American Apparel is used to courting controversy.  In fact, you can even say that’s the very concept their business was built on.  Thanks to ousted-CEO (and known perv) Dov Charney, when you think of American Apparel it’s impossible not to think of scantily clad girls in unprofessional-looking photographs.  Now once again the company finds itself in trouble over something they want women to wear, only this time the women in question are the company’s employees. 

In an article for The Mary Sue, American Apparel allegedly encouraged all of its sales associates to wear t-shirts with the words, “Ask Me to Take It All Off” in honor of the Capitalist Holiday better known as Black Friday.  For a more tasteful option, the employees were also allowed to wear a button with the same slogan. 

Some employees didn’t want to wear either.

“I understand that American Apparel, the corporation, doesn’t see me as a real person and aims to commodify my sexuality in order to sell their product,” the source told The Mary Sue.  “I still work for them because in the past, I have always had discretion about how I choose to present myself at work (so long as I wear AA head to toe).”

“Now they are actively encouraging our patrons to sexually harass me and my colleagues, some of whom as as young as 15,” the source continued.  “A lot of our retain workforce is made up of high-school aged girls.  There’s no question in my mind that anyone wearing the shirt will face inappropriate comments from customers.”

via Oyster Mag

Obviously, American Apparel will no longer be encouraging its employees to wear said t-shirt, issuing an apology over what they thought was a harmless “play on words” instead. “We understand that this offended an individual employee who spoke up about his/her concerns.  American Apparel is a company that values free speech, and most importantly, creating an environment where employees feel valued, protected, and safe.  As such, we have decided to discontinue this slogan, and will seek other ways to stay creative and push the envelope, which is part of our brand DNA.”

Better luck next year, American Apparel.  I think we can all agree that 2015 just hasn’t been your year. 

This post, American Apparel Has A Uniform Now, And It’s Super Controversial, by Maria Pasquini, appeared first on Galore.

Un-friending your ex always brings about mixed emotions. If you’re the one to unfriend him, you feel like you’re being a drama queen. You don’t want him to make fun of you for un-friending him, plus you want him to still see all the hot pics that you’re putting up. Not to mention that you still want to occasionally drunk stalk him every once in a while to make sure he hasn’t found a new chick (which will obviously be a downgrade).

If he un-friends you, it’s an equally bittersweet process. Like, damn, he really doesn’t want to see you ever again. But, it also means that he’s probably having trouble getting over you, and needs to block out all photos of you so that he can attempt to stop thinking about you, right?

Once you’ve gone through a break-up in the digital age, you’ll probably re-think ever making a new relationship “Facebook official” ever again. I mean seriously, why do you really need all 2,000 of your Facebook friends (half of whom you haven’t talked to since high school) know about your latest boyfriend? You don’t. And you certainly don’t need random FB friends of yours commenting “sorry boo” on your relationship status once you two break-up.

Facebook seems to have attempted to alleviate the whole drama of un-friending your ex by coming up with a new tool. The next time you change your relationship status on Facebook (which hopefully isn’t anytime soon), you’ll be confronted with three new options that gauge just how much of your ex you’ll be able to see on your timeline. You will also be able to limit how much your ex can see of you on his timeline (that way you can allow him to see the hot pics from your last weekend out, but not the embarrassing emo lyrics you’ve been posting post-breakup). Lastly, you’ll be able to limit the amount of your posts together that your Facebook friends will be able to see. So, if you want to erase all photos of you two together from your new potential bae, it’s as easy as 1, 2, 3.

Photo via Intrendio

This post, Unfriending Your Ex? Facebook Now Allows You To ‘Erase’ Your Ex, by Ashley Uzer, appeared first on Galore.

“We represent 15—or 16? 15 1/2 girls, because Alex is still a child,” Cecilio Asuncion, the founder of Slay Model Management, LA’s first exclusively transgender modeling agency, said of the 12 year old turning heads as the youngest signee at Slay Models. We’re living in a post-Caitlyn Jenner world, and some of the amazing things to come out of it are organizations like this—Cecilio, who, before entering the fashion world, gained recognition for his documentary What’s The T, which focused on transgender issues. Here, we talk to both Alex, the California kid whose known since she was young, exactly who she was, and founder Cecilio, about their journey so far, and how excited they are for what’s to come.

Galore: Alex, have you always wanted to be a model?

Alex: Well, a lot of kids want to be rockstars, or be famous, you know? I’ve wanted to be a model for a while now, because I definitely want to be famous. And so far it’s been so exciting, and so cool, but I’ve never been in a magazine before, so I’m really excited for this.

How did you end up signing with Slay?

A: My mom came across a Facebook advertisement for Slay while we were driving back from my summer camp. She told me about Cecilio, and about how he was the guy starting an all-trans modeling agency, and we just thought it sounded really cool so we sent in an application.

Cecilio Asuncion: After we got picked up and featured on a variety of media outlets, I got a ton of applications in—I wasn’t really looking for children, but when Lisa sent me Alex’s photos, we set up a meeting, and did some test shoots, and she looked great.

And can I ask, as the founder of Slay, if you’ve had a specific or main mission with your work at the agency?

C: Well, our whole thing is that we’re not about sensationalizing the trans aspect of these models. A lot of these models, in the past, have gone to agencies and been forced to hide their truth—and unfortunately you can’t really be a model that lives up to your potential unless you’re open about who you are.

Alex, have you been talking about your modeling with your friends? 

A: Well, some kids, but for the most part, people don’t know. I’m not trying to hide who I am or anything, but I just feel it’s not really important to talk about with people.

What’s been your experience with identifying yourself as trans? 

A: Okay, so when I was about 3 years old, my mom noticed that I started gravitating towards girly things, and even though a lot of people will say that it’s just a “phase” when a little boy is playing with dolls, that kind of thing was never a phase for me. My mom picked up on that, and did a little bit of research, and asked me, “So you like this stuff—do you maybe think you might be a girl?” and I said “Yes, I am, duh!” And then at the same time, I was kind of a boy also, and it was really confusing, because it was like, I’m neither and both—and it was hard for me to figure out who I was as both of those. Then when I was in third grade, I really realized, okay, I’m actually just a girl.

Was there a specific event that triggered that?

A: One day in third grade, when I was at school, I think, something just hit me, and I was like, I’m not what everybody was saying. I was just born Alex—I am who I am. That day was like whoa, I know who I am, and I know what I want to be. There’s been rumors at my new school that I’m transgender, because some people from my old school know, but nobody really knows for sure. And some kids have asked me questions about it, but I’m like just like, “I’m just Alex, okay? bye!”

Have they given you trouble before?

A: I remember in 3rd grade when I had a pixie cut and I’d wear a headband a lot…some kids came up to me and would say stuff like, “We can’t play with you anymore,” because it wasn’t okay with their parents. Personally, I don’t think my friend’s parents should treat me like that, and that they should find a way to accept me. I don’t understand how some people, even after Caitlyn Jenner came out, and all of the inspiring models from Slay are working, that people don’t understand how transgender people are still people. If I say that I’m a girl, then I’m a girl, you know!

Are you planning on taking hormones?

A: I want to when I start puberty [laughing]. But you know, for right now, I’m just a little more flat chested than other people. I think I’m okay with that. I can be who I am without having boobs, I think.

And so tell me, who’s Alex? What do you like to do?

A: Well, I’m a very enthusiast gymnast. I go to gymnastics once a week. I do that as much as I can. I’m pretty athletic. I like to sing.

What do you like to sing?

A: I like “Hello” by Adele, and “Focus” by Ariana Grande.

Do you have siblings?

A: I have a dog named Boney. And I have a brother named Teddy. I think he’s 9.

C: I love how the dog comes before the brother [Laughing].

And your family’s supportive, right? 

My mom has been very supportive, so has my dad, and so luckily, I’ve had it really easy. Sometimes when my brother gets angry at me, he’ll threaten to tell everybody at school [that I’m trans], and I’m like, “No, stop this isn’t anybody’s business.” It’s just not needed.

Are you on social media?

A: I have Instagram, Snapchat, Vine, all of them…Twitter, Facebook, YouTube—everything. I think of social media as just like a friend. I imagine that all of my friends, or everybody I know, and everybody I have a positive relationship with, I’m updating them on my life, and telling them what’s going on with my life.

And has social media been an important tool for getting the message out about Slay?

C: It’s been really great with the agency, because you can see the support not only from the LGBTQ umbrella, but from the public in general. There have been a few haters, but the feedback is mostly just super positive.  It’s also a great opportunity to showcase the work of the art directors, the clients, and the stylists we work with. It’s also been great to be able to show trans women in such a different way then they’ve been viewed historically, as in, not just as dark women of the night—these girls are hardworking, talented models, and they’ve got all the goods needed to succeed.

So, essentially, not only are you creating a business out of relevancy and need, but it’s also a safe space. 

C: For sure! Because, you know, before we have the cis community accepting us, we need to have our own community connected, and the way that happens is through grass roots organizations just like this. In order to change the world, we have to get to know each other. There’s also a certain level of sisterhood in the agency that I think is really important. It’s very important that I manage her career in a way that lets her know how beautiful she is on the inside. can feel aspirational—I don’t like to say inspirational, because I feel that puts someone on a pedestal—and relatable, and empathetic.

Alex, have you met Amber—the other young model who’s signed to Slay?

A: Actually, she went to the camp with me—Camp Aranu’tiq is a camp for trans-youth—and I knew her three years before that. She’s really nice, and fun to hang out with, and really good at doing hair. I didn’t even know she was a model until I went on Slay’s Instagram, and I saw her in one of the pictures.

That camp sounds really interesting. Did you get homesick there?

A: No [laughing]. Because I’m with a lot of really fun people that I get to hang out with. And nobody judges each other on any of that, and there’s no hate, and it’s like you can be as beautiful and outrageous as you want. I know people who are 1 in th emending screaming about somebody else taking their makeup.

Are all the adults there trans? Are there like, activities based around that theme?

A: No, it’s just a regular camp, where we all have one thing in common. It’s just so awesome because when I’m there honestly, I’ll completely forget that I’m trans. I don’t have to worry about whether anybody hates me, or is judging me…and it’s not even like all the kids are trans. It’s more just of place where all genders and sexualities are welcome.

It’s great that your parents have made such an effort to find places, such as Slay management, that offer so much support and empowerment. 

C: And in a way, especially for the younger models, I have to act like a parent!  I have to treat them differently, because they’re youth. So handling them with go-sees, or photo shoots, it’s really about catering to them, and marketing them towards the right demographic. Alex is 12, so I’ll do everything I can in my power to not overly sexualize her. I have to do some parenting too [laughing].

Photo courtesy of Hemali Zaver

This post, Meet Alex, The 12-Year-Old Signed To Slay Models, LA’s First All-Trans Agency, by Galore Girl, appeared first on Galore.

The war on abortion in the U.S. is bigger than ever. The Supreme Court case, Roe v. Wade may have made it legal to get an abortion in the U.S., however individual states have concocted a slew of regulations and restrictions making it all but impossible for women to get an abortion in those states. One such regulation is the requirement for the clinician performing the abortion to have admitting privileges. Admitting privileges means that a doctor has the right to admit a patient at a hospital (that he/she is not a staff member at) so the patient can receive medical attention if needed. This may seem like it is beneficial to the health of the woman, and that is just what state lawmakers are trying to play it off as, however that is not the case at all. Many clinicians in these states who attempt to get admitting privileges at surrounding hospitals are denied as most hospitals do not want to get entangled in abortion laws and politics.

However, this law was just ruled unconstitutional in one of the states enforcing it, Wisconsin. Planned Parenthood filed the lawsuit, claiming the law was an unconstitutional restriction on abortion as women could not get an abortion from other clinicians as they don’t get granted admitting privileges. Yahoo reports, “Judge Richard Posner called the contention that the law would protect women’s health “nonexistent.” He said the law would put more women in danger by increasing the waiting times for abortions, which could push some procedures into the second trimester. ‘What makes no sense is to abridge the constitutional right to abortion on the basis of spurious contentions regarding women’s health — and the abridgement challenged in this case would actually endanger women’s health.'”

Well thank goodness someone actually cares about women’s health and rights. This may only be one state of many, but pro-choicers from other restricting states may take wind of this case and follow in its footsteps. If this law was ruled unconstitutional in one state, it can be ruled unconstitutional in all of them. This case could cause a huge shift in the war on abortion, and for once be in favor of those seeking choice.

This post, There May Be A Major Setback Coming For The U.S.’s Anti-Abortion Brigade, by Tiernan Hebron, appeared first on Galore.

Check out Britni Sumida, our new fall style muse. From a trip out to Joshua Tree for the weekend to exploring the city of angels, this model always looks like she’s on duty. Here’s how she lives like a West Coast model.

What inspires your style?

I’m inspired by 70’s rock stars and western-wear. I usually take a day and hit up local vintage shops to find little treasures. I love anything that has a bit of character to it.

Did you pursue modeling, or were you thrown into it?

I wouldn’t say that I was thrown into modeling. My aunt is a photographer and I was always that goofy kid trying to be in every photo. At some point she started using me as a model for her jobs and the rest is history.

What does a typical Saturday night look like for you?

On Saturdays I typically find myself with friends bar hoping and exploring LA. I’ve been here for a year and I feel like there’s still so much to see. If I’m not in the city I’m probably spending the weekend in Joshua Tree or the nearest desert town. I can’t stay in the city for too long—I go a little crazy.

What’s the one thing you love to do to after a long day shooting?

Crack open a big ass bottle of wine. Let’s be real, one glass always turns into five… Or maybe that’s just me.

What was the hardest adjustment moving from Arizona to LA?

The hardest part about adjusting to LA was dealing with so many people in such a small place. City life in Arizona is equivalent to a small town outside of LA. It’s been interesting adjusting to being around people 25/7. It’s definitely made me more outgoing.

Now that Fall has arrived, what are some tips you can give our readers for Fall trends?

Being from Arizona, dressing for Fall hasn’t been prevalent in my life until now. I just find myself buying fluffy and/or fringe jackets.

Photos: Devon Trunk

Model: Britni Sumida

Makeup:Crystal Liz

All clothes: Model’s own

This post, What To Expect When You Move To LA According To Britni Sumida, by Stephanie Janetos, appeared first on Galore.

Sofia Jamora does glitter glam right in this editorial shot by Frankie Mark.

All clothing provided by Tart Collections, Wylder, and Bardot.

All clothing provided by Tart Collections, Wylder, and Bardot.

All clothing provided by Tart Collections, Wylder, and Bardot.

All clothing provided by Tart Collections, Wylder, and Bardot.

All clothing provided by Tart Collections, Wylder, and Bardot.

All clothing provided by Tart Collections, Wylder, and Bardot.

All clothing provided by Tart Collections, Wylder, and Bardot.

All clothing provided by Tart Collections, Wylder, and Bardot.

All clothing provided by Tart Collections, Wylder, and Bardot.

All clothing provided by Tart Collections, Wylder, and Bardot.

Photos by Frankie Mark

This post, Sofia Jamora Shows Us 11 Ways To Wear Sparkles, by Galore Girl, appeared first on Galore.

Ah Thanksgiving, a time to be grateful for everything we have, a time to reflect, and a time to be with family. Thanksgiving is all of those things, but let’s be real, Thanksgiving is also a time to eat until any semblance of that summer bod you had is gone and a time to get asked lots of personal questions from your relatives like ‘hows the job hunt going’ and the dreaded ‘whats new in your love life.’ But ya know whose relatives probably don’t ask a lot of annoying questions, Adele’s. Homegirl’s new single ‘Hello’ has broken too many records to count, her music video is already iconic and she has never looked more beautiful. So maybe, just maybe, if we walk into Thanksgiving dinner saying ‘hello, it’s me’ looking as fierce as Adele, our relatives won’t even remember to ask where our dates are.

Obviously, step 1 to achieving Adelehood is getting winged eyeliner so sharp it could cut that turkey leg your about to inhale. The 25-year old legend has never made an appearance without her signature cat eyes. Start with a gel liner like Maybelline’s Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliner and then go over it with a liquid liner like Maybelline’s Line Stiletto to get that precise finish and perfect wing

Step 2 is to get some fake eyelashes so real looking it’ll have your relatives wondering why they didn’t get those genes in the family. Try Shu Uemura Fake Eyelashes, they’re thickening without being too in your face about it.

Step 3 is that nude lipstick that makes her look like a retro goddess. And, even better, this color won’t leave as noticeable of a mark on the wineglasses you’ll be chugging. Try Revlon ColorBurst Matte Balm Stain in Complex, it’s a perfect peachy nude with a natural matte finish.

Step 4 are those eyebrows that are so on fleek, they could bring a tear to your eye, just like her music. We suggest Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Brow Color, which has a tiny brush to make it look like you’re almost filling your eyebrows in with real hair, and Tarte Amazonian Clay Waterproof Brow Mousse to make sure those unruly eyebrow hairs stay in their place.

And lastly, step 5 is voluminous, glossy hair. There’s no way of knowing how that woman manages to have perfectly teased volume and shine to her hair, but she does. To attempt at that level of perfection, try Big Sexy Hair Root Pump Plus Spray Mousse before you style for the volume and Redken Glass 01 Smoothing Serum to tame frizz and flyaways and add shine without looking greasy.

This post, 5 Steps To Getting Adele’s Perfect Holiday Beauty Look, by Tiernan Hebron, appeared first on Galore.

I arrive at a home off the PCH in Malibu, undoubtedly dangling over the Pacific ocean, at around 9 PM on Sunday evening. Arriving, however, was not as simple as stated. It’s pitch-black and parking along the infamous highway is near impossible. For miles, there’s not an idle vehicle to be found until we reach the stretch packed with BMWs, undeniably parked by the many occupants of the house party that Drake is rumored to be at. My couple girlfriends and I get to the gate by the guidance of iPhone flashlights, pushing past the 18 mile per hour gusts of wind, courtesy of the ocean. Thank god I’m wearing my faux fur.

At the gate there’s a list. We’re not on the list, I had just received a text from my friend, the manager of a booming up-and-coming artist, to come through. His name isn’t even on the list. Why would it be? He’s a friend. He’s a homie. Homies don’t have to be on the list. I text and call him to come get us at the gate but he’s not answering. There’s probably no service down in the house.

People are coming out of the party wearing obscure straw hats, resembling that of chinese farmers. I ask, “What’s with the hats, did we miss a memo or something?” Security reassures me, “They’re giving them away for free. The hats are the theme.” The hats are the theme? The theme of the party is “straw hats?” We wait for about fifteen minutes before finally convincing the surprisingly chill security to let us in. We’re friends with the artist and we’re not dressed like thots. You’re always more believable when you’re not dressed like thots.

When we reach the end of the winding driveway, we see David, who had finally received our texts and missed calls, and was on his way to bring us in. He leads us inside the Malibu estate filled wall to wall with girls in either short bodycon wrap dresses and thigh highs or light wash jeans and crop tops. I’m wearing neither.

Music is blasting, probably “Blase” by Ty Dolla Sign and Future, and there’s a bar with endless alcohol. There’s a weed bar. There are chefs in the kitchen pulling out heaps of crab fried rice and crab cakes. I didn’t even know crab fried rice was a thing. I order Hennessy and Coke but I’m handed a vodka cranberry instead. I drink it anyways. David begins to lead us outside, towards the fireplace. I follow obediently like a foster puppy, being introduced to it’s new home for the first time. Someone reaches their hand out and grabs me by the arm. It’s the guy who comes into my work that I think is really attractive but I’ve never actually talked to. He pulls me in for a hug and I’m wondering how he ended up here just as much as I’m wondering how I ended up here.

I see a few other people I know, industry people, friends and I’m already on to my second drink. I decide I’m are going to dance and I am not going to give a fuck who sees me, so I do just that. I’m getting drunk, I’m dancing and soon one of my girlfriends approaches me.

“Did you see Drake?” What?! Damn it, how did I miss Drizzy’s entrance? Oh yes, that’s right I was dancing. Casey continues, “He came right through here,” motioning toward the hallway sprouting from the kitchen, “I swear it was like the red sea parted when he came through. Everyone made room for him.”

Not too long after, a large figure appears in the crowded living room. A very large figure. Wearing a white sweatband and a full navy sweatsuit, with that undeniable swish through the front of his closely shaved head, it’s definitely Champagne Papi. It’s Champagne. Fucking. Papi.

Drake is in the room and the DJ is now only playing Drake. Is it weird to dance to your own music, I wonder? Drake raps along to the lyrics with everyone else in the room, as if he’s not Drake, but he’s a part of the entire rest of the world that probably knows more Drake lyrics than they do Middle Eastern countries. Drake is now dancing. Drake is Hotline Bling dancing. I am watching Drake Hotline Bling dance.

Drake is a huge person. I’ve heard he’s been bulked up in the past year but I haven’t paid that close of attention. Drake is easily the biggest person in the room. It could simply be that in comparison to Omarion, who’s also Hotline Bling dancing, anyone is huge, but Drake also does possess the “I’m Drake” aura that could be taking him from 6’ 4” to 8’ 3”.

I keep ending up next to Drake and I’m honestly not trying to. I go to the bar to get another drink and I’m standing next to Drake. I walk outside and I’m next to Drake. I’m giving my friend a lap dance on the couch and Drake is in plain sight. Drake very well could have seen that.

Outside, Drake is talking to some girl with dorky sunglasses. The girl oddly resembles Rihanna, in her facial features but could very well be wearing a wig. The only thing throwing me off is her outfit; tight jeans, denim top and chelsea boots that look like they came straight out of a Melrose boutique. Could it be? RiRi would have to be really dedicated to that disguise to step out in public looking that “basic.”

You forget about you until you’re standing next to Drake. I’m drunk. Am I cool? This room is full of Don’t-You-Wish-You-Were-Me girls and I don’t wish I were any of them. Are they cool? I’m probably not that cool and in reality, no one really is that cool. Except Drake. Drake is probably that cool.

There’s a first time for everything, and I don’t just mean your “first time.” Of course, there’s vital, “right of passage” first times that everyone must encounter at some point, for example, moving to a new place, getting your heart broken, and making your first humiliating, drunk decision. Yet first times are imperative to the better (or often, identical) mistakes we’ll make later, and teach us the lessons that we’ll continue to not learn from. Every week, we’re going to be telling real first time stories from real girls, and that includes everything from celebrity house parties to Instagram marriage proposals. 

This post, The First Time I…Partied At The Yolo Estate (With Drake), by Erika Flynn, appeared first on Galore.

Just like Trey Songz and Justin Bieber, we love our foreign girls and we wanted you to get to know them (and where they came from) just a little bit better. Each week, we’re asking these passport yielding babes about their aspirations, Instagram game and what they think about this bizarre place we call America and why they decided to make it their final destination. Imagine their culture shock when they realized Donald Trump or Kanye could so easily run for president. If you hail from a faraway land and would like to let us know what you think, submit this survey and your cutest Instagram pic to erika@galoremag.com for a chance to be featured. 

Name: Vera Olin

Age: 22

Instagram: @veraolin

Where I’m from: Stockholm, Sweden

Now I live: Los Angeles

Why I moved: I had been dreaming of studying acting in California for years.

Who I am, basically: I get excited over the smallest things and I’m very easy to scare. In Sweden I would not be allowed to say it but I do love to be the center of attention. I get a thrill out of being on stage and in front of the camera.

I only speak to Siri when I’m bored.

What’s the weirdest American slang you’ve picked up since moving here? I have a lot of friends and past roommates from the Bay area, so there is a possibility that “Hella” slipped out a couple of times.

My favorite food from Sweden is Marabou!! I miss our Swedish chocolate and candy in general, America does not know what candy should taste like.

Favorite song ATM: 7 years by Lukas Graham.

Biggest culture shock moment: The biggest culture shock for me was the amount of homeless people. I did not expect too see a homeless person at every corner of the street, or people living under the freeways. And how bizarre the difference is between being rich and poor. I could stand next to someone sitting on the street with some blankets and a sign asking for money, and then look across the street and see someone with a bag worth thousands of dollars. That is something that I hopefully will never get used to.

What my parents just don’t get about American culture: That fact that everyone is driving everywhere, preferably in their own car, and there is no working commute system.

The dumbest thing a guy has said to me about my culture while attempting to flirt with me: Once a guy said to me “får jag låna dina strumpor?” which means “can I borrow your socks?” I think that was the only thing he knew in Swedish. And Of course the do we really have electricity in Sweden? And how about museums? And how can I have brown eyes when everyone in Sweden are blond and blue eyed?

Favorite thing to post on Insta? Palm trees and pretty views.

An American stereotype I’ve found to be 100% true: Many Americans I’ve met have never been outside of the states and don’t know anything about the geography of the rest of the world. They also barely ever bake from scratch.

Worst thing about American guys/girls: All the catcalling, and how that is okay and totally normal.

Best thing? I like the friendliness. Everyone is very open and friendly. You can have a conversation with a random person on the street and people are more than happy to help with whatever they can. They are genuinely interested about your life and what you have to say. I also love that you thank the bus driver, or everyone for that matter.

Donald Trump, Kanye West, or Hillary Clinton for president? Beyoncé?

Illustration by Grace Tame.

For more palm trees, pretty views and some refreshing social awareness, follow Swedish babe Vera on Instagram.

This post, INTERNATIONAL GIRLS: Sweden Born Vera Olin Gives America Some Food For Thought This Thanksgiving, by Erika Flynn, appeared first on Galore.

While I spent this Thanksgiving in bed with a raging fever and was therefore thankful about very little, the celebrities in my life were significantly luckier and therefore thankful AF. 

Gigi Hadid was thankful for a lot, including the little tiny really fast steps the marching band in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade take, the latte her mom just made her, and the fact that she has the best family ever:

Currently.. pic.twitter.com/Ys6eGrJP5L

— Gigi Hadid (@GiGiHadid) November 27, 2015

Justin Bieber was thankful for his new iphone camera:   so he can take better selfies:   Kylie Jenner was thankful for her blended family:   And also for selfies:  caption: “bout to tear this dinner up”    Katy Perry was thankful her face doesn’t look like this anymore:   Kim Kardashian was thankful there was still a time when she could fit into a little black Gucci dress: Miley Cyrus was thankful for the fact that even though we all get older, some things never change:   And also avocados:   Jimmy Fallon was thankful for the fact that Rashida Jones is always down to turn popular songs into Thanksgiving songs: 

Today I give thanks that @adamlevine is back to looking like Eddie Munster… pic.twitter.com/e03iY9LEnw — Blake Shelton (@blakeshelton) November 26, 2015

This post, Kim Kardashian Came Out As A Spice Girls Fan This Thanksgiving, by Maria Pasquini, appeared first on Galore.

Instagram is kind of like its very own 15 minutes of fame. Your crush likes your photo, and you’re hyped. A brand that you’re wearing likes your photo, you’re extra hyped. But, imagine if Kylie Jenner, possibly the Instagram queen herself, liked your photo– or even followed you?

Unfortunately, that probably isn’t happening for you (or any of us) considering all 183 of the select few she follows on her public Instagram are A-list celebs. But, one can dream…right?

1.@DaddyIssues_

MTV

Unlike Kylie Jenner, Violent Benson, AKA Daddy Issues, seems to actually understand your problems. Whether it’s our struggles with online dating apps like Tinder, stalking your ex, or drinking too much, Violet always seems to understand. If you don’t see her posts and immediately want to tag your BFF, are you even living life?

2. @PrincessPiaMia

VEVO

I think we all wish we could look as sexy as Pia Mia when we’re busting out the lyrics to our favorite Lil Wayne song. Unfortunately, we usually end up just looking extremely awkward and white. Regardless, her latest songs “Do It Again” and “Touch” have us belting out with our bottle of wine every Friday night.

3. @JustineSky

Versus and Co

When she’s not killing it DJing at one of our Galore parties, she’s busy rocking the best purple hair we’ve ever seen. Not to mention that her Instagram features a killer clip of her singing her rendition of “What Do You Mean” mixed with Drake.

4. @HaileeSteinfeld

Don’t we all wish we were genius enough to write a feel-good song about masturbating? If “Love Myself” doesn’t make you want to dance around your room with a hairbrush, it should at least make you want to stop texting your ex.

5. @Fergie

Entertainment Weekly

Can you name one of Fergie’s songs that isn’t a hit? With those lady lumps and that killer voice, Fergie has and always will be Princess Ferg. Her Instagram features photos with our other favorite stars like Nicki Minaj, plus pictures of her adorable son Axl.

6. @TinasheNow

Think Pynk

Heat your Instagram feed up with Tinashe’s sexy Dazed Magazine cover shoot and her kickass dance clips.

7. @GigiGorgeous

Super Fame

If you haven’t been seeing enough of Gigi in Kylie Jenner’s app, you can spot more sexy pics, cute puppies, and killer outfit inspo on her Instagram.

8. @Jlo

Latin Times

If you need inspiration to get your ass to the gym everyday, just try seeing J.Lo’s killer body on your feed and remembering that she’s 45 years old and still hotter than you.

9. @SofiaRichie

If you didn’t get enough of Ms. Richie after her Galore feature, her Instagram (and new blonde locks) will have you hooked.

10. @KatyPerry

Nexus Radio

From Hilary Clinton nail art to babies in pepperoni onesies, Katy Perry’s Instagram is much more than just selfies. And from the princess of pop herself, are you really surprised?

11. @RosieHW

Xyer

Just in case you needed some more body envy, make-up envy, and clothes envy; you can always follow this (ex?) Victoria’s Secret Angel.

12. @ChrissyTeigen

E!

Our favorite thing about this hottie’s Instagram? That it mostly consists of food. From Zucchini Lasagna, to cookie butter cheesecake, to pictures of Chrissy and her boo John Legend, you’ll be drooling as you hit “like.”

13. @BellaHadid

Hawt Celebs

Are Bella Hadid and The Weeknd still dating? We don’t really care, but if they’re not, he’s clearly missing out on this babe!

14. @ChampagnePapi

Rolling Stone

Drake. That is all.

15. @GigiHadid

Her Campus

From Galore cover to world domination, we’ve loved watching this bombshell take over the globe. Keep up with her killer outfits, magazine spreads, and inspiration via Insta.

16. @Olivier_Rousteing

Huffington Post

Every guy needs to be jealous of Olivier. He’s constantly posting pictures with the best arm candy including Jourdan Dunn, Rihanna, Kendall Jenner, and Kate Hudson. Girls, you’re probably jealous of him too because you wish you had access to all that Balmain.

17. @ItsJeremyScott

Like Olivier, Jeremy Scott is constantly posing with the hottest A-list chicks including Miley, Katy Perry, and Amber Rose. I mean seriously, with that company and being able to design barbies, I think we all wish we had Scott’s job.

This post, Our 17 Favorite People That Kylie Jenner Follows On Instagram, by Ashley Uzer, appeared first on Galore.

It may be the end of the month, but if there’s ever a time to throw caution to the wind, it’s Black Friday.  Whether you’re buying yourself a much needed treat or getting a head start on finding the perfect gift for your friends, family and boy toys, these are the Black Friday deals you need to know about:

Anthropologie: 25% off each and every item

American Apparel: 50% off sale items

Dollskill: From now until their sunday their ENTIRE website is marked down.  I repeat, their entire website is marked down.

Forever 21:  50% off all outerwear and sweaters, free shipping on all orders over $30 and a variety of deals starting at just $6.

For Love And Lemons: Take 25% off their entire site from now until Monday by using the code LOVEIT

Married to the Mob: From now until Monday, take 70% off a cute selection of their site with the code MOBBLACKFRIDAY15

MYVL: 30% off everything with the code DANKNESS30

Nasty Gal: 30% off sale items and 30% off of everything black (gotta love a literal take on Black Friday)

Petals and Peacocks: Take 45% off their ENTIRE site today, 35% off tomorrow and 25% off on Saturday using the code BLACKOUT25.

UNIF: up to 60% off their ENTIRE site

Urban Outfitters: Take 30% off sale items (40% if you’re an Urban On Member, whatever that means), 20% off male graphic tees, $29 flannels, and discounted camera/record players.

Wildfox: Take 30% from now through Sunday using code COSMIC, as well as up to 60% off sale items on Cyber Monday using code Nebula.

Kiss that cash goodbye, everyone.

This post, 12 Black Friday Deals Too Good To Miss Out On, by Galore Girl, appeared first on Galore.

When you think back on your happiest moments in life, they probably revolve around a special someone or a certain party, rather than the times you spent in bed sick or washing the dishes.

As much as we may want to be good samaritans, we can’t deny that our happiest moments probably happen when we’re getting off or drinking up.

According to a new study done by The University of Canterbury in New Zealand, we can all let out a breathe of fresh air and realize that even the goodie-two-shoes in our life would probably rather be knocking back a cold one or getting laid.

In the study, participants were asked to rate a range of activities on what they called “pleasure maps” in three categories: pleasure, engagement, and meaning. Researchers also analyzed participants text messages to chart out their pleasure maps.

Across all three categories, sex topped the charts as the number one activity, therefore making it the most pleasurable and meaningful. Partying ranked second highest on the pleasure scale, but low on the meaning scale. Other activities that ranked low on the pleasure scale included “using Facebook,” “doing housework,” and “feeling sick.” Surprisingly to some, volunteering, religion, and childcare came out as the next three most highly pleasurable activities after sex and partying.

While it still remains a bit unclear exactly how this survey was administered and how results were analyzed, we can’t say that any of the results surprise us. I mean seriously, is there anyone who prefers feeling sick over having sex? Unless there’s some type of weird fetish involving loving contracting diseases, I doubt it.

While we’d love to see exactly what a “pleasure map” looks like, or find out how honest people were being when they ranked religion as their most pleasurable activity, for now all we can say is that this survey didn’t really teach us shit.

Photo via Youtube

This post, Study Shows That Sex & Alcohol Give More Pleasure Than Kids & Religion, by Ashley Uzer, appeared first on Galore.

We all love to look back and cringe at the bad beauty trends of the 90’s and early 2000’s, from over-plucked eyebrows to crimped hair. But what else can you recall about the history of cosmetics? Take the quiz to find out!

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This post, POP QUIZ: Test Your Beauty IQ!, by Galore Girl, appeared first on Galore.

Electro-pop duo Cardiknox is the type of group that will win over fans for a plethora of reasons: their music is irrefutably catchy and relatable, they’re both wildly beautiful, and should you have the chance to see them on stage or in person, they will undoubtedly win you over with charm and artistic charisma. Having gotten their start together in the world of musical theater, Lonnie Angle and Thomas Dutton have since evolved into one of the more exciting and promising pop acts of 2015. We spoke with Angle about being an emerging artist in the age of the Internet, New York vs. LA, and creating music that makes people feel fabulous.

 Where are each of you from and when did you first cross paths?

We both grew up in the Seattle area and were introduced about six years ago by my best friend who thought I should work with Thomas on a musical he was developing.

What is your background in music and how did you start working together creatively?

Thomas’ dad taught him how to play guitar when he was young and he started playing with friends in middle school. His first band was called Jack Squat (a nod to the Chris Farley motivational speaker SNL sketch). He went on to be the lead singer in a band called Forgive Durden for a number of years.

When I was five, I begged my parents to buy me a piano. I was deeply envious of my neighbors down the street who had a baby grand. I started taking lessons when I was five and played for the next 10 years, while also pursuing musical theater.

When we were introduced, Thomas had written a concept album with his brother and released it via Fueled By Ramen (his previous record label). It’s an amazing piece of music and I helped develop it into a more ‘legit’ musical theater piece, something that could live on the stage, not just an album. I wrote the libretto and directed early iterations of it. We actually moved to NYC and worked with The Public Theater and a commercial producer for a few years, and then needed a break. We shifted our efforts to writing music together and Cardiknox was born.

Do you think it’s harder or easier for emerging acts in the age of the Internet? 

Hmm … that’s tough to answer. Both. Access is everything, so the fact that nearly anyone, anywhere can access new music (or release their own music) is kind of magical. When you create a piece of music and put it up on the interwebs, it can be discovered across the globe. The problem of course is oversaturation. There is SO MUCH music being made and shared today. And so many platforms with which to share it. So it can be hard to be heard amidst all of the noise and chaos online. If you’re creating really strong music, though, and you’re willing to be patient, inevitably it will be found.

If your music were any type of food, drug, or alcoholic beverage, what would it be?

Drug: Ecstasy. Hopefully we make people feel FABULOUS.

Food: Garlic Truffle Fries. Addictive as all hell.

Alcoholic beverage: Four Roses Bourbon. Classy + strong.

What type of person do you think is connecting with your music?

I hope all sorts of people are connecting with it. The first two tracks we’ve released from our forthcoming album are fairly uplifting in their message. They speak about resilience of the human spirit, seizing opportunities, and never giving up. These are pretty universal messages—regardless of your age, gender, or color. We try to write from a very honest place, which hopefully allows the listener to connect in a more real way.

What types of music do you connect with most?

 Thomas is really drawn to story. Because of this, he loves rap and R&B, where the artist is really speaking their story directly to you. The more raw and more honest, the better. I’m a sucker for melody. So often I don’t even hear the lyrics the first few listens. I get wrapped up in the feeling of melody and tone … and get swept away by the song.

If you weren’t in a band, what would you be doing?

I’d be running a regional theater or producing theater on Broadway. Thomas would probably be a creative director at some big NYC agency.

New York or LA?

New York. (Sorry, lalaland …)

Sexy or cute?

Smart. (And sexy …)

Which song of yours is the most meaningful to you and why?

“SHADOWBOXING.” This is yet to be released but it tells the story of a huge rift in my relationship with my dad when he left my mom. It’s a really honest look at a terribly painful time in my life.

“EARTHQUAKE” has tremendous meaning to both of us as well. It was written after a major record label had been courting us and ultimately passed on signing us. We had our hopes set pretty high, so we were really let down by the news. We sat down and basically wrote this whole song the next day. And it ultimately was the track that got us our deal with Warner Bros. Records — which certainly turned out to be the right home for us with the most amazing team of people. Funny how things work out the way they’re supposed to.

What’re your thoughts on artists who don’t write their own music?

I’ve only got good vibes and thoughts for anyone that’s trying to make it in music. This landscape and industry is fucking crazy and if you feel compelled to create, in whatever way that is—albeit interpreting music that’s been written by someone else or writing stories about your own life—I commend you. Everyone has different strengths. And we live in a time where hybridization is everywhere—artists that are producers, producers that are artists, singers that are pop stars. If you have the balls to put yourself out there and share what you’ve created, I honor you.

What’s your biggest goal or dream as it pertains to Cardiknox? 

World domination (said in the most endearing way possible). I have really big hopes for Cardiknox. I plan on playing MSG one day to a sold out house of amazing people that are compelled to dance and sing with us, and then go out and share their joy in the world. (Singing kumbaya…)

This post, Cardiknox Makes Music That Feels Like Ecstasy, by Mathias Rosenzweig, appeared first on Galore.

On Wednesday, November 25th, Ontario legalized the smoking of marijuana pretty much anywhere. Consumption of weed via joint or vaporizer was allowed anywhere where smoking usually is banned; including, but not limited to movie theaters, restaurants, parks, and other public spaces. However, by Thursday, November 26th, the Ontario Government changed its mind basically saying, Ooops I think we just decided to let people get high wherever and whenever the hell they want to, including on the floor of the legislature; eh better not. Associate Health Minister Dipika Damerela spoke to the press about the one day reversal, “We will consider this feedback, look at it very carefully and see what we need to do…It’s too early to say whether this was a failure or not.” The move to reverse the pot-friendly policy stemmed from concerns about second hand smoke exposure. Not sure how or why this wasn’t considered before, perhaps the Ontario government was experimenting with medical marijuana themselves. Just kidding ;).

This post, Ontario Legalizes Smoking Weed Anywhere, Then Reverses Decision, by Elizabeth Miller, appeared first on Galore.

If you’ve ever dreamed of being a Hollywood makeup artist, get a glimpse of the lifestyle with Mila J Thomas. Not only is she the chief makeup artist on VH1’s Love and Hip Hop Hollywood, she’s also worked with the Food Network, BET, and has beautified numerous celebrity clients. Up next for Mila? Hopefully, working with Michelle Obama, Oprah, or starting her own charity!

I wake up at 6am.

This post, A Day In The Life Of Hollywood Makeup Artist Mila Thomas, by Stephanie Janetos, appeared first on Galore.

Skittles Parties are apparently all the rage, as teenagers across the country have taken up with this new trend. Basically a Skittles Party is when a kid goes into their parent’s medicine cabinet, takes all of the prescription drugs they can find, mixes them together in a bowl and then takes a handful of assorted pills to see how high they can get. Stupid doesn’t even begin to cut it. According to Yahoo, “Several teens have overdosed after playing Russian roulette with pills at these parties, which are also known as “pharming parties.” Last month, five high school students in Marin County, California, overdosed after an apparent “Skittles party” and were taken to the hospital.” One kid in Knoxville, Tennessee, however was not as lucky and he died of an overdose after attending a Skittles Party.

Drug abuse and overdose rates have increased drastically in the past couple of years in teenagers and young adults. The lack of comprehensive drug education and information is to blame. Teens are taught that drugs are bad and what street drugs can do to you, but education on prescription drug addiction is all but nonexistent. Sharon Levy M.D., director of the substance abuse program at Boston Children’s Hospital says of teens, “They’ll assume because it’s a pharmaceutical product that it doesn’t have the same risks, they will assume that they’re safe, and that’s just wrong. These medications have a very high abuse potential. People can absolutely become addicted to them.” There are programs informing kids of the dangers of cocaine and heroin, but there are no programs informing kids about the real dangers of prescription drugs. As prescription drugs are more readily available and accessible, they can be just as dangerous if not more so as demonstrated by these new “skittles parties.”

This post, Kids Are Risking Their Lives to Get High at “Skittles Parties”, by Tiernan Hebron, appeared first on Galore.

Hot off a collaboration with Kendall and Kylie Jenner, British fashion retailer Topshop are finally setting a release date to an announcement they made a year ago. Queen Bey and Topshop are set to give the world a line of #flawless athletic line in April 2016. The UK brand has previously worked with names like Kate Moss and Christopher Kane, and has gradually hopping into the sportswear trend. This new line actually isn’t a collaboration, as we are used to seeing, but actually a 50/50 partnership between Beyoncé and Topshop, the resulting brand named Parkwood Topshop Athletic Ltd. Beyonceé released a statement saying ” ​”I could not think of a better partner as I continue to grow the Parkwood business. I have always loved Topshop for its fashion credentials and forward thinking. Working with its development team to create and produce a technical and fashion-led collection is exciting, and I’m looking forward to participating in all aspects of this partnership.”​, while her partner, Topshop chairman Sir Philip Green, matched her enthusiasm adding on, “[c]reating a partnership with Beyoncé, one of the most hard-working and talented people in the world, who spends many hours of her life dancing, rehearsing and training is in a unique opportunity to develop this category.”​ As for the actual collection we can expect a line of high-performance but stylish leggings and leotards, appropriate for, according to Green, “women who go to yoga or the health club, as well as those who just want to look as if they do.”, and probably women who just want to look as bomb as Queen Bey. While it might seem tortuous to have to wait a few more months, at least it gives us time to get down your favorite Beyoncé routine, we suggest “7/11”.

This post, Beyoncé & Topshop are Teaming Up for a New Athleisure Line, by Korrina Harmsen, appeared first on Galore.

Mondays suck, we know. But we’re here to help make it better, and so is Wyatt Nash. In fact, it’s basically been his job for the past couple of years to become a heartthrob for all women across America, having starred in the Lifetime movie, Petals On The Wind, the follow up to the film adaptation of Petals in the Attic—otherwise known as the novel in which two siblings, Catherine Dollanger and Christopher Dollanger, get locked in an attic and then decide to bone.

Okay, okay, we know stomach churning, but be sure the plot line is intriguing and Wyatt is there to provide you with ample eye candy, even if it’s while he’s making out with his sister. And as it turns out, even though the character he plays is pretty #scandalous, Nash himself is as wholesome as they come. Before launching his career as an actor, Nash was a pre-med Biology major in college and graduated Summa Cum Laude. We sat down with Nash to talk a little bit about what it’s like being smart and playing “the hot guy,” life in LA, and what’s next for this rising star.

You starred as Christopher in the Lifetime film Petals on the Wind, what was it like playing a character that was in love with his sister?

Scandal, scandal, scandal. It was extremely challenging. Fortunately, Rose McIver is not my sister though, so that made my job a little bit easier.

Seems intense…have you read the whole series?

I wish I could have, but I was cast two days before we started shooting so it was a little bit of a rush. I was able to watch the first movie, Flowers in the Attic, and I did as much research as I could and I just had to run with it.

What’s your dream role?

Oh man, what would be my dream role? There’s a book series called Kingkiller Chronicles by Patrick Rothfuss. It’s kind of geeky and nerdy, magic and dragons, you know. Rothfuss is an amazing writer. He’s really gifted and a lot of fun to read and he has a really interesting perspective and I’d love to play the main character in that series–Kvothe.

Back in the day, you competed on Survivor, what was the hardest thing about being a contestant on the show?

I didn’t have to eat anything gross or anything like that. Sleeping was hard for me. I would only get like two or three hours a night. You just can’t get comfortable on bamboo. I was pretty exhausted by the end of it.

Who’s going to be your #WCW this week?

Probably my girlfriend.

West Coast or East Coast?

West Coast. It’s not even a challenge for me. I love hiking and camping and exploring and between Oregon and Washington and Utah and all the national parks, there’s so much rugged coast line to see.

What’s the best movie you’ve seen recently?

The Martian. I really enjoyed that, Matt Damon did a great job and it was a lot of fun.

Yeah, that movie gave me anxiety.

Yeah, didn’t it though? I just sat there watching it and was like wow is this really happening right now in front of me. I got really sucked in.

If you had to give up one, which would you give up, cheese or oral sex?

I have to pass on this question. I plead the fifth. I really like cheese. I really do. That is a fact.

Is everyone in LA as obsessed with the Kardashians as the media makes it seem?

Oh man, I don’t know. How many of them are there? There’s a bunch. I don’t know if they’re just grasping more people into their clan, or what. But it seems like every time I turn on the internet there’s a new Kardashian, but they actually do seem like they have a pretty big following. I don’t know if it’s middle america that keeps them on the front page or what.

You were pre med and graduated from college Summa Cum Laude. Do you ever miss being in the bio lab?

I miss being in the academic environment and learning about what’s on the forefront of science. Being in the lab though? No. Organic Chemistry was pretty fun though. We would use acetone to clean out the beakers, and because it’s chemistry, you have to like get rid of all the water. So when we were alone in the lab, we would kind of just set things on fire. That was fun, I kind of miss that.

What’s your guilty pleasure?

I love reading and sometimes I can get sucked into books and I think like oh what did I do today? Oh I read for 8 hours. Um… also, I’m not even sure I feel bad about it but Taylor Swift is pretty awesome.

What do you miss most about your hometown, Nashville?

I miss the slower pace and the southern charm. It’s actually been growing like crazy and every time I go back home I don’t even recognize it, but what I always miss is my friends and family who are there.

What was your favorite part about filming The Bridge?

Katie Finley, I learned so much from her while filming.

Do you enjoy playing the hearth throb in Romance films?

It would seem that way wouldn’t it? I think it’s definitely something I enjoy but I’m open to anything ultimately.

How awkward is it filming sex scenes?

It can be really difficult and awkward because it feels so technical. A lot of times you’re more worried about not looking like you’re eating someone’s face rather than worrying about the cameras. But, I think there’s always a little bit of anxiety during the first take but you get over it eventually because you just want to get the shot.

What’s next for you?

Well… You know Hollywood is a beast and you just have to get out there and grind. I was out for about 2 and a half months filming The Bridge 1 and 2 and I think that’s about it for the year and then start going out on auditions again early next year.

This post, #MCM Wyatt Nash On What It’s Like Playing A Heartthrob In A Lifetime Movie, by Victoria Durden, appeared first on Galore.