to fresh record highs as investors repriced the prospect of de-escalation in Iran. The tech-heavy Nasdaq also hit new records, with the Magnificent Seven seeing strong gains.

AI hype returns to Wall Street

JPMorgan said that investor interest in AI stocks hasn't been this high since the first half of 2025 and is fueling record highs.

"Other than the geopolitical de-escalation, we believe the Anthropic Mythos headline was the key catalyst, with 66% of S&P 500 AI names outperforming since April 7th — evidence of rapidly improving models and AI services," the note read.

Anthropic's valuation has surged to $800 billion. This week, Amazon announced a $25 billion investment in the company, adding to its already multi-billion dollar investment in the maker of the Claude AI chatbot.

JPMorgan said that the AI startup's revenue run rate has tripled year-to-date and that OpenAI is expected to follow suit with improved performance with an updated model release anticipated soon.

The analysts addressed the AI fears that fueled a tech stock sell-off earlier in the year, saying that "Even the risk of AI induced job displacement in some of the most sensitive areas (i.e., software engineering) is being put to rest for now as hiring is resuming."

More earnings upside to come

JPMorgan analysts expect a bullish first-quarter earnings season, in part because AI fears have faded.

"Looking ahead, we expect a more favorable 1Q reporting season than last quarter, when investors were AI-fatigued and weary of higher Capex and R&D spending," they wrote.

The analysts added that they believe that consensus S&P 500 earnings estimates have room for more upside, given that recent positive revisions have been driven by only a few stocks.

Geopolitical risk lingers

There is yet to be a permanent peace deal between the US, Israel, and Iran, but the market has priced in de-escalation due to the temporary ceasefire that is set to expire on Wednesday evening.

JPMorgan warned that geopolitical risks persist and could fuel a short-term downturn, though the firm is broadly still bullish on stocks.

"Given the sharp rally from recent lows (10-day RSI >95th %ile) and a geopolitical backdrop that, while significantly de-escalated, remains in flux, there is a meaningful risk that the market enters a short-term consolidation phase before resuming its upward trajectory," the analysts outlined.

They added that a complete resolution to the conflict in the Middle East will likely take time, but oil prices around $90 signal the market doesn't anticipate further escalation.

• Suede is animal hide that's been sanded on the inner layer for a velvety, textured feel and appearance.
• However, it's less durable than leather, more prone to staining, and harder to care for.
• We've put together a few tips and tricks to teach you how to clean suede and take care of it.
• You'll need a water repellant spray and a suede brush to keep your suede items in tip-top shape.

Elvis had good reason to croon, "But don't you step on my blue suede shoes. Well, you can do anything, but stay off of my blue suede shoes."

While suede certainly has a velvety, rich appearance, it's equally undeniable that it stains, scuffs, and flattens easily. That's why it's so important to know how to take care of suede.

A periodic brush and cleaning will keep your suede shoes, jacket, hat, pants, and furniture looking as fine as the day you bought it.

But even more importantly, you need to treat any wear-and-tear on suede promptly to avoid permanent stains or damage to the material.

While it's not really difficult to clean and care for suede, it does take more attention than many other types of leather, which is why we decided to lay out the proper way to care for your suede shoes, clothing, or household décor.

Basic suede care

The best way to keep your suede shoes, hats, home furnishings, and gloves looking good is with regular preventative care. While as a general rule, you should leave suede garments at home on days when rain is in the forecast, inevitably at some point you'll be caught in an unexpected shower, step in a puddle, or walk across wet grass.

That's why suede clothing, footwear, and accessories should all be treated with a water-repelling spray like Apple Brand Garde Rain & Stain Repellant.

To be safe, first test the spray in an inconspicuous area. If all is well, go ahead and apply the spray all over your suede shoes or other suede items, and let it dry completely. While you still should avoid water while wearing suede, the protectant will greatly diminish the chances of staining should the suede get wet. Reapply it once each season for the best protection.

Regular brushing of your suede is another must, whether it's a wearable item or home décor. A good suede brush like the Redecker Suede Brush, which has both brass wire and natural pig bristle for a thorough but gentle cleaning, whisks away dust and dirt while restoring the suede's nap.

You really should brush your suede after every wear, or use the brush on your suede furniture weekly, but if that seems like too much trouble, then aim for once a month or so.

Brush the suede thoroughly all over the surface, working in back-and-forth motions only. Don't make circles or push the nap into different directions. Regular brushing is the best way to keep suede looking good and remove dust or light stains.

Removing stains from suede

It happens: Your suede shoes have mud or dirt on the toes or along the sides or rain has stained your suede hat. No need to worry: Just use your suede brush.

Often, a thorough brushing is all that's needed to remove the grime, but if things are looking extra dirty, you'll need to go a bit further.

1. If the stain is dry, grab a pencil eraser. Work the eraser over the stain, making small circular motions and applying light pressure. Brush the suede to restore the nap once the stain is gone.
2. Stain still there? Head to the pantry for some white vinegar. Pour a little bit onto a clean, dry cloth, and rub the vinegar into the stained suede. You want to dampen the suede, not soak it. Let the suede air dry, and then brush the spot to remove any lingering marks.
3. If oil gets onto your suede, sprinkle the spot with enough cornstarch to cover it completely, and let it sit for several hours. Then use your suede brush to remove the cornstarch, and hopefully, the oily stain along with it. If there is still a visible mark, use white vinegar as outlined above.
4. Wet stains, including water, should be blotted with a towel as much as possible before allowing the suede to air dry. Never set your suede near a heater or use a blow dryer to speed up the drying process, as that can fade or damage the material. If the suede dries with a watermark, you'll want to treat it with white vinegar, let the suede dry once more, and then brush it thoroughly.

Check out our other cleaning guides:

• The best shoe polish you can buy
• The best leather protectors you can buy

Your underwear collection doesn't have to be basic. Sure, we all need a basic black or white pair, but MeUndies is here to break up the monotony with their uber-comfortable, colorful inclusive underwear. Founded in 2011, MeUndies is a Los Angeles-based brand that makes super fun and comfortable essentials for everyone including both the best underwear for women and the best underwear for men. In addition to the undies that they've become so well known for, MeUndies also sells socks, bralettes, and a full collection of loungewear for everyone.

The brand has inclusive sizing, gender-inclusive styles, and matching designs across all of its products. Whatever you're shopping for, you're likely to find it here — and you'll be able to match your partner, friends, or family, too. They have patterns, bright colors, and classic colors to choose from. While you can buy items individually, MeUndies offers a subscription service that simplifies the shopping process for underwear and socks and saves you money. 

Most of the Insider Reviews team has been wearing MeUndies products for several years now, and it's the simplest way to gradually grow your collection of affordable underwear and other wardrobe basics. Below are all the MeUndies items we've tested over the years and what you should know about each one.

Underwear

MeUndies is a fun and affordable way to fill your drawer with quality underwear. The brand delivers tons of variety in styles, and you can even plan to match with your significant other.

Regardless of which style of underwear you choose, your MeUndies will be made from a super-soft MicroModal material and have a waistband that's designed not to roll down. They're not the stretchiest underwear on the market, but they do the job in the comfort department. 

I think MeUndies underwear runs small compared to other brands, but the size chart is accurate, so double-check it before placing your order. MeUndies' definition of a medium is closer to what other brands consider small. This is a plus because MeUndies has a much more extensive range of products — on the small and large sides — making it one of the most size-inclusive brands available. You'll find underwear in men's sizes small through 4XL and women's sizes XS through 4XL.

Loungewear

If your selection of loungewear consists of old sweatpants and retired gym clothes, it's time for an upgrade. MeUndies' lounge pants and modal joggers are some of our favorite choices because they are soft, lightweight, and comfortable. 

During the initial lockdown of the pandemic and subsequent months of working from home, MeUndies LoungePants and Modal joggers were essential to my wardrobe. After testing both styles, I concluded that both styles are equally impressive — it really comes down to your personal style preference. 

You'll also find T-shirts, onesies, robes, and other comfortable clothing in MeUndies' loungewear section.

Read our full MeUndies loungewear review.

Socks

If you're looking for fun and colorful socks, MeUndies is a great place to find them. You can buy them in bulk or sign up for a subscription to receive a fresh pair every month. It's a simple and affordable way to make sure you always have new socks to wear — and to liven up your outfits.

MeUndies has crew, quarter, ankle, and no-show socks, so no matter what style you prefer, it's available.

Read our full MeUndies socks review here.

Bralettes

Bralettes are a more laid-back and casual alternative to traditional bras and MeUndies has some of our favorite options. Coming in U-Back and T-Back styles, MeUndies bralettes have proven to be exceptionally comfortable.

Former Insider Reviews senior reporter Connie Chen loves them for their soft and stretchy material, tagless design, and durability. After wearing the two styles for more than 2.5 years, Connie said, "Both bralettes have held up well after frequent wear and countless washes: they remain stretchy and soft (if not softer than when I first tried them), and none of the stitching has come out."

Read our full MeUndies bralette review here.

The perks of a MeUndies subscription

You can switch your choices monthly or cancel, but keep in mind that even if you don't need a new pair, you can always save them for when you do. 

The subscription will save you 30% on each pair of underwear. Members get early access and discounts on other products, which is the best way to save on the MeUndies loungewear we love.

Read our full explainer on MeUndies membership perks and benefits.

• Staying warm during the winter can be tricky without wearing a bunch of heavy layers, but Uniqlo's HEATTECH clothes are the best way to stay warm without the bulk.
• HEATTECH is made of a special blend of materials that wick moisture from your body and turn its kinetic energy into heat.
• I've been wearing HEATTECH clothing from Uniqlo for many years, and I've found it to be the best of any under-layer I've tried. 
• It's also pretty affordable — most basic items are priced at $14.90, heavier pieces are priced at $19.90, and apparel like jeans and dress pants are priced at $49.90. 
• Uniqlo HEATTECH is available for men and women.

Effectively dressing for cold weather is very easy to get wrong. Putting on layer after layer after layer and your biggest, bulkiest coat is a sure way to make everyday activities like commuting or even just running out for lunch a massive headache. Even if you're warm (perhaps too warm), you end up feeling encumbered by those layers and walking like a penguin.

I absolutely hate the cold, and living in the Northeast, I know these problems all too well — but Japanese clothing brand Uniqlo has been the source of my most reliable fix for many years. Rather than attempting to block out the cold by piling on all my warm clothes at once, Uniqlo keeps me warm with its single thin layer of heat-retaining fabric called HEATTECH. 

What makes the material special?

Made from a special blend of rayon, polyester, and acrylic, HEATTECH wicks your body's moisture into the fibers and converts its kinetic energy into heat. Air pockets within the ultra-thin fibers trap the heat and retain it. The result is a lightweight layer of warmth without the bulk.

I first started shopping at Uniqlo around 2009, which was well before they had locations all over the country. Living in central New Jersey, the closest store to me was all the way in Manhattan, but the affordable prices made it well worth the trip. It was then that I came across the HEATTECH clothing — and I've been buying it ever since.

What it's like to wear HEATTECH layers

The first HEATTECH pieces I bought were a long-sleeve crewneck and a pair of long johns to wear underneath my clothes during the winter. Although it's been so long since I first tried them, I vividly remember being disappointed with how thin they were, assuming that they wouldn't be effective for staying warm. After wearing them, I was pleasantly proved wrong. The material's heat retention is noticeably better than normal waffle-knit thermal long johns. 

The Uniqlo HEATTECH line has come a long way since I first began wearing it. What started out as a few undergarments has evolved into a thorough selection of apparel that you could theoretically dress in from head to toe. The collection now includes undershirts, underwear, long johns, leggings, tank tops, sweaters, hats, gloves, jeans, socks, and more. Of the many options, some of my other favorites pieces are the tech-friendly gloves, turtleneck, and socks.

Most HEATTECH styles are offered in three different warmth levels including regular HEATTECH, extra-warm, and ultra-warm for those unbearably cold days. Another great attribute is that all the prices are fair. Nothing will cost you much (if any) more than comparable cotton garments.

I'm not the only one on the team who swears by the technology for cold weather. Here's what Insider Picks VP Breton Fischetti, had to say about his experience wearing HEATTECH clothing:

I discovered Uniqlo HEATTECH clothing while I was walking around the Uniqlo store on a cold day. I decided to buy a piece to see if it would be any different from the thermal layers I was used to, and I was really surprised by how effective it was. I now have HEATTECH undershirts for the winter and a HEATTECH long-sleeve crewneck. They hold in so much heat that I feel comfortable even on the coldest days. HEATTECH doesn't stop the wind, so if it's blustery, you'll still need a wind-breaking layer, but for fighting the bone-chilling cold, HEATTECH is my go-to. It's also great in the spring when you're sick of wearing a jacket because it feels like having two layers on at once. 

The bottom line

If you've been struggling to find layers that are warm and bulk-free, Uniqlo's HEATTECH styles are a great solution. There are many styles available and everything is affordably priced. 

Shop the men's Uniqlo HEATTECH Collection here.

Shop the women's Uniqlo HEATTECH Collection here.

• Lola Blankets offers a rare 50% off sale, perfect for Mother's Day gifts and personal indulgence.
• Lola blankets are praised for their softness, durability, and non-shedding properties.
• Influencers like Bethenny Frankel and Selena Gomez endorse the luxurious Lola faux fur blankets.

I'm wholly obsessed with my Lola Blanket; the internet sensation faux fur throw has become a core part of my personality, and my home decor. I've crowned it one of the best throw blankets, after testing dozens. My dog loves it too, he's claimed mine as his own. So imagine my delight, just in time for Mother's Day, that Lola is hosting a rare 50% off sitewide spring sale with code SPRING50.

These faux fur blankets with a bubbled appearance are notoriously expensive, starting at $275 for a medium size, so this is the perfect time to try one for yourself, or surprise someone with the ultimate cozy gift.

Lola blankets are available in four sizes and over 50 colorways, encompassing traditional faux-fur hues, pastels, and animal prints. However, many colors are starting to sell out fast.

The whole site is on sale, so you're not just limited to blankets. Lola carries pet beds and pillows in the soft faux fur fabric, as well as accessories like eye masks and hats.

What I love about my Lola blanket

It's the softest, most luxurious throw I've used

Lola Blankets are silky soft, slightly weighted (there's a 10 pound weighted design too), and perfectly stretchy. The fabric beautifully drapes over your body. The faux fur is warm, though not overbearing, so I leave it out on my sofa year round. They're double sided, which is some of the biggest differentiators between themselves the dupes that have emerged. And perhaps one of the biggest pros, this blanket doesn't shed… not a stray fiber has clung to my clothes.

I have a large size, which measures 60 × 72 inches, and find it perfectly covers my entire body. WIth this sale, you'll find me cashing in on the pet-size so my cavapoo can have his own to hog.

I'll give it to the influencers on this one

My favorite influencers like Bethenny Frankel, Alix Earle, Campbell "Pookie" Puckett frequently promote Lola blankets on their channels. Even Selena Gomez has been spotted with this decadent faux fur goodness on her bed ahead of her wedding. Heck, it's even Oprah approved. I try not to be swayed by everything I see on TikTok or Instagram (it's my literal job to discern viral hype from actual quality), I am thrilled to announce these are the real freaking deal.

I'm not alone in my obsession

Associate editor Kinsley Searles calls it her perfect throw blanket, with a pseudo-weighted feel that's comfy to lie under. "It's the blanket I wrap myself in every workday, which is the highest compliment I can bestow on any throw."

The dupes don't compare

We've tried dupes, but they just don't hold up to the unparalleled softness and quality. They shed, the faux fur is one-sided, or they're simply just not as soft.

What I don't love about the blanket

Beyond the regular price, it's noteworthy to add that this blanket is bulky, which doesn't make it great for storing during the off-season. I leave it out all the time draped across the chaise on my couch, but I only have one. You may inevitably find you'll need a blanket for every family member in your household, and that can take up a bit of space. In that case, I suggest a massive woven storage basket to keep everything contained.

Lola blanket FAQs

Is the Lola blanket worth it?

While we love the Lola blanket and think it's one of the softest blankets we've ever come across, we recognize not everyone can spend $300 on a throw blanket. That why this sale is so notable — it's a rare opportunity to save big while getting a premium, luxurious blanket.

What makes a Lola blanket special?

Lola blankets are faux fur made with soft polyester, with a subtle ruched or bubbled design that extends to both sides of the blanket. They also are subtly weighted and machine washable. They also don't shed. You can find other blankets — like the Cozy Earth and Bedsure throws — with similar construction at a cheaper price.

The best Bluetooth speakers make it easy to take your music anywhere, whether you're moving from the kitchen to the backyard or packing up for a weekend trip. No cords, no hassle. Just wirelessly pair your phone, tablet, or laptop and hit play. And top options aren't just about portability. They deliver room-filling sound, stylish designs, smart features, and batteries that actually last.

I've been reviewing audio gear and consumer tech for more than 25 years, so I've had plenty of hands-on time with speakers of all shapes and sizes. That experience informs every pick in this guide. My top recommendation, the retro-inspired JBL Authentics 300, strikes a sweet spot between power and detail. But if you're after something more affordable and easy to throw in a bag, the Cleer Scene is a great little speaker that punches well above its size and price.

Every speaker in this guide has been tested for sound quality, features, and design. Bluetooth is a given, of course, but a lot of my picks go further, with extras like WiFi support and voice assistant compatibility that make them even more useful day to day.

Our top picks for the best Bluetooth speakers

Best overall: JBL Authentics 300 - See at Amazon

Best portable smart speaker: Bose Portable Smart Speaker - See at Amazon

Best on a budget: Cleer Scene - See at Amazon

Best premium: Devialet Mania - See at Amazon

Best multi-room: Sonos Move 2 - See at Amazon

Best battery life: Lodge Solar Speaker 4 Series 2 - See at Amazon

Best overall

The JBL Authentics 300 is my pick for the best Bluetooth speaker overall. It's an impressive option that combines substantial power, stellar performance, extensive functionality, and a stylish design.

Its unique waffle (or, as JBL calls it, "Quadrex") grille gives it a fun, retro look that distinguishes it from other speakers. It also has a built-in battery and a convenient handle.

Backed by its classy style, the Authentics 300 delivers a clean, refined sound across the frequency spectrum. Convenient dedicated knobs on top of the speaker let you dial in the exact bass and treble flavors you want. And 100 watts of power makes it rock at whatever volume your ears can handle.

Although the Authentics 300 is portable and designed for on-the-go use with up to eight hours of battery life, it's a bit bulky. So, if you're using it at home, you may just want to find a good spot for it and leave it plugged in, knowing you can move it somewhere else if needed.

Its companion app is packed with features, including the ability to adjust the EQ, toggle battery saver mode, set the auto power off time, and disable feedback tones. In addition to Bluetooth, the app lets you stream music via a WiFi connection for higher-quality playback. WiFi also enables you to set up multi-room listening (with additional speakers) and to configure Amazon Alexa and/or Google Assistant, allowing the Authentics 300 to function as a smart speaker.

At the end of the day, JBL's Authentics 300 is not only a handsome device but also a highly adaptable and adjustable speaker with great connectivity. In addition to the platforms already mentioned, it plays well with both AirPlay and Chromecast. It's available in either black or white. And though it retails for $450 to $500, it's sometimes on sale for as low as $350, a grab-it-while-you-can bargain price.

Best portable smart speaker

Bose's aptly named Portable Smart Speaker is the successor to its older SoundLink Revolve+ II, a Bluetooth speaker included in previous versions of this guide. True to its lineage, this newer model is versatile and well-featured while adding perks like WiFi support.

Roughly twice the volume of the Cleer Scene and half that of the Sonos Move 2, the cylindrical Portable Smart Speaker is about the size of an oil can. In other words, it's not tiny, but still relatively light and compact. It also boasts support for both Google Assistant and Alexa when connected to WiFi. Though other options in this guide are also compatible with those assistants, this is the easiest to transport, making it the most mobile smart speaker of the bunch.

In terms of the speaker's sound profile, true to Bose's reputation, the mids and treble are clean and sparkly. But I don't love the bass. Unlike the Cleer Scene, Bose's speaker is unexpectedly thumpy, muddying the mids and distracting from its otherwise pristine audio. Still, its overall performance compares well to other smart speakers of this size, offering sound that is bigger than expected.

The app is pretty basic but works well. It allows you to enable additional features, such as Chromecast and voice control, and stream services like Spotify, iHeartRadio, SiriusXM, and Pandora.

One cool proprietary feature is that you can group this model with other Bose speakers and soundbars, allowing you to fill your home with sound. You can even send synchronized audio to a pair of Bose headphones.

Design-wise, the Portable Smart Speaker errs on the side of simplicity and subtlety. It's available in black or white, so it's a bit average-looking. However, it's a compact, powerful smart speaker that delivers substantial sound, considering its size. I just wish it were a little less boomy and that a wireless charging cradle were included.

For more product recommendations from Bose, check out our guides to the best Bose soundbars and best Bose headphones.

Best on a budget

Although you may not have heard of Cleer Audio, the brand has been around for over a dozen years, churning out competent ANC headphones that rival Sony and Bose for sound quality (but cost less), great wireless earbuds, and innovative speaker designs.

Case in point: the Cleer Scene. This unique Bluetooth speaker doesn't have a typical boxy or cylindrical build. Instead, it's shaped kind of like a cannoli. According to the designer, this style was chosen to guide listeners to position the speaker horizontally rather than vertically.

Other than its shape, the Cleer Scene stands out in this list as the only speaker under $100. But it definitely performs beyond its price. In fact, nothing in this range even comes close to it.

It features deeper, more controlled bass than JBL's more affordable Clip 5, and it's a lot less expensive than Bose's similarly portable SoundLink Flex. The sound is crisp, bright, and smooth. Despite its tiny stature, the speaker easily fills a small area with dulcet tunes.

The Scene is available in a subtle gray or a stunning red. Unlike other speakers of its size, it features a microphone, so you can use it for calls. And it's IPX7 waterproof, so it can survive an honest-to-goodness dunking.

That utility and durability, along with its light and compact body, make it highly portable. It's definitely the kind of Bluetooth speaker you'll want to bring with you everywhere around the house and on the go.

Best premium

The French company Devialet (pronounced "D-V-allay") has made a name for itself in the luxury audio market. Though the brand has released a soundbar, amplifier, and earbuds, it's best known for its multi-thousand-dollar Phantom speakers.

Aside from their distinctive cyber-egg shape and notoriously high price tags, the Phantoms are known for their "implosive" speaker arrays, which can produce high volumes without a hint of distortion. Although Devialet has introduced smaller, more affordable versions, these have all required plugging in. The Mania is its first battery-powered speaker.

Despite its portability, the Mania is a powerful and stylish piece of tech, as if the company somehow turned the all-seeing Eye of Sauron from "The Lord of the Rings" into a speaker. One thing's for sure: it definitely looks and feels premium.

Furthermore, this relatively compact yet heavy speaker performs remarkably well, delivering rich, 360-degree stereo sound. It does so by performing a scan every time you power it on, which requires patience that's amply rewarded. The Mania uses its four microphones to determine its position in the room and automatically adjust its audio imaging and directionality accordingly.

More than handsome, smart, and adept, the speaker is also plenty loud. At every volume, the Mania delivers clean, tight, bright sound. Even at up to 95 decibels, it sounds big but never distorted, bloated, or muddied. It's just tight and snappy, right up through the middle and upper registers.

Its companion app offers basic functionality, displaying charging information, product tips and info, and an adjustable volume slider with three equalizer presets. The app also provides access to the speaker's voice assistant and allows you to disable the microphone.

To add to its accolades, the Mania offers great connectivity, with optional WiFi support in addition to Bluetooth streaming. It's available in five opulent colorways on Devialet's site. And it can be paired with another Mania, if your pockets are deep enough and you want an even better stereo presentation.

Best multi-room

The Sonos Move 2 is an excellent Bluetooth speaker that stands out thanks to its robust multi-room support. It's compatible with Sonos' wireless ecosystem, which (with the help of its app) allows you to discreetly control all Sonos speakers connected to your WiFi network.

You can have one set of speakers that you've grouped playing one stream at a particular volume and a separate speaker (or set of speakers) playing a completely different source at another volume. Although the brand's app was plagued by glitches during a botched revamp last year, these issues have now been corrected. There are still some kinks here and there, but overall, Sonos' multi-room capabilities are top-notch. And if you just want straightforward playback to the Move 2 on its own, a Bluetooth connection offers a simple solution that works anywhere.

If you were to judge the Move 2's sound based on its beefy size, you might assume it'd be bold and brutish. But it's actually more of a gentle giant. Make no mistake, it gets plenty loud. But the sound is rich, warm, and surprisingly brighter than that of the Bose Portable Smart Speaker. It certainly doesn't lack in bass, but it rumbles with more finesse than the Bose — and many other speakers, for that matter.

The Move 2's shape is cylindrical, and it's available in black, white, or olive. So it's not the flashiest speaker out there. Design-wise, it seems more about blending into the background than making a statement. But it's still nice and curvy with a subtle, tasteful personality.

I also like that it comes with a charging base. However, it's certainly not lacking in battery capacity, with up to 24 hours of playtime and the ability to provide spare juice to charge your phone or tablet as needed via a USB connection.

As with other Sonos gear, the Move 2 is admittedly on the pricey side. But it occasionally goes on sale, so keep an eye out. If you're already a Sonos user, this is a great speaker for the house. It's also a good one to get you started on that path, even if you have no immediate plans to add more speakers.

Sonos also sells two other portable speakers worth considering: the Roam 2 and the Play. The Play can't match the sound quality of the Move 2, but its smaller size makes it more versatile for those who want a Sonos speaker that's easy to move around the house and to take on the go. You can learn more in our Sonos Play review. Meanwhile, the Roam 2 is even more compact, which further limits audio performance but makes it a better fit for those who want a travel-only speaker.

For more Sonos product recommendations, check out our guide to the best Sonos soundbars.

Best battery life

The Lodge Solar Speaker 4 stands out from its rivals in this guide thanks to its four solar panels (on the top, back, right, and left sides) that can provide power from the sun. It also has an IP66 rating, making it suitable for outdoor use, even in wet conditions. The speaker even features a magnetic stake mounting system, allowing you to easily position it above a patch of dirt, grass, or mulch.

To charge the device for the first time, you can either juice it up via its hidden USB-C port and then leave it outside to top off in the sun, or strategically place it outside for a few days to let the sun do all the work.

As long as you have sunlight, the Lodge offers virtually unlimited playtime. And without solar charging, it still offers 22-plus hours of battery life, so it's sure to play through darkness and rain as well. You don't have to worry about the weather ruining your camping trip or patio party.

Once powered up, the Solar Speaker 4 sounds amazing. It's clear, bright, and plenty loud. Its bass is adequate, if not a bit understated. So it may be a letdown if you crave truly bone-rattling rumble or heart-stopping thump. In that way, its sound signature could be described as "audiophile-friendly," meaning that it's clean, balanced, and relatively "neutral" throughout its frequency response.

There is an app, but it's only used to initiate firmware updates. However, it's possible to pair two of these speakers for a superwide stereo soundstage. If you happen to have the budget and acreage (and amenable neighbors), you can even wirelessly connect up to 30 of these bad boys.

Having said all this, the Lodge Solar Speaker 4 can also be used indoors. After all, it offers stellar sound. But it's really meant as a long-lasting outdoor speaker you can set up without worrying about power.

What else we considered

The picks above represent my top recommendations for the best Bluetooth speakers, but I also tested a few other worthwhile options. Most notably, I was impressed by the Harman Kardon SoundSticks System, which is a gorgeous 2.1 Bluetooth speaker package designed for desktops. However, unlike most of the other speaker solutions covered above, this one doesn't run on a battery, doesn't work with an app, and doesn't offer adjustable sound to tame its aggressive bass. For those reasons, it doesn't quite earn a spot in this guide, but it is still worth mentioning.

The system features a cool, transparent design and includes a pair of stereo satellite towers and a dedicated subwoofer shaped like a bundt cake. In terms of power, it's second only to the Devialet Mania. All those watts mean you can crank up the volume to fill even the largest of rooms in your house. So it'd be good for parties.

However, the subwoofer's bass is so strong that it overpowers the middle and upper frequencies, muddying what would otherwise be a quite pleasant sound. The end result is a darker, slightly more muffled quality than I'd like. Don't get me wrong, it still sounds solid. But in terms of audio, it can't hold a candle to the rich, balanced, complete sound delivered by the JBL Authentics 300, Sonos Move 2, and Devialet Mania.

How we test Bluetooth speakers

To find the best Bluetooth speakers, I started by researching a wide range of popular models and narrowing them down to a list of promising contenders. I focused on speakers versatile enough for everyday listening at home and outdoors. From there, I conducted hands-on tests with dozens of models to compare their performance and determine which ones truly stand out.

When reviewing each speaker, I paid close attention to sound quality, connectivity options, smart features, and overall value. My approach is shaped by decades of experience reviewing personal audio gear, so I know what separates a decent speaker from a great one.

Beyond sound, I looked at real-world usability. That includes on-speaker controls, companion app design, portability, and overall aesthetics. The best Bluetooth speakers aren't just functional — they're thoughtfully designed. Whether they blend into a room or make a visual statement, they should feel purposeful and well executed.

For listening tests, I played a wide mix of content, including multiple music genres, podcasts, and audiobooks. I evaluated bass depth and control, midrange clarity, and treble detail to get a clear sense of each speaker's overall balance. My source material came from streaming services like Amazon Music, Qobuz, Spotify, and iHeartRadio. I also conducted extensive side-by-side comparisons to highlight differences in tone, volume capability, and overall performance.

To go beyond quick impressions, I lived with these wireless speakers for weeks. I primarily tested them over Bluetooth, but I also explored WiFi streaming and multiroom features when available. I listened in rooms of different sizes, at various distances and volume levels, to reflect how each speaker is realistically meant to be used based on its size and power.

For more details on our review process, check out our breakdown on how we test tech products.

What to look for in a Bluetooth speaker

Intended use - Think about where you'll actually use the speaker — specific rooms, the backyard, or on trips. That context helps you determine how much power you need and whether you require a speaker with omnidirectional sound.

Portability - If your speaker is too heavy or awkward to pick up, you'll likely leave it in one spot. Grips or built-in handles make moving a speaker around much easier.

Battery life - For any speaker you plan to take outside or away from an outlet, look for at least eight to 12 hours of playtime before needing to recharge.

Connectivity - Bluetooth 5.2 offers stronger, more flexible connections, including Auracast, multi-device pairing, and public audio broadcasts. Some Bluetooth speakers also offer WiFi, which lets you stream higher-quality audio anywhere your home network reaches.

Sound quality - Test speakers with music you know well at different volumes and from a normal listening distance. That's the best way to judge detail, distortion, and overall character. Blasting unfamiliar tracks from inches away won't tell you much about real-world performance.

Value - Don't start with the price tag. First, decide which features and performance matter to you, then look for models that deliver them within a reasonable budget.

Durability - Match the speaker to your lifestyle. Kitchen use might mean spills, while living-room use might not, and travel or beach trips call for something that can withstand a beating — or something affordable enough to replace easily.

Ease of use - A speaker should be simple from setup to daily controls. That's one reason we love the JBL Authentics 300: its buttons and knobs feel intuitive, and the companion app adds useful features without being complicated.

Style - Looks matter. From the JBL Authentics' retro waffle grille to the Cleer Scene's bold colors or the Devialet Mania's sculptural design, a speaker's aesthetic can play just as big a role as its sound.

Meet the expert behind this guide

Scott Tharler, contributing reporter: I've been writing about tech for more than 25 years, with hundreds of reviews and guides published along the way. Audio gear has always been a sweet spot for me, especially Bluetooth speakers — the kind you bring to the backyard, the beach, or just move from room to room. For this guide, I tested dozens of models across different sizes, price points, and styles to figure out which ones actually deliver great sound, solid battery life, and the features that matter. After all that listening, comparing, and living with them day to day, the speakers included in this list are the ones I confidently recommend.

Learn more about the Reviews team at Business Insider.

Bluetooth speaker FAQs

What are the best Bluetooth speaker brands?

No Bluetooth speaker brand nails everything, but many have clear strengths.

Bose, best known for its comfortable noise-canceling headphones, also makes excellent soundbars and portable speakers. The Portable Smart Speaker and the SoundLink lineup (Micro, Plus, Flex, and Max) deliver impressive clarity and build quality for their size — though you'll pay a premium for it.

If you want great sound for less, JBL is a go-to. Its retro-styled Authentics line is a standout, while the tiny Go and Clip models make solid budget picks. The Flip, Charge, and Xtreme remain fan favorites, and the PartyBox series is the benchmark for big, wireless party speakers. Across the board, you get JBL's punchy V-shaped sound, handy app controls, durable builds, and reliable battery life.

Sonos is best known for its top-tier soundbars and multi-room audio ecosystem. Its app is one of the best for managing networked speakers, and the company recently expanded into headphones with the Sonos Ace.

These are among the strongest brands in Bluetooth audio, but they are not the only ones worth considering. We also like picks from Devialet, Cleer Audio, and Lodge. And while they didn't make this particular guide, brands like Ultimate Ears, Beats, Anker, LG, Sony, and Marshall also offer solid Bluetooth speakers for a range of needs.

Are all Bluetooth speakers portable?

While a lot of the best Bluetooth speakers are designed to be portable, not all of them are. Some models are larger, meant to stay in one place, and may even need to be plugged in for power. They still use Bluetooth for wireless music, but prioritize bigger sound over grab-and-go design.

All of the picks in this guide feature integrated batteries, so they're all technically portable, but smaller options, like the Cleer Scene, are better suited for travel than bigger speakers like the JBL Authentics 300.

What is Bluetooth?

Bluetooth is a technology that allows audio to be transmitted wirelessly between compatible devices. If you have a Bluetooth speaker and a Bluetooth-compatible source device, such as a phone or computer, you can play music from your source device to your speaker without cables. The wireless range can vary, but typical Bluetooth products can transmit audio at up to 33 feet.

Can you pair multiple Bluetooth speakers together?

Often, yes, but it depends on the brand and model. Many of the best Bluetooth speakers offer a "party mode" or stereo pairing feature that lets you connect two (or sometimes more) speakers for bigger, more immersive sound. Some even let you spread speakers throughout your home for multiroom audio. All of the speakers we recommend in this guide support stereo or multiroom pairing.

Is Bluetooth audio quality good?

Although Bluetooth can provide good audio quality, it has some downsides. Bluetooth compresses audio during transmission, which means there is some loss of quality compared to a wired or WiFi connection.

That said, modern Bluetooth technology, utilizing the latest audio codecs, can minimize this degradation. In many cases, casual listeners would struggle to distinguish between a high-quality Bluetooth signal and wired audio playback. This is especially true when listening to music on smaller portable speakers.

However, audiophiles who want the absolute best sound quality on larger speakers are better off sticking to a wired connection or opting for WiFi playback from a lossless audio source.

Are Bluetooth speakers waterproof?

Some of the best Bluetooth speakers use water-resistant designs, but the effectiveness of their water resistance varies. If a speaker's specifications include a waterproof rating with a last digit of 5 or 6 (such as IP66 for the Lodge Solar Speaker 4), it's suitable for splashes and rain. And if the last number is a 7 or 8 (like IPX7, for the Cleer Scene), that means its water resistance is more heavy-duty and won't get damaged even if fully submerged (for a certain period of time).

Are all Bluetooth speakers also smart speakers?

No. A Bluetooth speaker only needs to play audio wirelessly from your phone, tablet, or laptop via Bluetooth — that's its core job.

Smart speakers go a step further: they need WiFi and a built-in voice assistant like Alexa or Google Assistant.

Many newer wireless speaker models offer both Bluetooth and WiFi, so they can work as smart speakers too, but Bluetooth alone doesn't make a speaker "smart."

Check out our guide to the best smart speakers for recommendations that all support WiFi and voice assistants.

• Jeremy Grantham is warning investors of a "dangerous" investing climate.
• The famed investor is eyeing painful consequences of higher oil price.
• He also flagged the risk of massive job losses and a demand shock stemming from AI.

An investing legend has a warning for investors: more pain is likely coming.

Jeremy Grantham, the famed bubble watcher and cofounder of GMO, said he believes the outlook for the US economy in markets looked "dangerous." That's due to a confluence of bearish factors, he said, pointing in particular to the Iran war and the "painful" ramifications of higher oil prices.

Oil has soared since the conflict first unfolded in the Middle East, with Brent crude and US both eclipsing $100 a barrel. Brent briefly approached $120 before edging lower.

Markets have never seen a "major move" up in oil without the US economy tumbling into a recession, Grantham said.

"Nothing is ever sustained, but that is clearly painful and will create balancing effects — markets get weak, demands gets less, etc.," the investor said, speaking on an episode of the "The Master Investor" podcast published Monday.

"You know, things can get bad in a real hurry," he added of the economic outlook.

Economists have frequently compared the Iran-fueled price spike with oil shocks that have caused recessions in the past, like the one that occurred in the late 70s and early 80s. The fear is that more expensive oil products could fan inflation and dent consumer spending, though the US economy is generally considered to be less reliant on oil than it was several decades ago.

Grantham, who rose to fame after calling the dot-com bubble and the subprime mortgage crisis, said he sees a confluence of other risks facing markets, including climate change, the decline in the world's population, and rising geopolitical and trade tensions.

He also said he sees big risks associated with AI. Despite the productivity potential, fears are swirling around the technology's potential to spark massive job losses.

"You're absolutely, profoundly going to unbalance supply and demand here."

Stocks don't appear to be properly pricing in those risks, Grantham said, adding that he believed the market was in its second- or third-most highly valued period in history.

In the past, he's warned of a market bubble comparable to the one that blew up equities in the 1920s.

"If you think the future looks one of two or three best futures that we have ever had in the last hundred years, you're smoking dope," Grantham said. "This is a fraught, dangerous, growth-limiting world now."

• Many of our cooking and grocery-shopping habits were shaped by our time abroad in Europe.
• There, we fell in love with daily grocery shopping and prioritizing seasonal ingredients.
• We still shop for food daily and don't buy in bulk. It's good for our relationship and health.

My husband, Ethan, and I both grew up in suburban immigrant households with two fridges and two freezers each. Groceries were shopped for weekly, by car, and the pantry was always packed with multiples of every item.

Though we come from different cultural backgrounds, our families shared their definition of abundance; having a full pantry was a responsibility — you never knew who would end up with their elbows pressed against your Sunday table.

If there were a global emergency, we'd be ready. If the power went out, though, we'd lose a modest fortune. Today, my and Ethan's reality couldn't be more different.

Years spent living overseas have shaped how we shop for food and plan meals

In our 20s, Ethan and I spent three months in Italy every summer. In our flats in Florence and Venice, we started experimenting with cooking, inventing recipes based on our tastes and what was in season.

Food played a key part in our burgeoning independence away from home and in fostering our connection as a couple.

Later, as I spent years living on my own across Europe while pursuing an international master's degree (and missing Ethan), food became a source of comfort.

I'd visit fresh markets and linger by the produce and seafood vendors, expanding my vocabulary and losing track of time. At first, I was an observer hiding behind my camera lens. Slowly, I became an active participant.

I'd listen to the locals' chatter, imitate them, and ask for recommendations. I became adventurous in my cooking, even for one. I'd wedge my laptop in a cupboard so Ethan would be "there" on Skype as I prepared dinner and ate.

Now, 20 years later, back in our hometown of Montreal, we've stuck to a lot of habits we created abroad.

When we lived in European cities with local grocers and weekly markets, seasonality and human connection determined the flavorful finds we'd carry back to our flat, and we got used to buying groceries one day at a time.

We still try to avoid big retailers with bulk quantities and out-of-season produce, instead gravitating toward small fruiteries and open-air markets that remind us of our lives in Europe.

Typically, we maintain a bare-bones inventory of freezer and pantry staples at home, and shop daily for whatever we decide to cook for dinner.

Although this system isn't always cost-effective, we find that it greatly contributes to our physical and mental health.

Shopping locally and buying our food one day at a time has been good for us

Since we live in a walkable city, shopping daily helps us get extra steps and fresh air. In many ways, daily grocery shopping feels like a form of self-care and a way to stay grounded rather than a chore.

Deciding on dinner one day at a time also allows for flexibility based on how we're feeling and what we've eaten earlier in the day.

Plus, shopping small and daily helps nurture our relationship. We text or call each other every afternoon to touch base on what we'd like for dinner.

When one of us is overwhelmed, the other proposes ideas. It's a moment of midday connection.

Although planning ahead might alleviate the cognitive load, it's not always easy for a person with an inflammatory chronic illness like endometriosis to commit to meals several days in advance.

If I don't feel able to eat red meat or gluten, for example, it's a relief not to have a set meal plan and ingredients in the fridge that could go to waste.

Our way of living has shown me that eating can feel safe and grounded in intention, especially as a person who struggled with an eating disorder as a teen and digestive disturbances her entire adult life.

Plus, buying food daily helps us keep our pantry and freezer streamlined and clean. I love always being able to see exactly what we have.

This lifestyle isn't feasible for everyone, but it works for us

Transparently, living in a walkable city and shopping for only two definitely makes this lifestyle easier to sustain.

Each day, we put thought into our menus and, after shopping, take time to prepare dinner while catching up on our days and dancing to music.

We only have one rule: eating a meal should take as long as it takes to prepare it. So, we make sure to savor our food and put our forks down between each bite.

Sure, our parents still encourage us to load up our pantry and buy in bulk at Costco, but my husband and I are pretty set in our ways. We shop on foot, never buy too much, and haul our groceries home.

We might not benefit from the cost savings of sales and bulk buys, but we don't waste much food and are really mindful about what we purchase.

After 20 years of approaching food this way, we'd never go back to suburban stockpiling. Plus, when we travel, it feels like we're right at home.

The World Snooker Championship returns to the famous Crucible Theatre in Sheffield, England, for the 50th time as 32 of the world's best players compete to be crowned the world champion. In this guide, we'll explain where to watch World Snooker Championship 2026 live streams, with information on free channels and platforms.

And there's great news for snooker fans in the UK, as every frame will be shown absolutely free thanks to the BBC and its iPlayer streaming website and app. Elsewhere, the entire tournament will be available on the dedicated WST Play platform, including in the US, Canada, and Australia.

This time 12 months ago, Zhao Xintong walked out of the Crucible having made history as the first ever player from China to win the World Championship. He was superb throughout, but really stamped his authority on things by destroying seven-time champ Ronnie O'Sullivan in the semis. After that, his comfortable final win over Mark Williams and a check to the sum of £500,000 (around $675,000) seemed a mere formality.

In order to go back-to-back, however, he'll have to defy the so-called 'Crucible Curse' — no first-time winner of the World Snooker Championship has been able to retain the title in the five decades that the tournament has been held at the venue. And there are plenty of worthy opponents waiting to stop him, such as O'Sullivan, Williams, world No. 1 Judd Trump, and in-form 2010 champion Neil Robertson. Not to mention the record 10 other Chinese entries, with Wuhan Open winner Xiao Guodong the highest ranked among them.

Where to watch World Snooker Championship for free in the UK

As ever, the free-to-air BBC has extensive live coverage of the 2026 World Snooker Championship. In addition to televised action across its BBC One, Two, and Four channels, the broadcaster will show every single shot and pot on its free online BBC iPlayer platform and BBC Sport website. As well as smartphones and laptops, iPlayer is available to stream on pretty much every streaming device you can think of.

For an alternative commentary and analysis, UK snooker fans can also watch on TNT Sports — available with certain Sky, Virgin Media, and EE TV plans, or through an HBO Max subscription costing from $26 a month.

How to watch World Snooker Championship from anywhere

Watching the 2026 World Snooker Championship for free in the UK is easy. But try accessing BBC iPlayer when abroad and you'll discover that you can't due to geo-blocking. Thankfully, you can get around this annoyance with a VPN (or virtual private network), which will let you set your smartphone, laptop, or streaming device so that it thinks it's back in the UK.

NordVPN is currently the very best VPN you can get. It offers rapid server speeds, an easy-to-use interface, and is superb at unblocking your domestic services when traveling overseas. You can discover more in our dedicated NordVPN review or, if you're ready to sign up now, take advantage of the fact that you can cancel within the first 30 days and get a full refund thanks to the provider's money-back guarantee.

Where to watch World Snooker Championship in the US

Unlike in the UK, you have to pay to watch this tournament in the US. It is being shown on the dedicated WST Play streaming platform. Prices are in GBP, with the monthly pass costing £7. That means you can watch every match of the 2026 World Snooker Championship for less than $10.

Where to watch World Snooker Championship in Canada

Just like south of the border, there are no domestic options for watching the 2026 World Snooker Championship in Canada. That means you'll need to subscribe to WST Play. The £7 a month fee works out to around CA$13.

Where to watch World Snooker Championship in Australia

In Australia, you can watch every break, pot, and miss on WST Play. It costs £7 a month, so that's around AU$13.

World Snooker Championship Schedule

What is the prize money for the World Snooker Championship in 2026?

The total prize fund for the 2026 World Snooker Championship is £2.395 million — around $3.2 million. The overall winner will receive £500,000 (approximately $675,000), with the losing finalist having to console themselves with £200,000 (approximately $270,000).

Who is the favorite to win the 2026 Snooker World Championship?

Reigning champion Zhao Xintong is the bookies' favorite to win the 2026 Snooker World Championship, having already won the Tour Championship, Players Championship, and World Grand Prix this year. World No. 1 Judd Trump is widely seen as the player most likely to challenge him, with seven-time winner Ronnie O'Sullivan and four-time winner Mark Selby not far behind.

Note: The use of VPNs is illegal in certain countries and using VPNs to access region-locked streaming content might constitute a breach of the terms of use for certain services. Business Insider does not endorse or condone the illegal use of VPNs.

• The US Navy has tested a new long-range variant of its widely used JDAM bomb.
• Unlike other variants, this long-range JDAM is powered by a jet engine.
• The weapon is designed to give the Navy an affordable, standoff, cruise-missile-like capability.

The US Navy has successfully tested a new air-launched jet-powered bomb, bringing the sea service a major step closer to effectively fielding an affordable cruise-missile-like munition that can be fired from standoff ranges.

The new bomb — a long-range variant of the Navy's Joint Direct Attack Munition — can be launched from F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jets embarked on US aircraft carriers and can be used in combat missions like those flown during the Iran war.

The Navy revealed on Monday that it had carried out two tests of the weapon earlier this month off the coast of California, during which it demonstrated the bomb's safe separation from a fighter jet, its ability to integrate with existing interfaces, and powered flight with precision navigation.

Each Navy demonstration saw the weapon travel roughly 200 nautical miles "while maintaining consistent guidance directly to its target," the service said.

Standard JDAMs are dumb bombs equipped with special navigation kits that turn them into precision-guided munitions. They are not powered; instead, they rely on gravity and control services to glide to their targets and explode on impact.

The long-range JDAM variant, however, is powered by a small turbojet engine, essentially turning the bomb into a precision cruise missile. This development could allow pilots to strike targets at greater distances than the standard or extended-range JDAMs, which have ranges of roughly 15 and 40 nautical miles, respectively.

US aerospace company Boeing, which manufactured the JDAM, has characterized the long-range variant as a "game-changing" improvement for precision strike missions. The bomb has a range of more than 300 nautical miles with a 500-pound warhead, or over 700 nautical miles with a low-cost decoy fuel tank.

Boeing has said this "affordable long-range PGM augments shortages in expensive standoff missiles," using the acronym for precision guided munitions.

Capt. Sarah Abbott, the Precision Strike Weapons program manager, said in a statement on the recent tests that "as Naval Air Forces in theater continue to rely heavily on JDAM systems, the program recognizes a critical need to provide the fleet with greater standoff range."

"This new capability allows pilots to engage targets from significantly safer distances, maintaining a tactical advantage in contested environments," Abbott added.

The Navy said the next phase of qualification for the long-range JDAM involves shipboard integration, adding "the program remains committed to bringing this high-priority strike capability to the fleet to meet the evolving demands of modern naval warfare."

The long-range JDAM's development comes as the US military increasingly looks to field weapons that can deliver effects similar to cruise missiles at a fraction of the cost, while still allowing operators to launch from beyond the range of enemy defenses.

The Navy and Boeing have both emphasized affordability, though it's unclear what the final cost of the long-range JDAM might be. Standard JDAMS cost tens of thousands of dollars apiece, while the JASSM air-launched cruise missile, the AGM-158 Joint Air-to-Surface Standard Missile, has a price tag that exceeds $1 million.

JDAMs have been in service for decades and are used by militaries around the world, including several that have been involved in active combat operations this year, such as the US, Ukraine, and Israel.

As prevalent as Zoom calls and virtual meetings can get these days, you sometimes still need to button up one of the best men's dress shirts. You'll certainly find a crowded market out there, be it performance dress shirts for moisture-wicking technology in the heat, or perhaps a crisp array of the best white dress shirts for timeless, tried-and-true style.

Whether shopping for the office or a special occasion, there are many options to suit your situational style needs, from eye-catching patterns to classic solid hues. Round out your closet with some of our favorites from Twillory, Mizzen+Main, and more.

If comfort sits at the top of your checklist for dress shirts, this is where some of the best mens comfortable performance workwear brands for the office come into play.

Twillory Trendsetter Performance Grey Dress Shirt

Bring together the best of both worlds with a crisply cut dress boasting a tailored fit and the brand's signature performance fabric. Twillory performance dress shirts deliver crucial four-way stretch and Coolmax moisture-wicking technology, two distinctive touches that keep you cool no matter how intense your day at the office gets. Plus, the eye-catching gingham color is a nice pairing with classic navy chinos.

Mizzen+Main Monaco Dress Shirt

The heat doesn't stand the chance with any number of Mizzen+Main performance dress shirts, but there's something crucial that can work in all four seasons with the famed menswear start-up. The secret ingredient, so to speak, is that ultra-comfortable four-way stretch, and the wrinkle-resistant fabric delivers all-day polish, too. For good measure, an array of geo-print options are excellent for business casual style situations.

SuitSupply White Royal Oxford Slim Fit Dress Shirt

Your SuitSupply blazer deserves a shirt that can hold its own, and luckily, the innovative tailoring brand delivers in fine fashion. Wrinkle-resistant 100 percent cotton offers crisp day-to-night style, while the sharp white color goes with absolutely anything in your tailored wardrobe. The classic collar also frames your face nicely, making this one of the best men's dress shirts to wear with a tie when the occasion calls for it.

David Donahue Trim Fit Cotton Dress Shirt

The small details make the difference when getting dressed for the office or a more formal affair, and this David Donahue option hits the mark, right down to its contrasting buttons. Those eye-catching buttons make this a trim-fit shirt you can wear with a blazer and chinos in practically any shade. Look closely and you'll also spot a micro-geo print for a dash of added visual interest. The two-button cuffs also give you options for a customized fit.

Todd Snyder Spread Collar Poplin Dress Shirt

It assuredly pays off to have a well-stocked rotation of crisply cut dress shirts in versatile colors like white, light blue and navy. But when you want to up the ante a bit, reach for a more unique shade that doesn't cut corners in terms of quality or comfort. Famed American menswear designer Todd Snyder delivers an Italian cotton shirt with a sharp spread collar, and a shade like Heather Khaki would wear well with electric or navy blue suiting.

Nordstrom Trim-Fit Non-Iron Oxford Dress Shirt

The classic Oxford cloth button-down works well when worn casually (say, with dark blue jeans and tan wingtip boots), but it also shines as a men's dress shirt – when teamed with the right complementary pieces. This light blue Oxford shirt boasts the classic hallmarks of the style (the chest pocket and button-down collar in particular). Yet, it's the wrinkle-resistant non-iron fabric that delivers modern appeal and performance.

Brooks Brothers x Thomas Mason Pinpoint Oxford Dress Shirt

Brooks Brothers cemented the Oxford shirt as a classic in the States through its time at prep schools and college campuses. And when teamed up with legendary British shirtmaker Thomas Mason and the company's two-century history, the result is as fine a men's dress shirt as you'll see on the market. The handsome English spread collar and fine yarn count fabric are luxurious touches sure to revamp your tailored style rotation.

BOSS Hank Slim Fit Dress Shirt

BOSS has a penchant for minimal menswear, and they've certainly carried through that aesthetic with this simply designed, essential white dress shirt. This white cotton dress shirt gets a touch of ease and comfort with the use of 4 percent elastane. Rounded cuffs also add a streamlined finish. Every wardrobe needs a workhorse as far as the best men's dress shirts are concerned, and this one delivers handsomely.

INDOCHINO Helston Anti-Wrinkle Gray Shirt

INDOCHINO allows you to customize your tailoring down to the last stitch, but its dress shirts for men offer up a more ready-made alternative for days at the office and nights on the town. Wrinkle-free cotton is a nice bonus for 9-to-5-and-beyond style, while the cool gray color is a nice change of pace from white or black dress shirts. Team it with olive chinos, roll up those sleeves and get to work.

Ministry Of Supply Aero Zero Dress Shirt

Ministry Of Supply pushes the boundaries of how dress shirts are made, using eco-friendly fabric and milling its modern dress shirts using solar power. The stretch woven fabric is nicely complemented by the brand's targeted underarm ventilation, making this a stylish, refined men's dress shirt even on the hottest of days. The brand also notes that the 3-D collar should hold its shape without warping, which makes this a nice shirt to wear with your favorite blazer or a V-neck sweater.

Banana Republic Poplin Dress Shirt

Channel a touch of Italian sprezzatura with a dress shirt practically made to be worn alongside a soft, lightweight linen suit at your dressiest outdoor functions. Of course, the blue stripes are a suitable option any time of year, as is the Tailored Slim Fit design and the versatile 100 percent cotton construction. The spread collar also wears well with or without a timeless knit tie.

Bonobos Jetsetter Stretch Dress Shirt

Bonobos gives you almost as many options with its stylish array of men's dress shirts as it does with its well-fitting chinos. Here, select your collar choice (the spread option might be particularly cool), as well as your shirt pocket design (no pocket is traditional on most dress shirts). Select your sleeve and neck sizes to dial in the fit further, and choose from additional overall fit designs like Slim, Tailored or Athletic. WIth all those choices, it's practically like designing your own custom dress shirt. Oh, and revel in the vast set of color and pattern options – this could be your new favorite dress shirt.

ETRO Paisley Print Cotton Dress Shirt

The difference when wearing an ETRO dress shirt is noticeable almost immediately – after all, not every company focuses on fine Italian craftsmanship in its production process. The result is a shirt that becomes even cooler on second glance, with a subtle motif and an elegant, tailored trim fit. Taken all at once, those small details make this one of the best men's dress shirts – and certainly worthy of a bit of extra investment.

BOSS Basic Solid Slim-Fit Dress Shirt

The right dress shirt in a neutral color can act like a canvas for some fun stylistic experimentation. Take this slim-fit, subtle option, then team it with everything from khaki cotton suiting in the spring and summer to a charcoal wool suit in the winter. The outfit combinations are endless, the price is agreeable for the quality, and the fit is slim and flattering.

UNIQLO Easy Care Stretch Long-Sleeve Shirt

Shopping for one of the best men's dress shirts needn't cost you an arm and a leg – in fact, UNIQLO gives you the option to score a dress shirt for under $50 full-price. That's a downright steal, especially considering the stretch cotton blend, versatile colorways and a super-clean design that works with plenty of UNIQLO sweaters and the brand's soft-shouldered blazers.

Proper Cloth Hudson White Twill Shirt

If you find yourself needing to wear one of the best men's dress shirts just about five days a week, then consistency is going to be key. A workhorse dress shirt in a wear-with-anything shade of white is a downright essential, particularly if it comes in wrinkle-resistant twill. Traditional dress shirt details are taken care of here, including a clean design with no placket and no shirt pocket. Proper Cloth calls this its "go-to dress shirt under $100," and it's tough to top that reliability.

State and Liberty Bellamy Business Blue Shirt

Guys with a more athletic or larger build still need the right stable of cool-as-can-be dress shirts, and that's where State and Liberty assuredly comes into play. Founded by and designed for athletically built guys, its dress shirts offer a sharp, tailored finish, yet with all the comfort of extreme stretch fabric. They're also designed with more room through the chest, yet a tapered waist for a clean look. The brand could just become indispensable any time you need to look (and feel) your very best.

Eton Light Blue Signature Twill Shirt

Eton is one of the foremost names in the competitive, heritage-minded world of British menswear, with the pedigree to back it up. That means it's worth investing in the brand's finely designed and carefully crafted dress shirts, which boast soft cotton twill in a variety of appealing shades. The cutaway collar is a touch that lends some flair to special occasions, and the fabric itself has a nice, dressy sheen to it. Be sure your navy or olive suit stands up to the occasion, too.

• Internal docs obtained by Business Insider show which roles European chip giant ASML is proposing to cut.
• The company announced plans to cut 1,700 jobs in January in an effort to slash bureaucracy.
• ASML is planning a six-week summer recruitment freeze, the company confirmed to Business Insider.

Europe's most valuable company is getting in on Big Tech's great managerial flattening.

Internal documents obtained by Business Insider show how ASML — which plays a critical role in the global semiconductor industry — plans to cut a wide range of management roles.

It comes after ASML said in January that it would cut 1,700 jobs and reshuffle its org chart to reduce management layers and focus on engineering, citing complaints from employees and customers that the company had become overly complex and inefficient.

A presentation given to employees at a February all-hands, which has not previously been reported, outlined a range of management roles, including department manager, group leader, and chief product owner, that would cease to exist under the new proposed structure. Business Insider has viewed a copy of the presentation.

ASML also told staff that it would reduce the number of architects — the senior technical roles responsible for coordinating projects — and give them more clearly defined responsibilities.

The company is planning a six-week summer recruitment freeze and has reduced the number of US staff expected to be impacted by the layoffs from 300 to 185 roles, according to separate documents viewed by Business Insider. ASML employs about 44,000 people globally.

In a letter to employees sent in February and seen by Business Insider, ASML CEO Christophe Fouquet said employees had expressed concerns about the "consequences" of the transformation.

He said the company would aim to create around 1,400 new engineering roles as part of the reorganization.

"We realize that we will continue to grow at a fast pace and will need people on the operations side to help us achieve that growth," Fouquet wrote.

An ASML spokesperson told Business Insider the reorganization plans were not final and said the company has already reduced the impact of the reorganization in the US.

"We are supporting our colleagues through this transformation in a responsible and thoughtful way, while also moving forward. We aim to reduce the period of uncertainty for people," the spokesperson said.

Which roles does ASML want to cut?

Here are all the roles ASML told employees would cease to exist under the new management structure:

• Department Manager
• Group Leader
• Team Leader
• Project Lead
• Chief Product Owner
• Product Owner
• Scrum Masters
• Main Delivery Owner
• Release Train Engineers
• Program Manager
• Project Cluster Manager

Chip industry lynchpin

ASML is the only company on the planet that makes extreme ultraviolet lithography (EUV) machines at scale, which are critical for producing the chips that go inside smartphones, computers, and AI data centers.

The AI boom has driven strong demand for ASML's machines, which can cost as much as $400 million and are bought by chipmakers including TSMC and Intel. The Dutch company reported booming sales and revenue last week.

ASML is the latest company to join Big Tech's crusade against middle management. Microsoft, Amazon, Google, and Meta have all cut management roles in the past few years to make teams leaner and more efficient.

Under the proposed changes, the company's software quality engineering team would become part of its procurement division, per the document, and mechanical and electrical engineering would be integrated into ASML's manufacturing and customer support divisions.

The ASML spokesperson said booming demand for the Dutch firm's lithography machines meant it expects to open "several hundreds" of new positions, with priority given to staff at risk of being laid off. They added that ASML's continued growth will see it open new roles in AI, manufacturing, and customer support.

ASML is in negotiations with unions and the work council, an elected body of employee representatives, over the timing and structure of the layoffs.

Over 1,000 ASML workers joined a walkout at the company's Dutch headquarters last month, and unions have called for a second walkout to take place during ASML's shareholder meeting on Wednesday.

• As Apple CEO, Tim Cook's day starts before 5 a.m. and is full of hourslong meetings.
• Cook is a very private person, but has given some insights into his daily routine over the years.
• He's said he reads hundreds of emails a day and is the last one to leave the office.

It takes a lot to run one of the world's largest companies, including a very early wake-up call.

Apple CEO Tim Cook wakes up before dawn and starts his day by reading hundreds of feedback emails from customers before heading to the gym. Once he's at the office, he works long hours and leads famously lengthy meetings.

His daily routine will likely change when he steps down as Apple's CEO. On Monday, Cook announced that John Ternus, Apple's senior vice president of hardware engineering, will become the company's new chief executive on September 1.

Cook is known to be a private person, but over the years, he's shared glimpses into his daily schedule.

Here's a look inside the typical day-to-day routine of Apple's outgoing chief executive.

Cook typically wakes up between 4 and 5 a.m.

"I get up really early, I'm an early bird," Cook said on an episode of the "Dua Lipa: At Your Service" podcast that aired in November 2023, noting that he generally wakes between 4 a.m. and 5 a.m.

He's said that at that early hour, he has the freedom to spend his time as he sees fit.

"I can control the morning better than the evening and through the day. Things happen through the day that kind of blow you off course," he told The Australian Financial Review in 2021. "The morning is yours. Or should I say, the early morning is yours."

On an episode of the podcast "Table Manners with Jessie and Lennie Ware" released in January 2025, he added that the morning is "the part of the day that I can control the most."

"As the day starts to unfold, it becomes less predictable," he said. "So I love the part of the day that I can kind of block out the world and focus on a few critical things and just be silent for a while."

Once he's up, he spends about an hour reading through his emails.

The first thing Cook does in the morning is check his iPhone, on which "he reads email, reviews overnight sales reports and studies countries where numbers are changing to keep his finger on the pulse of the business," The Wall Street Journal reported in 2024.

"I spend my first hour doing email, and I'm pretty religious about doing this," he said on Dua Lipa's podcast. "I read emails from a lot of customers and employees, and the customers are telling me things that they love about us or things that they want changed about us. Employees are giving me ideas. But it's a way to stay grounded in terms of what the community is feeling, and I love it."

Cook said on the "Table Manners" podcast that he gets "probably 500, 600" emails per day, although that number can be far higher on "days where there's something extraordinary going on."

"I get notes both that are positive and some that are not so positive because people feel free to reach out and voice their opinion and I think this is great because it keeps my hand on the pulse of the company," Cook told WSJ in 2024. "I try to internalize it and ask myself, well is that accurate or not, and not just quickly put up a defensive shield and say, 'Why? What we've done is right.'"

Employees, too, have experienced Cook's early morning emails.

"Tim wakes up really early and is very well capable of expecting you to reply back before the sun comes up," one source told Business Insider in 2014.

Before he can head to the office, the Apple CEO hits the gym several days a week.

"I spend an hour in the gym, usually doing strength training, and I've got somebody to really push me to do things I don't want to do," he told Dua Lipa. "I do no work during that period of time at all, I never check my phone, I'm just totally focused on working out."

The Wall Street Journal reported in 2014 that Cook didn't work out on Apple's campus, opting instead for a gym where he was less likely to run into his employees.

Cook told Axios in 2018 that working out "keeps my stress at bay."

After his workout and a shower, Cook gets a coffee.

Cook told the Journal in 2024 that he drinks "many cups" of coffee a day.

He'll typically have some "protein-based" cereal like Kashi with unsweetened almond milk, he said on the "Table Manners" podcast.

Once he's at work, Cook hosts marathon meetings.

The Journal's 2014 article reported that Cook's weekly operations meetings could last five or six hours and that he was known to relentlessly question employees.

"'Talk about your numbers. Put your spreadsheet up,' he'd say as he nursed a Mountain Dew," the Journal wrote.

Cook has since said he's a big fan of Diet Mountain Dew, though Apple's campus doesn't stock it.

He also has no problem sitting in silence until he gets a suitable answer. As a result, the Journal said, employees had learned to be prepared, cramming for the meetings as if they were tests.

For lunch, he keeps it pretty simple at the Apple cafeteria.

The Journal reported in 2014 that, apart from the energy bars he snacked on throughout the day, he stuck to meals such as chicken and rice for lunch.

Cook has been known to eat his lunch in the cafeteria, Caffè Macs, with employees, unlike his predecessor Steve Jobs, who would typically eat with then-design chief Jony Ive.

"I have lunch in Caffè Macs and I take a dinner home from Caffè Macs during the week," he said on the "Table Manners" podcast. "I typically go for the fish."

Cook works long days at the office.

"I'll divide the day in terms of spending time with product teams or spending time with marketing teams or spending time with the executive team, and we're either handling issues of the day or hopefully our balance is more on working on future stuff, and thinking about what's next," he said on Dua Lipa's podcast.

When he was COO, he was known for being one of the first people in the office and one of the last people to leave.

After-hours, Cook's life is more of a mystery.

We don't know much about how Cook spends his weekends and evenings, though he's said he's outdoorsy and enjoys hiking, rock climbing, and cycling.

He usually goes to national parks on vacation, he said on the "Table Manners" podcast. 

He has also vacationed at the Canyon Ranch resort in Arizona, where guests spotted him keeping to himself, often dining alone and reading on his iPad, Fortune's 2012 profile of Cook said.

He went caving in Slovenia in the summer of 2024.

He's also talked about using the Vision Pro when at home to watch "Ted Lasso" and other TV shows while stretched out on the couch.

Áine Cain contributed to an earlier version of this story.

• As a style editor, I was firmly anti-Crocs. After trying a pair, I sing their praises to everyone.
• They're incredibly comfortable and I love wearing them around the house and my neighborhood. 
• Read more about why your feet deserve a pair, below.

Hardly any trend from the past 20 years has elicited such ire or received such spirited defense as Crocs. 

If anyone had asked me a year ago whether or not I would touch a pair of these shoes with a 10-foot pole, I would have probably said "that pole isn't long enough." But, as I suspect has happened to millions of others (after all, Crocs did have its best year of sales ever in 2020), my opinions changed once I gave them a chance. 

My coworker Elisabeth and I both agreed to try Crocs during the pandemic, me from the perspective of "These are ugly but I'll wear them around the house" and she from the angle of "These are just the right amount of ugly, I bet I can make them cute." We both ended up firmly in the camp of "We don't care what they look like. They're just ridiculously comfortable."

Comfort

I always knew Crocs were comfy — I had a neon green pair when I was 12 that I wore at summer camp — but it wasn't until I tried them as an adult that I really understood why people love them. They are a perfect house and errand shoe: easy to slip on, supportive while cooking and cleaning, and very cushy for quick walks around the neighborhood. They feel like walking on giant foam sponges.

We both found that Crocs were much more comfortable to wear with socks than without if you're going on long walks, but personally, I don't mind wearing them without socks around the house. 

Style

Listen, they're not quite as ridiculous-looking as I used to think they were. So many fashion people on Instagram were loving these strawberry Crocs and finding ways to make them look, dare I say it, very wearable. Elisabeth tried a platform pair that ended up looking as fun and cute as a chunky pair of dad sneakers. 

The white pair I tried is actually not that far off from a pair of white sneakers, at least as far as wearability goes. I mean, I'm still only really wearing them with lounge clothes around the neighborhood, but the neutral colors are generally less offensive. Elisabeth's black pairs have the same vibe — they're simple and not that different than a pair of chunky sneakers. I'm not buying up the super bright patterned ones, but if that's your vibe, I'm proud of you and your spunk!

And anyway, I'm kind of sick of people saying that styles and trends are ugly and no one should wear them. If you're happy with how something looks or feels, then go for it! This is not an episode of "What Not to Wear." 

Sizing

If you're considering a pair, note that Crocs only come in whole sizes. If you're a half size or in between sizes, we recommend going up. 

The bottom line

Overall, I've gotta give it up to Crocs. They're comfortable, easy to wear, and they'll last a long time. I don't care that people (including myself) think they're ugly — I'm just glad I've found a great pair of shoes to wear around the house when my feet hurt.

Lululemon's ultra-popular belt bag has just been restocked — and you might want to jump on the chance to buy one now before they sell out again. 

This modern, clean-lined version of a fanny pack is the under-$50 it-bag that's sweeping TikTok with over 6.3 billion views. People are obsessed with it because of how adjustable and cute it is, but also how it feels like it should belong to Mary Poppins.

Tiktokers have posted videos of all the things that miraculously fit in their belt bags — like chunky sunglasses, power banks, cameras, planners, scrunchies, make-up brushes, you name it. The key here is the zipper that goes almost halfway around the bag, giving it a wide opening.

It also comes with an exterior pocket for small items like keys and an inner, mesh pocket that you can comfortably secure your phone in.

Just because it's called a belt bag doesn't mean you have to wear it as a belt. It's adjustable enough that you can also wear it as a crossbody, which is perfect for fastening it tightly to your body if you go for a run. But the trendsetters have spoken, and they've declared that this little bag isn't just for pairing with sneakers and leggings. 

TikTokers have taken to styling it with jeans and even dresses, proving how versatile this little pouch really is. It's available in three sizes. The medium size, which is the most popular, comes in the most colors — from bright red to a cool silver and most of the neutrals in between. 

See our review of Lululemon items we loved, like their Fast and Free High-Rise Tight.

Shop other sizes of the Lululemon belt bag:

• Some people thrive while shopping in physical stores and malls. For everyone who doesn't, there are clothing subscription boxes to streamline and automate the process of buying clothing. 
• Since they're a recurring service, clothing subscription boxes work well for keeping your wardrobe continually updated with stylish essentials. 
• We like Stitch Fix for personal styling, Rent the Runway for designer rentals, Haverdash for budget rentals, Frank And Oak for basics, MeUndies for underwear, and Stance for socks. 

It's alright to say out loud. You don't actually like shopping.

It's tiresome, it's time-consuming, and sometimes, you just can't find what you want. Really, in some sense, you'd have to be crazy to actually enjoy the process (call me crazy). But just because you don't like the process doesn't necessarily mean that you don't like the end result. After all, it's hard to spit in the face of great new clothes when you don't have to lift a finger to get them. And that, my friends, is the magic of clothing subscription boxes.

Here to save you from the exhausting practice of shopping both online and in stores, is a new method of acquiring new clothes that brings the whole enchilada to your doorstep. Rather than scrolling through an endless selection of shirts, pants, dresses, and everything in between, or rifling through racks and bins for that one size you need, you can just get a box of clothing sent straight to your front door. No more cramming your way into fitting rooms — instead, you'll have the luxury (and truth) of your own mirror. 

In some cases, when you're done with the whole process, you'll be able to ship back the items you don't like and keep the items you do, which is to say that suddenly, shopping isn't so bad after all.

While there are plenty of clothing subscription box companies that offer this or a similar model, there are a few that stand a cut above the rest.

You'll want to keep a few things in mind when picking a subscription service.

First, do you know exactly what types of clothing you want, or would you like some assistance in picking out the best clothing for your body and style? Some subscription boxes let you choose specific clothing pieces, while others are built into personal styling services that choose the pieces for you. 

Second, are you looking to dress for a special occasion, or for every day? Some subscription services are better suited for the weddings, parties, and other social gatherings that probably don't take up every moment of your social calendar, and others are better for revamping your professional wardrobe or helping you improve your overall style.

Finally, you'll want to consider prices, especially because a subscription will become a monthly (or quarterly) expense. The clothing subscriptions we've chosen below cover a range of prices to account for various budgets and needs.

Here are the best clothing subscription boxes you can buy:

• Best personal styling subscription box: Stitch Fix
• Best premium rental subscription box: Rent the Runway
• Best budget rental subscription box: Haverdash
• Best clothing subscription box for basics: Frank And Oak
• Best underwear subscription box: MeUndies
• Best sock subscription box: Stance 

Updated on 10/24/19 by Connie Chen: Updated links and prices. 

The best personal styling subscription box: Stitch Fix

Through Stitch Fix, you enjoy the personalized clothing recommendations of a professional stylist, combined with the convenience of an automated shipment sent directly to you. 

Online personal styling services pair you with an expert stylist and send you a variety of clothing pieces every month to try in your own home. With the help of a Style Profile that you fill out with all your clothing sizes and style preferences, the stylist curates a collection of items — clothing, shoes, and accessories — they think you'll like. Assuming you have a knowledgeable stylist and you're clear about your expectations, using an personal styling service saves you from much of the hassle of shopping for yourself. 

Stitch Fix is the personal styling service you'll have the most success with (3 million people actively use it) because it casts a wide net over nearly every type of personality and shopper out there. Its stylists select from a large inventory of brands (a mix of up-and-coming, established, and in-house brands), sizes (0-24W and XS-3X, including maternity), and styles at every price point, and send you five pieces per box. You have three days to try them on and decide which to keep and which to return. 

The service costs $20, but if you end up purchasing anything from your box, this fee is applied as credit towards your purchase. From its online platform, where you fill out short quizzes about specific style preferences or challenges you have and request specific items from your stylist, to its free shipping on returns, Stitch Fix tries to make the process of shopping as easy as possible. 

In terms of style, we've found that it can lean towards the safe side, so it's a good option for finding comfortable, high-quality, and stylish staples like black wrap dresses, jeans, and cardigans. I'm always impressed with the fit of everything I'm sent — it's spot-on nearly every time. 

Insider Picks contributor Lulu Chang points out that the actual pieces can be a little hit or miss sometimes. However, "Stylists are particularly open to feedback, and they do take your feedback into consideration with each successive shipment. That said, if you feel as though one stylist really just doesn't get you, the option to switch stylists also exists," she says. 

Formally, Stitch Fix doesn't call itself a subscription service because you can choose your shipment dates, reschedule shipments, or cancel at any time. However, if it is more convenient for you, you can schedule automatic deliveries, too. —Connie Chen 

The best premium rental subscription box: Rent the Runway Unlimited

Wear designer styles all month long — not just for special occasions — at a fraction of their retail price through Rent the Runway Unlimited.

Rent the Runway has a reputation as "that place where you rent dresses for weddings and formals." It certainly is a convenient and affordable site to find designer styles for these special occasions, but it's equally smart and useful to use for regularly upgrading your everyday, workwear, and workout style. 

Getting a bigger (and better) wardrobe doesn't have to mean moving into a space with a bigger closet. Instead, you just have to dream bigger with the Rent the Runway Unlimited subscription plan. For a monthly fee of $159 plus tax — which includes shipping, dry cleaning, and insurance — you can treat RTR like your own personal clothing library. You can check out four pieces at once and return them limitlessly. 

While $159 may sound like a hefty fee, as it turns out, the service costs about $1,800 annually, which is around the same amount that the average American household spends on clothing in a year. But rather than allowing (at least) half of your closet to go unworn, you can instead constantly refresh your look and reinvent your style by pulling from the expansive collection at RTR. Many women on the Insider Picks team are subscribers and have amassed their own personal favorites from the service.

The real draw of the service is that it grants you access to clothing that you probably wouldn't buy yourself — like a $1,500 cocktail dress. Plus, you know that after this wedding, you'll never wear that bridesmaid's dress again, so why bother purchasing it and allowing it to hang in your closet when you can just rent it and send it back when you're done?

Every once in a while, you may come across something on RTR that you love enough to buy. And that's an option, too. Apparel from the service often goes on sale — even final sale — at extremely affordable prices. When you know that you've probably contributed to 50% of the rentals, it feels like even more of a steal.

Otherwise, if you really love a certain dress, but don't want to buy it, you don't have to in order to keep it for a good long while. As long as your account is in good standing, there's no limit to how long you can hang onto an item. —Lulu Chang 

The best budget rental subscription box: Haverdash

Haverdash is your entrée into unlimited clothing rental. It carries more accessible brands and fewer clothing options, but you can't beat the $59 monthly price. 

At $59 a month, Haverdash is the more affordable alternative to Rent the Runway. Anyone who has never tried a rental subscription service might want to start with Haverdash first to see if they like the concept. It's the same basic idea of being able to continuously rent out a number of pieces every month, but without the hefty financial commitment. 

Haverdash just launched in May 2019, so the options are still a little limited compared to those of other services, but you'll be able to shop tops, skirts, pants, and dresses from brands such as Vince Camuto, J.O.A., Adrianna Papell, and Calvin Klein. Its unlimited subscription service lets you rent three pieces at a time. 

A potential drawback is that you can't choose the exact three pieces you want in every shipment. Instead, you add items to your virtual Closet (at least eight, but Haverdash recommends maintaining at least 20 at a time), and depending on availability, Haverdash will pick out three to send to you. If you would really love a certain item in your next shipment, you can mark it as a "Priority," and you'll likely receive it. However, it still ultimately depends on availability and is not guaranteed. 

So, Haverdash isn't ideal if you're banking on receiving a specific dress or top by a certain date. However, it is great for adding some excitement and risks into your everyday wardrobe. I used the service over the summer to get cute dresses and jumpsuits, which I wore for low-key events like picnics, day outings, and dates. I ended up buying one jumpsuit I really loved, and I've already worn it enough times to justify the $45 discounted price. 

Not everything you try from Haverdash will be a hit, but because of the low cost and unlimited nature of the service, you won't be too disappointed — another box of new clothes will be on its way to you in no time. —Connie Chen 

The best clothing subscription box for basics: Frank And Oak

If you're interested in building the foundation of your wardrobe, Frank And Oak presents a compelling case for its simple and well-made basics. 

The issue with most subscription boxes is that they're filled with clothes you don't really want. That's not the case with Frank And Oak. The Montreal-based startup was founded in 2012 by childhood friends Ethan Song and Hicham Ratnani, and while the initial goal was to help men dress better with affordable clothing, that goal has since expanded to include men and women alike.

Frank And Oak has exploded in the last few years, selling nearly 80,000 Oxford shirts and launching a women's line — reducing its carbon footprint by leveraging sustainable materials and manufacturing techniques even as the company grew. And more recently, the brand has launched its own take on subscription boxes.

While other boxes source from a range of other brands, Style Plan draws from Frank And Oak and Frank And Oak alone. If you're a fan of a minimal aesthetic or interested in building a wardrobe filled with basic essentials — not weird graphic tees and funky sweaters you would have never bought in a store — then Frank And Oak's box is leaps and bounds better than most other subscription boxes.

Getting started on a Style Plan involves a short quiz, where you'll describe your style as Casual, Classic, or Creative, and pick out a few colors that you don't like wearing. I prefer this to the alternative, where you have to literally choose every shade of red you've once considered buying a blouse in. Other than that, the only other information needed is your sizes on items like shirts, tees, sweaters, pants, and shoes.

While there are other services with nittier and grittier quizzes, this simple first step is actually quite refreshing. After all, the idea behind a subscription clothing box is to simplify the shopping process, not just adjust when and where the heavy lifting takes place.

As for the actual items, the women's styles are chic, simple, and well made. You'll easily be able to integrate Frank And Oak's offerings into your existing wardrobe, without feeling as though your new pieces are redundant. Of course, if that's not the case, you do have the option to send items back and only pay for the ones you want. While you can buy individual items from the brand's collection a la carte, subscription members receive special discounted prices on all items. —Lulu Chang 

The best underwear subscription box: MeUndies

Underwear is something you always need in your drawer. MeUndies keeps you stocked up with fun and comfortable underwear styles. 

Before you get ahead of yourself and chase after clothing like outerwear and bags, don't forget about the essentials: your underwear. If the Insider Picks team has learned anything in the last few years of testing various brands, it's that this small piece of fabric makes a big difference for your overall comfort. 

MeUndies is one of those comfortable, durable underwear brands we love. Through its  membership program, you receive one pair of ultra-soft underwear every month.

As a member, you enjoy discounted pricing ($14 versus $18 for non-members) and access to exclusive prints (a new one is released the first Tuesday of every month). The prints are surely a MeUndies hallmark. While it also sells solid colors, you don't want to miss out on fun and creative prints like s'mores, dinosaurs, and lightsabers.  

Since releases won't always line up with your shipment date, you have the opportunity to reserve a specific print before it potentially sells out. You can also swap up the cut of the underwear every month. There are nine underwear styles to choose from, including hipsters, thongs, and boyshorts.

At this time, MeUndies doesn't include its bralettes or loungewear in the membership. However, they are available as Add-On Items, and they still enjoy special member pricing. —Connie Chen

The best sock subscription box: Stance

Whether you need socks for specific athletic activities or simply to keep your feet warm, a Stance subscription has you covered with a variety of affordable, well-made socks. 

Sock company Stance has sold over 50 million pairs worldwide, and at one point it was even the official sock provider of the NBA. Its socks are made with technical materials for high-performance use, but they're also just plain fun to wear.

With the subscription, you get two, three, or four pairs of socks every month or every quarter. Normally $10 to $16 a pair, they'll only cost $9 to $9.50 if you decide to subscribe. Once you choose your preferences on sock height, thickness, and type (basics, running, "Elevated Style," and more), you're all set to receive new socks. 

Stance socks are one of my favorites to pick out every morning because I know they'll feel comfortable, they won't slip, and they look cool peeking out from underneath my pants. Since Stance offers so many different materials and styles, you'll never feel like you're amassing a collection of socks that all look and feel the same. 

Before each shipment goes out, you have the chance to choose the pairs you want from a curated, personalized selection. In case you don't make your pick during the five-day window, Stance will auto-select products for you. You can skip a shipment or cancel your subscription at any time. —Connie Chen 

• US President Donald Trump called into CNBC during pre-market trading on Tuesday.
• Trump said he expected the Iran war to cause deeper stock-market losses than it has.
• The president also said he's surprised oil hasn't gone higher.

When President Trump announced that he'd be on CNBC's "Squawk Box" on Tuesday morning, the bullish quips started flying on social media.

The tone was playful, bordering on cynical: Why would Trump go on financial network during a war, if not to juice asset prices?

Sure enough, Trump's appearance struck a positive tone, albeit in a roundabout way. Rather than say he thinks stocks should be up more, he expressed surprised they didn't fall more. He made the opposite case for oil.

"I thought [stocks would] be down 20% or down a very substantial amount," Trump told CNBC. "Even when it was down more a couple of weeks ago, I was surprised. I thought it would be down much more."

He continued: "I thought oil would be much higher and I'm very happy to say it wasn't. If you would have told me that oil is at $90, as opposed to $200, I would be, frankly, surprised."

In making these comments, Trump put forth the bullish view that Iran-war damage wasn't as bad as it could've been. And it seems to have worked on Tuesday, with major US indexes extending gains into regular trading.

The benchmark S&P 500 had already erased wartime losses, reaching new record highs last week, alongside the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite.

Oil prices have pulled back from Iran war peaks, but are still well above prewar levels. While Trump dismissed oil price concerns, experts continue to warn about the economic impact of the oil shock.

• Trump floated some form of federal "help" for Spirit Airlines on Tuesday.
• The low-cost airline has long struggled to turn a profit, and oil prices may be making it worse.
• "I'd love somebody to buy Spirit Airlines," Trump said.

Trump sounds open to the idea of the federal government helping the beleaguered Spirit Airlines.

"I'd love somebody to buy Spirit… you know, Spirit's in trouble," Trump told CNBC on Tuesday. "Maybe the federal government should help that one out. You know, I told my people."

Trump didn't specify what he might have in mind, and neither Spirit nor the White House immediately responded to a request for comment.

Multiple outlets have reported in recent days that Spirit has floated offering the federal government a stake in the company to avoid going out of business.

The US government took a roughly 10% stake in Intel last year, and Trump and his administration have floated making similar transactions with other companies.

Spirit, an ultra-low-cost carrier, has long struggled to turn a profit, and oil price spikes in the wake of the war in Iran have likely added to the company's financial challenges as jet fuel costs rise.

If Spirit were to collapse, tickets booked with the airline would likely become worthless.

Trump brought up the idea unprompted when asked about reports of a potential merger between United Airlines and American Airlines, a prospect that American denied in a statement last week.

"While changes in the broader airline marketplace may be necessary, a combination with United would be negative for competition and for consumers," American Airlines said in a statement.

Trump said he wouldn't be supportive of such a merger anyway, and that American is "doing fine" while United is "doing very well."

"I don't like having them merge," Trump said.

Most of us spend a large amount of the day staring at a screen — at the office in front of the computer, watching TV during dinner, scrolling through social media before bed — and unless you have superhuman eyes, your body feels the effects. Your eyes feel dry and strained, you experience headaches, or you have trouble falling asleep at night. 

The best way to avoid these uncomfortable side effects is to cut off your screen time, but in a digitally-driven world, that's not always realistic. Blue light blocking computer glasses, which filter the light thought to be the main culprit of your woes, provide a happy medium through which you can have your screen time without sacrificing your comfort or health. 

From corrective eyewear to non-prescription options, these brands make glasses that will filter blue light and reduce screen glare, while being as stylish as designer frames. 

These are the best places to buy blue light blocking glasses: 

Felix Gray

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With its wallet-friendly prices and cool styles, Felix Gray has made a name for itself as a go-to brand for blue light glasses. 

Felix Gray entered the space in 2016 as interest in blue light glasses was growing, and it's now one of the most well-known computer glasses brands out there. Its unisex frames, which start at $95 and are sourced from Italy, are available in non-prescription and prescription lenses.

The company tries to give you as much helpful information as possible while you make your purchasing decision, from showing you exact frame measurements to educating you on digital eye strain. 

Warby Parker

While most direct-to-consumer eyewear companies are online-only, Warby Parker also has brick-and-mortar locations. In addition to shopping online, you can use the in-store experience to try on glasses, pick up your order, or get adjustments. Whether you prefer to shop in-store, online, or a combination of the two, you can do what works best for you.

The brand offers quality eyewear that has modern, minimalistic styling — and with prescription glasses starting at $95, it's also affordable. 

Read our full review on Warby Parker here.

GlassesUSA.com

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In comparison to brick-and-mortar stores with limited selections and high prices, GlassesUSA.com offers all of your favorite brands for less.

Whether you're going for a high-end designer like Gucci or a staple glasses brand like Ray-Ban, you'll find a pair you like. Simply choose blue light blocking lenses when making your lens selections and you'll be all set.

We personally like GlassesUSA.com for its "Virtual Mirror," which gives you a sense of what the glasses will look like on your face before ordering them. 

MVMT

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Indiegogo sensation MVMT got its start making great men's and women's watches before expanding into sunglasses, and now computer glasses. The popular startup has already seen a lot of success with this "Everscroll" collection, which features more than a dozen styles that simply look like normal, stylish glasses. You'll pay $65 to $125 for a pair of these lightweight, yet durable, specs.

Right now, you can save up 40% on glasses during MVMT's End of the Year sale.

Eyekepper

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If you don't want to spend up to $100 on computer glasses, you can get Eyekepper's for under $25 depending on the style. Eyekepper glasses have been the go-to pair of one Insider Reviews reporter for more than a year and they've proven to be a reliable choice after seeing many hours of computer and phone screens.

The lenses do have a slightly more noticeable yellow tint, but the frame style is universally attractive, and for such an affordable price, we can't complain too much.

Unlike other brands, Eyekepper allows you to sort your styles by how much blue light they filter.

EyeBuyDirect

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EyeBuyDirect, where you can find stylish and really affordable prescription eyewear, offers two types of glasses with digital screen protection: EBDBlue and SightRelax.

Both have scratch-resistant and anti-glare coatings, a blue light filter, and UV protection, but SightRelax glasses have an additional enhancement on the bottom portion of the lens that helps your eyes relax as you read from a screen. You can also add a prescription to either type. 

The advantage of shopping at EyeBuyDirect is its huge range of styles. If you want options, EyeBuyDirect will be your best bet. EBDBlue glasses start at $25, while SightRelax glasses start at $35. 

Cyxus

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Another affordable brand you can conveniently buy on Amazon is Cyxus, which sells full-rim, half-rim, and clip-on blue light computer glasses for $10 to $30. Cyxus has a range of lens styles, including clip-ons.

Cyxus has an impressive lifetime warranty on its products, so you'll be set on eye protection for many years. Its most popular style is a classic black, slightly oversized pair that students swear by.

Quay

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Maybe you work at a youthful start-up or maybe you just want to express your bold personality. Either way, you'll love the blue light collection from Australian sunglasses brand Quay, which brings some unexpected excitement to the computer glasses category with its carefree, music festival-inspired style.

Try a sleek cat eye or throw it back with this vintage pair. Most styles cost around $55 to $65.  

Zenni

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Whether you're looking for stylish, trendy frames or old standbys you can wear for years, Zenni definitely has a pair for you. The brand has over 3,000 frames available on its website, from cat-eyes to Buddy Holly-inspired styles.

And thanks to a virtual try-on, you can see what your blue lights will look like before you get them. Zenni Optical is affordable, too, so you can order more than one style for extra variety.

The Book Club

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The Book Club is perfect for those looking for stylish blue light glasses. The Australian brand specializes in whimsical yet cool frame styles in a variety of colors. You can add magnification if you need your glasses to be readers, but you currently can't add a prescription to them.

The Book Club makes its glasses from recycled, BPA-free plastic, making them a perfect option for those looking to be more eco-friendly. And with prices starting at $15, you can get a pair without breaking the bank. 

Tomahawk Shades

We all know that blue light can wreak havoc on your sleep schedule, but the glare from digital screens can cause serious eye strain, too. Tomahawk Shades' BlueLight+ glasses help to reduce the glare given off by digital screens, so your eyes won't be worn out as quickly.

The brands' glasses come in a variety of trendy colors and shapes, from hip aviators to classic round frames. And you can't beat the price — every pair rings up for well under $100, with some of the more basic pairs as low as $40.

Vincero

While plenty of companies making blue light glasses opt for trend-forward frames, Vincero takes the more timeless, minimal route. The brand's blue light glasses all come in classic styles and neutral hues. The wildest the brand goes with their frames is a handful of clear cellulose acetate styles. If you have a minimalist style, invest in a pair of Vincero frames, and chances are you'll be wearing them for years. 

The Philadelphia 76ers will get another shot at the Boston Celtics in the first round of the NBA Playoffs following the Celtics' Game 1 victory. We've compiled everything you need to know about where to watch 76ers vs. Celtics live streams.

If you don't feel like reading any further, the cheapest way to live stream tonight's game in the US is through Peacock. Below, we've outlined how to tune in if you're outside the US. For even more postseason streaming, check out our where to watch NBA Playoffs guide.

The No. 2 Boston Celtics hosted the No. 7 Philadelphia 76ers in Game 1 of the first round of the NBA Playoffs. They'll host Game 2 at TD Garden once again before the series heads to Philadelphia for the next two games. The Celtics walloped the 76ers in Game 1, leading in every quarter to a final score of 123-91. The Boston team had a solid season, but they've been bolstered by the recent return of Jayson Tatum, who ruptured his Achilles tendon during last year's Eastern Conference Semifinals. Last year, the 76ers missed the playoffs altogether, but they secured a spot this year by defeating the Orlando Magic in the play-in tournament.

Where to watch 76ers vs. Celtics in the US

The 76ers vs. Celtics game will air on the NBC Sports Network (NBCSN) in the US. You can live stream the game on Peacock. Sports-friendly plans start at $11 a month for Peacock Premium, which comes with ad-supported on-demand access and select live sports. If you want to unlock ad-free on-demand content and a 24/7 live stream of NBC, you'll need to opt for the $17 a month Peacock Premium Plus plan.

How to watch 76ers vs. Celtics from anywhere

Basketball fans don't need to worry about missing out on one second of the action just because they're traveling abroad. They can keep up with their usual streaming options with the aid of a VPN. Short for virtual private networks, VPNs are easy-to-use tech tools that let people alter the virtual locations on their electronic devices. They're also strong ways to improve cybersecurity. The services we've highlighted require country-specific methods of payment, so this option will work best for those who are simply traveling away from home.

If you're not sure where to start when it comes to VPNs, NordVPN is our top recommendation right now. It's fast, user-friendly, and has a hassle-free 30-day money-back guarantee. You can learn more in our guide to the best VPN services.

Note: The use of VPNs is illegal in certain countries, and using VPNs to access region-locked streaming content might constitute a breach of the terms of use for certain services. Business Insider does not endorse or condone the illegal use of VPNs.

• Many celebrities, politicians, and entrepreneurs got their start working in fast-food chains.
• Outgoing Apple CEO Tim Cook flipped burgers at a local spot in Alabama.
• Jeff Bezos said working the grill at McDonald's taught him responsibility. 

Would you be shocked to learn that many successful entrepreneurs and celebrities once made money flipping burgers?

From Tim Cook to Brad Pitt and Barack Obama, these famous figures prove that even the most successful people can have humble beginnings — and learn a lot of valuable lessons from working at fast-food chains. 

Here are 12 successful people who got their start working in fast food.

Áine Cain contributed to an earlier version of this report.

Apple CEO Tim Cook started out by flipping burgers as a teen.

Cook, who recently announced the conclusion of his 15-year tenure as CEO of Apple, has worn many hats in his career, including as a line cook.

His first job was a paper route at 11 or 12, and then, as he told Fortune in 2025, he "graduated to flipping burgers" at a local spot, "Tastee Freeze," when he turned 14. "It was the only fast-food kind of place in town," said the Robertsdale, Alabama, native.

Cook, who is now worth an estimated $2.9 billion, per Forbes, earned $1.10 an hour in the role.

Would Cook have cultivated the same legacy as a post-Steve Jobs stabilizing force at Apple, without the role? We can't say, but Cook himself said working jobs through his adolescence and college years "was a fabulous time. All my life has been a fabulous time."

Amazon founder and CEO Jeff Bezos got his start working the grill at McDonald's.

Before he became the third-richest person in the world, with an estimated net worth of $257.5 billion, Bezos worked at McDonald's.

In Cody Teets' book "Golden Opportunity: Remarkable Careers That Began at McDonald's," Bezos revealed he worked the grill and that the job taught him responsibility. Business Insider previously reported that Bezos worked at McDonald's over the summer when he was a teenager, and that his father had also been a McDonald's employee.

"My first week on the job, a five-gallon, wall-mounted ketchup dispenser got stuck open in the kitchen and dumped a prodigious quantity of ketchup into every hard-to-reach kitchen crevice," Bezos told Teets. "Since I was the new guy, they handed me the cleaning solution and said, 'Get going!'"

"I was a grill man and never worked the cash registers," he continued. "The most challenging thing was keeping everything going at the right pace during a rush. The manager at my McDonald's was excellent. He had a lot of teenagers working for him, and he kept us focused even while we had fun."

When she was just starting out, Rachel McAdams also worked at McDonald's.

In her own words, the actor wasn't a star employee at the fast-food giant and even accidentally broke an orange juice machine while she was on the clock, US Magazine wrote.

"I worked at the local McDonald's for three years," McAdams told The New York Times in 2008. "I'm not sure why they kept me: I am something of a daydreamer and a dawdler, so they would only let me be the 'friendly voice' that greeted you when you entered the restaurant. I was slow — I would be organizing the sweet-and-sour packets in the customer's takeout bag while the line snaked out the door."

Barack Obama scooped ice cream at Baskin-Robbins in high school.

Obama worked at a Baskin-Robbins ice cream shop near his grandparents' Honolulu home in the summer of 1978. 

"Scooping ice cream is tougher than it looks. Rows and rows of rock-hard ice cream can be brutal on the wrists," the former president wrote about the experience in a since-deleted LinkedIn post.

"My first summer job wasn't exactly glamorous, but it taught me some valuable lessons," Obama said. "Responsibility. Hard work. Balancing a job with friends, family, and school."

Before making it, Madonna worked at Dunkin' Donuts in Times Square.

The "Material Girl" singer told Howard Stern during a 2015 interview that she got fired when she squirted jelly filling on a customer. 

"I think I stayed there for maybe a week," she said, revealing that she got fired for playing with the jelly doughnut machine and for not taking it seriously. 

Brad Pitt dressed up as a chicken when he worked at El Pollo Loco.

The award-winning actor spoke about his brief stint working as an El Pollo Loco mascot with Ellen DeGeneres in 2019. 

Pitt told the talk-show host that before he made it big as an actor, he dressed as a chicken for the grand opening of the fast-food chain's location at Sunset and La Brea in Los Angeles, and that he had "no shame" about the job. 

"Man's gotta eat," he laughed. 

Jay Leno got his start slicing potatoes at the Golden Arches.

CNBC reported that the comedian and late-night host worked at a McDonald's restaurant in Andover, Massachusetts, as a teenager before hitting it big. 

"I worked at a restaurant on Main Street for two years, from 1966 to 1968," Leno told Cody Teets in "Golden Opportunity: Remarkable Careers That Began at McDonald's." "This was back in the good old days when they still had roast beef and strawberry shortcake, which I was a huge fan of."

"I had these massive forearms from cutting those potatoes," he continued, explaining that he was in charge of cutting the potatoes to make the chain's famous fries each day.

Queen Latifah's first job was at Burger King when she was 15.

Long before she was an Oscar-nominated actor, Latifah learned the value of a dollar by working at her local Burger King restaurant. 

"If my brother and I wanted money in our pockets, we had to get jobs — my first was at 15, at Burger King. We had to come up with ways to create an income," Latifah, who back then was just known as Dana Owens, told Parade in 2011.

Pink once worked in the drive-thru at McDonald's.

In an interview with Food & Wine in 2015, Pink revealed that her family encouraged her to start making her own money as a teenager.

"I was a drive-thru girl at McDonald's. I had a Janet Jackson microphone — I had power," the singer told the magazine, according to Pop Crush. 

Gwen Stefani's job at Dairy Queen led to the formation of her hit band No Doubt.

The Los Angeles Times reported that "The Voice" judge worked at Dairy Queen as a young woman, where she also worked with her brother Eric Stefani and friend John Spence.

The group formed its first band, Apple Core, in 1986. They later renamed themselves No Doubt and went on to win two Grammy awards, arguably all thanks to Dairy Queen. 

Eva Longoria worked at Wendy's before making it big as an actor.

Longoria first alluded to her gig flipping burgers at Wendy's in her 2012 speech to the Democratic National Convention, The Huffington Post reported.

She later revealed that she worked the gig when she was underage in order to pay for her quinceañera, with a signed parent's permit that allowed her to work before it was technically legal to do so.

"I wanted to have a quinceañera when I was 15, and my family didn't have the money," the actor told Redbook, according to People. "I got a job at Wendy's and paid for it myself. I couldn't wait to get to work and make my own money."

Megan Fox dressed up as a giant banana when she worked at Tropical Smoothie Café.

"I worked at a Tropical Smoothie Cafe in Florida when I was 15," the "Jennifer's Body" star told Bang Media in 2009, according to Digital Spy.

"I would have to go out in the street wearing a gigantic banana costume and dance to try to get customers to come in," she continued. "There was no anonymity; the costume had a big hole cut out so that everyone would see your face."

"My friends from school would drive back and forth and yell all kinds of awesome obscenities at me," she said.

Jennifer Hudson said her "first and only real job was working at Burger King."

"I used to sing at the drive-thru window. That was my microphone," Hudson told People in 2018. It paid off — she won an Oscar for her performance as Effie White in "Dreamgirls."

• I spent several years working as a park ranger at US state and national parks.
• During this time, I saw guests make mistakes when visiting, like assuming they'd have cell service.
• Many guests also strayed from marked trails and came unprepared for hikes. 

I've always been fascinated by state and national parks. Growing up, I visited places like the Grand Canyon and spent a lot of time camping in small, local parks.

In 2017, I received my undergraduate degree in geology and began my career as an intern at a National Parks Service site. I also spent a season working at a state park in California.

However, I dreamed of being able to wear the coveted flat hat and get my foot in the door as a park ranger. Eventually, that dream became a reality when I became a ranger at my first national park in 2021.

Over the next few years, I worked for many different state and national parks and saw guests make the same mistakes over and over. Here some of the most common ones I saw.

Assuming they'll have cell service and access to WiFi

When I worked in the parks, visitors sometimes (incorrectly) assumed they'd have access to WiFi and cell service during their visit. However, this wasn't usually the case.

That's why I always recommend visitors write down important navigation information before their visit.

Not checking the park's website and social media pages before visiting

When I worked for my last park, we had constant road closures due to downed trees, rockslides, and car accidents. Although updates regarding incidents like these were posted on the park's website, I still found that many travelers didn't look for this information.

Before entering a park, it's important to call the visitor's center or check the park's social media pages and website for up-to-date information.

Straying from designated trails

While working at the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina, we had several well-marked trails for hikers to enjoy and take in the beautiful scenery.

However, several areas of these trails were often closed to protect rare or sensitive plant species or to help mitigate land issues, including erosion.

Unfortunately, as a park ranger, I saw folks jumping off the designated path all too often. Many visitors don't realize that trail markers are there for their safety, as well as for the safety of the park itself.

Forgetting that many national and state parks have wildlife to be aware of

Most national parks have wildlife that visitors should be aware of. While working at a national park, though, I often saw people's eyes grow large as soon as I mentioned that our park was saturated with black bears.

In general, it's best to give wildlife plenty of space. I remind guests to make themselves look as tall as possible — and never run — if they come across a bear.

Failing to properly prepare for a hike

When working in the parks, I saw many guests who did not come prepared for a hike.

So, I always tried to educate visitors on what the National Park Service calls the 10 essentials. These include things like sunscreen, water, and snacks that are important to keep handy during a hike.

Other essentials include a compass or navigation system, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, an emergency shelter, a fire starter, a knife, and extra clothes.

This story was originally published on February 2, 2024, and most recently updated on April 21, 2026.