27 Pieces That Will Make You Want To Sing 'I Feel Pretty' Whenever You Put Them On
Don't be surprised if everyone starts complimenting you on this under-$25 cocktail ring and satin midi dress. 😍
1. Kitsch's iconic claw clip so you can put up your luscious locks in something other than a plain black hair tie or those plastic claw clips that always seem to break. Plus, the rounded teeth help prevent hair damage!
Kitsch is an LA-based, self-financed, woman-owned small business established in 2010 that specializes in hair accessories.
Promising review:"Love that you can dress this up or down! It is my go-to accessory for working in preschool to put my hair up quickly. It is elegant and classic. It is amazingly durable even in getting thrown in the bottom of my heavy work bag! I am amazed by this clip. I have coarse medium thick hair and it is the perfect size." — Niki
Get it from Amazon for $7.99 (available in two colors and multipacks).
2. Levi's Ribcage jeans — a classic pair that you truly can't go wrong with no matter how you style them. Reviewers of all ages love them and they'll definitely hold the title of "you're cute jeans" (iykyk).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Bought these for both my daughter and me, and they look great on both of us!!! They're extremely comfortable, and they stretch just enough. The quality is exactly what you expect from Levi's. We purchased three pairs in total and plan on purchasing more in other colors." — Lulu Herrera
Get them from Amazon for $38.75+ (available in sizes 24–32 Standard and 35–39 Plus and in 15 washes).
3. A pair of dangly bow earrings, which are dramatic enough to catch the eye of anyone who looks your way, but dainty enough that they won't weigh down your entire ear.
Amazon
Promising review: "I absolutely adore these earrings!! Ordered them for a party and got SO many compliments on them. The quality is great and they look so much more expensive than they were!!" — Charlotte Dunbar
Get it from Amazon for $8.99+ (available in 11 styles).
4. A pair of ~dreamlux~ leggings that are basically #twinning with the Lululemon Aligns, but for a fraction of a price *phew.* Thankfully, these still have that same buttery, soft, squat-proof material, so you'll be looking AND feeling your best in and out of the gym.
Amazon
Promising review:"These are amazing quality!! I do love my pair of Lululemon leggings, but I notice that they stretch out and slide down throughout the day. These do not! They are so soft I almost feel like I am wearing nothing, but still feel very 'athletic' like they're holding everything in. When I opened the package, they looked like they were going to be too short at first, but they're not. They are quite stretchy and comfortable. Highly recommend!!" — Kate
Get it from Amazon for $29+ (available in sizes XXS–XXL, two inseams, and 22 colors).
5. A structured blazer — just add this to a casual look, and BAM, you'll instantly look 10x fancier than you were before. You'll exude confidence all while being super comfortable (a win-win if you ask me)!
www.amazon.com, Amazon
Promising review: "I ordered the black in a large. This blazer is PERFECT and doesn't look cheap at all. You get what you pay for, trust me. High quality all around. From the silhouette to the sequins, it's a must for anyone wanting to elevate a basic look. I got a ton of compliments the night I wore it out to a concert." — Annette
Get it from Amazon for $36.70+ (available in sizes XXS–5X and 21 colors).
6. A trendy, comfortable tie-waisted T-shirt dress with over 20,000 5-star reviews because of how comfortable and soft it is. It's giving "oversized tee" in the best way possible because the tie-waist lets you show off your figure without being too tight.
Promising review:"This dress is so comfy. I'm a teacher, so I'm constantly on the move all day. This was the perfect length, and the pockets are great…so big! I can't wait to get another color of this dress!" — Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $33.99 (available in sizes S–XL and 21 colors).
7. A showstopping cocktail ring set so bejeweled you'll be sure to make the whole place shimmer. ✨ Even though you didn't pay a pretty penny for this, people will definitely think you did!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "First let me say I LOVE THIS RING!!!! I wear it all the time. I've been wearing it for over a month now and in the beginning I tried to take it off when doing dishes, showering, and washing my hands. After about two weeks I just decided to leave it on and it has been fine. I never take it off, the ring is true to size. It's not too thin or thick, feels great on, and it is durable. The only con is that the stones can sometimes look cloudy. Other than that I love it couldn't be happier, it's great for the price and I am very pleased." — tracy k revels
Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in four colors and in ring sizes 5–10).
8. A faux leather moto jacket if you want an oversized look that combines style, comfort, and warmth all in one. Now you can truly enjoy your night out with the besties without shivering your tush off.
Promising review: "This jacket is so nice. Faux leather is soft and smooth and the oversize makes it cute and comfortable. I did first order a large and returned it for a medium, and it fits great. Jacket will go with everything. It's light, but warm." — Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $34.99+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and 11 styles).
9. Bagallini's Central Park Sling, which holds more than a regular fanny pack, but is less bulky than a traditional backpack. You've got space for your keys, wallet, phone, and anything else you absolutely just need for your daily hot girl walk!
Amazon
Promising review:"I usually carry a large backpack, but it is so big and heavy, I decided to lighten my load up! This holds all I really need. I like that I can wear it in front so I can easily get to my things and keep an eye on them! I actually got it for an upcoming trip, but am using it everyday!" — Teresa
Get it from Amazon for $75+ (available in 11 styles).
10. A pair of upscale palazzo pants if you love the flowy feel of your wide-leg pajama pants and sweats but want to feel a little more polished for your in-office work days. They're also a great alternative to jeans if the dress code is more "smart casual" than just casual.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review:"These are my favorite pants! They are comfy, cute, professional, fun, and they pair well with SO many things! I can basically wear them for any occasion! I've bought them in three colors, and I easily wear them all once (if not twice) a week!" — Liz
Get them from Amazon for $27.97+ (available in women's sizes XS–2X, short sizes, long sizes, and 28 colors and patterns).
11. A waffle weave "shacket" for all those kinda sunny, kinda cold days that don't really require a thick jacket but won't let you get by with just a thin shirt. This cozy piece is great for keeping warm and is easy to carry around if you don't need to wear it indoors.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Perfect closet staple! Looks great buttoned or unbuttoned and layered. Comfortable and cute! Long enough for leggings! Oversized fit." — stephanie canter
Get it from Amazon for $26.88+ (available in sizes S–XXL and 14 colors).
12. A miniature book hair clip so unique and gorgeous that you'll want to burst out into a poetic song about how lovely it is. Your love for literature runs deep, and how can people be mad about it when it looks this cute?
Britt's Highlights/Etsy
Britt's Highlights is a Florida-based Etsy shop established in 2021 that specializes in unique hair accessories.
Promising review: "This hair clip is adorable. The clasps are nice and strong, and the books are very secure. I really think this is a book lover's dream accessory." — Maggie
Get it from Britt's Highlights on Etsy for $24.95.
13. A pair of breezy bib overalls to show that you have the perfect wardrobe to match your weekend plans of hitting the farmer's market. All you need is a tee or tank to layer under, and BOOM, you've got a cute and comfy outfit just like that!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review:"I love these overall/bibs! They have a chord to nip in at the waist and the legs taper but they also blouse out accentuating my figure. They are very comfortable as well and the fabric is high quality with quality stitching. For the price they can't be beat. I'll definitely look at buying from Yesno again!" — TCB & JLUX
Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in sizes S–3X and 10 styles).
14. A denim dress that deserves a big ol' YEEHAW since there are endless ways you can style it. If you wanna go full country or go for a coastal cowgirl chic, you can because it's just that versatile.
www.amazon.com
Promising review:"Love the fit — comfortable, able to move freely, and still look dressed up. Can wear with sheer tights and booties with wedge heels for dressing it up, or thicker black tights with boots to dress down and be comfortable. Love how many compliments I get when I wear this dress too." — Amanda
Get it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in sizes S–XXL and in 21 colors).
15. A dual-layered birthstone anklet because every inch of you, including your ankles, should be accessorized to its fullest potential. This adds a delicate touch of sophistication and is just so cute!
Petite Boutique/Etsy
Petite Boutique is a California-based Etsy shop established in 2017 that specializes in personalized jewelry.
Get it from Petite Boutique on Etsy for $19.92+ (originally $49.80; available in one or two birthstones, plus an additional monogram).
16. A pair of chunky Chelsea boots to prove you know a thing or two about keeping it casual AND comfortable AND cute... all at the same time. These have a slight heel for a little extra height and easily slip on and off after a full day of struttin'.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "These boots are a game-changer. The design strikes the perfect balance between style and comfort. The material is high quality, providing durability for everyday wear. The fit is fantastic, offering both support and flexibility. Whether I'm navigating city streets or walking trails, these boots deliver on both fashion and functionality. Highly recommend for those seeking comfort without compromising on style." — Haley
Get it from Amazon for $40.99+ (available in size 6–10 and eight styles).
17. A set of retro-style rounded square aviator sunglasses if looking as cool as a cucumber is just as much a priority as protecting your eyes from the sun.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review:"These sunglasses are so great, I love them. They are super lightweight, and they look amazing on. The shape and fit are perfect, and they are very comfortable. They are great because they are so inexpensive you don't have to worry about them, but they also are well made and good quality. Highly recommend if you want a nice pair of sunglasses that don't cost a fortune." — Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in 16 styles).
18. A dreamy, airy V-neck linen dress perfect for those chill days at home, but you still wanna look cute picking up the kids from school. Reviewers love how high quality the fabric is and how flowy it is!
Linenia/Etsy
Linenia is a Texas-based Etsy shop established in 2020 that specializes in made-to-order linen dresses.
Promising review: "This dress is a real beauty! VERY well made (as are all their items), comfortable, lovely midweight linen. I got it in the beautiful cornflower blue. This is my fourth purchase from Linenia, and I will be buying more. Mark, you've exceeded my expectations yet again!" — schmogo
Get it from Linenia on Etsy for $89.25+ (originally $119+; available in sizes S–2XL and dozens of colors).
19. A satin cowl-neck midi dress — simply put, everyone needs one of these in their closet because it's basically reached "staple" status just like the LBD. This comes in so many colors, and reviewers appreciate the stretch of the fabric when it comes time to make their way to the dance floor!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review:"Beautiful emerald green satin dress. It was a gorgeous and sophisticated choice for my friend's wedding. Received many compliments." — Bee Browder
Get it from Amazon for $28.99+ (available in sizes XS–XL and in 23 colors and patterns).
20. A Juno Malachite Necklace to add a fun pop of color to your outfit, but ALSO a calming comfort since malachite represents healing. We love an adorable necklace that also has a meaningful touch!
Bauble Bar
Get it from Bauble Bar for $38 (available in six other stone styles).
21. Or, a vintage-inspired split chain choker since mixed metals aren't your thing, BUT gorgeous mixed materials that look like you could be an extra in Bridgerton? That's more like it.
Amazon, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "This necklace is absolutely gorgeous!! Purchased to wear for work and I got so many compliments. Feels like durable, great quality material. So glad I decided to buy!" — Victoria H.
Get it from Amazon for $26.90.
22. And speaking of Bridgerton... a set of hair bow clips that will be a bow-utiful addition to any hairstyle. These are so cute that you'll want to get one for every day of the week!
www.amazon.com, Amazon
Promising review:"I wanted to try out the bow trend for the holidays, and these bows were perfect! These are very good quality bows. They were nicer than I expected for the price at about $4 per bow. They are sturdy and hold their shape well. I will be wearing these again." — Beth W.
Get a set of two from Amazon for $5.95+ (available in 18 styles).
23. A pair of breezy high-waisted chino pants so you can switch things up a bit from your usual jeans or sweatpants. These are super comfortable and will look great no matter the season!
Old Navy
Promising review: "Love these! Comfortable, well fitting. The material is light and flexible. Highly recommend!" — Susan
Get it from Old Navy for $18 (originally $39.99; available in sizes XS–4X, regular, petite, and tall sizes, and eight styles).
24. A classic boxy Oxford blouse that will look good with jeans, slacks, and, hey, sweatpants, too, if your WFH attire only requires you to look good from the waist up for 30 minutes. Reviewers love how soft this feels and love to layer with it!
Everlane
Promising review:"I was hesitant to purchase because of the price but I can honestly say this shirt is worth every penny! I work in an casual office setting and these are dressy but casual and I love them! They are almost wrinkle resistant. I cuff the sleeves once and it looks so chic worn open or buttoned I've since bought every color. I receive so many compliments when I wear it. Buy the shirt!" — Roper_R
" So comfortable — casual and dressy. Love the subtle white stripe in the brown one. It looks like the fabric will get softer over time. Wonderful fabric and fit." — GraciePT
Get it from Everlane for $88 (available in sizes XXS–XXL and seven colors).
25. A pair of square-toe ballet flats because you watched the Barbie in the Nutcracker movie a bajillion times and need an everyday shoe that'll remind you of the true ballet princess you are. These look great with jeans, skirts, and tutus all the like.
Dolce Vita
Promising review: "Very comfortable right out of the box. The leather is nice and soft, so the shoe is not stiff. I ordered them because they're trendy but they're def a classic style. Can dress them up or down. I ordered two sizes and my true size fit perfectly. Very happy with this purchase. It's my opinion that this is also an all-season flat as long as its not raining/snowing." — GMB
Get them from Dolce Vita for $120 (available in sizes 5–15, in standard and wide, and in 11 styles).
26. An adorable lace-trimmed tunic that shows you like something comfy but still want it to have a little flare to it. And by flare, I mean this adorable lacy detailing that makes a usually boring top look oh-so-cute.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review:"I love this shirt for the cooler months ahead! It's lightweight, flowy and super cozy! I would order a size down if you want it to fit like a shirt. Since it's a tunic, it will lay past your hips. The lace detail on the bottom is the perfect touch to a casual long-sleeve shirt!" — Anonymous
Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in sizes 14 Plus–26 Plus and in 10 colors/patterns).
27. An understated but sleek retro-style baguette purse because your canvas tote can only do so much for an outfit. The gold detailing and vintage-y snap closure make this shoulder bag extra chic and prove that a great accessory can make any outfit look more lavish.
Amazon, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Gorgeous bag. The material is so easy to clean, it's beyond sturdy and looks very classy. The zipper pocket inside is great for storing things discreetly. The length is great, it sits perfectly under my arm with a little bit of room still. Overall great purchase." — Mary
Get it from Amazon for $20.99+ (available in 12 colors).
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Buzz Feed
25 minutes ago
- Buzz Feed
27 Budget-Friendly Dog Products Under $15
A cult-favorite Kong extreme dog toy you can fill with your dog's favorite treat so they can get all their energy out and enjoy a lil' snack at the same time. This one will stand up to even the toughest of chewers! A persimmon stuffy with hidden kibble pockets that turn snack time into a mental workout, slowing down gulpers and keeping pups entertained while you do your thing. Promising review: "Our lil' border collie/corgi mix pup was gifted this cute persimmon toy by a friend, and she couldn't be happier! It scratches the itch of a squeaker, ball, and snuffle for treats. Glad to have a great intro to the world of Lambwolf toys." —Casey Get it from Lambwolf Collective for $12. A split elk antler, because your pup could win a gold medal in aggressive chewing, and this will withstand their super-strong jaws. This particular one is best for dogs 15 pounds and below, but here is one for medium dogs and another for large review: "My English bull terriers love to chew on antlers. They are safe and last a long time!" —Mary it from Amazon for $9.89+ (available in four sizes and multi-packs) A hair-removing glove for the pet who absolutely hates getting brushed but loves getting belly rubs and pets. You get rid of future shedding, and they get a full body massage. Win-win! Promising review: "Awesome pet hair remover! I have a Korat mix cat with short hair that's impossible to groom with a brush. I've tried all kinds of combs and brushes, and nothing has worked well on him. I took this out of the package, I showed it to him, and let him sniff it, and then pet him with it. This thing is awesome! With just a few strokes, I removed a ton of cat hair. I highly recommend this for hard-to-groom cats." —LB in the OCGet it from Amazon for $7.99. A pint of doggy ice cream if you're looking to spoil your dog. Choose from five different flavors (like maple bacon, peanut butter, and sprinkles), add water, freeze it, and your pup has a yummy dessert ready to go. A pack of EcoKind's Himalayan yak cheese chews your pup will absolutely love chewing on. Chewing on things can help engage a dog's brain and these last forevvvverrr so the engagement is practically never-ending! Promising reviews: "We were skeptical at first because the dogs weren't quite sure about them, but we can't let ourselves be caught without them now. Our 9-year-old male Australian Cattle Dog likes them occasionally, but our two under-a-year females love them, fight over them, and even fall asleep chewing on them!We especially like these smaller-sized pieces because the longer ones we got before seemed to lose favor with the dogs after a while, but these they can finish and not leave for me to find in strange places." —Danny Scarbro"I have a very easily bored, mischief-prone Australian shepherd-poodle mix, and these are a godsend. They don't stink, she loves them, they last far longer than other edible chew toys, and she remains interested in them all the way to the end. I was so happy to find these on Subscribe & Save at a good price." —Philly TransplantGet a four-pack from Amazon for $13.95+ (also available in other pack sizes). A personalized dog treat cutter for homemade biscuits made specially for your little pooch. Since you control what goes into them, you can pick your pup's favorite flavors and ingredients — they'll never want a store-bought dog treat ever again! Aint She Sweet Cutters is a small business that makes custom 3D-printed cookie, fondant, and clay review: "Super cute cookie cutters! I especially love the font! Customer service was great — I was able to get my custom request order taken care of, and her response was also very quick. Thank you so much!" —Nina it from Aint She Sweet Cutters on Etsy for $6.50+ (originally, $8.99, available in six sizes). And a dog treat mix so you can bake the most delish treats at home for your furry little angel baby. Just add water and the most important ingredient of all: love. Bearpaw Mixes is a woman- and family-owned small business based in Colorado that sells easy-to-make baking mixes from recipes that have been in their family for decades. They also donate a portion of all their proceeds to the Katie Adamson Conservation reviews: "Our dog Max loves these bones. They are so easy to make. We use them as treats when he goes potty. We will be back for more." —Melissa"Everything is here and ready to go. What a fun project to do by yourself or with your kids. Fun to do, too. Your fur babies will love it. 🥰" —Karlene it from Bearpaw Mixes on Etsy for $7.50 (available in two flavors). An interactive Outward Hound dog puzzle toy you can hide treats or kibble in to help keep your pooch occupied on busy days when you're working from home and can't give them the attention they so clearly deserve. Plus, it's important to keep older dogs' minds sharp! A lightweight flying disc that can float on the water — this will make beach day an absolute blast for both you and your furry companion. Promising review: "I buy several of these a year. My pups play with them every single day. We have Yorkies that are 7–8 pounds, and this is the perfect size for them to play with. I appreciate the company offering a variety of sizes. This is soft but durable. We have several new ones on hand, and our pups are excited every time we get one out." —Jill Carrol Get it from Amazon for $5.37+ (available in two sizes and multipacks) Or a super durable Kong flying disc if you have a dog who is a big chewer and needs something a little more heavy-duty. This one offers the same flying, jumping, catching fun, with the added benefit of being a Kong-brand toy, so you know it'll withstand your hound. Promising review: "Absolutely amazing! He plays with it from dawn to dusk — chewing, tugging, retrieving. It doesn't get old to him. Best of all, it's soft on his teeth, so no damage there! :D Since chewing through the last several rope toys, I have been using it to play tug of war with him, and it's held up incredibly well — no teeth marks, punctures, rips, or being stretched out. Because of this, it's great as a training tool, redirecting attention while on walks, as a reward for following commands, playing scent/brain games with, etc., and it folds nicely into his backpack when we're finished." —TyraGet it from Amazon for $11.99+ (available in three sizes). A freezeable dog toy you can fill with water, bone broth, apple juice, peanut butter, wet food, or whatever else your pup likes, to give them a tasty treat while also helping them cool down on a hot day. Promising review: "This is a great toy, it kept my dog busy for about an hour! Very durable material, doubles as a chew toy! Dishwasher safe and easy to clean. Great idea and such a fun toy for keeping your dog stimulated on a rainy day." —HopePrice: $5.99+ (available in two styles) A pack of four tennis balls made of pet-safe material, because playing fetch is your dog's favorite pastime. And these ones are extra bouncy, for maximum play potential! Promising review: "My dog absolutely loves the Wild One Tennis Balls! They're the perfect size and super durable, even with her constant chewing. They keep her entertained and busy for hours, which is a huge win for both of us. Highly recommend for any dog who loves to play fetch or just needs a good toy to stay occupied!" —Francesa R. Get the four-pack from Wild One for $6 (originally $10, available in three colors). A pack of chicken jerky dog treats that are packed with protein and are easy to digest, so you don't have to worry about your pup's tummy getting upset. Promising review: "My dog absolutely loves these! I love them because they're a good size and they don't get hard like other chicken jerky." —Rololfo Get it from Amazon for $12.99 (available in two sizes and three flavors). A knotted treat dispenser because you wish you could play with your doggy all day, but unfortunately, you have a full-time job and need to keep them engaged while you're working. Promising review: "Adorable and aesthetic dog toy. I love the feel of the dog toy, and the crinkly sound it makes is kind of fun. My dog seems to love it and I see her carrying it around the house." —PotatoLatkesRMyJamGet it from Target for $12.19. A glow-in-the-dark Wobble Wag Giggle Ball with a treat dispenser made of durable pet-safe vinyl that makes super weird noises, which, yes, can be extremely annoying, but your pup will loooove. This is great to leave with your dog when you're out for the day so they don't get bored (and you don't have to be annoyed by the noises). Promising review: "This was purchased in 2020, and it was still her favorite toy in 2023! It survived her puppy 'chew and destroy everything' stage. She carries it outside with her and brings it back in when it's time to come in. Shortly after we purchased it, I remember thinking it had broken because it stopped making the sound, so I put it away. She found it, kept playing with it, and it started making the sound again. I'm guessing it was from moisture, soil, or grass. My dog is happy with her toy, and I'm happy she's happy!" —Annalinda HernándezGet it from Amazon for $14.99 (available in four styles and a two-pack). A plush "Duckworth" dog toy because your furry friend is looking for a companion to play with. According to a BuzzFeed review, it lasted months with her particularly destructive Boston terrier. Promising review: "I've purchased Duckworth for years. It's a hit with all of my dogs. Great for cuddling and playing with gently. Not for aggressive chewers. A must-have for my dogs, and I'll continue to purchase." —PMurdockGet it from Amazon for $5.39 for a pack of five. A puzzle ball your pup will love trying to figure out. You just put their favorite treats in there, sit back, and relax while your dog goes absolutely buck wild. Promising review: "This is the only toy my dogs can't destroy. Seriously. I buy them so many toys. Most are destroyed in no time. They love how this rolls and that they can chase after it. My pit bull loves to balance this on her nose and push and chase it. She can play forever with this ball. I have to make her stop because pitties can get overheated easily. I buy her two every Christmas." —LisaGet it from Amazon for $7.99 (available in two colors and 12 other puzzles). A wildly popular Gumby chew toy with over 4,000 5-star ratings. This little guy is super durable, and reviewers say he can withstand even the most ravenous teether. A Toy Story aliens rope toy so your dog can feel like "The Claw" from the movie. And look how freaking CUTE these little guys are! Promising review: "Our pug loves this toy!! He brings it over every evening to play tug. He lost interest in his regular rope toys fairly quickly, but still loves this one after six months." —LauraGet it from Chewy for $10.99. A big package of freeze-dried beef liver treats your pup will absolutely go gah-gah over. My dog's vet has these, and it makes her actually enjoy going to the vet. Promising review: "My dogs are obsessed with these treats! They will do anything for them! No digestive issues. A great training treat!" —Laura AllenGet it from Amazon for $4.99+ (originally $5.99+; available in five sizes and in a pack of two). A floating fetch stick because your pup's favorite game is fetch, and when you take them to the lake, they just want to play, play, play! Promising review: "Our Newfoundland puppy is in love with this toy (we have two of them now). She will chase a ball for two or three throws, but could play for hours! It's great for water, which we do throw into the pool with her, but her favorite activity is running and fetching it to bring it back. Being a Newfoundland, she always throws in a little pull game with each return! This has held up amazingly! She has been known to rip through toys within the first 15 minutes, but these two have been used hard and are in perfect condition!" —MFGet it from Amazon for $6.97+ (available in two sizes). A simple and classic Chuckit! ball launcher that lets your dog get plenty of exercise by running far to retrieve the ball you've flung for them. And you'll have a blast playing with it, too, especially because you won't have to touch a slobbery ball every time they drop it at your feet. Promising reviews: "Fantastic! No more slimy balls to handle. Adds a lot of distance to your toss. Love it!" —Barbara G. Womack"Best thing I ever bought for him. It tires him out so much faster." —Amazon CustomerGet it from Amazon for $10.99+ (available in three sizes and three styles). A package of Pill Pocket treats so giving your dog their meds doesn't have to be a traumatic experience for either of you — quite the opposite, in fact! I give these to my Chiweenie, and she loves them! Promising review: "My oldest dog is a total butthead about medication. He simply refuses. No amount of bribery will work. Disguise a pill? He has X-ray vision. He will eat the cheese, peanut butter, cream cheese, etc., off the pill and spit it out. Hickory smoke gets him to take his meds about 90 percent of the time without hassling me too much." —Coffee-n-CatsGet it from Amazon for $8.96+ (available in three sizes and five flavors). A really bright rope leash with reflective threading if your dog is always begging to be taken out on night walks. With this leash, drivers and cyclists won't be able to miss you! And the grip is super cushy and comfortable, so even if your dog is tugging, your hand won't get rope burn. Promising review: Love it! My senior dog used to always pull and tug so much but with this leash walking her is so much more easy! It's durable, well made, and when your dog pulls it gently pulls back it doesn't snap. Don't hesitate and buy." —Vanessa LinGet it from Amazon for $7.89+ (available in five sizes and 20 colors). A two-pack of rubber collapsible dog bowls so your dog doesn't get dehydrated if you go on a hike or spend a sunny day at the beach. The carabiner also makes it easy to clip onto a backpack or leash, so your dog will be happy that you have no excuse not to take them on all of your adventures! Promising review: "Great product for the price. Premium-quality bowl. Holds up to everyday use. We always have it clipped onto our dog's leash and also keep one in the car. Both bowls come with a matching color clip. Collapses down with little to no effort, but stands up great for food and water. Would recommend!" —KyleGet it from Amazon for $4.99+ (available in two sizes and 14 color combinations). And finally, a chew-resistant plush toy tough enough for playing fetch and cuddling! AND it has a secret ultrasonic squeaker only dogs hear, so you won't be bothered by a super annoying, loud noise.
Engadget
4 hours ago
- Engadget
The HORI Piranha Plant camera for Switch 2 is on sale for only $40
Even though the Switch 2 basically just came out, we're already starting to see discounts on some of its accessories. One of the more charming peripherals, the HORI Piranha Plant camera, is on sale right now for only $40. That's $20 off and a record-low price. It's a good deal for anyone who wants to take advantage of the Switch 2's camera functionality in games like Mario Kart World and that recently-released campfire sim. This was designed specifically for Nintendo's new console, so it's a plug-and-play affair. It's actually cheaper than the official Switch 2 camera with this sale and it looks a whole lot cooler. It's a Piranha Plant from the Mario franchise. We called it a "work of art" upon encountering the device and that holds true today. This is 33 percent off and a record-low price. $40 at Amazon This thing is not only stylish, resembling an Amiibo more than a camera, but it's downright useful. The pot the Piranha Plant sits in functions as both a stand and USB extension for the device. The plant itself detaches from the pot, so the camera can be used in portable mode by popping it into the USB port at the top of the console. There's also a built-in privacy shutter. Just close the plant's mouth to obscure the lens. The actual camera specs here aren't going to win any awards, with a frame rate of 30FPS and a resolution of 640 x 480p. However, that's more than enough to capture footage of your floating head to accompany your kart as it races through the Mushroom Kingdom. Follow @EngadgetDeals on X for the latest tech deals and buying advice .
USA Today
6 hours ago
- USA Today
America's fascination with the kiss cam: For better or worse, it's here to stay
'Are you not entertained?' Russell Crowe's Maximus famously bellowed to the Colosseum crowd in the 2000 film 'Gladiator.' But for decades, kiss cams have been posing a different question to U.S. sports fans and concertgoers: 'Are you not the entertainment?' Whether lighthearted distraction or comic relief, the ubiquitous arena and stadium feature is as American as apple pie — or at least as American as baking an apple pie and posting it on social media. Live competition and performance offer us communal experience on a massive scale, but they also offer a chance to make memories and — with the aid of kiss cams — to become part of the entertainment ourselves. For a few back-to-back moments, as the camera zeroes in on its various targets, fans watch with curiosity, anticipation, excitement and maybe even self-conscious dread. 'These events are epic, nostalgic, and for some even narcissistic,' said Adam Resnick, founder of 15 Seconds of Fame, a Los Angeles-based company whose app allows participating fans featured on in-venue video boards like kiss cams to download and share the footage as a digital souvenir. The origins of the kiss cam are frustratingly foggy but Resnick and others agree they burst onto sports scenes in the 1980s, in the years after sports franchises began introducing increasingly massive color video screens at ballparks and stadiums. Designed to fill breaks in the action and typically set to cheesy pop ballads, the kiss cam was a major innovation that shifted the focus from courts and fields into the stands. The feature is pretty much a slam dunk, with the camera's roving eye picking out random pairs of people in the stands who may or may not be actual couples — and therein lies part of the fun. Reactions are broadcast on the venue's giant video boards: If they kiss, the crowd cheers, while refusals draw playful jeers or laughter. "We love love," said Pepper Schwartz, a professor emeritus of sociology at the University of Washington in Seattle. When couples oblige, she said, "it's a feel-good feeling that transfers from one person to another and makes us optimistic." Kiss cams are cheap entertainment designed to keep audiences engaged when they could easily check out, said Joseph Darowski, an assistant professor of English at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah. 'The energy of the live crowd is incredibly important, and the kiss cam helps to prevent it from dying down,' said Darowski, co-author of 'Survivor: A Cultural History,' a book that in part explores the rise of reality TV. 'Sporting events are not just about the game being played. It's the entire entertainment experience.' Any additional theatrics are generally a bonus — at least for the audience. But as illustrated by the now infamous July 16 incident at a Coldplay concert in Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, that's not always the case for the featured individuals. When reactions tell the story It was the shot broadcast around the world – the TikTok'd footage of a couple at a Coldplay concert caught mid-cuddle. 'Either they're having an affair, or they're just very shy,' Coldplay singer Chris Martin quipped after seeing the video from the stage. The video of the July 16 incident at Gillette Stadium has received more than 129 million views on TikTok alone. The viral moment and its professional and personal fallout, Schwartz said, prompted reactions ranging from amusement and fascination to, for those who've been involved in similar circumstances, schadenfreude and relief. But it wouldn't have unfolded the way it did without the kiss cam. The couple seen on the screen "could have saved themselves from worldwide derision had they waved and looked like, 'This is no big deal,'" Schwartz said. "But they took the second instinct, which was to flee. And that was the funny one." 'It could have been a vanilla, fleeting moment,' Resnick agreed. 'However, their reaction told a story." The episode illustrated how kiss cams have provoked occasional embarrassment and controversy since their debut. In addition to outing potential infidelities, their use in the past has been accused of pressuring unwilling participants to take part and shamed for promoting homophobia by showing same-sex couples for laughs. It also showed the hazards of baring private matters in public in the age of kiss cams, smartphones and social media. 'The expectation of privacy at a public event has never existed, and today, with camera ubiquity, it's preposterous for anyone to take that position,' Resnick said. More often, though, kiss cams offer those attending live events the chance to score a cameo in their own experience, claiming part or even all of those 15 seconds of fame once foretold for all of us. The power of those moments, Resnick said, lies in their organic nature. 'Authenticity can't be staged in real time,' he said. 'It resonates in the social zeitgeist.' Kiss cams 'an important metric' of acceptance The kiss cam's evolution hasn't been without its stumbles. In 2015, Syracuse University discontinued its kiss cam feature after a letter to the local newspaper cited a pair of troubling instances at the football team's game against Wake Forest. Steve Port of Manlius, N.Y., wrote that the kiss cam segment had twice featured young women who expressed unwillingness to participate but were forced to anyway, either by their male counterpart or by surrounding students. Meanwhile, a dozen or so years have passed since some major league sports franchises were accused of promoting homophobia by using kiss cams to poke fun at other teams. In those cases, after featuring a series of smooching male-female couples, the kiss cam segments ended by focusing on two of the home team's rival players, or even fans – suggesting they might kiss, and that doing so would be comedic. As a fan of the NFL's Jacksonville Jaguars complained after such a segment in a 2013 letter to team owner Shahid Khan, initially reported by Outsports: 'Hilarious, right? No, and the message is clear. Jaguars are heterosexual and approved. The opponent is 'gay,' disapproved and the butt of a crude joke.' A year earlier, pitcher Brandon McCarthy of Major League Baseball's Oakland A's had similarly condemned the practice after a game against the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. 'They put two guys on the 'Kiss Cam' tonight,' McCarthy posted on the social platform now known as X. 'What hilarity!! (by hilarity I mean offensive homophobia). Enough with this stupid trend.' Later, McCarthy — now sporting director for the USL Championship's Phoenix Rising FC — told the San Francisco Chronicle: "If there are gay people who are coming to a game and seeing something like that, you can't assume they're comfortable with it. If you're even making a small group of people ... feel like outcasts, then you're going against what makes your model successful." Before long, franchises were striving to be more inclusive, and in 2015, MLB's New York Mets told the Huffington Post they would no longer feature opposing players in their kiss cam segments; that same year, the Dodgers included a gay couple in its kiss cam. 'Kiss cams are an important metric in measuring how acceptable certain people are in a given community,' said Stephanie Bonvissuto, an adjunct assistant professor of women's and gender studies at Hunter College and Brooklyn College, both part of the City University of New York system. In early 2017, the Ad Council's 'Love Has No Labels' campaign produced a commercial featuring kiss cam footage from that year's NFL Pro Bowl in Orlando, Florida, where 49 people had been killed seven months earlier in a mass shooting at gay nightclub Pulse. 'Kiss Cams have been a part of sports culture for years,' the opening text read, but at that game, it continued, they 'became part of something bigger.' The images showed pairs of individuals, outlined by a heart, broadcast on Camping World Stadium's giant screens. Friends were featured. So, too, were same-sex and interracial couples. Then the camera zoomed in on two women in the stands, one of them wearing a shirt reading 'Orlando survivor.' The two turned and kissed, to the crowd's delight. Still, Bonvissuto said it's still rare to see LGBTQ couples featured on kiss cams beyond Pride Night events. While cautioning that she hasn't seen any statistics on such representation, she said the footage she's viewed largely features white, able-bodied and seemingly cisgender individuals. 'Kiss cams act as a means to exclude certain people,' she said. 'They're incredibly important in thinking about representation — who we're seeing and not seeing.' 'Socially acceptable' voyeurism But for the most part, kiss cams have offered streams of harmless fun, fodder for highlight and blooper reels and glimpses into the relationships of everyone from fellow citizens to celebrities and sitting and former U.S. presidents. Kiss cams, said BYU's Darowski, offer audiences the constant thrill of knowing they could be onscreen combined with 'a socially acceptable, safe form of voyeurism that is traditionally taboo.' The presumed authenticity of couples' raw, unrehearsed reactions is key, too, he said. 'So much of our entertainment is highly mediated, edited and packaged for our consumption,' he said. It doesn't always play out as planned – and not all of it is necessarily genuine, thanks to some sports teams' creative minds. Many couples share crowd-pleasing kisses. Others, not so much. Some, snubbed by their companions, stomp off in a huff or peck adjacent fans instead, while youthful pairs looking to lock lips are thwarted by chaperoning adults. Whether any of it is staged doesn't matter much. Fans and audiences alike have enjoyed their moment in the limelight. Resnick, of 15 Seconds of Fame, recalled a moment in June 2024 after a Dallas Mavericks loss in game five of the NBA Finals. The arena cameras zeroed on a fan tearful over the outcome. While it wasn't part of the kiss cam feature, 'the minute he saw himself on the Jumbotron, he smiled and kissed the girl (who was) with him,' Resnick said. 'That's all you need to know about what those 15 seconds mean to fans.'
