Shelby Vanhoy has been personalizing her North Carolina home since December 2023.
She recently decided to break up her open-concept living space with a glass wall.
Vanhoy said the space is more functional and calming thanks to the change.
Shelby Vanhoy has been in home decor mode for nearly a year now.
Vanhoy, 34, lives in Raleigh, North Carolina, with her husband, 2-year-old son, and two dogs. They relocated from New York City to North Carolina in December 2023 to be closer to family.
"My parents are here, and it just makes our life a lot easier," she said of the change.
Vanhoy and her husband became homeowners when they moved back. Since then, Vanhoy, a full-time content creator who runs the blogΒ Pretty in the Pines, has been customizing their four-bedroom home, built in 1988.
"Some people say it's 'grand-millennial' with all the mixing of patterns and prints and kind of like grandma vibes," Vanhoy said of her decor style. "I love tying in antiques and vintage furniture and lights to make our house feel older than it actually is."
Vanhoy also said it's important for her home to function for her family β which is how she decided to enclose her open-concept living space.
Open-concept living didn't work for their home
The main floor of Vanhoy's home featured anΒ open-concept spaceΒ with a kitchen, dining area, and living room, which she wasn't excited about.
"When we bought the house, it was just something that wasn't my first choice," she said.
The space was open concept.
Shelby Vanhoy
After they moved into the house, Vanhoy found the open area didn't work for her family.
"It felt very overstimulating," she said. "I would be in the kitchen cooking things, and then the TV room was right beside the kitchen and the whole downstairs. You could just see everything."
"Even decorating it, it felt like everything had to kind of go together because you're looking at everything all at once," she added.
Vanhoy also works from home and doesn't have a designated office space yet.
"I would be working in the dining room, which was connected to the kitchen and the living room, so everything just felt like you were doing so much at one time," she said. "It just didn't feel very calming when you were on that floor."
Vanhoy decided she wanted to separate the living room to section off the space.
A transparent solution
Rather than fully enclosing the living room, Vanhoy decided to add a partial glass wall to her space.
The French doors served as inspiration.
Shelby Vanhoy
"Our living room is, natural-light-wise, a little dark," Vanhoy told BI. "I did want to add some sort of wall to enclose it a bit, but I didn't want to lose any of the natural light."
The living room also featured glass French doors that Vanhoy loved, so she took inspiration from them.
"We decided to make it glass and make it look kind of like a window while also making it feel like its own separate room," Vanhoy said.
An archway sat in the middle of the wall.
Shelby Vanhoy
The wall features an archway in the middle, and the sides are enclosed with walls covered in windows.
Vanhoy hired professionals to complete the project, who added wood beams for support and moved a few outlets to make the wall work. The project cost under $6,000.
Vanhoy said the glass offers the best of both worlds, as it sections off the space without making it impossible for her to see into the living room.
"The best part about it is that it created other little functions, and it made the whole downstairs feel a lot more functional," Vanhoy said, adding that the design also brought character to the space.
The breakfast nook.
Shelby Vanhoy
"I made a breakfast nook on one side of the wall, so that added a whole other function that we didn't have," she said. "And then we have a little kids' craft table on another side of the wall."
The glass wall isn't complete, as Vanhoy intends to add more ornate molding to the windows for a personal touch.
But it's already changed the way Vanhoy feels about the space.
The space creates more functions for the home.
Shelby Vanhoy
"I do like seeing through because that room also has a nice fireplace, and I like seeing the fire on," she said. "But at the same time, it just feels totally separated, and light shines through."
"The one downside, I guess, is it's just more windows to clean," she added.
There are multiple display rooms throughout the store.
Samantha Grindell/Business Insider
Skims opened its flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York City last week.
Kim Kardashian launched the brand in 2019, and it was valued at $4 billion in 2023.
The store matches the monochromatic, modern vibe Kardashian and her team created for Skims.
Valued at $4 billion in 2023, Skims has become a fashion industry staple since Kim Kardashian launched the shapewear brand in 2019.
The brand has expanded from its origins under the leadership of Kardashian and her cofounders, Emma and Jens Grede. In addition to its iconic shapewear, it now sells underwear, activewear, loungewear, swimwear, and men's clothing.
Last week, the brand took another step to becoming a fashion powerhouse by opening a flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York City.
"This flagship is a dream realized for Skims. We've created a space that perfectly embodies our brand and elevates the customer experience," Kardashian said in a press release about the opening shared with Business Insider.
Take a look inside.
Kim Kardashian opened her Skims flagship store in New York City on December 11.
Jens Grede and Kim Kardashian at the opening of the Skims flagship store in New York.
Jeenah Moon for The Washington Post via Getty Images
Skims previously opened pop-ups and placed its merchandise in stores like Nordstrom and Bergdorf Goodman. However, the business is expanding with a new flagship store in a multi-story building formerly home to Versace.
Skims tapped designer Rafael de CΓ‘rdenas to transform the Fifth Avenue space to fit the brand's monochromatic, modern aesthetic.
It officially opened on December 11, and the brand celebrated the opening with a star-studded launch party at the store on December 12.
"From the brand's inception, we envisioned physical stores as an integral part of our business model," Skims CEO Jens Grede said in the same press release shared with BI. "The success of our pop-ups and partnerships with trusted retail partners allowed us to refine our approach and learn what truly resonates with our customers."
"This flagship store is the culmination of those learnings, offering an unparalleled experience where customers can fully immerse themselves in the world of Skims," Grede added.
Kardashian and Grede told Women's Wear Daily that their New York flagship is just the beginning; they already plan to open other stores in places like Los Angeles and Charlotte.
I visited the store a few days after it opened.
The Skims flagship store exterior.
Samantha Grindell/Business Insider
Skims was easy to spot as I rounded the corner onto Fifth Avenue. Sandwiched between Longchamp and Cartier, the storefront's cream stone exterior already looked consistent with the neutral tones Kardashian gravitates toward for the brand.
I had to squint to see the small Skims logo sitting between the second and third floor of the building, while arched windows on the first floor gave me a glimpse inside the space β including a peek at a large sculpture sitting in the entryway.
There was a line of people waiting to go inside the store.
There was a line outside the store.
Samantha Grindell/Business Insider
When I arrived a little after 11 a.m., around 40 people were gathered in line to get into Skims, even though it opened at 10. Two security guards and a Skims employee periodically let groups of people in.
As I looked through the window, I didn't see too many people, so it seemed like the line was designed to prevent the store from becoming overwhelmed with customers.
I only had to wait about 10 minutes before I was ushered inside.
The entryway almost looked more like a museum than a store.
A statue sits right inside the store.
Samantha Grindell/Business Insider
When I walked inside, I found that the store was divided into distinct rooms, each spotlighting different Skims products and collections.
A massive statue of a woman greets you inside the first room, which has beige tile floors and matching curved walls. The statue depicted a naked woman, though its arms were cut off, and she had no head or feet.
De CaΜrdenas shared on Instagram that Vanessa Beecroft designed the 15-foot sculpture, which almost looked like a modern cross between Michelangelo's David and the Venus de Milo by Alexandros of Antioch.
Two large cream platforms framed the statue, each topped by a large leafy plant. Between the statue and the plants, I could barely see the merchandise lining the room's walls.
The first Skims products you see in the store are some of its classics.
There are multiple display rooms throughout the store.
Samantha Grindell/Business Insider
Once I made my way around the statue and planters, I saw shapewear, bras, and underwear in varying flesh-colored tones β the products for which Skims has become best known β displayed on racks.
Mannequins cut off at the thighs sat above the racks on shelves, wearing items most people associate with Skims, like bodysuits and underwear.
The mannequins were diverse in shape, which is true to Skims' offerings. Its clothes come in sizes XXS through 5X.
Mannequins were also grouped in the hallways connecting the display rooms.
The stairs featured curved architecture.
Samantha Grindell/Business Insider
A stairwell with curved detailing sits between the display rooms positioned in the front and back of the building.
The beige tones and curved design reminded me of the clips of Kardashian's home in her "73 Questions" video with Vogue from 2019.
The stairwells are mostly empty, with the exception of groups of five mannequins wearing Skims merchandise.
I spotted employees stocking merchandise and helping customers as I wandered the store.
Employees wore matching sweatsuits.
Samantha Grindell/Business Insider
When I visited the store, the Skims workers wore matching pale-purple sweatsuits.
At least one Skims employee was in every display room to help shoppers, though I saw two to three in most of them.
While there, I also saw two different Skims employees mopping the floors with Swiffers. They paused their efforts whenever a shopper walked by their cleaning path.
The back room featured more merchandise.
The store had a wide array of products.
Samantha Grindell/Business Insider
In the back room on the first floor, mannequins acted as decor, as 24 of them were displayed on the back wall.
The back room had a lot more merchandise than the front room, attracting more foot traffic from shoppers, though it kept up the sleek aesthetic. Clothes hung from racks on the walls, and rounded storage drawers were pushed together to serve as platforms for additional merchandise and mannequins.
The neutral theme continued in the back, but there was some subtle holiday season decor if you looked for it. Christmas lights wrapped around the mannequins and sat next to gifts wrapped in sheets.
Colorful items seemed to be intentionally tucked away at Skims.
The color wasn't front and center.
Samantha Grindell/Business Insider
Skims is known for its muted-toned products, but it does sell colorful items, like the red and pink pieces in its holiday shop.
However, I noticed that the brand's colorful merchandise was arranged to be mostly out of sight. Everything in the front room was neutral-toned, and the more pigmented pieces in the back room sat mostly on the sides of the room that you couldn't see when you walked into the space.
Walking upstairs, I saw display rooms with more undergarments and pajamas.
Some of the mannequins at Skims.
Samantha Grindell/Business Insider
The second and third floors were laid out similarly to the first, though clothes were the focus in both the front and back display rooms instead of plants or sculptures taking up space.
I also saw a checkout counter on each floor, so shoppers didn't have to wait in one line.
It was fun to see Skims pieces in person as I walked around. I like online shopping for its convenience, but it's helpful to feel the fabrics before making a purchase.
I liked that I got a 360-degree view of Skims' pieces in the store.
The mannequins can be viewed from 360 degrees.
Samantha Grindell/Business Insider
The upper floors featured more present decor, a myriad of Skims products, and more headless mannequins, which were diverse in shape and color.
It was helpful as a shopper that many of them were positioned on raised platforms, as I could see the clothes from all angles as I walked around the store.
The more exclusive Skims pieces, including its Dolce & Gabbana collaboration, were on the top floor.
There was also a dedicated men's shopping room on the top floor.
Skims sells men's products, too.
Samantha Grindell/Business Insider
Skims started selling menswear in 2023, and it became the official underwear of the NBA, WNBA, and USA basketball shortly after.
The menswear room at Skims was arranged similarly to the back room on the first floor, with mannequins displaying underwear on the wall and raised platforms.
The mannequins of men didn't have as much diversity in shape as the women's mannequins did, but they were diverse in color.
Shoppers eagerly checked out Skims' well-known pieces on every floor.
I saw shoppers on every floor.
Samantha Grindell/Business Insider
As I wandered the store, I understood why Skims only let small groups in at a time. Shoppers were taking their time looking through the merchandise and chatting with employees about sizes and variations of dresses or shapewear.
There was a line for the dressing rooms, too. I heard an employee telling a shopper she could wait on some couches until her name was called for her turn to try on some items.
The Skims flagship store felt like the embodiment of the brand's success.
The entryway of Skims flagship store.
Samantha Grindell/Business Insider
In the years since its creation, Skims has become a modern, stylish, and sophisticated yet accessible brand.
Everything about the Skims store felt true to that brand, from its contemporary architecture and artistic additions to its wide product selections.
Even the mannequins arranged throughout the store seemed to speak to Kardashian's vision for the company, as they were both practical and aesthetically pleasing, much like Skims' products themselves.
And if the line outside the store was any indication, the store is likely here to stay.
HGTV's "The Flip Off" is premiering on January 29, 2025.
Christina Haack will compete against Tarek El Moussa and his wife, Heather Rae El Moussa.
Haack's ex, Josh Hall, was originally supposed to star in the show.
"Flip or Flop" stars Christina Haack and Tarek El Moussa are reuniting on HGTV nearly three years after their hit show ended.
"The Flip Off" is a six-episode, competition-style series that will pit Haack against Tarek and his wife, Heather Rae El Moussa. It's premiering on HGTV on January 29, 2025.
Haack was originally supposed to team up with Josh Hall on the series, but they suddenly split in July, leaving Haack to compete alone.
Here's everything we know about the show so far.
'The Flip Off' is a competition series
HGTV announced that Tarek El Moussa, Heather Rae El Moussa, Christina Haack, and Josh Hall were filming "The Flip Off" on May 15, describing the series as "a battle to see who can find, buy, renovate, and flip a house for the biggest financial gain."
They were set to team up with their new spouses for the coming show and harness their years of experience in home flipping to compete against each other.
However, in July, Hall and Haack filed for divorce less than three years after they got married.
HGTV did not immediately announce how the split would impact "The Flip Off," but on July 23, E! News reported that Tarek and Heather told paparazzi "production is still going as planned without Josh" for the series.
On Thursday, HGTV confirmed Haack would do most of the competition alone.
"As 'The Flip Off' begins, Christina will start the competition against Tarek and Heather alongside her husband, but a sudden life change will bring a shocking twist," the network said in a press release. "With even more to prove on her own, Christina will turn to her trusted team, stopping at nothing to silence Tarek's endless bragging and beat him at his own flipping game."
Heather, Tarek, and Haack serve as executive producers on the series.
Haack will discuss her divorce on the show
HGTV released a sneak peek of the series on Thursday. Rather than spotlighting the flipped homes, the clip featured an intimate conversation between Tarek and Haack at her Newport Beach, California, home.
In the clip, Haack told Tarek that her marriage to Hall had ended.
"Josh and I officially split up," she said.
"We had a blowup," she added. "Middle fingers in my face."
Haack also said things with Hall had "been bad for a long time."
"The kids literally asked me to leave," she told Tarek. "They told me he's not nice to me. Why would I stick around?"
"I feel like I'm in a tornado all the time, and I just can't get out of it," she said.
When contacted by Business Insider for this story, a source close to Hall said he "has no public comment on private matters. Once again, Josh has moved on and does not want to live in the past. His life is not a reality show."
In the clip, Haack and Tarek's conversation turned to her life since they separated in 2016, and the exes apologized to each other.
Tarek El Moussa and Christina Haack starred in "Flip or Flop."
HGTV
"Everything since, like, 2016 has been so hard and so horrible," Haack said as she cried. "It's really taken a really bad toll on me."
"I'm really sorry for shit, too," she said to Tarek. "I really am. I just want you to know."
"I understand that feeling of being a little bit lost," Tarek said. "And I acknowledge that I'm a big part, if not the entire part, of all of this."
Other reality stars β including another of Haack's exes β will appear on the show
Haack and the El Moussas will renovate one room of their chosen properties in each episode of "The Flip Off," a format borrowed from other HGTV series like "Rock the Block" and "Barbie Dreamhouse Challenge."
The El Moussas and Haack also tapped their celebrity community to judge their renovations.
According to HGTV, the El Moussas and Haack will "take turns handpicking special guest judges to evaluate the transformed rooms based on design, use of space, quality of work, overall transformation, and added value." Each week's winner will get a $2,000 prize from the losing team to use in the following challenge.
The most notable guest judge might be Haack's other ex-husband, Ant Anstead. They were married from December 2018 to June 2021.
Ant Anstead and Christina Haack in 2019.
Noel Vasquez / Contributor / Getty Images
Haack and Anstead's relationship was frosty following their divorce, particularly in April 2022 when they had a dramatic custody battle over their 5-year-old son, Hudson. They were able to reach a joint custody agreement in November 2022.
The strain on their relationship seems to have mended in recent months, with Haack re-following Anstead on Instagram in August and telling Backgrid she wants to "get along" with Anstead for Hudson's sake, People reported.
On November 7, Anstead was photographed on the set of "The Flip Off" with Haack, fueling rumors he was replacing Hall on the series. However, as a judge, he will likely only be in one episode of the show.
The two-hour premiere of "The Flip Off" airs on January 29 at 8 p.m.
Though music is her bread and butter, Swift also holds sway in the fashion world, helping small brands make massive sales simply by wearing one of their designs.Β
Her style has changed throughout her decade-plus in the public eye, and she has been experimenting with daring fashion more and more often in recent years.
Take a look at some of her most daring looks to date.Β
Taylor Swift experimented with see-through fashion at the 2012 Billboard Music Awards.
Taylor Swift attends the 2012 Billboard Awards.
Jon Kopaloff / Contributor / Getty Images
The star wore an Elie Saab gown that had a semi-sheer bodice made of crisscross red designs atop see-through lace fabric.
The bright red skirt contrasted with the patterned bodice.
A few months later, the singer wore a sparkly dress with a plunging neckline.
Taylor Swift attends the 2012 40 Principales Awards.
Europa Press Entertainment / Contributor / Getty Images
The Kaufmanfranco minidress had quarter-length sleeves and a high collar.
A plunging neckline flowed from Swift's neck to her navel.
She wore another gown with a plunging neckline at the 2013 Grammy Awards.
Taylor Swift attends the 2013 Grammy Awards.
Dan MacMedan / Contributor / Getty Images
The flowing J. Mendel dress had a low neckline that was accented by silver straps on the front, back, and side.
A slit in the skirt added to the look.
Swift had fun with cutouts at the 2013 Brit Awards.
Taylor Swift at the 2013 Brit Awards.
Mike Marsland / Contributor / Getty Images
The singer chose another Elie Saab dress for the 2013 awards ceremony.
The black gown had sheer cutouts on the shoulders and legs, and a gold belt broke up the column style.
She wore a form-fitting gown to the MTV Video Music Awards in 2013.
Taylor Swift attends the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards.
Swift paired the low-cut nightgown with a matching, lace-trimmed robe.
Later in the evening, Swift changed into a daring black set.
Taylor Swift and Karlie Kloss at the 2014 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show.
Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images
Swift, pictured with her model and then-close friend Karlie Kloss, stunned in a sparkly black bra and matching high-waisted underwear.
She wore a black, lace nightgown that had a long train over the look with high heels.
Later that night, she rocked a see-through dress at the 2014 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show after-party.
Taylor Swift attends the 2014 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show.
Anthony Harvey / Stringer / Getty Images
The Zuhair Murad dress consisted of a white skirt and one white sleeve, while the bodice and one sleeve were made of sheer fabric with sparkly, silver patterns on it.
Jimmy Choo pumps completed the ensemble.
Swift's green gown for the 2015 Elle Style Awards had a daring slit.
Taylor Swift attends the 2015 Elle Style Awards.
Julian Parker / Contributor / Getty Images
A zipper ran down the lace-covered Julien Macdonald dress, creating a dramatic slit.
The neckline featured zig-zag straps.
The singer performed in a semi-sheer bodysuit at a 2015 concert.
Taylor Swift performs at the 2015 BBC Radio 1's Big Weekend.
Brian Rasic / Contributor / Getty Images
At BBC Radio 1's Big Weekend in 2015, Swift wore a silver bodysuit with sheer panels.
Silver tassels flowed from the trim and from her wrists.
Swift wore another transparent performance look while she was touring for her album "1989."
Taylor Swift on her "1989" tour.
Christopher Polk/TAS / Contributor / Getty Images
The top of the gold dress, designed by Jessica Jones, was made of sheer fabric. Gold sparkles sat atop it, creating a deep V that flowed all the way to Swift's navel.
The layers of gold tulle in the skirt moved as Swift danced.Β
On the same tour, Swift performed in a glittery bodysuit with cutouts.
Taylor Swift performs with Tove Lo in 2015.
Rick Diamond/LP5 / Contributor / Getty Images
The bodysuit Swift wore while she performed alongside Tove Lo had sheer cutouts on the stomach and chest.
Sparkle-covered fabric made up the rest of the garment, which was trimmed with tassels.
Swift popped in a colorful two-piece at the 2016 Grammy Awards.
Taylor Swift at the 2016 Grammy Awards.
Getty
The Versace two-piece consisted of a strapless orange crop top and a high-waisted, hot-pink skirt.
The skirt had a waist-high slit that revealed built-in pink underwear.
Swift wore one of her most daring looks ever at the 2016 Vanity Fair Oscars after-party.
Taylor Swift at the 2016 Vanity Fair Oscars after-party.
Karwai Tang/WireImage/Getty Images
She stunned in a black Alexandre Vauthier Haute Couture gown that had a plunging halter neckline and a thigh-high slit.
A gold Jimmy Choo purse, a gold choker, and gold Giuseppe Zanetti heels completed the outfit.Β
Swift opted for a skin-tight bodysuit at the 2016 iHeartRadio Music Awards.
Taylor Swift at the 2016 iHeartRadio Music Awards.
The gown had a dramatic cape, feather detailing, and a striking thigh-high slit.
Swift opted for a sheer top in New York City in 2018.
Taylor Swift in New York City in 2018.
Alessio Botticelli / Contributor / Getty Images
While walking in New York City in 2018, Swift paired a sheer black top with an exposed sports bra, short printed skirt, and heels.
Swift shined in a silver minidress and boots at the 2018 American Music Awards.
Taylor Swift at the 2018 American Music Awards.
Frazer Harrison / Staff / Getty Images
The Balmain dressΒ had a disco-ball effect, as it was made of small panels of shiny silver fabric.
Matching thigh-high boots complemented the short dress.
Swift stunned in another see-through look at the 2019 InStyle Golden Globes after-party.
Taylor Swift at the InStyle and Warner Bros. Golden Globes after-party.
Matt Sayles/Invision/AP
The star wore an off-the-shoulder black Versace dress to celebrate the 2019 Golden Globes.
The sparkly dress was made of sheer fabric, had tie detailing on the bodice, and featured a daring thigh-high slit.
Swift performed in a form-fitting gold corset at the 2019 MTV Video Music Awards.
Taylor Swift performs at the 2019 MTV Video Music Awards.
Kevin Mazur / Contributor / Getty Images
While performing songs from "Lover," Swift wore a gold corset top with sparkly purple bottoms that showed off her legs.
She paired the look with gold boots.
Swift rocked another thigh-bearing look at the 2019 American Music Awards.
Taylor Swift at the 2019 American Music Awards.
P. Lehman/Barcroft Media via Getty Images
The sparkly green Julien Macdonald dress was asymmetrical, as one side had a skirt that flowed all the way to the floor while the other exposed a shorter layer of fabric.Β
Dramatic thigh-high boots completed the look.
She changed into a daring gold bodysuit to perform at the event.
Taylor Swift performs at the 2019 American Music Awards.
Kevin Mazur/AMA2019 / Contributor / Getty Images
The bodysuit was covered in gold sparkles and coordinating tassels flowed from Swift's waist.Β
She wore matching boots with the look.
Swift wore a sheer, lace catsuit to perform at the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Induction Ceremony.
Taylor Swift performs at the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Induction Ceremony in 2021.
She paired the form-fitting look with Black Louis Vuitton boots.
At the 2022 MTV Video Music Awards, Swift arrived draped in diamonds.
Taylor Swift at the MTV Video Music Awards on August 28, 2022.
Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images
Oscar de la Renta designed her halter minidress, which had strings of diamonds hanging loosely across her arms, and more rows of jewels swooped across her body.
She paired the look β which is one of her most daring of all time β with red lipstick and sparkling sandals.
Later that night, she changed into a midnight-blue leotard.
Taylor Swift at the Republic Records VMAs after-party on August 29, 2022.
Gotham/Getty Images
The sleeveless garment had a V-shaped neckline embellished with diamonds and a crystal star print across its bodice.
Swift's outerwear β a feathered cardigan β was also daring.
Swift donned a gown with a cutout and thigh-high slit for the 2022 Nashville Songwriter Awards.
Taylor Swift attends the Nashville Songwriter Awards at Ryman Auditorium on September 20, 2022.
Terry Wyatt/Getty Images
The Michael Kors dress stood out with asymmetrical detailing.
The sparkly, black gown had a high neckline, one long sleeve, and a long skirt.
A diamond-shaped cutout added dimension to the bodice, as did a daring slit on the skirt.Β
Sparkly Aquazzura shoes tied it all together.
Swift's David Koma dress for the MTV EMAs bared her legs.
Taylor Swift at the MTV EMAs on November 13, 2022.
Daniele Venturelli/Getty Images
The black ensemble consisted of a low-cut bodysuit and a high-waisted chainmail skirt.
Sparkly gems made up the chainmail pattern, and the large holes between them showed off Swift's legs.
She paired the statement gown with black open-toe Giuseppe Zanotti shoes and an updo.
In the "Bejeweled" music video, Swift wore a two-piece embellished with sparkles.
Taylor Swift in the "Bejeweled" music video.
Taylor Swit/YouTube
The set was custom-designed by Michael Schmidt Studios for the video, which featured Swift performing as a burlesque dancer.
A bikini-style top and high-waisted bottoms made up the bulk of the ensemble, and both were bejeweled with gems in shades of blue.
The outfit also featured sparkly arm pieces that acted as cape.
At the 2022 American Music Awards, Swift wore a jumpsuit that was entirely backless.
Taylor Swift at the American Music Awards on November 20, 2022.
Gilbert Flores/Valerie Macon/Getty Images
The gold jumpsuit from The Blonds had a plunging, halter neckline and fitted pants, as well as a belt that cinched at the waist and gave way to the eye-catching open back.
Subtle sparkles embroidered into the fabric accentuated the ensemble's red-carpet feel.
Gold Giuseppe Zanotti shoes completed the look.
Swift wore a crop top and coordinating skirt to the 2023 Grammy Awards.
Taylor Swift attends the Grammy Awards in February 2023.
Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy
Roberto Cavalli designed the deep-blue set Swift wore to the 2023 Grammy's.
The long-sleeve, high-neck top was cropped high on Swift's chest, while the high-waisted skirt hugged her figure before flowing into a train. Both the top and skirt were adorned with sparkles that shimmered as she walked the red carpet.Β
She's worn lots of bold fashion during her Eras Tour, including a "Reputation"-themed catsuit.
Taylor Swift performs at the Eras Tour in Denver, Colorado, on July 14, 2023.
Tom Cooper/Getty Images
The asymmetrical piece has one mesh sleeve, one pant leg, and a sparkling red snake design from top to bottom.
One of her most revealing tour looks is a midnight-blue bodysuit that she debuted during one of her last Los Angeles shows.
Taylor Swift performs at the Eras Tour in Los Angeles, California, on August 9, 2023.
Kevin Winter/Getty Images
The form-fitting piece is covered in sequins and beaded fringe. She wears it with fishnet tights, a matching garter, and Louboutin boots.
In September 2023, Swift attended the MTV Video Music Awards in a black gown with a thigh-high slit.
Taylor Swift attends the MTV Video Music Awards in September 2023.
Taylor Hill/Getty Images
Swift's Versace dress for the VMAs had an asymmetrical, halter neckline.
A curved stripe adorned with gold hardware split the form-fitting bodice and framed a slit on the skirt, which cut all the way up her thigh.Β
The gown also featured an open back, and Swift paired the look with layers of necklaces and strappy black shoes.Β
Later that night, Swift changed into a denim minidress.
Taylor Swift leaves a VMAs after-party in September 2023.
Swift donned a black corset top from Versace for the evening. It featured gold detailing on the thin straps and cut up on the sides, revealing a hint of Swift's midriff.
She paired the daring top with black trousers and a checked coat from Gant.
Later the same month, Swift wore a black polo top as a dress in New York.
Taylor Swift walking in New York City in October 2023.
Raymond Hall/GC Images/Getty Images
Swift paired the Stella McCartney top, which had long sleeves, a white collar, and a gold patch, with knee-high boots from Prada.
Swift chose another shimmery dress for her birthday party in December 2023.
Taylor Swift walks to her birthday party in December 2023.
Gotham/GC Images/Getty Images
To celebrate turning 34, Swift wore a black minidress from Clio Peppiatt.Β
The entire dress had sparkles on it, and it was embroidered with the iconography of a night sky in silver thread, including a moon, clouds, and stars.Β
Open-toe black pumps, a faux fur jacket from Anine Bing, and a bejeweled silver bag completed the celebratory ensemble.
The back of Swift's dress for the Golden Globes in January was covered in cutouts.
Taylor Swift attends the Golden Globes in January 2024.
Lionel Hahn/Getty Images
In January, Swift attended the Golden Globes in a form-fitting green dress made of a metallic fabric. Gucci designed the piece.
The gown's subtle sweetheart neckline added a hint of drama, while the back was open aside from thin strips of fabric connecting the two sides of the bodice.
She wore another dress with a dramatic slit at the Grammy Awards.
Taylor Swift attends the Grammy Awards in February 2024.
Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic/Getty Images
Swift became the first artist to win album of the year at the Grammys four times at the 2024 ceremony, and she did it wearing a custom Schiaparelli dress.Β
The white dress had a strapless, straight neckline. Ruching on the bodice gathered on Swift's hip, contrasting with the thigh-high slit just below it.
A sweeping train flowed out behind her, and Swift accessorized the look with black shoes and gloves.Β
Swift embraced sheer fabric and cutouts for her more casual look for the Super Bowl in February.
Taylor Swift attends the Super Bowl in February 2024.
Perry Knotts/Getty Images)
Swift donned a Dion Lee corset top to support Kelce at the Super Bowl. The top was crocheted, and it had an open weave on the lower portion of the top, creating a see-through pattern.
She paired the semi-sheer top with black jeans from Area, which had a slit on each leg encrusted with gems.Β
Swift debuted new sparkly two-pieces during the "The Tortured Poets Department" section of her Eras Tour performance in May.
Taylor Swift performs at the Eras Tour in Paris in May 2024.
Kevin Mazur/TAS24/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management
Swift kicked off the Europe leg of her Eras Tour on Thursday in Paris.Β
She updated her setlist to incorporate songs from "The Tortured Poets Department" and revealed new designer outfits for most of the show.
Swift completed "The Tortured Poets Department" section with a performance of "I Can Do It With a Broken Heart" in a custom, two-piece set designed by Vivienne Westwood.Β
On Sunday, Swift wore a sparkly bra top, which Vivienne Westwood said was "gunmetal"-colored on Instagram, with matching high-waisted briefs. Swift paired the set with a shiny tuxedo jacket with tails and custom Christian Louboutin shoes that she changed into onstage.
Swift also wore black, white, and silver versions of the set during her Paris shows.
She attended the 2024-2025 NFL season opener in an all-denim look.
Taylor Swift at a Kansas City Chiefs game in September 2024.
She attended the game in another Versace Medusa corset top, donning a denim version of the look she first wore in the fall of 2023 that scalloped on the sides to reveal a panel of Swift's skin.Β
Swift paired the corset with Grlfrnd's denim shorts, thigh-high maroon boots designed by Giuseppe Zanotti, and Louis Vuitton's Side Trunk bag.Β
Over $60,000 in jewelry elevated Swift's glamorous WAG look, including the TNT bracelet she has often been spotted wearing in recent months.Β
Swift kept up her streak of daring dresses at the VMAs for the September 2024 awards show, wearing a gown with a low neckline.
Taylor Swift at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards.
Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images
Swift arrived at the VMAs in a Dior dress, which featured a form-fitting bodice and open skirt in a yellow and black plaid pattern.Β
The bodice's straight neckline was accented by black straps and a zipper that cut down the center of the garment. A choker made of the same patterned fabric complemented the ensemble.Β
The skirt belted at Swift's waist was open, revealing black shorts.
She also opted for black accessories, pairing the dress with over-the-knee boots from Stuart Weitzman and open-finger gloves that flowed past her elbows and featured crisscrossedΒ cutouts.Β
She wore another bold, plaid ensemble to a Chiefs game in October.
Taylor Swift at Arrowhead Stadium in October 2024.
David Eulitt/Getty Images
Vivienne Westwood designed the Sunday corset and Meghan kilt Swift wore to the Chiefs game on October 7.
The corset top had off-the-shoulder sleeves, while the ruched mini-skirt featured a slit on one thigh.Β
Swift paired the maroon and gray set with Vivienne Westwood's Grace boots, which were black and hit just below her knee.Β
She also wore $46,000 worth of jewelry with the look and carried a Belle Heart-Frame Jacquard bag from Vivienne Westwood. Faux, sparkly freckles from Fazit tied the glamorous look together.
Swift wore another corset top for a casual date night with Kelce in New York City the same month.
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce in New York City in October 2024.
XNY/Star Max/Getty Images
Swift chose a $1,700 lace corset top from Gucci for her date night with Kelce. The top featured a sweetheart neckline and a tan base.
The corset's black detailing coordinated with her $195 RTA mini-skirt and her $1,720 Louis Vuitton ankle boots.
A $2,498 Ralph Lauren trench coat and a $4,400 Dior Saddle bag completed her daring but elegant ensemble.
Christina and Josh Hall are getting divorced less than three years after they got married.
Josh was Christina's third husband, as she was previously married to two other HGTV stars.
In a clip of "The Flip Off," Christina shared details of their split with Tarek El Moussa.
When Christina Hall celebrated her marriage to Josh Hall in September 2022, she said she was more certain than ever her life was on track.
In a deleted Instagram post, Christina wrote, "Everything in life has led me to where I am right now, which is exactly where I want to be."
Less than three years after they were legally wed, the Halls have both filed for divorce, and Christina has deleted nearly all traces of Josh from her social media.
Before their split, Christina and Josh were supposed to film a new HGTV series, "The Flip Off," with Christina's ex, Tarek El Moussa, and his wife, Heather Rae El Moussa.
In a new clip of the series, which will premiere on January 29, 2025, Christina gets emotional and tearfully tells Tarek about her breakup with Josh, revealing that their children asked her to leave him.
Business Insider broke down the timeline of Josh and Christina's relationship, their sudden separation, and how the split impacts them professionally.
When contacted for this story, a spokesperson for Josh told BI, "Josh Hall has no comment about this matter. He hopes to resolve these matters in private, not through the press."
A representative for Christina declined to comment.
Christina and Josh first became romantically involved in the spring of 2021
According to US Weekly, Christina and Josh first met at a real-estate conference sometime in the late 2010s, but they didn't start dating until the spring of 2021.
Christina was married to her "Flip or Flop" costar, Tarek El Moussa, from 2009 to 2018, and they had two children together β Taylor and Brayden β before they separated in 2016. She married Ant Anstead at the end of 2018, and they welcomed their son Hudson together before they split in September 2020.
Christina and Josh did not initially announce they were dating, but she shared a photo they took together in March 2021 on her Instagram in March of the following year, confirming they were an item by sometime that spring.
Page Six photographed them together publicly in July 2021. On the same day the photos were published, Christina addressed their relationship in a now-deleted Instagram post, saying she wanted to keep it private from the media.
Josh Hall and Christina Hall in July 2023.
Matt Winkelmeyer/GA/The Hollywood Reporter via Getty Images
"I met Josh when I wasn't in a state of fear or fight-or-flight," she captioned the post. "When we met this past spring, the synchronicities hit us so hard and fast they were impossible to ignore. I felt immediately crazy protective over him and wanted to keep him for myself and get to know each other before the tornado (media attention) hit."
"We decided whats in the past, is in the past. We aren't looking at all the nonsense online," she added. "So yes 'another relationship' and guess what. I'm 38 β I'll do what I want."
The couple continued their relationship in the public eye, announcing in September 2021 that they were engaged with Instagram photos Christina shared from a trip they took to Mexico.
They shared that they got married in April 2022
Christina and Josh continued to share peeks at their life together on social media throughout the rest of 2021.
Representatives for the Halls confirmed Christina and Josh were married on April 5, 2022, after Christina changed her last name on social media from Haack, her maiden name, to Hall.
However, according to documents reviewed by BI, both Josh and Christina listed their marriage date as October 6, 2021, when they filed for divorce in July, indicating they were married before publicly sharing the news.
The Halls bought a $12 million mansion in Newport Beach, California, in May 2022, which Christina called their "long-term family home" in a since-deleted Instagram.
In September of the same year, they celebrated their marriage with a second wedding in Maui, Hawaii, surrounded by family and friends.
Josh became more involved in Christina's professional life throughout their relationship
In March 2022, Christina announced on Instagram in a now-deleted post that she and Josh were forming their own production company, Unbroken Productions. The name appeared to be a nod to Josh's Instagram, which has the handle @unbrokenjosh.
The company took over production of "Christina on the Coast" starting with season four and produced "Christina in the Country," both of which air on HGTV. Josh has appeared in both shows.
Speaking to BI in July 2023, Christina said it was an adjustment to be a producer because she had worked with her previous production company for a decade.
"It was a lot more work for me than anything in the past because we're co-producers. It's a lot more off-camera work than I'm used to," she said. "It's gonna be worth it, but it was a hard year."
Then, on May 15, HGTV announced Christina and Josh would star in a new series called "The Flip Off" with Tarek and Heather.
In its announcement, HGTV said the show would feature couples competing against each other in "a battle to see who can find, buy, renovate, and flip a house for the biggest financial gain."
The couple separated in July, and Josh filed for divorce first
According to paperwork reviewed by BI on July 17, Josh filed for divorce from Christina on July 12, listing their date of separation as July 8. He requested spousal support in his petition.
Christina deleted several posts that featured Josh from her Instagram when news of their separation went public on July 16, and she submitted a response and her own request for the dissolution of their marriage on July 23.
Christina listed their separation date as July 7, a day earlier than Josh did. Along with her divorce filing, she filed a request for order asking the court to grant her sole access to their Newport Beach home and two properties in Tennessee immediately.
Christina said she wanted sole access to the Newport Beach home primarily to protect her children.
Christina Hall, Josh Hall, and her children in January 2023.
Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images for Feld Entertainment
"I do not want to have a situation where there is a misunderstanding or any conflict, especially in front of my children," she said in her filing.
In the RFO, Christina said that although the Newport Beach home is legally owned by both herself and Josh, it was purchased with money from the sale of her previous residence in Dana Point, California.
She added that Josh came to the home unscheduled and "took items" after their separation on July 7 and that he plugged in security cameras Christina intentionally unplugged per a request from his lawyer.
"Josh's attorney sent a letter demanding that I preserve electronic evidence without it being automatically deleted, so I unplugged cameras so the system would not automatically overwrite the hard drive," Christina wrote in her filing. "Each time Josh has returned to the house he has plugged the cameras back in, which would allow him to keep me and my children under surveillance. I object to him having that access into my home."
Christina also asked the court to make Josh return $35,000 to her
Christina asked the court to instruct Josh to return $35,000 that she said he transferred on July 8 "without my authorization" to the personal account he used before their marriage.
"On July 21, 2024, I learned that on July 8, 2024, which is the day after I communicated to Josh that I would be filing for dissolution, Josh contacted my professional property manager via text and stated 'Hi. For June payments, can we please get it sent to a different account when it's time? Thank you,'" she said, attaching a screenshot of the message to the filing.
"The statement 'can we please' is not accurate as I had no personal contact with Josh on July 8, 2024," Christina said in the RFO. "I would not have asked him to send himself my money the day after I told him we are getting divorced."
Christina Hall in 2019.
David Buchan/Variety/Penske Media via Getty Images
Christina also addressed Josh's request for spousal support in her RFO.
"I understand that at some point this Court may require that I pay some spousal support to Josh and reasonable attorney's fees to his counsel," she wrote. "However, it is my belief that this is a simple case with straightforward accounting over a short time period, any fees and costs should be minimal."
"Like all hard-working mothers, my life revolves around my children and my work," she continued. "It is my understanding that Josh has his own income and therefore he should not need any spousal support from me. He has sufficient assets of his own to pay his own attorney's fees and costs."
She said she was "shocked and concerned" that he transferred $35,000 of her "separate property money" to his personal account.
"The fact that this is the same date he now alleges to be our date of separation, even though it is actually July 07, 2024, makes it clear why he chose the next day," Christina said. "It makes me wonder what else I am not aware of as it relates to his financial situation and that is why I am having a full forensic accounting performed for the entire term of our marriage."
Christina opened up about the separation on social media
Christina shared a series of Instagram stories about her separation from Josh on July 25 and 26.
"Over here waiting for the typical Hired PR speech of 'how I was blindsided and how I'm working on myself and I'm taking time to heal at her ranch,'" Christina wrote in her story on July 25. "Meanwhile I'm over here not as nice and quiet as I used to be."
"I have worked my ass off to build this life for myself and my children and anyone who would try and take what they do not deserve/what they did NOT work for should be ashamed. An insecure man with a large ego can sure try and derail you β but 'still I rise,'" she said, appearing to quote Maya Angelou. "For those that aren't awareβ¦divorces do not happen overnight.. & there is always a breaking point. This one is personal."
Christina Hall spoke about the divorce on her Instagram.
Christina Hall/Instagram
Then, on July 26, Christina responded to a TMZ article that quoted "a source close to" Josh. The unnamed source told the outlet that Josh was "blindsided" when Christina said she wanted a divorce and that she "stopped speaking to him after a disagreement."
Christina said in her post that Josh had not tried to contact her.
"I didn't block him β and I didn't see any missed calls or texts the next day," Christina wrote in her story. "Which happened to be my birthday. Strange β No flowers, no cards, no messages like 'Hope you have a nice birthday.'"
"Something's not adding up here," she added. "But I'm down to keep playing 'Christina Vs. The Victim' as I love this game."
She also responded to a separate TMZ article about the $35,000 Josh transferred to his account. TMZ reported that "a source close to Josh" said he transferred the money to pay bills "for their rental properties, which they co-owned."
Christina said she was the sole owner of the property in question.
"Pretty sure I bought this before I met you and a 1031 exchange," she wrote on Instagram. "Handled the bills? Like paid for them with your money? Uhh ya nooo. Def not."
On August 2, Josh shared a now-deleted photo of himself with his dog on Instagram, saying in the caption that he would "not publicly badmouth anyone" amid the divorce.
"I prefer privacy, especially during something as life-changing as a divorce I did not ask for," he wrote in his caption, appearing to confirm Christina requested their separation. "I will not publicly badmouth anyone, as people have families, friends, and others who respect and love them. Unfortunately, the internet is forever."
"We are real humans, this is our life and I am not here to entertain people I don't know with my private matters," Josh said. "Those details will be handled fairly behind closed doors with our respective counsels in due time. Those who know each of us, know who we are."
Josh also removed posts related to "The Flip Off" from his Instagram.
Josh questioned Christina's narrative in his response
Josh filed a response to Christina's RFO on August 29, though it appears he signed the document on August 15. In the response reviewed by BI, Josh said he was "generally unopposed to the relief Christina has requested.''
But he also accused Christina of using "scorched-earth divorce tactics." In his response, Josh said he did not transfer the $35,000 for his personal use, instead using it to manage their Franklin, Tennessee, property. However, he said a separate property manager handles day-to-day activities at the home.
"I made this request because I needed access to the rental income so I could continue to pay ongoing expenses and responsibilities related to the properties, which I directly handle," he said, pointing to expenses like paying housekeepers or internet services.
He also said he transferred the money after Christina removed his access to their joint American Express account and his access to his LLC account for their rental properties on July 7.
Josh also denied plugging in the cameras at the Newport Beach home after Christina disconnected them. In addition, he said he only went to the property twice in July to retrieve personal items. When he was there on July 15, he said he was "confronted by Christina and two of her friends."
"They proceeded to follow me around while recording me with their cellphones," he said in his response. "Christina began making financial threats toward me, demanding to know how much money I intend to 'steal' from her as part of a settlement in our case."
Josh's response also said that he went to the Newport home on August 2 to retrieve the remainder of his personal belongings, which he and Christina agreed upon through their lawyers.
"When I arrived on this date, Christina had notified the paparazzi, who were waiting for me outside the home," Josh said in his response. "Christina then spread lies through the press that she did 'not know' I would be coming to the house on that date. This can be disproved through documented communications between our lawyers, which I have reviewed."
"Unfortunately, Christina has continued to litigate our divorce case through the media, while I just wish to reach an amicable resolution, devoid of the tabloid drama," Josh said.
People published photos of Josh at the Newport Beach home, but the piece states the photos were taken on August 4, not August 2, as Josh's response states.
The court ordered Josh to return Christina's $35,000 β but also ordered her to pay him $100,000
A stipulation and order filed on September 4 temporarily resolved Christina's RFO and Josh's response before their divorce hearing on October 8.
The order granted Christina exclusive access to the Newport Beach and Nashville properties while allowing Josh to use their Franklin, Tennessee, home when short-term renters do not occupy it. It also gave Christina exclusive ownership over both their California and Tennessee LLCs.
The stipulation said that Josh would return "the remaining funds in his possession" of the $35,000 he transferred to his account on July 8 and provide Christina with his accounting information for that date.
In addition, Christina agreed to send Josh $100,000 as an "uncharacterized and unallocated sum" within 48 hours of the document's filing. The stipulation says he can use the money "for any purpose, including his interim financial needs as well as attorney's fees, costs and forensic accounting fees."
The Halls had three hearings in October regarding their divorce, with Josh attempting to block Christina's sale of their Franklin, Tennessee home. On November 13, People reported that Christina had taken the home back off the market.
Christina's ex Ant Anstead is appearing on 'The Flip Off'
Tarek and Heather Rae El Moussa told paparazzi in July that "production is still going as planned without Josh" for "The Flip Off," according to E! News.
In his response filed on August 29, Josh said he believes Christina "is also seeking to have me removed from a contractual agreement we entered into for the production of a new HGTV show, 'The Flip Off.'"
On Thursday, HGTV confirmed that Christina went forward competing against Heather and Tarek solo after she and Josh split.
Christina, Tarek, and Heather continued to share promos for the series without Josh throughout the fall. On November 7, Christina wasΒ photographed on the set of "The Flip Off"Β with her ex-husband Ant Anstead.
Christina and Anstead were estranged after their separation, going through a tumultuous custody battle over their son Hudson in 2022. But the pair seem to be on better terms following her split from Josh, with Christina re-following Anstead on Instagram in August, according to People. The outlet also reported that Christina told Backgrid she thinks Hudson "deserves" for his parents to "get along."
Christina also said it would be a "genius 'ratings' idea" to have Anstead on the series after a fan suggested he replace Josh in the comments of one of her Instagram posts in August.
HGTV also confirmed on Thursday that Anstead would appear on the series as a judge, along with other home improvement and reality stars like Amanza Smith from "Selling Sunset."
Christina said Josh was 'insecure' in a November interview
Despite the uncertainty surrounding "The Flip Off," Josh did appear in the season two premiere of HGTV's "Christina in the Country" on November 12. The series, which the Halls co-produced, was filmed before he and Christina separated.
The first episode of season two opened with the then-couple speaking at their Newport Beach home, deciding to head to Franklin, Tennessee, for a bit so Christina could renovate some home. They also looked at a house to flip together and decided to buy it as they chatted at a restaurant in the episode.
Christina posted about the season premiere on Instagram but didn't mention Josh as she shared her excitement for the season.
In an interview with Entertainment Tonight that aired on November 15, Christina said she "did not enjoy" filming with her ex when discussing "The Flip Off," saying she was glad he was no longer part of the series.
"It was not fun, to be honest," Christina said of filming with Josh. "I did not enjoy filming with him. So having split up made this, to be honest, so much easier."
Christina said "the show would have been hard to film" if she and Josh had stayed together partly because of his "jealousy over Tarek."
"Flip or Flop."
HGTV
Heather echoed Christina's sentiments in a separate interview with ET.
"I don't want to be mean, but it was kind of nice to see him go," Heather said of Josh. Tarek added that Christina seems to have "recovered" from the split.
"Her energy is back," he said. "She's happy. She's excited about life. She's doing good."
Christina also said in her ET interview that Josh being "insecure" caused problems in their relationship.
"When someone is insecure by you and doesn't like to watch you win, that really, like, puts a damper on everything," Christina said.
"I feel like I was not shining as bright to try to not make him feel emasculated," she added. "Who wants to live like that?"
She also told ET she had been telling Josh for "at least a year" that "things were bad" despite his assertion that he was "blindsided" by their separation.
"For someone who says she moved on from Josh, Christina can't stop bringing him up," a source familiar with Josh told BI of the interview. "Josh has tried to move on with his life and has asked to keep the divorce private. Josh has no desire to play into any of this."
Christina opened up to Tarek about the split on 'The Flip Off'
The network also released a clip of the series ahead of its premiere, in which Christina shares with Tarek on camera that she and Josh broke up.
The scene appeared to be filmed at Christina's Newport Beach home, and she told Tarek after he arrived: "Josh and I officially split up."
She details the breakup to him, saying she and Josh had a "blow up" fight during which he put his "middle fingers" in her face.
A source close to Josh said he "has no public comment on private matters. Once again, Josh has moved on and does not want to live in the past. His life is not a reality show."
In her conversation with Tarek, Christina said that she and Josh had been struggling "for a long time." She also told him their children spoke to her about the relationship.
"The kids literally asked me to leave," Christina told Tarek. "They told me he's not nice to me. Why would I stick around?"
"I feel like I'm in a tornado all the time, and I just can't get out of it," she added.
Christina also seemed to reflect on the ups and downs of her life since she and Tarek separated in 2016 during the conversation.
"Everything since, like, 2016 has been so hard and so horrible," she said through tears. "It's really taken a really bad toll on me."
"I'm really sorry for shit, too," she told Tarek. "I really am. I just want you to know."
"I understand that feeling of being a little bit lost," Tarek responded. "And I acknowledge that I'm a big part, if not the entire part, of all of this."
People often purchase luxury jewelry during the holiday season.
Classic jewelers like Cartier and David Yurman are still popular.
"It girls" also love brands like RetrouvaΓ, Jacquie Aiche, and Anita Ko.
Fine jewelry often ends up at the top of people's holiday wish lists. I mean, singer Eartha Kitt famously begged Santa for a ring β and she did not mean on the phone.
Whether you're hoping someone will buy you something sparkly for the holidays or planning to splurge on someone you love, you'll want to know where "it girls" have been shopping for their jewelry lately.
Check out some luxury jewelry brands celebrities and influencers haven't stopped shopping at this year.
RetrouvaΓ has become a go-to for subtle statement pieces.
RetrouvaΓ makes one-of-a-kind pieces.
RetrouvaΓ
Several celebrities have been spotted wearing pieces from RetrouvaΓ over the past few years, from Suki Waterhouse to Oprah Winfrey.
Founder Kirsty Stone launched RetrouvaΓ in 2016, putting nostalgia and sentimentality at the core of her fine-jewelry brand.
Celebrities gravitate toward RetrouvaΓ's one-of-a-kind pieces, like the $32,970 ruby and diamond heirloom bezel ring Taylor Swift has been spotted wearing to Chiefs games.
Stars have been adding small Shay Jewelry accessories to their looks.
Bella Hadid in New York City in July 2024.
Gotham/GC Images
Stars also incorporated pieces from the luxury brand Shay Jewelry into their streetwear and red-carpet looks throughout the year, like the $5,600 diamond pinky ring that Bella Hadid was spotted wearing over the summer or the $6,800 ruby solitaire necklace Taylor Swift wore to the Super Bowl.
Shay Jewelry was founded by the mother-daughter duo Ladan and Tania Shayan in 2003 in Los Angeles.
The brand's pieces exude luxury, with details like diamonds and other glitzy precious gems. However, by putting them on butterfly-shaped pendants or heart bezel rings, the brand's collection can be styled casually or for fancy occasions.
If you're looking for diamond accessories, look no further than Anita Ko.
You can buy diamond pieces at Anita Ko.
Anita Ko
The brand's pieces are a hit with high-fashion lovers like Kendall Jenner and Kaia Gerber because of their one-of-a-kind feel.
Diamonds have been a girl's best friend for decades, but Anita Ko makes them feel fresh with modern designs like the $5,125 diamond lotus double piercing earring designed for people with multiple piercings in one ear.
If you want a sentimental holiday gift, Anita Ko also has a variety of personalized pieces, like a diamond initial necklace that retails for $1,950.
It seemed like everyone was wearing David Yurman accessories in 2024, from stars to sorority girls.
David Yurman was likely all over your "For You" page.
David Yurman
David Yurman has been a jewelry industry staple for years with its artistic approach to jewelry design.
Still, it seemed to become even more popular in 2024, with sorority hopefuls frequently name-dropping the brand in their "RushTok" get-ready-with-me videos.
Jenny Bird's jewelry is more affordable than some of the other retailers on this list, but thanks to its whimsical and chic designs, it is as beloved by celebrities as any of the high-end pieces stars loved this year.
As of December, the most expensive piece on Jenny Bird's site was $350.
The retailer, founded by its namesake Jenny Bird in 2010, also sells sunglasses, jewelry cases, and other accessories, including pencil cases and hair clips. So, it's a good one-stop shop if you have several people to holiday shop for this year.
If you want to add some gold to your collection, the Laguna Beach-based brand Gorjana has you covered.
Gorjana's pieces start at $25.
gorjana
Known for its stylish gold jewelry, Gorjana makes both affordable pieces β starting at just $25 β and fine jewelry if you're looking to buy someone in you're life something special.
The brand has humble origins, as Gorjana and Jason Reidel opened it in 2004 from their apartment. Now, the retailer has dozens of brick-and-mortar stores and a bustling online shop.
Catbird has become more and more popular thanks to celebrity collaborations.
Catbird is famous for its forever bracelets.
Catbird
You're probably familiar with Catbird's forever bracelets, but the brand's dainty jewelry has become a consumer favorite thanks to collaborations with stars like Phoebe Bridgers and Jenny Slate.
Catbird is a good choice if you take a playful approach to your jewelry because its pieces are designed to be customized. For instance, you can pair its $110.40 gold heart charm holder and $86.40 birthstone charm on one of its six signature chain styles, creating a unique necklace.
You might also want to shop at Catbird if you're looking for more affordable diamond pieces, like the brand's $308 sweetheart necklace.
Sophie Bille Brahe has become a favorite of celebrities like Rihanna.
Rihanna in New York in May 2024.
MEGA/GC Images
Named for its founder, Sophie Bille Brahe specializes in classic diamond jewelry with a Scandinavian twist, as the brand shared on its website.
Most buyers would consider its pieces a splurge, as its collection ranges from a $330 pearl ear cuff to a $58,500 diamond tennis necklace. Rihanna was spotted in a version of the necklace in May.
The brand also crafts bespoke pieces, including engagement rings, for shoppers looking for custom jewelry this holiday season.
You can find statement pieces with personal touches at Jennifer Zeuner Jewelry.
Jennifer Zeuner Jewelry has a variety of pieces.
Courtesy of Jennifer Zeuner Jewelry
Jennifer Zeuner Jewelry focuses primarily on accessible gold pieces, but she also makes fine jewelry with delicate diamond detailing.
Zeuner founded the brand in 2005, creating simple pieces that are made to be layered and worn together.
Dozens of celebrities have recently been spotted in her pieces, from Taraji P. Henson in a $123 pair of hoop earrings and Taylor Swift in the brand's $154 Tasha earrings.
Zeuner's pieces start at $45 and max out at $1,880.
It's becoming more popular with non-famous buyers, too, asΒ sales for Cartier piecesΒ increased by 11% onΒ The RealReal, according to a study from the brand.
Cartier's $7,350 love bracelet is among its most popular pieces.
Jacquie Aiche's handmade pieces offer the perfect pop of color.
Jacquie Aiche makes statement pieces.
Jacquie Aiche
Los Angeles-based brand Jacquie Aiche has been on the jewelry scene for over 15 years, but it seemed to skyrocket into fame in 2024 as stars like Vanessa Hudgens and Behati Prinsloo stepped out in its pieces.
The Miss America Organization is in a legal battle just weeks before the 2025 competition.
CEO Robin Fleming sued Glenn F. Straub on November 28, as both say they own the organization.
Straub filed for bankruptcy for Miss America, complicating the ownership dispute.
Miss America 2025 is just weeks away, and a legal battle over who owns the organization is playing out behind the scenes.
The 103-year-old competition has had several leadership controversies in the last decade, but this matter centers on Robin Fleming and Glenn F. Straub, who both purport to own Miss America.
In a sweeping, 32-cause complaint obtained by Business Insider, Fleming accused Straub, his lawyer, his company, and one of his employees of fraud, defamation, and trademark infringement.
Her lawsuit came days after Straub filed for bankruptcy on November 22. In a letter to Miss America board members, Straub wrote that Fleming was using the organization's scholarship fund to pay her legal fees, which was "putting Miss America in financial and legal jeopardy." He also said that the 2025 competition, scheduled for December 31 to January 3, will continue as planned.
Fleming said in her complaint that Straub's bankruptcy filing was fraudulent because he does not own the organization and Miss America Corporation, LLC, has no debt. She said Straub was attempting to sow "further chaos and confusion" amid their legal battle.
She told BI on Thursday that "Miss America has always been an activist" and believes "justice will prevail" in her case. "I just feel very strongly that this is a case about standing up and having your voice heard," she added.
"Robin Fleming's Miss America competition is going strong and will be fully successful," her attorney Gene Rossi said in a statement to BI. "Mr. Straub's litigation tricks are nothing more than shiny objects. All sound and fury with no meaning."
When asked for comment on this story, a representative for Straub pointed BI to the court's decision on Wednesday to dismiss Fleming's case without prejudice because of its length. The order allows Fleming to refile her complaint before December 20, which she told BI on Thursday that she intends to do.
Here's a timeline of all the legal drama detailed by Fleming and Straub's complaints.
Miss Colorado Madison Marsh has been crowned Miss America 2024.
Houston M Photography
2021: Robin Fleming and Glenn Straub connected
Fleming, who told BI she's in her 50s, and Straub, 78, briefly met at a charity event in 2008. Still, the two formed a professional friendship in 2021 at Palm Beach Polo Country Club, a luxury gated community in Florida that Straub owned and where Fleming was a resident.
Straub "presented as a wealthy and elderly man in his mid-70s keenly interested in her passion for businesses that empowered women and her passion for the pageant industry."
Summer 2022: Fleming tried to buy the Miss Universe Organization
Straub offered to finance the $20 million purchase of the Miss Universe Organization with Fleming "as owner and him as banker."
Fleming agreed to the proposition and made her interest known to the organization, providing Straub's name after it requested a call with her banker. The call never occurred, and it was announced in October 2022 that the Miss Universe Organization had been sold to Anne Jakrajutatip.
Fleming learned in 2024 that the Miss Universe Organization ceased its negotiations with her after learning Straub, according to her suit, had "allegedly choked a 22-year-old young woman in 2012 at a polo match."
Straub was arrested and charged with criminal battery. He filed a civil action against the woman for libel and slander. Both the civil and criminal cases were dismissed and closed.
September 15, 2022: Straub asked Fleming to be "friends with benefits."
During dinner together, Straub asked Fleming if they could become "friends with benefits."
Fleming texted Straub the following day, saying, "I like our relationship exactly as it is, fun business chatter/ambitions with a smattering of humor⦠I am too conservative for anything else."
Straub replied, "Check," and "never asked the question again."
December 30, 2022: Fleming purchased Miss America.
Robin Fleming with Miss America 2024.
Courtesy of Robin Fleming
Fleming said she bought Miss America's assets on behalf of Miss America Competition, LLC and Miss America IP, Inc., using three documents created by Straub's attorney, Craig Galle, who she used at Straub's suggestion.
Shantel Krebs signed one of the agreements on December 30, officially selling the organization's assets to Fleming.
Straub's company paid off a Small Business Administration loan for Miss America to help the purchase proceed, his only official role in the acquisition.
Fleming also said she attended the closing meeting alone.
2022 - March 2024: Fleming appeared to operate Miss America without incident
Following the acquisition, Fleming said that Krebs and the Miss America board formally welcomed her as the organization's "new owner" and publicly referred to her as its CEO at events and in themedia.
Fleming said she operated as Miss America's CEO and owner for over a year without complaints from Straub.
In a January 2024 text included in the suit, Straub asked Fleming how he should introduce himself as the Miss America 2024 pageant, suggesting "banker."
That same month, according to the lawsuit, Straub attacked a talent judge at Miss America 2024 because he was a Black man talking to a white woman.
Straub admitted in texts to Fleming that the attack was racially motivated, her suit states.
March 15-16, 2024: Straub told Fleming he was "shutting down Miss America"
Straub's threat came a day after Fleming declined to serve as his proxy in a lawsuit against board members of their gated community.
Straub told Fleming he wanted to end Miss America because she "cannot be controlled" and the organization is a "waste of time." He also said Fleming was a "failure," "over the hill," and that he would bring her children into the "public humiliation" and send letters to all the Miss America state directors saying she was mentally ill.
The following day, Straub sent Fleming a letter notifying her of her "Temporary Suspension and Investigation" by the "Miss America Competitions, LLC." Fleming said the letterhead featured typos in both the company name and the spelling of Fleming's name.
Fleming said Straub also threatened to tie her up in "three years of civil litigation" unless she gave him "total control of Miss America" and promised to "always be subservient" to him.
April 12, 2024: Straub gave Fleming what she says is a fraudulent Operating Agreement for Miss America Competition, LLC.
Fleming said Straub presented three different versions of the document created by Galle and dated December 28, 2022, between April and August.
Her legal team said metadata for one of the documents indicated it was created on August 25, 2023.
April 15, 2024: Straub tried to fire Fleming.
Glenn F. Straub in 2017.
AP Photo/Wayne Parry
Fleming's suit said Straub texted her on April 12 to tell her she was fired as Miss America's CEO.
It added that he intended to email the Miss America state directors and tell them she was stealing money from the organization, which Fleming said was defamatory.
Her suit also states that he sent her a "Termination Notice" on April 15, which Fleming rejected in a written statement on April 16.
April 25, 2024: Straub filed a lawsuit against Fleming in Palm Beach, Florida.
Straub's complaint said Fleming had never been an "owner" of any Miss America entity and sued her for breach of fiduciary duties and obligations, "at will" employment agreement, temporary and permanent injunctive relief, and trademark infringement.
His complaint sought $20 million in damages.
April 29, 2024: Straub said he was Miss America's owner in a letter to staffers.
Straub sent a letter to Miss America directors and licensees in late December 2022 stating that he had "purchased all the assets of the former Miss America Organization."
He also said he hired Fleming to run Miss America and terminated her "after we received damaging information and conducted an extensive audit of her conduct while working with the organization."
In response to the letter, Krebs and other former Miss America board members told licensees and directors via email they had "voted unanimously to transfer the assets to Robin Fleming."
Straub also hosted Zoom meetings with Miss America licensees and contractual partners in May, during which he said he was Miss America's owner and had fired Fleming as CEO.
July 29, 2024: Straub said he planned to file for bankruptcy on Miss America's behalf.
According to a court docket reviewed by BI, Straub and Fleming were ordered to hold a "conciliation conference" to discuss his state-level lawsuit against her.
In her lawsuit, Fleming said Straub used the meeting to "directly threaten, intimidate and extort" her. She said Straub told her he wanted to "shut down Miss America," called himself "Hamas" and Fleming "Israel," and said he was Hitler.
Her complaint also said that Straub said he "intended to file for bankruptcy on behalf of her Miss America" during the meeting.
Fall of 2024: Fleming said Straub made defamatory statements about her
Fleming said Straub sent additional letters to state executive directors in September saying he had fired her, and, in November 2024, he publicly said she was funding her legal defense through Miss America's scholarship fund.
Her suit described his statements as defamatory and led to potential business deals to fall through.
Notably, the complaint said the "organizers of the iconic Macy's Thanksgiving parade withdrew their invitation to have Miss America participate in the parade, which has been a yearly tradition since the 1940s."
Miss America 2023 at the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Noam Galai/WireImage/Getty Images
November 22, 2024: Straub filed a bankruptcy petition on behalf of Miss America.
Straub filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the Southern District of Florida on behalf of Miss America Competition, LLC.
Fleming filed an emergency response to the bankruptcy filing on November 25, saying the bankruptcy was "a 'scorched earth' litigation strategy to attempt to sabotage the upcoming Miss America Competition and cause reputational harm to Ms. Fleming."
In the response, Fleming said Straub could not file for bankruptcy for Miss America Corporation because she is its sole member, manager, and owner.
November 28, 2024: Fleming filed a complaint against Straub, Galle, Kathleen A. Fialco, and Palm Beach Polo, Inc. in the Southern District of Florida.
Fleming's suit lists 32 causes of action, including fraud, defamation, and more. She is seeking $500 million in damages for herself and Miss America.
In her complaint, she said she was the rightful owner of Miss America and provided a timeline for its purchase, details of Straub's involvement, and evidence that Straub and his attorney created false documentation to show he owned it.
Fleming's case was dismissed on December 4, 2024, without prejudice, with the court requesting Fleming's lawyers condense their complaint.
Fleming told BI on Thursday that she would file a new version of the suit before the new December 20 deadline.
Some people are turning to "loyalty tests" to check if their partners are cheating.
Companies are cashing in, connecting users to testers for a fee.
Even when someone "passes," a test can pose problems for couples.
It's no secret: Dating in the digital age is hard.
Knowing when to change your Facebook relationship status or "soft launch" your relationship is stressful enough, but the internet has also made cheating easier than ever.
"The digital age has provided a million more ways to cheat or be deceptive or be disloyal in a relationship than in the past," Landis Bejar, a wedding therapist and the founder of AisleTalk, told Business Insider.
Some lovers have turned to "loyalty tests" to see if their partners are faithful, tapping strangers to catch their significant others being disloyal by sending incriminating direct messages, hoping for an untoward reply. Now, companies like Lazo and Loyalty-Test are cashing in on the trend.
One woman who paid to test her partner told Business Insider she wished she had used the service sooner.
Helping others who get cheated on
A tester who goes by Ari on Loyalty-Test for privacy reasons but whose identity is known to BI said she first became familiar with the app as a customer.
"I was the one that wanted to test my partner," she said. "He ended up passing by default. He didn't respond."
Ari said she appreciated the process and became interested in being a tester. So, she signed up.
"In the past, with relationships, I would get a lot of unfaithful partners, and I would have loved to have this sooner," Ari said. "I definitely wanted to be the one to help people out."
Now, Ari works as a hairstylist by day and performs between five and eight loyalty tests weekly. She sticks to digital tests and charges $55 for a day of testing.
"I've noticed people do fold very quickly," she said. "It usually happens within the first day."
The testers send screenshots of their progress.
Courtesy of Loyalty-Tests
Ari said she starts her work with clients by asking what they think of as a pass or fail to ensure they agree.
"Usually, I'll explain the process that I'm going to do, and if they have specific things they want me to say, then I go by what they want me to say," she said.
Some of her clients are in committed relationships and suspect cheating when they hire her. Others are about to take a step with someone, like becoming exclusive or moving in together, and want to use a loyalty test to confirm they're making the right decision.
Ari said it can be difficult when she has to tell clients their partners are failing a test, both because she feels empathy toward them and because she has been cheated on.
"The length that they would go to be sneaky, you know, it's a little triggering sometimes," she said.
'Loyalty tests' are on the rise
Videos about loyalty tests started going viral online around 2021, and they all followed a similar blueprint.
A "tester" messages someone's partner on social media at their request and pretends to want to date them. If the person shows interest in the fake suitor, they fail the test. If they don't, they pass.
As the trend became more popular, companies started offering anonymous tests for a fee.
Lazo began testing potential cheaters in January, Ashlyn Nakasu, the company's community manager, told BI. Lazo's team aims for the app to provide people unfettered access to the truth in a relationship.
Lazo has about 400 checkers that charge a range of fees, though they typically start at $40. For that fee, a tester will message your partner, pretending to be interested in them to see if they cross a boundary.
"You never know if you're actually going to get the whole truth out of people," Nakasu told BI, as many people don't immediately confess if their partner accuses them of cheating.
A conversation between a tester and a client on Loyalty-Tests.
Courtesy of Loyalty-Tests
"We wanted to offer a solution that was more affordable and less time-consuming," Nakasu said, referring to hiring a private investigator. According to the job platform Bark, the average cost of a private investigator in the US is $85 per hour, and their services can range from digital investigation to trailing your partner.
Loyalty-Tests, launched in January 2023, offers digital and in-person tests for a fee set by the testers. As founder and CEO Brandan Balasingham told BI, testers sign up to work for the company on the app like Uber drivers. The company then sifts through applicants to see who would be a good tester before they get approved to take on clients.
Some testers charge as little as $10 for a digital test, but the in-person tests, in which a tester meets up with a potential cheater at a client's direction, can cost upward of $500.
As of November 2024, Balasingham said Loyalty-Test averaged 10 to 20 customers daily.
Both Lazo and Loyalty-Tests said their clients are seeing real results.
Nakasu said 60% of Lazo users' partners pass the loyalty tests. Balasingham said the latest data from Loyalty-Tests shows a discrepancy between the results of men and women being tested. About 60% of men fail, while around 30% of women do.
Establish trust early
Although loyalty tests have become popular, Bejar said they shouldn't be the norm in a healthy relationship.
"There's no relationship without trust," Bejar said. "If we don't have trust, we have to completely manage another person and oversee another person to ensure they're going to do what they say they are. And that can't work in a relationship."
Dramatic acts like cheating can erode trust, but smaller "ruptures," as Bejar calls them, like not doing something you said you would or telling white lies, can damage the bond between you and your partner just as easily.
In that sense, conducting a loyalty test against your partner can be a betrayal in the same way that cheating is. Whether someone passes a loyalty test or not, the relationship is likely in trouble if someone feels the need to conduct one.
Bejar does think there are some situations where a loyalty test could be helpful, though, particularly in an abusive relationship.
"If a loyalty test can break someone out of that kind of contrived reality that an abusive person has created for them, that by definition is really hard to get out of, then I think there's a place for it," Bejar said.
Still, if you want to use a loyalty test instead of organically building trust with your partner over time, Bejar said that's likely a sign you need to reflect on why building trust seems hard. She added that you should set boundaries with your partner to ensure you agree on the definition of betrayal.
"Love can be blinding, and we can overlook things," she said. "You need to know what a dealbreaker is to you so that if you are in love with somebody and they cross one of your boundaries, you can walk away even though it's hard and sad."
Eager fans lined up in the wee hours of the morning to get a copy. Business Insider spoke to shoppers who arrived at a Lynchburg, Virginia, store at 3 a.m. to ensure they could secure the book and vinyl album.
Amid the excitement of a new Swift product, some fans quickly pointed out that the book had multiple printing and layout errors. Publishing experts told Business Insider that Swift's decision to self-publish might have contributed to the hiccups.
"The Eras Tour Book" became available at Target on Friday.
Dave Kotinsky/Getty Images
Representatives for Swift, Target, and ST8MNT, the brand agency credited with art direction, design, and illustration, did not respond to requests for comment.
The 'Errors' Tour Book
Swift sidestepped traditional publishers for her 256-page coffee table book, publishing it through Taylor Swift Publications and selling it exclusively at Target for $39.99. It features over 500 images, some of which fans had never seen, and Swift's musings on the tour.
Following the book's release, some Swifties posted on social media about issues they noticed in their copies of "The Eras Tour Book" β or as they called it, "The Errors Tour Book," a nod to an inside joke between Swifties to refer to mistakes the singer made on the tour.
Some of these problems seemingly appear in multiple copies, like the "Folklore" song "This Is Me Trying" being listed as "This Is Me Rying" in a section about surprise songs. The same section lists "Gold Rush," a track from "Evermore," as one word, even though the song is two words.
Likewise, the book listed Swift's stop in Toronto as "November 14-16, 22-23," but she also played in the city on November 21.
Shoppers also questioned the book's layout and photos. A handful of pictures of Swift were arranged in a two-page spread with the singer in the center, which fans said made it difficult to see her.
I know Iβm not the only one disappointed with the Eras Tour book, but I havenβt seen anyone else talk about the glaringly obvious grammatical errors and clunky sentences within the pages. I make this video with peace, love, and a general frustration about how easy many of these problems could have been fixed with one more set of editing eyes. This book just had so much potential, and with a little tweaking it could have been absolutely spectacular. #erastourbook#errorstour#booktok
Others said images in the book appeared slightly blurry, which made them wonder if they were stills from "The Eras Tour" film instead of high-resolution shots.
Aside from typos, Swift's written sections β including notes to the fans, paragraphs about each era of the tour, and information about her pre-show rituals β garnered mixed responses, with some expecting more insights from Swift herself despite it being largely marketed as a photo book.
Eryn Kieffer, a 23-year-old content creator and longtime Swiftie from Los Angeles, told BI she loved the sections Swift wrote but had anticipated more behind-the-scenes content.
"I thought there would be a lot more little blurbs about the making of the show," she said. "Not full essays, but like, 'Oh, here's me behind stage,' you know, little things and a few more behind-the-scenes pictures."
Still, Kieffer said she would have wanted the book even if she had known there wouldn't be as much behind-the-scenes content.
Many other fans also shared how much they loved the book on social media in the days after the book's release, regardless of production missteps.
Printing problems
The biggest problem with the book appeared to be printing issues in certain copies of Swift's book. The text was bleeding off the pages in some β though it's unclear if that was a stylistic choice β and others said they had books printed entirelyΒ upside downΒ or with folds on random pages.
Erik Hane, the founder of Headwater Literary Management, told BI that working with a traditional publisher may have helped Swift avoid the typos and misprints.
"The errors being described are ones that a competent production department β or honestly, most production departments of any quality β at a traditional publisher would have caught and corrected before printing," he said.
"This is especially true for the quality and caliber of publishers that would have been available to Taylor Swift had she chosen to traditionally publish," Hane added.
Jessika Hazelton, manager and creative director at The Troy Book Makers, a book publisher based in Schodack Landing, New York, told BI that a rushed timeline could also have contributed to the errors.
Taylor Swift.
Andreas Rentz/TAS24
"We often tell our clients there is no such thing as a perfect book," Hazelton said. "Even if the copy was well-edited, and everything was reviewed carefully before the book goes to print, it is possible for mistakes to slip through."
"For something like this 'Eras Tour Book,' I suspect there was a tight deadline to get the book out in time for the holidays, and it was not looked over as thoroughly as it might have been," she said.
Hane told BI that Swift's business reasons for self-publishing β like saving money and having total creative control β made sense. Still, the errors might be a side effect of that decision.
"This is one of the drawbacks of that choice: You don't get the production expertise that would have caught and corrected these mistakes and perhaps would have even added value to the physical package of the book in other ways we'll never know about," he said.
Traditionally published books can have errors, too
Traditionally published books aren't always error-free.
For instance, when Red Tower published Rebecca Yarros' "Iron Flame" in November 2023, readers said they received misprinted copies, sharing photos and videos of books printed backward or crooked.
Likewise, social media users shared that they received misprinted copies of Sally Rooney's "Intermezzo," published by the Macmillan imprint Farrar, Straus and Giroux in September.
Red Tower and Macmillan did not respond to requests for comment from BI.
Despite the misprints, Swift's decision to self-publish seemed to pay off from a business perspective.
A Target representative told BI that by 10 a.m. ET on Friday, just hours after it became available, "The Eras Tour Book" had become Target's highest-selling book of 2024. On Sunday, Swift also released a second stock of "The Tortured Poet's Department: The Anthology" vinyl at Target to meet fans' demand.
Rihanna and A$AP Rocky attend the 2024 London Fashion Awards.
Neil Mockford/FilmMagic
The 2024 Fashion Awards took place in London on Monday.
Celebrities like Rihanna and Halle Bailey wowed on the red carpet.
Others like Joe Jonas and Daisy Ridley didn't have their best fashion moments at the event.
It might have been "Monday Night Football" in America, but it was Monday night fashion across the pond.
The 2024 Fashion Awards took place in London on Monday, raising money for the BFC Foundation, which supports the British fashion industry.
Several celebrities, models, and designers attended the event, walking the red carpet in high-fashion looks.
Some red-carpet outfits, like Rihanna's coatdress, were perfect, while other stars, such as Joe Jonas, missed the mark.
Here are the best and worst looks of the night.
Halle Bailey put a high-fashion twist on a peplum at the Fashion Awards.
Halle Bailey attends the 2024 Fashion Awards.
JB Lacroix/WireImage
Ellie Misner designed "The Little Mermaid" actor's strapless white dress.
The form-fitting bodice gave way to a structured, curved peplum that floated behind her. Strands of pearls and oversize sequins hung from the peplum, almost making Bailey look like a moving chandelier.
Delicate jewelry completed her chic outfit.
The print on Jourdan Dunn's outfit was fun, but the look ultimately felt disjointed.
Jourdan Dunn attends the 2024 Fashion Awards.
JB Lacroix/WireImage
The model's leopard-print look from Dior consisted of a short-sleeve jacket that belted at the waist, shorts, and a pageboy hat.
She wore the jacket open, adding a daring edge to the ensemble.
However, Dunn's black elbow-length gloves, black heels with bejeweled straps, and crisscross necklace felt disconnected and pulled focus from the rest of the outfit.
Rihanna and A$AP Rocky's ensembles were effortlessly glamorous.
Rihanna and A$AP Rocky attend the 2024 Fashion Awards.
Neil Mockford/FilmMagic
Rihanna went into Christian Lacroix Haute Couture's archives for her Fashion Awards look, wearing an eye-catching furry coat from the brand's FW2002 collection.
The blue jacket buttoned at her waist and sat slightly off of her shoulders, revealing the black bustier she wore beneath it and an array of delicate necklaces on her neck. Her large hat matched the jacket, and the Fenty creator completed her look with black tights, heels, and a purse.
A$AP Rocky also sported blue, wearing a loose-fitting navy suit with a white shirt and a shiny red tie.
Ellie Goulding's coatdress felt too casual for the red carpet.
Ellie Goulding attends the 2024 Fashion Awards.
JB Lacroix/WireImage
Goulding arrived at the Fashion Awards in a cream puffer coatdress from Moncler Genius.
It had a ball gown silhouette, with the zipper neckline falling over Goulding's shoulders and the skirt cascading to the floor.
Although the twist on a ball gown was creative, the fabric felt more suited to a walk through the snow than down the red carpet. The jacket also resembled Hilary Duff's igloo dress in "The Lizzie McGuire Movie."
The stylish pieces in Joe Jonas' outfit didn't work together.
Joe Jonas attends the 2024 Fashion Awards.
JB Lacroix/WireImage
The individual pieces of Jonas' Prada ensemble β from his oversize, textured jacket and green turtleneck to his slim-fitted black pants β were all solid choices for the Fashion Awards.
However, the gray jacket swallowed Jonas' torso, and the fit of the pants and tight turtleneck made it look even bigger. The outfit would have been more successful if Jonas stuck to one fabric or fit.
Rita Ora wore one of the best suit looks of the evening.
Rita Ora attends the 2024 Fashion Awards.
Neil Mockford/FilmMagic
Ora went for a grunge look for the Fashion Awards, walking the red carpet in a loose-fitted suit from Primark.
Her double-breasted gray jacket sat atop a striped shirt and a pink tie, which she paired with black pants.
Ora completed the look with bleached hair and eyebrows and an assortment of chunky jewelry.
The top and skirt Daisy Ridley wore would have looked better apart.
Daisey Ridley attends the 2024 Fashion Awards.
JB Lacroix/WireImage
Ridley wore Miu Miu from head to toe, pairing a crepe red crop top with a gray skirt embellished with florals.
A black belt cinched her waist and coordinated with her black shoes.
Both the top and skirt were beautiful, but they didn't help each other shine. Each piece might have worked better in a monochromatic look.
Simone Ashley's gown brought glamour to the Fashion Awards.
Simone Ashley attends the 2024 Fashion Awards.
Lionel Hahn/Getty Images
Ashley arrived at the Fashion Awards in a custom Prada dress.
The pale-pink dress had a straight, strapless neckline and a bow on the center of the bodice. A floor-length train flowed out from the bow, showing off the mini-balloon skirt that ended above Ashley's knee.
The dress was elegant and timeless, and Ashley's updo with baby bangs added to the look's Audrey Hepburn-esque grandeur.
Nicola Coughlan's dress had a bit too much fabric.
Nicola Coughlan attends the 2024 Fashion Awards.
Karwai Tang/WireImage
Coughlan showed off her mastery at playing with volume and silhouettes on her press tour for "Bridgerton," but her Gaurav Gupta gown for the Fashion Awards was a rare miss for the actor.
The dress had an off-the-shoulder neckline, and the base was made of black velvet. A voluminous blue skirt puffed out from the sides.
The first fold of the skirt cut at Coughlan's ankle, and if it had ended there, the dress would have been great. But another layer of fabric pooled out and flowed onto the floor, making the whole look feel imbalanced.
Gemma Chan's playful approach to texture stood out on the red carpet.
Gemma Chan attends the 2024 Fashion Awards.
Ian West/PA Images via Getty Images
Chan's dress was designed by Christopher Kane for Self-Portrait.
Much of the long-sleeve, floor-length dress was made of a semi-sheer, white mesh, contrasted by architectural ruffle patches that followed the curves of Chan's hips and chest.
The fabrics sparkled as Chan walked the red carpet for a dynamic, eye-catching look.
Jennifer L. Armentrout is the New York Times bestselling author of "From Blood and Ash."
Blue Box Press
Jennifer L. Armentrout is releasing the sixth "Blood and Ash" book in June 2025.
Armentrout's "Blood and Ash" and "Flesh and Fire" series are interconnected, which can confuse readers.
Here's the best reading order for a spoiler-free experience.
As a devoted reader of fantasy and romance books, it's no surprise I binged Jennifer L. Armentrout's New York Times bestselling "Blood and Ash" series.Β
I've since become a huge fan of "Blood and Ash" and its companion series, "Flesh and Fire," which Armentrout has been publishing since 2021.Β
Armentrout released the fourth "Flesh and Fire" novel, "Born of Blood and Ash" in August, and she is set to publish the sixth book in the "Blood and Ash" series, "The Primal of Blood and Bone," in June 2025.
'Blood and Ash' is an ongoing fantasy series about a Maiden questioning her fate
In the first book of the series, "From Blood and Ash," readers meet Poppy, an 18-year-old who is more than just a girl. The gods have chosen her as the Maiden, and when she turns 19, she will be given to them to help turn humans into the Ascended, immortal beings that rule her kingdom, Solis.
Poppy has always known her fate, but living as the Maiden hasn't been easy. She must always wear a veil in public, no one is allowed to touch her, and she spends most of her time alone. So when she meets Hawke, a new guard who treats her like a person instead of a symbol, she finds herself questioning her commitment to the gods.
"From Blood and Ash" is the first book in the series.
Blue Box Press
But the Ascended and Hawke are both keeping secrets, and when Poppy finds out the truth about them β and herself β everything in her life will change.
Armentrout's world becomes a sweeping tale of magic and warring kingdoms as Poppy comes into her power throughout the "Blood and Ash" series, which has five published installments:Β
"From Blood and Ash"
"A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire"
"The Crown of Gilded Bones"
"The War of Two Queens"
"A Soul of Ash and Blood"
"A Soul of Ash and Blood" technically takes place after "The War of Two Queens," but the majority of the book is told through flashbacks that bring readers back to the timeline in "From Blood and Ash."Β
Armentrout also created a prequel series to 'Blood and Ash'
Armentrout has published a prequel series to "Blood and Ash" called "Flesh and Fire."
The series exists in the same world as the "Blood and Ash" books, but it takes place thousands of years before Poppy is even born.
The "Flesh and Fire" series is a prequel to "Blood and Ash."
Jennifer L. Armentrout
Like Poppy, Seraphena Mierel is a Maiden, promised to the Primal of Death in a bargain designed to save her people from a rot spreading across their lands in the first installment in the series, "A Shadow in the Ember."
But Sera is a double agent, and she has trained her whole life in secret as an assassin so she can break down the Primal's defenses and kill him when he's vulnerable. But when she finally meets the Primal, he's nothing like Sera expected, awakening urges in her she didn't know she had.Β
Four installments of the series are available to read, as the fourth book was published in August 2024:
"A Shadow in the Ember"
"A Light in the Flame"
"A Fire in the Flesh"
"Born of Blood and Ash"
Armentrout also published a companion book to both series, "Visions of Flesh and Blood," in February 2024. It's essentially a guide to the "Blood and Ash" universe, providing character breakdowns and histories for both series.
The plots of the two series are interconnected, so you shouldn't read them separately
The events and characters of "Flesh and Fire" overlap with those in "Blood and Ash." In fact, "The War of Two Queens" is difficult to understand if you haven't read "A Shadow in the Ember."
But the "Flesh and Fire" series also contains spoilers about Poppy's adventures, so it doesn't make sense to read them before you start the "Blood and Ash" series.Β
Armentrout also said on her website that the series' "two timelines will also merge in the future, bringing the characters together in the 'Blood and Ash' books," so you can't read either series alone.Β
Because you'll need to read all of the books from both series to fully grasp either story, I recommend reading the books that are currently published as one interconnected series in the following order:Β
"From Blood and Ash"
"A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire"
"The Crown of Gilded Bones
"A Shadow in the Ember"
"The War of Two Queens"
"A Light in the Flame"
"A Soul of Ash and Blood"
"A Fire in the Flesh"
"Born of Blood and Ash"
Basically, you'll read three books about Poppy, and then you'll take a quick break to introduce yourself to Sera in "A Shadow in the Ember." After that, you'll basically be alternating between Poppy and Sera's stories.
This order allows you to enjoy "Blood and Ash" without spoilers and ensures you will fully digest "The War of Two Queens" without feeling confused.Β
Plus, "Blood and Ash" can get a little overwhelming as the world becomes larger. The tension between Sera and the Primal in "Flesh and Fire" was a welcome tone shift that made me want to continue reading both series as new installments are released.Β
And despite the flashbacks, I wouldn't give into the temptation to read "A Soul of Ash and Blood" in tandem with "From Blood and Ash." It contains too many spoilers about the series to be read right after or in tandem with "From Blood and Ash" despite the fact that it mostly tells the same story as the first installment in the series. It actually works best as a refresher on "Blood and Ash," recentering you in Poppy's world before her story continues.Β
You don't have to read "Visions of Flesh and Blood" at all if you don't want to, but don't read it until after you finish "A Fire in the Flesh" if you do decide to add it to your collection. It features several spoilers for both series, as Armentrout notes on her website.Β
And if you want advice on how to read Sarah J. Maas' books, you can find out more here.
I made Joanna Gaines' biscuits that are served at Magnolia Table.
Samantha Grindell/Business Insider
I fell in love with Joanna Gaines' biscuits at the Magnolia Table restaurant in Waco, Texas.Β
I made the biscuits myself, even though I'm not an experienced baker.
They're delicious and easy to make, and they'd be the perfect addition to a holiday dinner.
Whether you're a mashed potato fan or a mac and cheese enthusiast, I think most people would agree that side dishes are the most exciting part of Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner (aside from dessert, of course).Β
And this year, I humbly suggest you add Joanna Gaines' biscuits to your array of holiday sides. I know biscuits are often relegated to breakfast, but after trying them at Chip and Joanna Gaines'Β restaurant and making them myself, I think they're the perfect holiday carb.Β
Joanna's biscuits are decadent but surprisingly easy to make, even for an amateur baker like me.Β
I fell in love with Joanna's biscuits at Magnolia Table, the restaurant she and Chip Gaines own in Waco, Texas.
I ate breakfast at Magnolia Table in Waco, Texas.
Samantha Grindell/Business Insider
During a visit to the "Fixer Upper" stars' famous restaurant in Waco, Texas, in February 2022, I ordered the classic Farm Breakfast, which consisted of two eggs, tater tots, bacon, a side of fruit, and a biscuit served with strawberry butter.
I liked the meal, but the biscuit blew me away. The crumbly pastry instantly melted in my mouth when I took a bite, having the soft texture I look for in a biscuit. The strawberry butter took it to the next level by adding moisture and a subtle sweetness to each bite.
It was one of the best biscuits I've ever had, which is saying a lot, as I grew up in the South. As I left the restaurant, I regretted only eating one.
I decided to try to make the biscuits for myself.
I made Joanna Gaines' biscuits.
Rob Kim / Contributor / Getty Images
The recipe for "Jojo's Biscuits" is available on the Magnolia website, and since I don't know when I'll be able to go to Waco to get my pastry fix again, it seemed only fitting to try to make them myself.
I'd heard the recipe, which makes about 20 biscuits, was difficult to make, which made me apprehensive because I'm an inexperienced baker.Β
For me, baking usually consists of adding ingredients to a box mix, so making biscuits from scratch was intimidating. But I was up for the challenge since there was a chance of tasting something even vaguely similar to Magnolia Table's breakfast treats.
Although I knew the recipe would be a bit challenging, I was pleased there weren't too many ingredients.
The recipe doesn't require many ingredients.
Samantha Grindell/Business Insider
You probably have most of what you need to make "Jojo's Biscuits" in your kitchen cabinet:
Self-rising flour
Baking soda
Baking powder
Salted butter
Eggs
Buttermilk
Mixing the dry ingredients was easy.
The dry ingredients.
Samantha Grindell/Business Insider
The recipe says to whisk the self-rising flour, baking soda, and baking powder in a large bowl.
The entire recipe ends up in this bowl, so I recommend using the biggest one you have available.Β
It's also a good idea to have a full bag of flour on hand, as you'll need more of it toward the end of the recipe.
The butter had to be sliced before it could be incorporated with the dry ingredients.
The butter has to be cut.
Samantha Grindell/Business Insider
The three sticks of cold butter used in the biscuit recipe need to be cut into 1/2-inch pieces or grated before they can be added to the dry ingredients. I'm not that comfortable with a grater, so I decided to just slice the butter.
I used a baking scraper to measure out my butter sticks, as the one I have has ruler marks on it.
As I sliced up the butter, I laughed to myself thinking it was no wonder I liked "Jojo's Biscuits." Who wouldn't like a biscuit with three sticks of butter in it?
The recipe calls for a pastry blender to combine the butter and the dry ingredients.
I ordered a pastry cutter.
Samantha Grindell/Business Insider
Before making the biscuits, I had never used a pastry blender, so I ordered one on Amazon for the occasion.Β
Joanna's recipe instructs that the butter must be cut into pea-sized chunks, so I made sure to press into each chunk of butter, combining it with the flour mixture.
The pastry blender was effective, but it wasn't perfect.
The butter got stuck.
Samantha Grindell/Business Insider
Because it's sticky, chunks of butter got stuck in the pastry cutter every few times I pressed it into my bowl full of ingredients.
I used a knife and my fingers to push the butter back into the bowl, continuing to combine it with the flour.
I got nearly everything down to pea size, but I struggled to find every slice of butter at this step because much of it had slipped toward the bottom of the bowl. I wish I had used a spoon to make sure I was splitting all of the butter in the bowl evenly.
Once the butter was mixed in, it was time to add the wet ingredients.
The dough started to form as the egg and buttermilk were added.
Samantha Grindell/Business Insider
The next step of the recipe is to stir two beaten eggs into the mixture using a wooden spoon.
I mixed my eggs together before I started combining my dry ingredients, so it was easy to grab them and mix them in.Β
After that, it was time to add buttermilk, again using a wooden spoon to stir the ingredients together until it created "a sticky mass." The recipe notes that you should add an additional teaspoon of buttermilk one at a time if the mixture doesn't have the right consistency. I ended up having to add one additional teaspoon to my dough before it seemed right.Β
Stirring everything together was definitely the most challenging part of the recipe because the dough was firm, thanks to all the butter. My arm started to get sore, and I had to take a few breaks as I stirred.
I also thought I was done once or twice, and then realized there was loose flour at the bottom of the bowl that hadn't been incorporated into the mass. I think if I had a bigger spoon, I might have had an easier time mixing it all together.
I had to stir for about 10 minutes before the dough was combined properly.
The dough is supposed to be sticky.
Samantha Grindell/Business Insider
I was excited to see my dough coming together, as it had the consistency and shape I was hoping for.Β
After it's prepared, the dough must chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes and up to overnight. I let mine sit for about 45 minutes, pre-heating my oven to 400 degrees a few minutes before I took it out of the fridge.
Flouring my work surface before I assembled my biscuits was a crucial step.
I pressed the dough with my hands.
Samantha Grindell/Business Insider
Once the dough chilled, it was time to press it out with my hands and cut out biscuits.
According to the recipe, the dough is supposed to be pressed into a round about 14 inches wide and 1/2 inch thick. I measured my dough to ensure it was the proper length across, but I wasn't as consistent with making sure the slab was the same height all the way across.
Before I removed my dough, I thoroughly floured my workstation and my hands, as the recipe instructed.Β
Because the dough had become sticky as I stirred it together, I could tell this step would be important. I was glad I applied a lot of flour to my work surface, as I didn't have any issues with my dough sticking as I cut out my biscuits.Β
I used a wine glass to cut my biscuits.
A biscuit before it baked.
Samantha Grindell/Business Insider
Joanna's recipe calls for a floured, 2 3/4-inch round cutter to cut out the biscuits from the dough.
I made sure to thoroughly flour the rim of the glass before I pushed it through the dough, and it worked like a charm. I was left with beautiful, round biscuits.Β
The final step is adding an egg wash to the top of the biscuits.
The biscuits before they baked.
Samantha Grindell/Business Insider
I put my biscuits on a cookie tray lined with parchment paper, nestling them together as Joanna's recipe instructs. I typically make cookies when I bake, so I was surprised the biscuits were supposed to touch.Β
To make the egg wash, I combined one egg with buttermilk and brushed the mixture on top of the biscuits.Β
Once every biscuit had been lightly coated, it was time to pop them in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes.Β
As I put them in the oven, I was worried I had done something wrong because the recipe had been so easy to make. Sure, it was time-consuming to stir everything together, but it wasn't challenging otherwise.
I was pleased my biscuits had a golden brown look after 20 minutes exactly.
The biscuits immediately after they came out of the oven.
Samantha Grindell/Business Insider
I pulled my biscuits out when the crust had turned a golden brown, and I was immediately met by a scent I can only call buttery.
It was warm and inviting, and based on both the aroma and the look of the biscuits, I was optimistic I had actually pulled the recipe off.Β
I let the biscuits cool for about five minutes before I took a bite.
When I took my first bite, I was thrilled to find the biscuits tasted almost exactly like the one I had at Magnolia Table.
The biscuits were delicious.
Samantha Grindell/Business Insider
My mouth watered as I bit into the flaky treat.
The biscuits had a soft interior surrounded by a crumbly crust, just like the delectable pastry I had tasted at Magnolia Table. They were sweet, but I could tell they would taste just as good with jam as they would with bacon, as is ideal for a breakfast carb.
As I soaked up the flavor of the pastry, I knew that if I had strawberry butter within reach, I would have felt like I was back at a counter seat in Waco.Β
My biscuits were slightly irregular because I didn't press my dough out consistently.
I made Joanna Gaines' biscuits that are served at Magnolia Table.
Samantha Grindell/Business Insider
Although all of the biscuits were delicious, some of them were thicker than others because I had not been as diligent as I should have been when pressing out my dough round.Β
It didn't matter this time around since I was only making the biscuits for myself, but if I make the recipe for a group, I wouldn't want anyone to get a smaller biscuit than someone else.Β
I definitely recommend taking your time shaping the dough and cutting your rounds if you try this recipe.
And because they're best when you take your time with the biscuits, they took me a few hours to complete, especially because the dough needed time to chill in the fridge.
That wasn't a problem here, but I could see that being annoying if I wanted to make this recipe for breakfast and woke up hungry.
Next time I wanted to have them for breakfast, I would probably let the dough chill overnight, as it would make serving the biscuits for breakfast or brunch nearly stress-free.
They're a great breakfast treat, but I think the biscuits would also be delicious for a holiday dinner.
I'll be making the biscuits again.
Samantha Grindell/Business Insider
You might immediately associate Jojo's biscuits with breakfast, but I think they'd be the perfect substitute for the rolls or cornbread that people often serve at a holiday dinner.Β
In fact, Joanna often serves her biscuits with her sausage gravy. You could swap her recipe for the gravy you typically serve with turkey on Thanksgiving for a savory and sweet pairing.Β
Plus, you can save any leftover dough for a second batch of biscuits for a delicious brunch later in the week. It's a win-win.Β
There's a debate over the proper reading order for "Throne of Glass" by Sarah J. Maas.
Weiss Eubanks/NBCUniversal via Getty Images/Bloomsbury
"Throne of Glass" is one of beloved fantasy author Sarah J. Maas' series.
You can read its eight installments in different sequences, which confuses some fans.
Here's my recommendation for the best reading order for the series.
Like many romantasy fans, I fell in love with Sarah J. Maas' "A Court of Thorns and Roses" series after discovering it on TikTok.
I devoured Maas' books about faeries and then quickly turned my attention to her first series, "Throne of Glass," hoping it would give me a similar feeling to the books I'd come to love.
To my delight, "Throne of Glass" was everything I hoped it would be, as it was full of the magic and romance I'd loved in "ACOTAR," plus even more adventure and character depth.Β
This article contains minor spoilers for Maas' works.
'Throne of Glass' is an 8-book fantasy series about a notorious assassin
In "Throne of Glass," world-renowned assassin Celaena Sardothien has been stuck in a prison camp for over a year, wasting away at just 18 years old in Adarlan, a kingdom where magic disappeared years ago.
She gets a second chance at life when Prince Dorian offers her a deal: She can win her freedom by competing against 23 other killers to become the royal assassin for his father, the King of Adarlan. Celaena agrees despite her personal feelings toward the king, determined to earn her freedom.
"Throne of Glass" by Sarah J. Maas.
Bloomsbury Publishing
As the competition progresses, contestants start dying mysteriously, and Celaena discovers she may have to confront her past to safeguard her future.Β
I was utterly captivated by "Throne of Glass," and Celaena's world only becomes more exciting in the other seven books in the series.
While I think the series is worth a read (or two or three if you love it as much as I do), it can be difficult to know where to start, as there are multiple reading orders for the books.Β
There's a debate over the proper 'Throne of Glass' reading order
"Throne of Glass" was published by Bloomsbury in August 2012, but Maas had already published four novellas online about Celaena before it was released. The publisher later released the novellas, plus one more story, as one book, "The Assassin's Blade," in March 2013.Β
"The Assassin's Blade" by Sarah J. Maas.
Bloomsbury
The events in "The Assassin's Blade" take place chronologically before those in "Throne of Glass," and its plot is crucial for the second half of the series.Β
Some fans choose to read the books in chronological order:Β
"The Assassin's Blade"
"Throne of Glass"
"Crown of Midnight"
"Heir of Fire"
"Queen of Shadows"
"Empire of Storms" and "Tower of Dawn" in tandem
"Kingdom of Ash"
I don't think that order offers the best reading experience. Maas intentionally leaves the revelations from "The Assassin's Blade" out of "Throne of Glass," "Crown of Midnight," and "Heir of Fire," so if you read it before the first three novels in the series, you'll be exposed to spoilers you wouldn't be otherwise.Β
Instead, if you want a captivating, spoiler-free "Throne of Glass" experience, I recommend reading the series in its publication order rather than its chronological order:
"Throne of Glass"
"Crown of Midnight"
"Heir of Fire"
"The Assassin's Blade"
"Queen of Shadows"
"Empire of Storms"
"Tower of Dawn"
"Kingdom of Ash"
I would have enjoyed the first half of Maas' series no matter what order I read the books in. Still, the information revealed in "The Assasin's Blade" definitely would have made "Throne of Glass," "Crown of Midnight," and "Heir of Fire" less suspenseful if I had read it first.Β
Don't skip 'Tower of Dawn'
"Throne of Glass" fans also have differing opinions on when to read "Empire of Storms" and "Tower of Dawn," which came out in 2016 and 2017, respectively.Β
Despite their different publication dates, the events of the sixth and seventh installments of the series happen concurrently in different parts of the "Throne of Glass" universe.
Most people read the two books in the order they were released, but "Empire of Storms" ends on a cliffhanger that is not resolved until the last novel in the series, "Kingdom of Ash." When I first read the books, I found it somewhat difficult to focus on the events of "Tower of Dawn" because I was so concerned about what would occur in "Kingdom of Ash," even though the plot was riveting.
"Empire of Storms" and "Tower of Dawn" by Sarah J. Maas.
Bloomsbury
Some people choose to tandem read the two novels, switching back and forth between them to read the events in "real-time."
You may also see some BookTokers saying they skipped reading "Tower of Dawn" completely because it doesn't center on the protagonist, which I think is a colossal mistake. The events of "Tower of Dawn" are critical to the series' resolution, and you'd be missing vital information if you didn't read them.Β
However, if you enjoy minor spoilers, I would read "Tower of Dawn" before "Empire of Storms" on your first pass through the series. You will know some snippets of what occurs in "Empire of Storms" before you read it, but you may save yourself from the anxiety-riddled experience of reading an entire 600-page book between the cliffhanger ending of "Empire of Storms" and its resolution in "Kingdom of Ash."
And if you're new to the Sarah J. Maas universe, I'd recommend reading the "A Court of Thorns and Roses" series before you even touch "Throne of Glass."Β You should also save her "Crescent City" series for last, as Maas created a multiverse with her different series that won't make sense without the context "ACOTAR" and "Throne of Glass" provide.Β
You can read more about the best order to read all of Maas' books here.
Aldy de Vries wore her dream dress to her August 2024 wedding.
Eline Nijburg Photography
Aldy de Vries and Ron Goed got married in August after over a decade together.
De Vries wore a sparkly gown with a corset bodice to their destination wedding in Greece.
Footage of de Vries in her wedding gown went viral online.
When Aldy de Vries got engaged in August 2023, she knew she wanted to find a white wedding dress for her big day.
It didn't matter that she was 62 years old and had been married once before. De Vries didn't get to have a wedding when she married her late husband, and she wanted to feel like a bride when this wedding finally came.
Still, de Vries didn't anticipate falling in love with a sparkly, form-fitting wedding gown β or that a TikTok video of her dress would amass over 30 million views.
Aldy de Vries and Ron Goed were together for nearly 13 years before they got married.
Aldy de Vries and Ron Goed got married in August 2024.
Eline Nijburg Photography
De Vries, 62, and Goed, 60, met in 2011 in Holland, where they still live today. She caught Goed's eye when she was out to dinner with friends; they've been an item ever since.
De Vries works in administration at a university, while Goed, who has two daughters, is partially retired but still does some work in the business sector.
Before he proposed in August 2023, Goed consulted de Vries' daughter, Chloe Crouch, 27, because of her close-knit relationship with her mother. De Vries raised Crouch on her own, as Crouch's father died when she was just 11 months old.
Crouch is also the founder of the wedding planning company Chloe Crouch Events, so her insight was even more valuable to Goed.
"He was asking me all those little things, like what kind of engagement ring," Crouch told Business Insider. "It was also not only my job as a wedding planner to advise but also a bit like his daughter. And I know my mom very well."
Of course, de Vries said yes when Goed popped the question.
The couple decided to get married in Greece.
The couple got married in Greece.
Eline Nijburg Photography
De Vries and Goed got married in Zakynthos, Greece, at The Cotton Beach Club on August 31.
They invited just 35 people to the event and held a bigger reception in the Netherlands a week later.
It was a no-brainer that Crouch would plan both wedding celebrations.
She told BI she designed it with an "old-money aesthetic," as she wanted the wedding to feel luxurious and classic with touches like a cigar bar.
De Vries knew she wanted to find a traditional wedding dress for the event.
The bride on the morning of her wedding.
Eline Nijburg
When she married Crouch's father, De Vries didn't have a big wedding with a classic gown. So she knew she wanted the traditional white dress the second time around.
"It was my day with my husband-to-be, and I thought, 'I'm gonna do what I want,'" she said of her decision to wear a traditional wedding gown.
She went shopping with Crouch, Goed's daughters, and a friend to find the perfect dress. It was especially exciting for Crouch and de Vries because they had been big fans of "Say Yes to the Dress" throughout Crouch's teen years.
When she started shopping, de Vries didn't have an exact idea of the type of dress she wanted, though she was pretty set on not wanting a strapless or fitted dress.
To her surprise, de Vries fell in love with a fitted, strapless gown.
The dress spoke to her.
Eline Nijburg Photography
De Vries said her loved ones encouraged her to try on several dresses with different silhouettes and designs, leading her to a Made With Love Bridal gown.
With its strapless, form-fitting silhouette, the dress was everything de Vries thought she didn't want.
But she fell in love with it, as did her entourage.
"She loves glitter and glamour," Crouch said of her mother. "I saw the dress with the pearls and glam, and I was like, 'This is her.'"
The gown retailed for $3,100 in the US as of November.
The details made de Vries' dress one of a kind.
The gown featured pearl detailing.
Eline Nijburg Photography
The form-fitting dress had a semi-sheer base and was covered from head to toe in pearlescent beading and delicate lace.
The beading created a subtle crisscross pattern, shimmering as de Vries moved.
The gown was cinched at the waist and flowed into a subtle train at the hem. The fabric was light, perfect for an island wedding.
A corset bodice gave the gown a modern edge.
The boning on the corset was subtly visible.
Eline Nijburg Photography
The corset bodice featured a strapless, sweetheart neckline.
The boning was visible through the slightly sheer fabric, elevating the look. The pearl detailing also stood out against the material.
Classic accessories and styling completed the look.
The look was effortlessly glamorous.
Eline Nijburg Photography
De Vries paired her dress with pearl-covered shoes that coordinated with the gown, delicate dangly earrings, and a heart-shaped necklace. The shoes were from Athens, which was a fun way to incorporate the destination into her look.
She wore her hair in a twist for the ceremony with natural but glamorous makeup.
Osima Bridalstudio, whom de Vries knows well because she frequently works with Crouch, styled her hair and makeup.
The dress also had a sweet connection to Crouch's roots.
The dress was from Australia.
Eline Nijburg Photography
Made With Love Bridal is based in Australia, where Crouch's father was from. She and de Vries lived there until her father's death.
"It's got a little connection with Australia, so it made it even more like, 'Yes, this should be it,'" Crouch said of what the gown's origins meant to them.
De Vries said the dress made her feel like "a different person."
She loved the gown.
Eline Nijburg Photography
Although it wasn't what she initially imagined, de Vries said the dress was perfect for her.
"I just love that dress," she said. "I thought it was fantastic."
Goed was "blown away" by de Vries' dress.
The dress was a surprise to the groom.
Eline Nijburg Photography
De Vries didn't show Goed her dress before the wedding. She told BI she joked with him throughout their engagement that she would wear a "cupcake dress."
So when he saw her real dress, he was overwhelmed and emotional by how beautiful de Vries looked.
"He was in shock," Crouch said, adding that his emotional reaction to seeing de Vries made her cry. "It was like I had to cry because he was crying so much."
The ceremony took place overlooking the ocean.
The ceremony space.
Eline Nijburg Photography
Crouch decorated the ceremony space with white and green florals, covering the seating with large umbrellas to keep guests comfortable.
A massive floral arch served as the centerpiece of the decor.
Both the bride and groom were escorted down the aisle by their daughters.
The wedding was a family affair.
Eline Nijburg Photography
Because Crouch planned the event, she was working the wedding day in addition to being a bridesmaid.
"At some point, I had to give it away to someone else because I had to walk down the aisle with my mom," she said. "I was still like, 'OK, you come here, you do this,' but as soon as I was with my mom and we walked down the aisle, I was like, 'OK, I'm a bridesmaid for the first time in my life.'"
The duo said Crouch was emotional as they walked down the aisle, while de Vries was full of joy.
De Vries and Goed said personal vows to each other.
A friend officiated the wedding.
Eline Nijburg Photography
A friend of de Vries' was their officiant, which was in line with the intimate feel of the wedding.
"It was all the people who actually make our life happy," she said of the destination wedding's attendees.
She also said that lightning struck at the moment they said "I do," adding a dramatic flair to the nuptials.
De Vries said the ceremony was "perfect."
The ceremony was joyful for the bride.
Eline Nijburg Photography
"I'm a big cry girl," de Vries said. "If it's a movie where somebody cries, I totally go over the top crying. But it didn't happen."
Instead, she was gleeful throughout the day, soaking up the experience.
"I thought it was a magical day," she said, from getting ready with the girls to the ocean-view ceremony.
"I just enjoyed every second of it," she added.
De Vries switched up her hairstyle after the ceremony.
The hair gave her a second look.
Eline Nijburg Photography
She didn't wear a different dress for the reception, as more and more brides do.
However, she did change her hairstyle from the updo to a more relaxed, swept-back style to set the tone for the party.
The celebration continued at a beachside reception.
The dinner was on the beach.
Eline Nijburg Photography
Crouch arranged for her mother's 35 guests to dine at one estate table following the ceremony. To make it feel intimate, she framed the area with gossamer drapery.
Crouch said one of the highlights of the day was seeing the wedding come together as she had planned for two people she loves so much.
The details of the reception were chosen with care.
The reception table.
Eline Nijburg Photography
For instance, Crouch used personalized silk ribbons tied around wine glasses instead of traditional place cards.
She also played with levels in the decor, pairing ultra-high, tapered candles with shorter bouquets.
Crouch said her mom was the easiest wedding client she's ever had.
Aldy de Vries and Chloe Crouch at the wedding.
Eline Nijburg Photography
"It was easier because I know her," Crouch said. "I know what she likes. I know what she dislikes."
Crouch also lived with her mother during the wedding planning process, which made putting the event together even simpler. But it was their close bond that truly made it a breeze.
"The majority of my life, we've been together just the two of us," Crouch said. "It was just us. So we've got a really good bond with each other. We can say whatever we like to each other."
"For me, the wedding planning process was the easiest ever," she said.
The wedding was everything de Vries hoped it would be.
The couple at their wedding.
Eline Nijburg Photography
"It was a party from beginning to end," de Vries said.
"It was just fantastic," she added. "I had no stress. I was so happy."
She credits Crouch's planning as one of the main reasons she was just joyful on her wedding day.
The wedding went viral online after de Vries' photographer shared footage of her on TikTok.
The bride went viral on TikTok.
Eline Nijburg Photography
Eline Nijburg Photography documented the wedding day, sharing clips of the event on social media after the event.
Nijburg posted a TikTok video of de Vries during the ceremony, where she was laughing and speaking to Goed. The video immediately took off, amassing over 30 million views as of November.
De Vries hopes the video encourages other brides to wear whatever they want on their wedding day.
De Vries wants brides to wear what makes them feel good.
The couple cutting their cake.
Eline Nijburg Photography
"Just go with what you want," de Vries said. "Because people tell you, 'Oh, you're 60 years old. Why would you wear that type of dress?' Why not?"
She said the same applies to people who question if brides who have been married before should wear white.
"Why would I go for a certain type of dress because of my age?" she said.
She wants brides to wear what they want.
Eline Nijburg Photography
"Go with what you think is pretty," de Vries advised. "It's your day and not somebody else's."
"You have to be comfy and happy with what you're wearing," she added.
De Vries said she loves Goed's "big heart."
The newlyweds.
Eline Nijburg Photography
"He is very easygoing," she said. "He's a chill person."
"He's got a lot of humor and a very big heart," she added.
If you wore an eye-catching wedding dress and want to talk to Business Insider for a story, contact [email protected].
