things to know

🕴️ Forget everything you know about fashion – Paris just rewrote the rulebook. Spring 2025 is all about identity crisis chic. We're talking masculine suits with a side of boho, pastels that scream "I raided grandma's closet," and feathers on... everything? But the real showstopper? Clothes that stand up without you in them. It's like your outfit's ready to party even when you're not. Balenciaga's serving looks that'll make you question your eyesight. Ready to dress like you've lost your mind (in the best way possible)?

👜 Fashion's newest It-bag? The one that looks like you just dumped your junk drawer into it! SS24 runways are celebrating the beauty of cluttered, personalized bags. Balenciaga's models jingled down the catwalk with keychain-covered totes, while Miu Miu embraced the "everything but the kitchen sink" aesthetic. This trend harkens back to Jane Birkin's customized Hermès and Japan's ita bags, turning personal trinkets into fashion statements. It's a refreshing departure from polished perfection, encouraging us to wear our lived experiences on our sleeves – or rather, our bags. Time to dig out those souvenir keychains!

🌙 The pursuit of perfect sleep has gone viral, with #sleepmaxxing taking over social media. From mouth taping to "sleepy girl mocktails," people are trying everything for those elusive 8 hours. But is this sleep obsession keeping us up at night? Experts warn that too much focus on sleep can backfire, causing anxiety and disrupting our natural rhythms. Instead of extreme measures, try the basics: a cool, dark room and a proper wind-down routine. For those 3 a.m. wake-ups, "longevity influencer" Dave Asprey suggests a pre-bed snack to stabilize blood sugar. Remember, sleep is an unconscious process – sometimes the best thing you can do is stop trying so hard.

🌸 The skincare world is buzzing about essences, but what's the hype about? These K-beauty staples are making their mark in Western routines. Think of them as lightweight, hydrating primers for your skin. Packed with active ingredients, essences can target concerns from dryness to aging. They're applied after cleansing but before serums, enhancing overall product absorption. While not a must-have like moisturizer, essences can be a powerful addition for those looking to level up their routine. With minimal side effects, they're generally safe for all skin types. The bottom line? Essences are a nice-to-have that could make a big difference for the right skin concerns.

👁️ Eye see you, burgundy! This fall's hottest makeup trend is giving us major wine mom vibes — but in a chic way. Makeup artists are slapping this deep hue on eyes and cheeks, and we're here for it. Thin liner for the timid, smoky eyes for the bold — pick your poison. It's like a PSL for your face, but way less basic. Bonus: it works on all skin tones, from "I've never seen the sun" to "I am the sun." Feeling grape? Give it a swirl!

what else?

🧑‍🏫 Teachers are sounding the alarm on Gen Alpha. These digital natives are turning classrooms upside down with their tech-savvy rebellion. From finding teachers' houses on Zillow to referring to them as "Alexa," Gen Alpha is rewriting the rules of student-teacher dynamics. One middle school teacher reports feeling bullied by her students, who participate in TikTok trends mocking educators. The most shocking incident? Pennsylvania students creating AI-generated TikTok accounts of their teachers spouting inappropriate content. But is social media really to blame, or is it permissive "gentle parenting"? As these kids grow into their power, some see potential for positive change. After all, this diverse generation was shaped by the pandemic and social justice movements. Maybe their challenge to authority is exactly what we need?

🤳 The internet loves a good cry. Sharing emotional moments online has become a lucrative business, with creators cashing in on their most vulnerable experiences. From Spritely's viral breakup song to Reesa Teesa's 50-part relationship saga, personal trauma is internet gold. Social media platforms and creator funds offer direct profit opportunities, turning tearful confessions into potential career launchpads. But it's not without controversy. Critics question the authenticity and ethics of monetizing pain, while some creators admit to fabricating dramatic stories for views. As the line between content and reality blurs, we're left wondering: What price are we willing to pay for internet fame?