Need an easy costume? Try an ugly Halloween sweater
Christmas doesn’t have the market cornered when it comes to ugly sweaters. With Halloween right around the corner, the spook-tacular holiday is giving your Santa gear a run for its money! That’s right, ugly halloween sweaters are a thing. Who knew?
HalloweenCostumes.com is gearing up with tons of ugly Halloween sweaters that are pure autumn awesomeness. And bonus, now you can dress up without a full-on costume. Here are some of our faves so you can embarrass your kids while celebrating the holiday—and that is a win, win.
Along with ugly sweaters for adults, you can also score a skeleton or pumpkin-themed pick for your child, too! While it’s not likely the littles will go for a sweater over a costume, they can show their holiday spirit and wear the “ugly” attire to school this fall!
Take a chill pill, ’90s kids! We’ve gathered your favorite foods of yesteryear into one nostalgic roundup of ’90s candy and snacks. Some are discontinued, and some are downright dated (hello, Bubble Beeper!), but they’re all guaranteed to inspire a few choice cravings.
Sure, these were just a smaller version of Butterfingers, but there was an irresistible Simpsons tie-in. And if Butterfinger BBs were good enough for the Bartman, they were good enough for us '90s kids.
The '90s elixir known as Cherry Coke was the cherry-flavored soda of choice. It had the taste of a classic fountain drink and the rad packaging that was quintessential 1990s.
Sure, Fruit by the Foot is still around today—but the '90s version was extra psychedelic and almost 50% sugar, which may account for about a decade of sugar highs.
Dunk-a-roos were basically the currency of the '90s playground. Bite-sized cookies that you could dunk into super sweet frosting? It was a kid's dream-come-true.
We're not sure where the "fruit" factors into these jelly candies that explode neon goo, but we know that Fruit Gushers were responsible for many a blue tongue in the 1990s.
The answer to all your yogurt mobility problems of the 1990s! Since this snack can still be found in lunchboxes today, it's clear Gogurt was the yogurt of the future.
Ring Pops were the most popular bling of the '90s and the very best reason to eat your jewelry. Why would you want a boring ol' lollipop when you could have a Ring Pop?
From stuffed crust to pizza rolls, the 1990s were kind of a big deal for pizza. And nothing topped Totino's, or the feeling of victory when you found them in the freezer after school.
What '90s kid could resist the rainbow-in-a-cup that was Trix Yogurt? Per Trix rules, it was "just for kids," so if the exclusivity didn't get ya, the flashy commercials sure would.
It's a tried-and-true fact that the way to a kid's stomach is with brightly colored, weirdly-shaped snacks. That's why it should be no surprise that Cheetos Paws were such a hit.
Ah, PB Max, we hardly knew ye! This peanut butter-and-chocolate candy bar (with a cookie thrown in!) wasn't around for long, but it'll always have a place in '90s kids hearts.
Real talk: Kudos were supposedly a healthier alternative to candy bars. All we remember is that they were chock-full of chocolate and topped with candy.
If you’re a Starbucks fanatic, you probably know the company drops seasonal merch at locations nationwide—often without official fanfare. But thanks to social media, we know that the coffee giant has some really cool cup offerings this fall, including glow in the dark options!
In August the Internet started to buzz about a colorful cup drop to mark the changing of the seasons. Fans have found neon studded tumblers, pearlescent swirled tumblers and metallic pearl hot cups with a bit of luck and perseverance. Personally we’re fans of that dark green shimmery swirl!
But with Halloween just around the corner, the hunt is on for new glow in the dark cups. Eagle-eyed shoppers have found these popping up at their local ‘Bucks and it looks like they even come with stickers! Whether you’re looking for classic cobwebs or prefer a black cat cup, you’re in luck.
If you’re ready to add a little whimsy to your beauty routine, you’ll love this new line from HipDot! The popular cosmetics company that’s known for its unexpected collaborations has partnered with Hasbro for a fun new game-based line. Whether you want to add a Monopoly money hue for your next business pitch or a Play-Doh neon pop for your next night out, these products are sure to please.
You have three different eyeshadow palettes to choose from: Monopoly Money Moves, Ouija or Play-Doh Super Color. Each comes in a case that riffs off the design of the actual games, including a mini Monopoly board! The palettes feature mattes and shimmers, with the addition of foils and glitters in the Monopoly set and satins and duochromes in the Ouija set.
The names of the colors might be the best part. Take Luxury Tax in the Monopoly set, which is a money green with sparkle pigment. Bubble Gum Pink is a medium pink satin in the Play-Doh set. And Seance is a reddish copper shimmer in the Oujia set.
If you can’t decide which one to buy, you can also buy all three for $74. They’re available now on Hipdot.com. All of the company’s products are vegan and cruelty-free, in addition to super fun. But if you’re interested, you might want to pull out your (real) bills because this new line is in high demand!
Neon dolphins leaping to the sky, rainbow-hued unicorns frolicking and the cutest little leopards you ever did see. If the previous sentence reminded you of Lisa Frank and you suddenly started missing the design icon of the ’90s, you’re in luck. Now you can show your Lisa Frank love with the newest collection from ORLY, featuring a dazzling range of wraps and polish!
Your nails are in for a real treat. To get started, snag one of the two polish trios that come in collectible packaging. Choose your combo of Dancing Dolphins (magenta, yellow and orange) or Markie (cyan, purple and lime) for the ultimate 90’s vibe.
Of course, those hands need some extra pizazz. Fortunately you can also buy two new topcoats, Hits the Spot or Star Glaze. The former packs colorful confetti and the latter promises a glittery shine, perfect for layering on top of your neon nails.
Last but certainly not least, check out these nail wraps! Choose from unicorns, aliens, baby leopards or tigers, all in fantastic neon colorways. They’re non-damaging adhesive and safe for natural nails. At only $11.99 each, you might want to buy them all!
Your mani will definitely be the talk of the next book club or school drop off. All thanks to this nostalgic new collection from ORLY!
Ready or not, Christmas shopping is right around the corner! Target has just released the annual Bullseye’s Top Toys list for your making-a-list inspiration. This year features the most exclusives ever, with new 22 toys and games you can only buy at the massively popular retailer.
You’ll find 50 top toys to choose from and Target has even broken it down into categories like “Inspiring New Stories” and “Inspiring Active Play” to make shopping easier. Top brands Disney, LEGO, FAO Schwarz and L.O.L. Surprise! all have exclusive Target offerings for the holiday season. Better yet, many are available to buy now!
Some of the exclusive Target products to look for:
Prices start at $19.99 and Red Card holders can get 5% off Top Toys purchases all through the holiday season. Need it fast? Take advantage of the same-day fulfillment options like Drive Up or Pick Up in store!
––Sarah Shebek
Featured image courtesy of Daniel O’Donnell, Unsplash
Spring is on the horizon—and so are Aldi’s awesome line of Easter cheese options. While you might think of neon sugar-coated chicks, marshmallow-filled chocolate bunnies, or peanut butter eggs as Easter staples, these new seasonal varieties are sure to become fast faves.
Emporium Selection has three different cheese tastes available for Aldi shoppers. Each English cheese in the Emporium Selection Easter Truckle Assortment has delish, distinctive flavor and comes in a spring-like Easter package.
What can you expect from the Emporium Selection Easter cheese line at Aldi? If you like your cheese with a hint of fruit and a subtle splash of chocolate, the Wensleydale Cheese with Raspberry and White Chocolate is a must-have. This candy-like cheese comes in a pastel egg-shaped container that’s almost as sweet as what’s inside.
As if a raspberry and white chocolate cheese wasn’t enough, the Emporium Selection line also includes a Wensleydale Imported English Cheese with Lemon and Honey. Not only is the package filled with cheesy goodness, it’s also shaped like a sunny yellow Easter chick!
If you’re a fan of cheddar, Aldi has something just for you. The Emporium Selection Aged English Cheddar is, “Smooth creamy cheese with a distinctive bite” and comes in an adorable Easter egg shape.
Find these completely cute cheese varieties (for $3.99 each) in Aldi stores nationwide starting Mar. 17.
As an art teacher, I get asked about the best art supplies for kids all the time. I know our local craft supply store like the back of my hand and have spent countless hours wondering the aisles looking for the perfect paint, brush, clay, you name it, for kids. I may be slightly obsessed with buying the latest marker or washi tape, but the good news is, I always come back to the same tried and true favorite supplies. The truth is you don’t have to spend a lot of money when it comes to art making, and keeping it simple is definitely the way to go.
We teach Process Art at Meri Cherry Art Studio, in Los Angeles. Process Art is art that’s all about the making and the doing rather than the finished product. Since the process is so important to us, we really value high quality art supplies for kids. We believe in using real tools to engage kids in the process, so they can explore, build confidence, make important decisions, learn and have fun. That’s what process art is all about.
If you’re looking at my list below thinking, hold up, my child is not about to bring a sharpie into the house. No way! I hear you. We all have our own comfort levels and you know your child best. Stick with art supplies that don’t stress you out and set yourself up for success. Working on a tray is a great way to keep things contained at the table, and also great for siblings so each child has their own space. If you’re lucky enough to be in a warm climate, outside is a great place to create and way less stressful than your living room. I’ve included our favorite tablecloth below whether you’re inside or out.
We also believe in the power of language to create a creative environment and provide a safe space for kids to take chances and take pride in their art making. As parents, sometimes we have no idea what to say when our child approaches with a picture of what looks like a giant scribble, but they have a world of ideas living in their imagination. If you want to download our free How to Talk to Kids About Art Making Poster, you can do that here.
Most of all, enjoy the process and have fun!
1
Watercolor Palette and Brushes
Micador Jr.
$11.99
We use watercolors all the time. This one has a great range of colors, the quality is good and it comes with really great brushes to have on hand for playdates and siblings.
Using quality paper is a game changer for art making with kids. Watercolor paints on printer paper is not fun! You need quality paper to absorb the paint. Give this pad a try. Plus it's on sale!
I love this clear table clothe because we can keep it on our nice wood table all year round and it doesn't look like craft central. It comes in all different sizes, is super durable and easy to clean. Love this thing!
We've used these paint pucks for years and years. They are an absolute favorite. The colors are super fun and vibrant and they teach a little patience because you have to move your wet brush round and round in the puck to get plenty of paint. Love 'em.
Ok, I know some moms are like, no way to permanent markers, but they really pack a punch when it comes to art making and if you teach your child how to be responsible with them, I say go for it!
I LOOOOOVE this hammer. I really believe in giving kids real tools. This one has like 5 screwdrivers in it too. It's the perfect size for little hands and we use it all the time in the studio. And puhlease, especially if you have a daughter, please let her experience hammer time!
We are huge Sculpey fans over here. This is the art supply that keeps on giving. Kids of all ages love to create all kinds of projects with clay. Definitely a great one, especially as a gift.
If you want something super fun to do with your great new art supplies, check out one of our downloadable classes. Perfect for kids 3-7/8. Plus a super great one for adults. Come check us out!
If you like what you see here, you'll love my book, Play Make Create, a Process Art Handbook. It's filled with over 40 Process Art Invitations to Create and Art Activities. You'll love it!
Grab your Trapper Keeper and scrunchie. Morphe Cosmetics has partnered with the iconic and beloved Lisa Frank to bring classic, colorful nostalgia to the 2020 holiday season. The Morphe ❤ Lisa Frank Collection will be available online at Morphe.com and in-stores at Morphe on Tues. Nov. 24 just in time for holiday shopping.
The Morphe ❤ Lisa Frank Collection is the perfect collaboration for collectors, as the eyeshadow palette comes in three custom packaging designs featuring Lisa Frank’s bold, bright art all for under $35.
“At Lisa Frank, intricate packaging has always been our game. We leaned on Morphe for their cosmetic product expertise, and they relied on us to take the design and presentation to the next level. The result is a truly special collaboration for both brands. We hope the elevated packaging and iconic Lisa Frank spirit, combined with Morphe’s trusted formulas, will bring happiness and excitement as the consumer interacts with the collection from beginning to end,” said Lisa Frank Inc.
Included in the Morphe ❤ Lisa Frank Collection:
35B by Lisa Frank Artistry Palette ($30)
The 35B palette is back. The same bold and bright shades with custom Lisa Frank packaging designs perfect for collecting.
Blend Bright 6-Piece Brush Set ($32)
The set includes six synthetic eye brushes with handles in trademark Lisa Frank neon shades.
Treat Me Sweet Beauty Sponge Set ($19)
The set includes two full-size bubblegum beauty sponges and three mini bubblegum beauty sponges.
Working and schooling from home are an unexpected shift from our normal routine, and we’ve been left scrambling to set up a workspace within our homes. So, whether you’re working from the kitchen table or a desk that seems to have magically appeared in your bedroom overnight, we’ve put together this list of 11 fun DIY desk accessories to brighten up and organize any workspace. See them all below.
Because color is probably the easiest way to cheer up even your most ordinary desk staples, we’re starting off our list with this adorable and colorful DIY Rainbow Mouse Pad by The Crafted Life. You’ll be happily surfing the internet in less than an hour with only a handful of supplies you probably already have around the house!
Looking for a way to sort that boring mail? Crafts Unleashed has got you covered with this adorable DIY Mountain Range Desk Organizer. Pro tip: Customize it with your favorite colors to match your workspace. Suddenly the bills don’t look so bad!
Paper clips, push pins, staples—struggling to keep those tiny office supplies organized? The Crafting Nook’s cute DIY Drawer Dividers will have you smiling every time you slide open your drawer to a colorful and organized surprise.
These Rainbow Fruit Mason Jars by Color Made Happy are sure to delight the kids with their bright, tropical colors and adorable expressions! DIY projects like these are fun for the little ones and make for an excellent color matching activity.
We know February is months away, but don’t be fooled, this DIY Valentine’s Day Neon Yarn Wall Hanging by A Kailo Chic Life is a lovely way to bring a little heartwarming color to your workspace year-round! We tried this one out with our kids and with only a little help and supervision, we had cute walls hangings and even made a few into bookmarks.
Because jars are a cute and inexpensive way to organize your home, we’ve added another jar craft to our list. These Painted Glass Storage Jars by Alice and Lois come together with only a few supplies and are so versatile. We think they’d be great for craft and office supplies, baking ingredients, and even terrariums!
The geometric painted pattern on these Easy Painted Frames by BrePurposed is a modern meets rustic way to show off your favorite photos. There’s nothing like looking at your children or reminiscing about a memorable moment to inspire your work!
If you’re looking to use wall space to both organize your workspace, we have two genius DIY projects by Paper & Stitch. This Giant DIY Mood Board Organizer is a vibrant way to add color, while the Hanging Wall Organizer is chic and perfect for blending into your room. Bonus: both can be easily taken down or moved with our ever-changing needs!
Plants are a perfect way to add a touch of nature to any workspace. Not only do plants look beautiful, but they’re also good for purifying the air and boosting our moods. A Kailo Chic Life has inspired us yet again with her Gold Foiled Planters!
