These Habits Separate Sophisticated People From Tacky Ones
Being a good conversationalist isn't just about talking; it's about engaging. Sophisticated individuals understand the power of well-chosen words and the importance of listening. Instead of dominating discussions, they contribute meaningfully and encourage others to share. Research by Deborah Tannen, a professor of linguistics at Georgetown University, shows that effective communication involves balancing speaking and listening. This balance allows for a more enriching exchange of ideas and helps avoid the pitfalls of talking just for the sake of it.
In contrast, tacky individuals often speak without considering the impact of their words. They might interrupt others or dominate conversations, not allowing room for others to express themselves. Their focus tends to be on themselves rather than the collective experience of the conversation. This approach can come across as self-centered and dismissive, leaving others feeling unheard. The key is to be thoughtful about what you say and attentive to how others respond.
Sophisticated individuals have a keen awareness of the unspoken dress code for any occasion. They dress with intention, understanding that what they wear communicates respect for the event and the people attending. Their style is often understated yet elegant, avoiding flashy or overly trendy pieces in favor of timeless classics. They know that dressing appropriately enhances not only their appearance but also their confidence and presence.
On the other hand, tacky dressers often miss the mark by either underdressing or overdressing for events. They might choose outfits that draw unnecessary attention or fail to acknowledge the occasion's tone. This can be seen as disrespectful or out of touch with social norms. It's not about wearing expensive clothes but choosing attire that fits the setting. Knowing when to be subtle and when to make a statement is a valuable skill in social settings.
Time is a valuable commodity, and sophisticated individuals respect both their own time and that of others. They understand that punctuality is a sign of reliability and respect. Showing up on time, whether it's for a meeting or a social gathering, demonstrates that you value the commitments of others. According to Dr. Linda Sapadin, a psychologist who specializes in time management, punctuality can foster trust and enhance personal and professional relationships. Keeping time is not just about clocks; it's about showing consideration for people's schedules and commitments.
In contrast, those who regularly show up late may come across as inconsiderate or disorganized. Tardiness can disrupt plans and create a negative impression, suggesting that you value your own time more than others. This habit can strain relationships and hinder professional success. To improve punctuality, plan ahead and consider potential delays, ensuring that you're always ready to arrive on time. Remember, it's a simple yet powerful way to build a reputation for respectfulness and reliability.
Good manners never go out of style. They are the cornerstone of sophisticated behavior and can be the deciding factor in how you are perceived by others. Politeness, saying "please" and "thank you," holding doors open, and acknowledging others' efforts are small gestures that leave a lasting impression. They show a level of awareness and appreciation for those around them. Cultivating these habits doesn't require much effort but can enhance your interactions significantly.
On the flip side, tacky individuals might neglect these common courtesies, appearing rude or dismissive. This oversight can create friction in social settings and lead to misunderstandings. Simple acts of kindness and respect can be powerful tools in creating a positive atmosphere. Good manners are a universal language that transcends cultural barriers, making everyone feel respected and valued. The choice is simple: embrace courtesy as a fundamental part of your character.
In a world full of distractions, giving someone your undivided attention is a rare and valuable gift. Sophisticated people demonstrate this by putting away their phones and engaging fully in the present moment. They prioritize face-to-face interactions and make a concerted effort to listen and respond thoughtfully. According to a study by Dr. Sherry Turkle, a professor at MIT, meaningful conversations are disrupted by the mere presence of a smartphone. Being attentive shows that you value the person you're with and that their words matter to you.
Conversely, those who frequently check their phones or seem preoccupied during interactions can come across as disinterested or disrespectful. This behavior signals that other things are more important than the person in front of you. It can hinder the depth of connections and stifle meaningful exchanges. By being present, you foster stronger relationships and demonstrate empathy and respect. Make a conscious effort to engage fully with those around you, and the quality of your interactions will improve.
Sophisticated individuals make an effort to understand and appreciate different cultures. This awareness allows them to engage thoughtfully and respectfully with people from diverse backgrounds. They take the time to educate themselves about customs, traditions, and beliefs, which enriches their worldview and fosters inclusivity. By approaching cultural differences with an open mind and curiosity, they build bridges and create meaningful connections.
Tacky behavior often stems from ignorance or disregard for cultural nuances. This can lead to misunderstandings or offend those from different backgrounds. A lack of cultural awareness may result in inappropriate comments or behavior, highlighting a limited perspective. By remaining open and informed, you show respect for others and enhance your ability to navigate diverse social landscapes. Embracing cultural awareness is a sign of sophistication and a commitment to understanding the world more deeply.
Empathy is a hallmark of sophistication, allowing individuals to relate to others' feelings and experiences. Sophisticated people listen actively and respond with understanding and compassion, showing genuine concern for those around them. They recognize that everyone has their own struggles and triumphs and offer support where possible. Dr. Brené Brown, a research professor at the University of Houston, emphasizes that empathy strengthens connections by allowing us to be present with another's emotions. With empathy, you foster deeper, more meaningful relationships.
In contrast, a lack of empathy can result in insensitive or dismissive behavior. This can alienate others and create barriers to communication. Tacky individuals may fail to recognize the importance of considering others' perspectives, leading to misunderstandings. By cultivating empathy, you demonstrate emotional intelligence and a commitment to understanding others. It's a powerful tool for connecting with people on a deeper level and enhancing your interactions.
Sophisticated individuals remain calm and composed, even in challenging situations. This ability to manage emotions and maintain a level head is crucial for effective problem-solving and decision-making. They understand that losing their temper or panicking can escalate issues and hinder resolution. By staying composed, they project confidence and control, which can be reassuring to those around them.
On the other hand, tacky individuals may become easily flustered or reactive under stress. This can lead to impulsive decisions and negative interactions, leaving a lasting impression of unpredictability. By learning to manage stress and emotions, you can navigate difficult situations more effectively. Composure is a valuable asset in both personal and professional settings, enhancing your ability to lead and influence others. Practice mindfulness and stress management techniques to cultivate this important habit.
Sophisticated individuals welcome feedback as an opportunity for growth and improvement. They understand that constructive criticism can provide valuable insights and help refine their skills and behavior. By approaching feedback with an open mind, they demonstrate a commitment to personal and professional development. This openness fosters an environment of trust and collaboration, where others feel comfortable offering honest input.
Conversely, tacky individuals may become defensive or dismissive when receiving feedback. This resistance can hinder growth and damage relationships, as it signals a lack of willingness to learn or adapt. By embracing feedback, you show humility and a desire to better yourself. This attitude encourages others to share their perspectives and contribute to your development. Make an effort to listen actively and reflect on the feedback you receive, and you'll foster a culture of continuous improvement.
Gratitude is an essential component of sophistication, reflecting an appreciation for both the big and small things in life. Sophisticated individuals express gratitude regularly, acknowledging the efforts and kindness of others. This habit fosters positive relationships and creates a sense of connection and appreciation. By recognizing the contributions of those around you, you demonstrate humility and respect.
In contrast, those who fail to express gratitude may come across as entitled or unappreciative. This can strain relationships and create a negative impression, as it suggests a lack of awareness of others' efforts. By making a conscious effort to say "thank you" and show appreciation, you enhance your interactions and strengthen your connections. Gratitude is a simple yet powerful way to build rapport and create a positive atmosphere. Cultivate this habit, and you'll leave a lasting impression of warmth and sincerity.
Sophisticated individuals understand the importance of respecting personal space and boundaries. This awareness allows them to engage comfortably with others, fostering a sense of respect and consideration. They recognize that different people have varying comfort levels and adjust their behavior accordingly. This understanding helps prevent misunderstandings and creates a positive atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable.
On the other hand, those who disregard personal space may come across as intrusive or disrespectful. This behavior can create discomfort and tension, as it suggests a lack of awareness of others' needs. By respecting personal space, you demonstrate consideration for others and enhance your interactions. This habit is particularly important in diverse social settings, where cultural norms may vary. Practice mindfulness and sensitivity to ensure that your interactions are respectful and considerate.
Body language is a powerful form of communication, and sophisticated individuals are keenly aware of its impact. They use gestures, posture, and facial expressions to convey confidence and openness. By being mindful of their body language, they enhance their ability to connect with others and communicate effectively. Positive body language can reinforce verbal communication and create a sense of trust and rapport.
In contrast, tacky individuals may exhibit negative body language, such as crossing arms or avoiding eye contact. This can create barriers in communication and signal disinterest or discomfort. By paying attention to your body language, you can project confidence and approachability. Practice maintaining an open stance, making eye contact, and using gestures to support your words. This awareness can significantly improve your interactions and enhance your ability to connect with others.
Sophisticated individuals understand the importance of prioritizing self-care to maintain their physical and mental well-being. They recognize that taking care of themselves is essential for being their best in social and professional settings. By incorporating self-care into their routine, they enhance their ability to manage stress and maintain a positive outlook. This commitment to self-care reflects a level of self-awareness and responsibility for their well-being.
Conversely, tacky individuals may neglect self-care, leading to burnout and negative impacts on their interactions. This oversight can result in irritability, fatigue, and a lack of focus, affecting their ability to engage effectively with others. By prioritizing self-care, you demonstrate a commitment to your well-being and a desire to be your best self. This habit enhances your resilience and ability to navigate life's challenges with grace. Make self-care a priority, and you'll improve your interactions and overall quality of life.
Sophisticated individuals have a thirst for knowledge and a desire to continuously learn and grow. They embrace new experiences and actively seek opportunities to expand their understanding of the world. This commitment to lifelong learning reflects a curiosity and openness to new ideas and perspectives. By staying informed and educated, they enhance their ability to contribute meaningfully to conversations and interactions.
In contrast, those who resist learning may become stagnant and limited in their perspectives. This reluctance to embrace new knowledge can hinder personal and professional development. By cultivating a habit of lifelong learning, you demonstrate a commitment to growth and a willingness to adapt to change. This attitude encourages exploration and innovation, enhancing your ability to navigate an ever-changing world. Stay curious and open to new experiences, and you'll continue to evolve and thrive.
Authenticity is a hallmark of sophistication, reflecting a genuine and sincere approach to interactions. Sophisticated individuals value authenticity in themselves and others, recognizing the importance of being true to oneself. They embrace their unique qualities and express themselves honestly, fostering genuine connections with those around them. This authenticity creates a sense of trust and openness, enhancing the quality of their interactions.
Individuals who prioritize appearances or conform to social expectations may exhibit inauthentic behavior. This can create a disconnect in their interactions, as others may perceive them as insincere or superficial. By valuing authenticity, you demonstrate self-confidence and a commitment to being true to yourself. This encourages others to do the same, creating a more inclusive and supportive environment. Embrace your authentic self, and you'll foster deeper, more meaningful connections with those around you.
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CNN
2 hours ago
- CNN
Social media loves Hulken bags, but are they worth over $100? I tested one against a $12 alternative to find out
I hate to brag, but since I moved to New York City a few years ago, I've become a top-tier schlepper. Without access to a car, I've quickly accumulated a collection of tote bags and backpacks that might help lighten my load. I've also learned that some carriers are better than others. Through all my trials (even attempting to use my hiking backpack to carry groceries), nothing has performed better than the Hulken Original Rolling Tote Bag. Though the brand officially launched in 2020 and has had a few viral moments in recent years, Hulken is still a name unfamiliar to many. In the city, I'll often spot fellow schleppers toting their bags about, but I still field questions, comments and glances nearly every time I roll mine around. The Hulken bag has become one of my favorite products to use, but even the smallest size costs $100. With many other rolling bags on the market, I wanted to see if these viral bags were truly worth the hype and the cost, so I tested one of Hulken's bags against a $12 Target version, inspecting the durability, comfort and design over weeks of heavy hauling. Hulken Original Rolling Tote Bag Smooth, sturdy and structurally built, the Hulken Original Rolling Tote Bag is a dream to use. It can easily haul heavy loads over miles of city streets, and look stylish while doing it. Though the price might initially give you sticker shock, with proper care, this durable bag will be your shopping and schlepping assistant for many years to come. Brightroom Storage Bag With Wheels For only $12, the Brightroom Storage Bag held up better than expected. The wheels and overall build are not as robust and durable as the Hulken bag, but if you need some help toting laundry or light loads over short distances, it can save you from extra effort. Polypropylene body Polyethylene body Small, medium, large One size 2,156 cubic inches, 4,224 cubic inches, 8,320 cubic inches (respectively) 7,360 cubic inches 33 pounds, 66 pounds, 66 pounds (respectively) Not listed 14 by 9 by 22 inches16 by 12 by 22 inches20 by 16 by 26 inches 24 by 20 by 16 inches 8 2 4 swivel wheels 5 swivel wheels 3 4 (2 long, 2 short) Yes Yes Yes Yes One of the major assets of both the Hulken and Brightroom bags is that they give you all the storage you want in an oversized tote, but with the shoulder- and back-saving convenience of being on wheels. Rolling totes are not just crafted for city-dwellers like me, they're also great for those with strength or mobility issues, busy parents who have to carry around kids toys or those who often need an extra hand hauling supplies or equipment to work. My largest regular trek is my weekly run to the grocery store, which is around 60 city blocks or almost 3 miles round-trip. Some days I'll hop on the bus, but often I'll end up rolling my groceries the 30-block distance from the store to my home. The Hulken makes this commute a breeze; it rolls over uneven concrete effortlessly, hops curbs and only requires a mild tug to keep it moving. The four swivel wheels let me steer the bag around pedestrians, construction zones and up and down the aisles of crowded stores with ease. In addition to concrete, the Hulken also glided easily over other surfaces, like hardwood, tile and carpet. The one downfall is that the Hulken doesn't always roll straight. The way you pack the bag — especially for heavier loads like groceries — impacts how seamlessly the bag moves, so you'll want to distribute the weight of your haul as evenly as possible. I took the Brightroom bag on the exact same trek I typically take my Hulken on and we got off to a promising start. The bag maneuvered fairly easily around the store, though the handles are shorter than the Hulken's, so taller folks might need to bend down more to reach them. Once the bag was full and out on the street, it rolled without issue — at first. Like the Hulken, Brightroom's bag also has swiveling wheels, and though the wheels are smaller — about half the size of Hulken's — there's an additional fifth wheel in the center of the bag to help keep things rolling evenly. Prev Next The first 10 blocks of my walk home went as expected, but somewhere around the halfway point, I started to feel like the bag was drifting further behind me and I had to use more arm strength to pull it along. The last five blocks of my trip, I felt like the wheels weren't even there and I was just dragging the bag along the ground and over curbs. After unloading it, I discovered that the center wheel had been damaged at some point during my journey, which likely played a part in my strained effort. The other four wheels were intact but looking worse for wear and physically hot to the touch, which was not a great sign considering this was my first outing with the bag. Granted, I don't think the Brightroom bag was designed to roll a mile and a half over nothing but concrete, but if anything, the struggles I faced helped to highlight just how well-crafted the Hulken bag is for tough, city conditions. For $12, the Brightroom bag fared better than I expected, but when the main draw of the bag is that it rolls, you want the wheels to be ultra-durable and built to last. Related article The 18 best storage bins and containers professional organizers swear by I didn't anticipate noise to be a factor between these bags, but it sure was. The Hulken bag makes a bit of sound when it's rolling over concrete or on hardwood floors, especially when it's packed full of groceries, but a little noise is expected from anything that rolls. The good news is that the noise isn't so loud that it interrupts normal conversation or would bother anyone you roll past for more than a second or two. By comparison, the Brightroom bag sounded like a jet engine. It's inexplicably loud; so loud that not even my noise-cancelling headphones could fully block it out. I was having a bit of social anxiety strolling with it down the street because I knew other people could hear me rolling it from halfway down the block. I thought the wheels on the Brightroom bag just might not be made for concrete, but even when I rolled it through the smooth, glossy floors of the office, it still echoed down the hall. The Brightroom bag was fine for short distances — like taking my laundry down the hall of my apartment building or moving odds and ends from room to room — but over long distances, I'd much prefer the smoother and quieter glide of the Hulken. Currently, I rely on my Hulken bag for three main tasks: grocery shopping, laundry and schlepping products for testing to and from our office. For fair testing, I swapped my Hulken for Brightroom's bag for all my typical tasks. The Brightroom bag has a lot of similarities to the Hulken: Both have swivel wheels, long handles, zip-close tops and solid bottoms for support. One drawback is that Brightroom's bag only comes in one size option and is quite a bit bigger than the small and medium-sized Hulkens. The same amount of groceries that normally fills my Hulken took up only a third of the total space in the Brightroom bag. Even my grocery cashier commented on how massive the bag was. In my testing, I found that the Brightroom bag was better equipped for light loads even though it's larger — I'd say no more than about 35 or 40 pounds. The more flexible structure and large capacity is especially useful for hauling cumbersome laundry and linens. This generous capacity also means the Brightroom bag has a larger base. I found the wider, square shape of the Brightroom bag more difficult to navigate through small areas (like on public transit or within store aisles) than the Hulken bag, which has a narrower, rectangular design. Hulken does offer a large-size bag that's even a little bit bigger than Brightroom's bag, but it will run you almost $115 more. I also appreciated that the Hulken bag has a more rigid structure. Whether the bag is packed to the brim or just holding a few items, it retains its rectangular shape and stays propped up. The upright build makes the bag easier to pull and keeps it free-standing, so you can load items in without having to hold the bag open. The rectangular shape of the Hulken does slightly limit what size and shape items you can place inside, since for the best fit, things will need to be smaller than the top opening of the bag. Though this structure also prevents items from shifting around once inside and keeps things more evenly distributed than the Brightroom bag. Hulken's medium bag is the size I most frequently use and in addition to its impressive 66-pound weight limit, I like that the bag is large enough to carry everything I need, but still narrow enough to weave through crowded store aisles. Hulken's bags feel like they're made with city-dwellers in mind; the small and medium-sized bags fit onto a single escalator step and just clear underneath the height of the subway turnstiles. The three 'unbreakable handles' on each of the bags are reinforced with a plastic coating, which provides added durability and makes them more comfortable to hold. The bags are also made of water-resistant polypropylene and have a zip-top to keep your belongings protected in drizzly conditions. While both bags have a lot of the same design features, the Hulken feels more elevated and sturdy, so it's the better option for carrying groceries and heavy hauls. For only $12, I think the Brightroom bag is decently built. Although it's crinkled and has some scuffs from bumping against the curb, there are no holes or tears on the body of the bag and other than the broken wheel, everything is fully intact. Still, the reinforced handles, thicker sides and overall superior build of the Hulken make it feel flimsy and thin by comparison. Though neither bag is perfect, the one thing I would add to both bags is a pocket. While I don't mind keeping essentials like my phone, keys and wallet close to me in a fanny pack, I think a slim pocket on the bags would be nice for holding receipts, smaller items or any other items you might not want to toss in the main compartment. Both the Hulken and the Brightroom bags have collapsible designs that make them easy to store, but Hulken's design makes the process more straightforward. The Hulken collapses down in seconds and has thoughtful touches, such as the attached elastic straps, to ensure the bag stays fully folded when not in use. After you've folded the bag once (or watched a helpful video), it's easy to repeat the process. Not only does this lie-flat design make the bag easier to store in a closet, car trunk or even an under-bed area, it also makes it easier to carry around. Even with the bag folded, you can still utilize the handles. My usual move is to loop the straps of the folded bag over my shoulder while I commute via bus, train or foot to the grocery store and then pop it open when I get to my destination. When I'm navigating busy streets or trying to squeeze onto crowded public transit lines, having a slimmer bag makes it easier to get around. Plus, the medium-sized bag only weighs 3 pounds, so it's not a nuisance to have to carry either. Brightroom's bag is collapsible too, but it takes a little more effort to get completely flat. If you're in a rush, you can smush the bag down, but this method doesn't bode well for protecting the bag long-term. It takes a bit more time and practice to fold the bag down neatly, but the end result is still something that's slim and easy to store. Once you compress the bag down, it will stay, but unlike the Hulken, Brightroom's bag doesn't have elastic ties that help to keep it closed. This doesn't really matter if you're storing the bag with the wheels touching the ground, but it's a helpful feature if you want to store the bag vertically. It also means you won't be able to carry it folded tote-style like with the Hulken, since nothing is securing the body of the bag against gravity. Hulken's bags are not only built to be durable, they're also built to look stylish. The brand offers all of its bags in eight iridescent shades ranging from understated black and navy, to vivid pink, violet and silver options. On the other hand, Brightroom only offers its rolling tote in gray and aqua colors. The color of your tote might not be the most important factor, but it's nice to have options and feel that you're spending your money on something you like the look of. I hesitate to say any product is life-changing, but the Hulken bag really is one of the greatest things to roll into my life. I no longer have to limit my carrying load for fear that I'm going to collapse before I can make it home. The Hulken smoothly rolls over any surface, makes heavy hauls easier and, though it has a $100 minimum price point, it's worth the splurge. With proper use and care, I expect my Hulken bag to last several years, possibly even a decade. If you don't feel like spending triple digits, the Brightroom bag is a nice option for only $12, just don't plan to use it for extra-heavy loads. It's best suited for chores at home or hauling things short distances, like from room-to-room or from your car into your home. Though I was surprised by how the Brightroom bag held up, I'll still be reaching for my Hulken anytime I've got things to schlep. And if you know someone who could use help with their haul, it makes a great gift too. Though you'll be able to find other rolling tote alternatives on Amazon that emulate the Hulken bag's design, bear in mind that these tend to have fluctuating stock, fewer color and size options and lack the intentional structural features that make the Hulken bag a true original. How do you fold a Hulken bag? How do you fold a Hulken bag? First, unzip the lid on your Hulken bag and turn the bag so the front handle is on your right-hand side. Pinch the sides of the bag outwards and fold the bag away from you. The back side of the bag should be flush with the bottom. Make sure the handles are out of the way and fold the left and right sides of the bag toward the center. Secure the sides down by looping the small attached elastic bands around the black button in the center of the bag. You can also secure the side handles down by tucking them behind the horizontal black straps on both sides of the bag. If you need a visual, Hulken includes a helpful video for this on the product page for its bags. Are Hulken bags worth it? Are Hulken bags worth it? While $100 or more is a steep price to pay for a tote bag, I think the Hulken bags are worth the investment. They're great for city-dwellers who need a compact bag they can tote for blocks, but will work well for anyone who needs to lug supplies, equipment, groceries, laundry or kids toys to-and-fro. My Hulken bag stands up to any task I throw its way and the durable build shows no signs of slowing down. It also doesn't hurt that the bag looks stylish too. The Hulken bag is the bag that keeps on giving; you'll find new uses for it regularly, which is also why it makes a great gift option for any schleppers in your life. Do Hulken bags go on sale? Do Hulken bags go on sale? We don't see sales on Hulken bags very often, though in the past the brand has offered discounts during shopping holidays like Black Friday and Cyber Monday. CNN Underscored has a team of writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when relevant to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this story, associate editor Jillian Tracy tested the Hulken Original Rolling Tote Bag and the Brightroom Storage Bag With Wheels in her daily routine — hauling groceries, laundry, products and more — for several weeks to see how they stacked up.
Yahoo
2 hours ago
- Yahoo
Lululemon just dropped a rare summer sale — 12 best deals, all under $150
Lululemon has hundreds of items up for grabs in their rare summer sale, from bestselling leggings and shorts to sports bras, jackets and more. Whether you're refreshing your workout wardrobe or simply can't get enough of their signature athleisure wear, now's a great time to snag a few pieces at rarely-seen prices. Sizes do tend to sell out quickly, so if something catches your eye, it's worth acting fast. With that in mind, read on for 12 of our favourite Lululemon sale finds available right now. Shop by category: Lululemon Summer Sale: Women's apparel Lululemon Summer Sale Men's apparel Lululemon Summer Sale: Accessories Lululemon Summer Sale: Bags Lululemon Summer Sale: Shoes $29 $44 at Lululemon Everyone's favourite belt bag is on sale in multiple colours, in case you'd like to add another one to your rotation. Made from water-repellent fabric, it's a classic go-to for all of your day-to-day essentials. $49 $128 at Lululemon These mid-support leggings are super breathable, sweat-wicking and fast-drying, designed to keep you comfortable while you train. Shoppers describe the material as "buttery soft" and say "they don't slide," either. $49 $64 at Lululemon Meant for yoga and training, this sports bra will keep you supported during your medium-impact workouts. It's on the longer side for more coverage and comes with optional, padded cups you can remove. $79 $138 at Lululemon Here's a pair of casual, sweat-wicking trousers that can be dressed up or down. One reviewer calls them "the perfect pant," noting that the sizes are true. $39 $68 at Lululemon If you're in the market for new workout shorts, this lightweight pair is designed for both running and training. Like most of Lululemon's activewear, they're sweat-wicking and quick-drying to help keep you comfortable throughout your entire workout. $69 $108 at Lululemon Believe it or not, the cult-favourite Align Pants are on sale! With their ultra-soft, second-skin feel, you might never want to take them off. And don't fear the lighter colours — they're lined with a second layer for extra coverage. $39 $68 at Lululemon Whether you're running errands or lounging at home, these lightweight shorts will keep you cool and comfy all summer long. With a cinchable drawcord at the waist, you can adjust them for the perfect fit. $34 $48 at Lululemon If you're in need of a new water bottle, give this one a go. Reviewers say it "doesn't leak" and "keeps water cold" — I mean, what more could you ask for? $144 $188 at Lululemon While this jacket might not be summer attire, per se, you'll probably appreciate it by the time fall rolls around. It's water-resistant and windproof and has a cinchable hem. $34 $72 at Lululemon This buttery-soft tank top is a fab pick for Yoga classes or casual wear. Shoppers rave about how comfortable it is, noting that it's both "supportive" and "breathable." $109 $158 at Lululemon Swap out your old briefs for these super soft boxers. The pouch was designed with ergonomics in mind, to keep you supported and comfortable whether you're exercising or enjoying a night out. $49 $64 at Lululemon If you can't get enough of Lululemon's Align collection, add these high-rise shorts to your rotation. With the same soft feel as the Align tops and leggings, these lightweight shorts are sure to be your next go-to pair.
Fox News
3 hours ago
- Fox News
HGTV star Heather Rae El Moussa gets bikini-ready with this one thing at every meal
Heather Rae El Moussa is stepping into the summer with confidence. The "Selling Sunset" star and HGTV personality gave fans a glimpse into her wellness routine as she proudly showed off her bikini body. In an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital, the 37-year-old opened up about the transformation of her mindset and body after welcoming her son, Tristan, with husband Tarek El Moussa. "Well, I'm vegan. I've been vegan since I was in my 20s. So I eat very clean," El Moussa shared. "I think that's a big part of it." The new mom revealed that it had taken time to find her rhythm again after giving birth. "After Tristan, it took me a little bit to get back into my workout routine, having a newborn and figuring out the balance of that," she explained. "I would walk a lot. And then I met my trainer, Paulina, and she started coming to my house. We would do workout routines at home. We added in weights." For the reality star, weight training was a game-changer. "I was never a weights girl," she admitted. "I was always like Pilates or running and cardio… I restricted carbs… I was really strict with what I ate. And after I started lifting weights and after I had Tristan, I really just needed — I wanted — to nourish my body… I just needed calories. I wanted healthy calories… I wanted to feel strong and empowered." In a social media video, El Moussa showed off her transformation and some of her routine. "I have 3 meals and 2 snacks, all with some sort of protein," she shared in the caption. "Smoothies are my [go-to], or I love rice cakes with avocado and hemp hearts! I eat a [balanced] diet with healthy carbs." "I have 3 meals and 2 snacks, all with some sort of protein." She also noted that her workout involves "doing a combo of strength, pilates, and pelvic floor 3x per week. I do full routine once per week for cardio, I walk daily (sometimes twice) plus I'm also chasing a toddler around!" "The Flip Off" star gave birth to her son Tristan in early 2023. She explained how it's been a process — and a lot of hard work — to feel like herself again. "He's almost two and a half… I'm proud of my body and what I've built," she said. "Not every day do I have abs. Some days I'm so bloated. Some days, mentally, physically, I'm just not feeling good … I've worked really hard to have this body. And I really prioritize health now." However, fitness and health aren't the only things she's focused on this summer. El Moussa recently made a "splash" with her beauty brand, Heather Rae Essentials, in a collaboration that brought some major summer heat. The real estate expert sizzled poolside and showed off her fit figure in several bikinis with her fellow reality star, and her husband Tarek's ex-wife, Christina Haack. El Moussa told Fox News Digital about her decision to collaborate with Haack, 42, and her vision behind the summer bikini photoshoot. WATCH: HGTV STAR HEATHER RAE EL MOUSSA REVEALS SECRET BEHIND HER SUMMER BIKINI BODY "I'm all about making a big splash with whatever I do," she said with a smile. "This is my beauty brand — I've put a lot of effort into it — I knew that doing a collaboration with her would just break the internet." The two blonde bombshells heated things up in their cheeky bikinis to promote El Moussa's new shade of her "Perfect Pink Lip Gloss." "It's the ultimate pop of pink summer color," she described. "I call it the 'hot girl summer.' For me, it just exudes summer and that's why I wanted it to be very pink and girly … champagne and poolside — I want girls to wear it … feel confident and empowered." "Pop it on," she added, "and you just feel beautiful." When El Moussa and Haack posed together for a poolside photoshoot, the internet couldn't get enough. "We film 'The Flip Off' together, we're raising kids together … we're here to support each other," El Moussa told Fox News Digital. "We had a really good time … doing the photoshoot together." WATCH: HGTV STAR MAKES A 'SPLASH' WITH UNEXPECTED COLLABORATION FOR BEAUTY BRAND El Moussa's husband Tarek, 43, was previously married to Haack for seven years before their divorce was finalized in 2018. They co-parent two children – daughter Taylor and son Brayden – and star together in HGTV's "The Flip Off." Tarek and Heather tied the knot in 2021.
