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How to Choose The Perfect Colour for Your Outfits — Inside Out Style

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How to Choose The Perfect Colour for Your Outfits — Inside Out Style

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How to Use Your Colour Palette Without Feeling Restricted (or Confused)

“Why can’t I ever find the right outfit in my colours?”

A lovely reader asked me this recently,  and if you’ve ever stood in a fitting room wondering why something technically “matches your palette” but still feels off… you’re not alone.

Let’s clear something up first.

Your colour palette is not a paint-by-numbers set.

It’s not a rigid rulebook.

And it’s definitely not 50 tiny colour swatches you must match with forensic precision.

It’s a framework.

And once you understand how to use it properly, shopping becomes dramatically easier.

Your Palette Is the Executive Summary — Not the Whole Book

There are over 50,000 colours you can wear.

Your palette? It’s about 50 of them.

I call it the executive summary.

It’s there to show you the colour properties that work for you, not to limit you to exact matches.

When you’re shopping, you’re not asking:

“Is this the exact same red?”

You’re asking:

  • Does this colour blend with my palette?
  • Is it the right undertone?
  • Is it the right intensity?
  • Is it the right value (lightness or depth)?

We’re looking for harmony, not duplication.

Think siblings — not distant cousins.

What “Blending” Actually Means

When a colour works for you, it feels like it belongs in the same family.

Not identical.
Not copied and pasted.
Just… related.

If your palette contains blue-based pinks, a coral (which leans warm and orange) will feel separate — even if technically it’s “pink.”

If your palette is light and airy, a deep, heavy pattern will feel too weighty — even if the colours themselves are similar.

What you’re training your eye to see is:

  • Undertone (warm or cool)
  • Intensity (soft or clear)
  • Value (light, medium, deep)

That’s the system.

And once you understand the system, you stop second-guessing yourself.

Patterns: The Majority Rule

Patterns confuse people — but they don’t need to.

When you’re looking at a print, ask:

  • Do the majority of these colours sit in my colour family?
  • Does the overall feeling blend with my palette?

If most of the colours align with your undertone, value, and intensity, it works.

If the greens are too olive if you’re cool or too emerald if you’re warm…
If the blues are too bright for your palette, if you’re smoky, or too cool for your palette, if you’re warm
If the pinks lean coral when you need blue-based because you’re cool…

It won’t feel harmonious.

Mastering Undertones Choosing Colours and Patterns That Work With Your Palette - look for colours that blend with your palette and neutralsAnd that subtle disharmony is often what makes you say:

“Something about this just isn’t quite right.”

Your instincts are usually correct. You just didn’t have the framework to articulate why.

Now you do.

Check out my post here on choosing patterns to work with your palette.

The Brown Myth (And Why So Many Women Think They “Can’t Wear It”)

Every season, fashion decides which colour is having a moment.

Recently we’ve seen olive, camel, burgundy and chocolate brown.

I often hear people say:

“I can’t wear brown.”

And I used to think that was true for me too, even though I had dark chocolate brown hair – which suited me just fine.

What I learned in personal colour analysis training was that you can wear brown, no matter your undertone; it’s just that you can’t wear every brown.

Just like with almost all other colours (orange excluded, which is only ever warm, and black, which is only ever cool), there are both warm and cool versions of brown, which I’ve written about here.

Cool palettes need cooler, pinky/purple browns.

Warm palettes need golden, bronze and orange browns.

The same colour name can sit in entirely different undertone families.

Browns for all colour palettes

There are also lighter browns for those who have a lighter ideal value, which is you if you have lighter hair colours, which go into the beiges and camels, along with the more traditional darker brown shades.

That’s why trying on “a brown” and declaring it impossible is like trying on one pair of jeans and deciding denim doesn’t suit you.

The issue isn’t the category.

It’s the colour properties.

Why This Matters More Than You Think

When your colours are aligned:

  • Your wardrobe mixes and matches effortlessly.
  • Getting dressed takes less mental energy.
  • You look cohesive without trying harder.
  • You stop buying near-misses.

And perhaps most importantly:

You begin trusting your eye again.

For many intelligent women over 40, the real struggle isn’t colour.

It’s self-trust.

You’ve spent decades dressing for roles. Dress codes. Expectations.

Now you’re asking:

What actually works for me?

Colour analysis isn’t about control.

It’s about clarity.

And clarity builds confidence.

A Simple Way to Shop With Confidence

Next time you’re holding up a garment, don’t ask:

“Is this exactly in my palette?”

Ask instead:

  • Does it feel like the same family?
  • Is the undertone aligned?
  • Is the value similar to what suits me?
  • Is the intensity harmonious?

You don’t need to carry around a suitcase of swatches.

You need to understand the system behind them.

Style is not about rules.

It’s about making informed, values-aligned choices that support how you want to feel.

And when your colours blend — truly blend — everything else becomes easier.

If this resonated, you might gently ask yourself:

  • Have I been treating my palette like a limitation instead of a guide?
  • Where am I still trying to match exactly instead of harmonising?
  • What would change if shopping felt logical instead of overwhelming?

Because style isn’t a guessing game.

It’s a science.

And once you understand it, getting dressed becomes one of the simplest, and most empowering, parts of your day.

Discover Your Optima Palette of Colours

If you’d like to discover your best palette of colours and how to wear them, you can get an online colour analysis with my 18 palette Absolute Colour System here..

How to Use Your Colour Palette Without Feeling Restricted (or Confused)

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Wispy Bangs Are The Easy, Low-Maintenance Way To Try A Fringe This Summer

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Wispy Bangs Are The Easy, Low-Maintenance Way To Try A Fringe This Summer

If you’ve ever wondered ‘should I get a fringe?’ but you’re eternally worried that it might involve too much upkeep, wispy bangs make a strong case for starting with something a bit softer.

Lighter and easier to work with than a traditional full fringe, wispy bangs sit somewhere between barely-there face-framing layers and classic bangs, making them one of the easiest ways tor refresh your hair without a dramatic change. It’s an option that doesn’t just look cool but is also super low maintenance and very much lazy-girl approved.

The wispy fringe is also one of the most adaptable styles to try: whether it’s worn slightly parted, straight across the forehead or left to air dry for an undone, more casual feel, wispy bangs offer an easy, subtle way to change the shape of your haircut while still remaining wearable day-to-day – especially if you’re trying a fringe for the first time.

What are wispy bangs?

Sometimes referred to as ‘see-through bangs’ or ‘Korean air bangs’ – wispy bangs have been popular for years in South Korea, and like all good Korean beauty trends, they’re steadily growing in popularity here in the west thanks to the soft, effortless finish.

“Wispy bangs are a softer, more playful bang cut to loosely accentuate the eye and temple areas,” explains Rogerio Cavalcante, owner and hairstylist at the Second Floor Salon. “Whether they are ‘micro’ wispy, or longer in length, there is less hair cut than a full fringe, so you can still see the forehead peeking through.” Essentially, they have movement and more of an “airy” texture to them.

Rogerio also notes that wispy bangs are a great choice for anyone unsure if they want a full fringe, as they allows clients to test the look and try different styling techniques. You’ve definitely seen the style before: stars like Jenna Ortega, Selena Gomez, Camila Cabello, Zoë Kravitz, and Suki Waterhouse have all worn wispy bangs lately.

Where did wispy bangs originate?

The fringe style is especially popular among K-pop stars like Blackpink’s Jennie, Jisoo, Lisa, Rosé, Squid Game actor Jung Ho-Yeon, and model Lee Sung-Kyung, which makes sense: The wispy bangs trend started in South Korea and became popularised by those looking to achieve an effortless, youthful look with an elegant feel.

7 Women Share How They Find Relief From Perimenopause Symptoms

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7 Women Share How They Find Relief From Perimenopause Symptoms

A racing mind, debilitating joint pain, waking up drenched—all of these are symptoms of perimenopause, the transitional phase leading up to menopause when sex hormones fluctuate and decline, causing a rollercoaster of biological changes. And it can strike younger than you may think: Though the average age of menopause is 52 in the US, perimenopause can begin several years before that point, sometimes as early as your late 30s.

The tricky thing is, there’s no test to confirm you’re in perimenopause. “Instead, we rely mostly on symptom patterns,” like irregular periods, mood shifts, night sweats, trouble sleeping, or just not feeling like yourself, Stephanie Faubion, MD, medical director of The Menopause Society and director of the Mayo Clinic’s Center for Women’s Health, tells SELF.

While perimenopause is a “universal experience,” Dr. Faubion says, no two women experience it exactly the same way. There are also multiple approaches for treating and mitigating its effects—which can make it hard to figure out what to try first.

If perimenopause symptoms are interfering with your ability to go about your daily tasks, it’s important to consult your primary care physician or ob-gyn on the quickest path to relief for you. That might look like medical interventions, including hormone therapy (HT), or it could be a variety of lifestyle modifications.

Read on to hear from seven women on the remedies that have helped with their perimenopause symptoms, plus expert insights on why they work and how to maximize their benefits.

‘I do Pilates four days a week.’

“As I started to notice changes in my body, I realized I needed to put a little more emphasis on taking care of myself,” Kelly Kaufman, 47, president of the communications agency K Squared Group in Chicago, tells SELF. Those changes included body aches and pains, weight gain, and “stupid injuries,” like pulling a muscle from simply bending over, she says.

So Kaufman started doing Pilates, which she says is the first workout she’s ever done consistently. “It has helped tremendously in not only keeping me somewhat in shape but also helps give me a little more focus and ‘me’ time.” It’s also helped her build strength and improved her sciatica so much that she says she no longer needs physical therapy.

What an expert says:

The estrogen fluctuations of perimenopause “speed up muscle loss and loosen joints,” Heather Hirsch, MD, an internist and menopause specialist, and author of The Perimenopause Survival Guidetells SELF. Hence the random strains and sprains. Pilates can help restore muscle tone, so you’re less likely to get injured, and also boost insulin sensitivity to support your metabolism, she says. Still, she recommends layering on some heavier lifting (for instance, via dumbbells or resistance bands) a couple times a week, if you can, to give your muscles the challenge they need to grow.

I Finally Started Telling My Friends That I Can’t Afford Their Weddings

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I Finally Started Telling My Friends That I Can’t Afford Their Weddings

Buzz. Let’s add another activity. Buzz. And another night at the Airbnb. Buzz. Have you got my bank details? Buzz. The gift registry link is on the wedding website. Buzz. I think we need to make it even more special! Buzz.

…the texts keep coming, each notification adding to the spiralling bill of another hen do. Anxious nausea is crawling up my throat as I do the mental gymnastics — £40 here, a £100 there, another £20 over here, and that’s all before the actual wedding. I want to make it work, I need to, but no amount of girl math is making this add up. Looks like it’s back to the credit card for the third wedding in a row.

I press and hold the delete button on my phone — I can’t afford this — and type: whatever you guys think is best!

Welcome to being the friend who can’t afford anything, not even your lovely wedding. The one who stretches her credit card balance to attend their friends’ weddings, who stays silent because it’s better than facing the equal evils of pity or judgment. The shame of being the friend in the lowest tax bracket in a country that never wants to talk about money is debilitating, especially as peak wedding season approaches.

In the UK, guests typically spend, on average, £451 per wedding they attend, including accommodation, outfits and gifts. The cost skyrockets for those attending the double-billing of the wedding and the hen/stag do, which can push the cost of attending the whole wedding over £1000. International hen dos can skyrocket into the thousands. When the average income in the UK is £39,039, and many people earn well below that, a couple of weddings a year can leave some of us scrabbling for loose change in the sofa — sadly, I’ve discovered, a lost cause in the age of digital wallets.

Of course, many people plan weddings and consider the financial implications for their attendees. However, with how awkward Brits are about finances, especially those with the money, it gets tricky. I’ve attended countless weddings, often with a negative bank balance, yet I’ve rarely felt able to say that out loud. I don’t want to dampen someone’s joy just because I need three to six months to save up to attend.

The thing is, once people achieve financial security, some forget that it’s not a blanket benefit for everyone in their social circle. That shield of “okayness” for them morphs into a thorn-tipped fence for those of us struggling to cover our bills, mainly because it feels impossible to bring up the topic. No matter how safe we feel with people, having to be the miser who advocates for frugality, or says “I can’t afford it”, is uncomfortable at best.

When we do pluck up the courage to discuss money, silence clogs up the room with shame. It becomes impossible to go beyond the social niceties because the awkwardness makes everyone swallow their tongues. So, those of us without any money opt to stay quiet, spend what we don’t have, or make up excuses not to attend because the truth feels too exposing. And those with money avoid bringing up the conversation because, well, why would they need to? They’re not the ones counting pennies.

But in a world being poisoned by hoarding billionaires gobbling up the resources, it doesn’t make sense for the rest of us to avoid talking about money. The choice to silence or sidestep money chats leaves everyone on unsteady ground. What’s more, these situations isolate those of us trying to cover up hardship, creating divisions in even the deepest friendships as obligation and financial hardship clash.

Citizenship Verification Bill May Complicate Voting Registration for Millions of Women

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Citizenship Verification Bill May Complicate Voting Registration for Millions of Women

Written By: Charron Monaye

WASHINGTON, DC – MARCH 18: U.S. Sen. Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE) attends a rally to speak out against the SAVE America Act outside the U.S. Capitol on March 18, 2026 in Washington, DC. Members of congress join leading voting rights advocates and impacted voters from across the country to rally against the SAVE America Act. (Photo by Heather Diehl/Getty Images)

As Congress debates the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act often referred to in its updated form as the SAVE America Act, a broader question is emerging beyond election security: who, in practice, will find it harder to vote? The Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act, commonly known as the SAVE Act, is one such piece of legislation. Positioned as a measure to strengthen election integrity, it may also redefine who participates in American democracy, particularly women.

At its core, the SAVE Act would require voters to provide documentary proof of U.S. citizenship such as a passport or birth certificate, when registering or updating voter information. It would also limit or eliminate widely used systems like online and mail-in registration, shifting more responsibility onto in-person verification. For millions of Americans, this represents a procedural change. For many women, it could become a structural barrier.

Where The Impact Becomes Real

  • Name Change Complications: A majority of women change their last name after marriage, creating mismatches between birth certificates and current IDs—potentially requiring additional legal documentation to verify identity.
  • Reduced Registration Access: Limitations on online and mail-in registration disproportionately affect women who rely on flexible, remote options due to work and caregiving demands.
  • Time Constraints: Women shoulder a larger share of caregiving responsibilities, making in-person requirements more burdensome and less feasible.
  • Higher Administrative Burden: Multiple steps to verify identity can discourage or delay voter registration, especially for those already balancing competing priorities.
  • Economic Barriers: Costs associated with obtaining passports, birth certificates, or legal documents can disproportionately impact lower-income women.
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People participate in a protest against the Trump administration’s mass firing of government workers and civil servants in front of the Capitol building in Washington D.C. on Presidents’ Day, Feb. 17, 2025. (Photo by Dominic Gwinn / Middle East Images / Middle East Images via AFP) (Photo by DOMINIC GWINN/Middle East Images/AFP via Getty Images)

The impact begins with a uniquely gendered reality: name changes. A significant majority of women in the United States change their last name after marriage. While culturally normalized, this practice creates a disconnect between birth certificates and current legal identification. Under stricter documentation rules, that gap becomes more than administrative it becomes disqualifying. Women may be required to produce additional legal documents, navigate complex verification processes, or face delays that ultimately discourage participation.

Beyond documentation, the SAVE Act intersects with another critical dynamic time. Women continue to carry a disproportionate share of caregiving responsibilities, whether for children, aging parents, or both. Policies that require in-person registration, repeated paperwork, or extended follow-up effectively raise the cost of voting, not just financially, but logistically. In an economy where time is already scarce, even minor increases in administrative burden can have outsized effects on participation.

There is also a financial dimension that cannot be ignored. While proof-of-citizenship documents may sound standard, access to them is not universal. Passports require fees and processing time. Birth certificates may need to be requested across state lines, often at a cost. For lower-income women who are disproportionately represented among hourly workers and single-parent households these hurdles compound quickly. What appears to be a simple requirement becomes, in practice, a gatekeeping mechanism.

The Broader Business & Policy Implications

  • Participation Shapes Policy: Lower voter participation among women could influence policy outcomes on healthcare, education, and labor.
  • Workforce Ripple Effects: Policies shaped by a narrower electorate may affect workplace protections, pay equity, and family leave structures.
  • Economic Representation: Women drive a significant share of consumer spending; reduced civic influence can indirectly impact economic priorities and market behavior.
  • Equity And Access Risk: Companies prioritizing DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) may face a shifting external environment as civic access changes.
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LITTLE CHUTE, WISCONSIN – NOVEMBER 01: Stickers sit on a table during in-person absentee voting on November 01, 2024 in Little Chute, Wisconsin. Election day is Tuesday November 5. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)

From a market perspective, participation is everything. In business, barriers to entry determine who competes and who is left out. The same principle applies to democracy. When access becomes more complex, participation narrows. And when participation narrows, influence follows. Women, who make up a majority of the U.S. electorate, have played a decisive role in shaping outcomes on issues ranging from healthcare to economic policy. Any shift that reduces their turnout has ripple effects far beyond the ballot box.

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DETROIT, MICHIGAN – NOVEMBER 5: Detroit voters at the polls inside Central United Methodist Church on November 5, 2024 in downtown Detroit, Michigan. Americans cast their ballots today in the presidential race between Republican nominee former President Donald Trump and Democratic nominee Vice President Kamala Harris, as well as multiple state elections that will determine the balance of power in Congress. (Photo by Sarah Rice/Getty Images)

Supporters of the SAVE Act argue that requiring proof of citizenship is a necessary step to safeguard elections. Critics counter that instances of noncitizen voting are exceedingly rare, making the policy a broad solution to a limited problem. But the strategic question is less about intent and more about outcome. Even well-intentioned policies can produce uneven results when they intersect with existing social and economic realities.

The bottom line: legislation that changes how people vote ultimately changes who votes. And in the case of the SAVE Act, the women who have long been a driving force in American civic life may find themselves navigating new and unexpected barriers to being heard.

Why Milk Foam is a Spring Essential – 100% PURE

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Why Milk Foam is a Spring Essential – 100% PURE

Close your eyes for a moment and imagine a soft morning breeze carrying the faint, sweet scent of tropical coconuts. As the world outside begins its vibrant reset, your skincare should do the same. In the spirit of a true Spring Awakeningwe believe your morning ritual should feel like a nourishing reset rather than a stripping scrub.

Spring cleaning shouldn’t be limited to your home; it’s about clearing away the dullness of winter and inviting in freshness. But here’s the secret: you don’t need to “scour” your skin to make it clean. You just need to feed it exactly what it craves.

Why Typical Cleansers Fail the Spring Transition

During the shift from winter to spring, your skin is at its most vulnerable. Months of cold air and indoor heating have already depleted your lipid barrier, leaving your complexion thirsty and sensitive.

This is where typical cleansers—especially those filled with harsh surfactants like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)—fail you. These “detergent-style” washes create a mountain of bubbles, but they often take your skin’s natural, protective oils along with the dirt. That “squeaky clean” feeling? That’s actually the sound of a damaged barrier crying out for help. At 100% PURE, we believe a clean feel should never mean a tight, uncomfortable feel. We’re here to Educate and Guide you toward a cleanse that respects your skin’s biology.

The Magic of Lauric Acid and Virgin Coconut

Enter the Virgin Coconut Moisturizing Milk Foam. This isn’t just a face wash; it’s a high-performance treatment designed to pamper and protect.

The Science of Soft

The “secret weapon” inside this bottle is Lauric Acida fatty acid found naturally in virgin coconut.

  • Deep Detox: Lauric acid is a natural powerhouse that helps detoxify pores and prevent the formation of blackheads without the need for harsh chemicals.
  • Barrier Support: Because it mimics the lipids already present in your skin, it cleanses while simultaneously reinforcing your moisture barrier.

Freshness You Can Trust

Because we make this formula ourselves at Purity Parkour state-of-the-art facility in San Jose, we have absolute control over the “chain of custody”. Our virgin coconut milk and soothing botanicals—like Calendula and Rose Hydrosol—stay fresh and potent from the moment they are blended until they reach your bathroom. This “Beauty Bakery” approach ensures that every pump of milk foam is bursting with the antioxidants your skin needs to thrive.

Completing the Morning Glow Ritual

Once your skin is “Milk-Foam fresh”—feeling soft, supple, and hydrated—it is perfectly prepped to receive the next layers of nourishment.

  1. The Prep: After cleansing, apply your Brightening Serum. Because the Virgin Coconut Milk Foam hasn’t left a film of synthetic waxes or stripped your skin, the sake and licorice root can sink in deeply to start that “lit-from-within” transformation.
  2. The Brightening Duo: Follow with our Vitamin C Eye Cream and Vitamin C Face Cream. These stabilized formulas lock in the moisture from your cleanse and provide an all-day shield of radiance.

This step-by-step approach ensures your moisture barrier stays plump, happy, and ready to face the spring sun with confidence.

Conclusion: A Tropical Indulgence

Your morning cleanse is the foundation of your beauty and your confidence. By choosing a milk foam that nourishes while it cleanses, you’re turning a chore into a moment of Tropical Indulgence.

When you start your day with skin that feels cared for, hydrated, and refreshed, you carry that radiance with you. Let the Virgin Coconut Moisturizing Milk Foam be the first step in your most beautiful spring yet.

FAQ Section

Is a milk foam cleanser effective enough to remove sunblock?

Yes! While it feels incredibly gentle and creamy, the coconut-derived surfactants and lauric acid are highly effective at breaking down daily sunblock and light makeup. For heavy or waterproof formulas, we always recommend a quick “double cleanse,” starting with our Blood Orange Cleansing Balm, followed by the Milk Foam for a perfectly polished finish.

Will the coconut oil in the foam clog my pores?

Not at all. We use high-quality, virgin coconut that is processed to remain lightweight and bio-available. In fact, the lauric acid within the coconut actually helps to keep pores clear and balanced, making it a wonderful choice for those who want to prevent congestion while maintaining hydration.

How does Calendula help with spring skin sensitivity?

Calendula is nature’s “soothing specialist”. As skin adjusts to the changing humidity and pollen of spring, it can often become red or reactive. Calendula helps to calm that irritation on contact, leaving your skin feeling balanced and refreshed. It’s part of our commitment to using ingredients that support a healthy-looking, comforted complexion.

3 Strength Exercises for Better Knee Stability

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3 Strength Exercises for Better Knee Stability

Knee stability exercises probably aren’t top of mind when you hit the gym. But having stable knees is super important in a bunch of different scenarios—from running a marathon to climbing the stairs to squatting down to pick up a child—which means doing these types of moves on the reg is actually a really smart idea.

“Everybody could probably benefit from some sort of strengthening to improve stability of the knee,” Carrie Whitelam, PT, DPT, OCS, ATC, a physical therapist at Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City, tells SELF.

Thankfully, incorporating knee stability exercises into your gym routine is easier than you may think: We have three great examples right here, along with step-by-step instructions for weaving them into your workouts.

First though, what even is knee stability…and, um, why does it matter? Read on for all the must-know info.

What exactly is knee stability?

Knee stability can encompass a lot of different things, but to boil it down, it’s “the ability to maintain alignment and positioning of your knee during movement and activity,” Whitelam says.

There are passive structures in the body that help with knee stability, which include certain ligaments, Whitelam explains–such as the ACL and MCL. And there are active structures that help out too, which include muscles such as the quads, hamstrings, and hips, she adds.

When it comes to knee stability, each of these muscles plays a slightly different role: The quads help straighten the knees, the hamstrings work to bend them, and the hips serve as the “steering wheel” that controls the position and alignment of the knees, Braidy Solie, DPT, SCS, CSCS, a Minnesota-based physical therapist and strength and conditioning specialist with Training HAUS, tells SELF.

Basically, another way to think about knee stability is how well these three muscle groups work together to control the joint during movements like squatting, lunging, and stepping up, Solie says. During a squat, for example, you need all three players firing and coordinating with each other to complete the movement correctly and prevent your knee from collapsing inward.

Why does knee stability matter?

Having good knee stability isn’t just about squatting with perfect form. It also helps reduce our chances of knee pain and injury as we exercise, participate in sports, and move about our day-to-day.

The Best Bra Of All Time? Reviewed by Fashion Writers 2026

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The Best Bra Of All Time? Reviewed by Fashion Writers 2026

Bra FAQs, answered by experts:

What are the different types of bras?

Most of us tend to have a few good bras to rotate between: a push-up bra when we need a little boost, a strapless bra for off-the-shoulder or bandeau necklines, a sleep bra to (you guessed it) snooze in, a couple of the best shapewear bras for extra contouring, and a sports bra for when raising your heart rate.

T-shirt bras are probably the most common for everyday wear, but if you’re wearing something backless, you’ll definitely need a few of the best sticky bras, backless bras, and/or nipple covers, too. And if you’re breastfeeding, new mums have confirmed these nursing bras are game-changing.

But unsure which will suit you best? If you have smaller boobs (anything up to a C cup), bra fit expert and confidence cheerleader, Katie Weir, says: “For a little more projection, smaller boobs may like a moulded plunge bra or moulded balcony to sit flush against the top cup. But it is still as important to get the correct fit and have a firm back band as smaller boob don’t necessarily need as much construction in a bra to hold up the breast tissue.”

For larger chests (anything upwards from a D cup), she adds: “If you are fuller busted and looking for more lift, look out for balcony bra shapes or half cup bra shapes as this really helps to lift the breast tissue towards your collar bones and feature side support as this helps to lift and forward project a heavier bust.

“Thicker straps and a wide back band can also offer more support and comfort for everyday bras, especially if you are above a DD cup. The back band support is essential at any size, as this is where 80% of the lift comes from.”

How do I know my correct bra size?

“A well-fitted bra should feel comfortable to wear all day,” says Emily Mackay, Customer Experience Manager at Bravissimo. “The under band should be firm and shouldn’t pull more than 1 to 1.5 inches away from the side of your body — this is where most of the support comes from.

She continues: “Your boobs should be fully enclosed, without any spilling or fabric wrinkling, so you feel totally secure and supported. If your bra isn’t fitting like this, then it may be time to pop in for a fitting.”

Can I measure my bra size at home?

We’ve got an entire guide if you’re wondering how to measure your bra size yourself. A reminder that wearing the wrong bra size can actually cause some genuine physical problems, but it can be rectified in minutes, so I’d recommend you check out our tips or go for an IRL bra fitting, pronto.

What type of bra is best for everyday wear?

Personally, I’d prioritise comfort and then support — and it seems Emily agrees, too. “Most women prefer to go for a style they feel most comfortable in, and this can be different for every person. A great starting point is to go for bras that have been designed with soft fabrics and comfort features like our Ultimate Comfort Plunge Bra with a cross-front design that eases pressure from the centre of your chest for all-day comfort.”

Which bra is best for large breasts?

“The best bra is a bra that fits,” says Emily. “That’s why we recommend starting with a bra fitting where our fitters can help you find the best fit and style for your shape. Our best-selling style for D cups and above, though, is our Millie Bra (we sell one every 6 minutes!), so this is a great option for comfort and support for bigger boobs.”

How many bras should I own?

You’ll need a few everyday bras that you can wear on rotation, plus a few ‘special’ bras: stick-on bras for backless outfits, sexy lingerie for date nights, and tonnes of nursing bras if you’re breastfeeding. However, there’s no exact number to adhere to.

How often should I replace my bra?

“We always recommend swapping out your bras every 6 to 12 months to make sure that they provide you with the best support,” urges Emily. “We also recommend treating yourself to a fitting every 6 months, as our bodies can change, and so does the support that we need.”

Meet the experts:

How I test the best bras:

It really is as simple as wearing each bra multiple times and under various tops over the course of a month — AKA at various points in my cycle, considering this impacts both my size and shape — to see how they fare. This includes wearing them under close-fitting t-shirts, white shirts, and summer dresses to see whether they provide a flattering lift.

For all styles, from t-shirt bras to various styles of wireless bras and sticky bras, I scored them against the following criteria:
Functionality Did the bra stay put, provide some support and give me the desired shape? Did I have any issues in terms of slipping, twisting or irritation?
Design Is the bra aesthetic and comfortable? How many options do I have in terms of colour and pattern? And what was each bra made of — is the material sustainable and breathable?
Price point Would I be willing to spend that much again? Is it good quality?
Delivery How quickly did the bra arrive, and what were the associated costs?

And, because we’re all different in terms of our chest shape, size and desired support, I also asked my fellow Glamour editors to weigh in on which brands and cuts they love, which also influenced which styles I tested for myself.

Unsurprisingly, only the chest supports that impressed made it into this edit. However, I also tried the following, which sadly didn’t meet my standards:

In terms of what I’m currently testing, stay tuned for these reviews:

Why you can trust me:

I’ve been reviewing underwear, shapewear, activewear, and wellness products, including cotton underwear, sports bras, and period pants, for almost three years — that’s one year at Women’s Health and 18 months at Glamour. During that time, I’ve seen countless trends and advancements, as well as a boom in our options.

To ensure I am an authority on functional fashion, I regularly attend press launches and interview clothing designers and brand founders, asking for their insight and shopping tips.

I also personally review as many new releases as possible. Ahead of my summer holidays, I’ve been reviewing bras from the likes of Boux Avenue, Lounge, H&M and Marks & Spencer to see which supports my 34DD chest best — and have even worn them for a full work day in the office and to weddings, praying and hoping they hold up for hours spent toasting and dancing.

How I Use the Ninja Creami Swirl

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How I Use the Ninja Creami Swirl

I told you guys how much I disliked the first Ninja Creami so you know my commitment is always to the BEST snacks and that model was not it but guys… the new Ninja Creami Swirl? Absolutely life changing, I use it every single day, it is possibly the best invention known to man and no, I am not even kidding lol… This all started when I had a craving for frozen yogurt but everywhere around me only had crap options loaded with tons of gums and super high sugar so, I thought to myself, maybe I can make my own? And then, I came across the Creami Swirl and it’s been a love affair ever since. If you love healthy, clean, home made desserts, you won’t want to miss out on this one. Keep reading for exactly how we make a 0g added sugar, tasty, high protein frozen yogurt at home!

Supplies Needed

First, you will of course want the Ninja Creami Swirl machine, the one I got comes with 2 pints but you can buy extras here. I also got this 4 pack of color coordinated pints so we have 6 total. This is not needed but it’s nice to have them frozen and ready to go, plus they are cute and color coordinated. Next, you will want to plan your ingredients. I personally made my base Vegan but you can explore other options, the internet has a zillion.

Once you have your supplies ready to go, it’s time to party. The one downside is, you have to wait at least 6+ hours to let the pint freeze so the sooner you start, the sooner you can make it! Below is the base I use for just about all of my flavors, you can change it up anyway you wish, add strawberries, magic shell, sprinkles, peanut butter, etc… the options are endless. I make most of my bases as plain vanilla below and then add in whatever toppings I am feeling at the moment!

Creami Recipe

  • 1 scoop of Holi Mane collagen
  • 1 scoop of Protein Powder of your choice
  • Sprinkle in Monk Fruit to taste
  • 1 cup full-fat canned Coconut Milk
  • 2/3 cup Almond Malk
  • Vanilla Bean Powder to taste, I use a lot.

I take the above ingredients and add them all to the bowl. I add everything but the collagen powder, I add that very last. I add it to the bowl and then mix with an immersion blenderadd in monk fruit and make sure it all tastes good, then, add in the collagen, blend. Pour into the pint and freeze. It is key that they sit in the freezer totally flat or else they will not work. Once you have allowed it to freeze, you will then take it out and prep to mix. I use the Soft Serve then Frozen Yogurt feature, this one has worked best for me so far!

Let it defrost about 10 minutes before making it and then, you’re good to go, home made yummy, healthy, beauty ice cream right at home. I also love making magic shell. I just take Organic coconut oil and mix it with the above chocolate chips and monk fruit to make the tastiest magic shell! I think that is all for now? I will update this as I create new recipes but, you gotta try this and let me know what you think!

Also, adding in the Agent Nateur Holi Mane collagen feels like a really big tip because it delivers amino acids, collagen-supportive nutrients, and adaptogens that help strengthen skin structure, improve elasticity, and support hair growth while protecting against stress-related collagen breakdown plus, those same proteins also act as natural emulsifiers and stabilizers when added to your Ninja Creami Swirl base! The collagen binds water and fat together to reduce ice crystals, and create a smoother, creamier texture, especially in low-sugar recipes. So essentially, it’s supporting your internal structure while also improving the physical structure of your ice cream! A must.

Always top with dye-free sprinkles, some Bakeology cookies, a little coco whip and don’t forget the cherry on top, enjoy! For all of my must-have items in the Organic Bunny shop, view this cart I made here!

At Women’s Sports Bars, the Basketball Is Only the Tip of the Iceberg

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At Women’s Sports Bars, the Basketball Is Only the Tip of the Iceberg

Not your average sports bar

Women’s sports bars—which are often framed by proprietors as a passion project as much as a commercial enterprise—neatly meet that growing demand. Last March, an NBC News analysis found that the number of women’s sports bars in the US was on track to quadruple by the end of the year, increasing from six to around 24 across 16 US states. Several women’s sports bars have opened in New York City alone in recent months, including Athena Keke’s and Blazers in Brooklyn—and, of course, Wilka’s, which is located in Lower Manhattan and first threw open its doors in August.

On a Friday evening in late March, Wika’s was filled with people—mostly women, but some men and nonbinary individuals too—fixated on a row of TVs along the wall broadcasting the NCAA Tournament’s Sweet 16 faceoff between the University of Minnesota’s Golden Gophers and the UCLA Bruins. Most were clustered around the center of the bar for the best possible view. “Everyone watches women’s sports,” the shirt of a passing server proclaimed.

While Wilka’s looks and functions like your average sports bar in many respects (minus the sticky floors, persistent odor, and cramped atmosphere—it’s refreshingly spacious!), the women’s-sports-centric decor choices are probably the most obvious feature setting it apart: framed New York Liberty jerseys in the franchise’s iconic black, white, and seafoam green colors; a Liberty-branded candle on a bookshelf; and bobblehead dolls of hockey player Micah Zandee-Hart and basketball legend Lauren Jackson stationed like sentries in front of colorful spines on that same bookshelf. Two titles written by WNBA legends immediately jump out: “The Can-Do Mindset: How to Cultivate Resilience, Follow Your Heart, and Fight for Your Passions” by retired two-time WNBA MVP Candace Parker and “Dear Black Girls: How to Be True to You” by the Las Vegas Aces’ A’ja Wilson.

In the bathroom, there were stickers plastered on the wall promoting not only the Liberty, but also the New York Sirens, a women’s hockey team; Gotham FC, a New York-area women’s soccer team; and Unrivaled, a Miami-based women’s basketball league that boasts Reese and Bueckers on its 2026 roster. “Love who you want and watch women’s sports,” another sticker read.

McKenna was one of the bartenders working during the NCAA tournament that night, frantically mixing drinks to keep up with the demand. With Wilka’s, “we’re proving and showing every day that women’s sports matters, even from an economic standpoint,” she said. And the economics matter more than ever, especially for the athletes. Women’s basketball players—the most successful female athletes in team sports—command a mere fraction of what their male counterparts make, a disparity that Reese, Clark, Bueckers, and other players have all spoken out about. Change may be slow, but it’s hard to deny that the energy around women’s sports “is just so good,” one customer, Sam Hankins, 43, an Upper Manhattan resident who uses they/them pronouns, said. “How can you not be into it?”

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