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Forget beach clubs and umbrella drinks. Some of the hottest cruise destinations right now require considerably more layers, as travelers head north in search of cooler temperatures, remote landscapes and once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters. In other words, expedition cruising is having a moment.

Cruise Lines International Association reports that passenger numbers for expedition and exploration cruises jumped 22 percent from 2023 to 2024, while global capacity for the category is expected to grow 150 percent between 2019 and 2029.

The Arctic is particularly hot (figuratively, that is). Recent industry research found that Antarctica and the Arctic are leading demand for expedition cruising, while SAS has also reported growing interest in Northern Lights trips, Arctic adventures and Nordic destinations.

The catch? Getting to the edge of the world isn’t exactly cheap.

That’s why a new offer from National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions caught our attention. From Sept. 15 through Nov. 4, 2026, travelers booking select 2027 expeditions can receive up to $2,000 per person in air credit when booking their flights through Lindblad Expeditions’ Air Department.

For two travelers, that’s potentially $4,000 toward airfare for a trip that might otherwise involve some seriously pricey plane tickets.

Related: This Premium Cruise Line Just Added More Ways to See the Fjords

Where Can You Go?

If polar bears are on your bucket list, Svalbard: In Search of Iconic Arctic Wildlife ventures into the Norwegian archipelago in search of its famous residents, with hikes past whale bones and remnants of old trappers’ huts along the way.

Guests from National Geographic Endurance kayaking in ice off the island of Edge Island, Svalbard, Norway.

Michael S. Nolan

Greenland is another option. Fabled Lands of the North: Greenland to Newfoundland explores Western Greenland’s coastline, including Sisimiut and the enormous icebergs of UNESCO-listed Disko Bay.

Guests explore by zodiac in Crocker Bay, Devon Island, Baffin Bay, Nunavut, Canada.

Ralph Lee Hopkins

Prefer penguins to polar bears? The offer also extends to Antarctica Direct: Fly the Drake Passage, which swaps the notoriously rough traditional Drake Passage sea crossing for a roughly two-hour flight to and from Antarctica. Once there, travelers can experience the continent’s towering ice formations and wildlife without spending days getting tossed around at sea.

A Gentoo penguin jumps out of the water in Antarctica.

Shutterstock

And despite the current northern travel boom, you don’t have to pack a parka to take advantage of the deal.

Qualifying itineraries also include a voyage through the Society and Tuamotu Islands in French Polynesia, where travelers can explore UNESCO-protected Fakarava; a coastal Japan expedition incorporating gardens, castles and Naoshima; and a Patagonia adventure through Chilean fjords where Zodiac rides, kayaking and sightings of Magellanic penguins and Andean condors are all possibilities.

There’s even a sailing from Edinburgh to Lisbon tracing Celtic and Iberian coastlines along the way.

These aren’t your typical cruise excursions, either. Voyages are accompanied by naturalists, cultural specialists and certified photo instructors, with National Geographic photographers and expedition experts joining select departures.

That’s a big part of expedition cruising’s growing appeal: The ship isn’t necessarily the destination. It’s your ticket to places that can be extraordinarily difficult to reach any other way.

And with airfare potentially taking up to $2,000 per person less of your vacation budget, that trip to the literal ends of the Earth just got a little closer.

Up next:

Related: Why a Small-Ship Voyage Is the Best Way to Experience the ‘Quiet Mediterranean’

“Dopamine dressing” has been trending on social media lately. Coined by fashion psychologist Dr. Dawnn Karen in her 2020 book Dress Your Best Life, the term refers to intentionally choosing clothing to adjust your emotional state. Color plays a big role in dopamine dressing.

In fact, Michelle Lewis, a color psychology expert and certified color analyst, says you can even try wearing certain colors for mental health improvements. She points to research that suggests that “some colors genuinely support positive emotional and psychological states.” For instance, research in the International Journal of Recent Advances in Psychology & Psychotherapy suggested that lighter, more chromatic colors can consistently enhance mood, reduce stress and promote physiological calmness.

“That said, color isn’t a substitute for genuine mental health support, and the effect is rarely dramatic on its own,” clarifies Lewis, who is also the founder of ColorAnalysis.com and The Color Institute and the author of Color Secrets: Learning The One Universal Language We Were Never Taught. “Where color works best is as one consistent input among many: an environment or wardrobe that quietly supports rather than undermines your emotional state over time. Think of it less as a cure and more as a daily choice that compounds.”

In other words, it’s worth understanding the psychology of color in clothing and how it can support your well-being. Some colors even represent strength and perseverance. In fact, people who display emotional resilience traits—like staying grounded under pressure and recovering from setbacks without losing their sense of self—may regularly wear certain hues. Below, Lewis reveals the five colors emotionally resilient people wear the most.

Related: Color Psychologist Says Wearing This Color Makes You Appear Instantly More Confident

The Science of ‘Enclothed Cognition’: How Your Wardrobe Impacts Your Mind

“Enclothed cognition” is a key term people use when discussing color psychology in clothing. Lewis explains that enclothed cognition is the term researchers Hajo Adam and Adam Galinsky used to describe something most people have felt but hadn’t named: how the way we dress can shift how we think, feel and perform. Clothes can do so much more than how other people see us.

She points to the landmark study in which participants were given a white lab coat. Half of the participants were told they were wearing a doctor’s coat. The other half were told they were wearing a painter’s smock.

“The group that believed they were wearing a doctor’s coat performed significantly better on tasks requiring sustained attention. The coat didn’t change. The intention did,” Lewis shares. “For emotionally resilient people, this matters dramatically because the colors and clothing they reach for on hard days are often doing more psychological work than they realize.”

She explains that putting on meaningful clothing can connect you to a version of yourself you trust and remind you of your capabilities.

“You’re not just getting dressed. You’re priming your mind to ‘suit up’ for the challenges ahead,” she tells Parade.

Related: Color Psychologist Says the Color of Your Shoes Impacts You More Than You Think—Here’s Why

5 Colors Worn Most by Emotionally Resilient People

Lewis states that emotionally resilient people—consciously or not—gravitate toward color choices that support how they want to feel and how they want to be received.

“Understanding the psychology behind those choices gives you access to a tool that works on both levels at once,” she says.

1. Earthy greens: The ultimate “grounding” color

Olive, sage, eucalyptus and moss are some of the most grounding colors in psychology.
The common thread? They’re all earthy greens.

“Earthy greens sit at the intersection of green’s documented psychological properties and the grounding quality of the earth tones woven through them,” Lewis says. “What’s really special about green is that it is the great equalizer. If you’re too agitated, it calms you. If you’re too down, it lifts you.”

She notes that research consistently suggests that green lowers stress and heart rate, including a 2019 Frontiers in Psychology study showing green environments produce measurable reductions in heart rate compared with other color conditions.

2. Terracotta and rust: Warmth without aggression

Lewis says terracotta and rust are members of the warm family that carry orange and red wavelengths with an added bonus.

“But their earthy, clay-toned quality mutes the intensity that makes pure red or bright orange feel activating or demanding,” she adds. “The brown tones woven through terracotta and rust absorb the urgency of red’s longer wavelength while keeping its warmth and vitality present in a gentler form.”

As a color analyst, Lewis would be remiss if she didn’t point out that terracotta and rust are “deeply autumn.” They’re “the colors of harvest, fallen leaves and preparation for a restful season.

“They evoke abundance, richness and the kind of warmth that comes from something lived-in rather than fresh,” she explains. “For emotionally resilient people, terracotta and rust communicate exactly that: I’ve been through seasons. I’m still here. I’m warm, and I’m strong, and these things are not in conflict.”

3. Deep navy: Confidence anchor

We often associate navy with maritime fun—like sailboats and marinas—but it’s also one of the colors that boost confidence. And Lewis isn’t just talking about increasing self-confidence. Others may also find you more trustworthy.

“Navy carries blue’s full trust and credibility signal in its deepest, most saturated form,” she explains. “For emotionally resilient people specifically, deep navy functions as a confidence anchor. It’s the color you reach for when you need to walk into a difficult situation and project that you’ve got this, even when you’re still figuring it out inside.”

4. Indigo: Intellectual and connective

Emotionally resilient people need to take in and communicate a lot without losing their cool. Lewis notes that emerging neuroscience research suggests a link between the brain’s system for processing experiences and creating meaning and shorter-wavelength colors in the blue-violet range.

“Indigo is the color of someone who does that work willingly and well—sitting comfortably with complexity and coming out the other side able to bridge the intellectual properties of blue and the connective properties of purple to create a truly impactful emotional experience,” she notes.

5. Muted burgundy: Strength without urgency

Lewis reports that burgundy has red’s strength and physical activity, but it doesn’t carry the same urgency.

“Its depth and saturation pull it away from pure red’s intensity toward something more reflective and considered,” she states. “It’s the color of someone who has earned their convictions through experience rather than reaction.”

She calls it one of the most fitting, honest colors for emotionally resilient people whose leadership style prioritizes depth over volume. It conveys “warmth, strength and quiet dignity in one color.”

Related: Color Psychologist Says Wearing This Color Makes You Appear Instantly More Approachable

How To Practice ‘Dopamine Dressing’ Without Overhauling Your Closet

“Dopamine dressing” in psychology is a trendy idea. It’s not new (or a clinical term), but the term is relatively contemporary; as we noted before, fashion psychologist Dr. Dawn Karen’s wrote about it in her 2020 book Dress Your Best Life.

“Dopamine dressing is the practice of deliberately choosing clothing with the goal of shifting your emotional state, using color, silhouette and personal meaning to generate genuine positive feeling rather than just looking good,” Lewis shares.

She explains that clothing does not literally release dopamine.

“The mechanism is… color triggers associations, memories and physiological responses that influence mood, and mood influences how we think, perform and connect with others,” she says.

So what’s the best way to engage in this trend? Do it your way.

“The most effective dopamine dressing is always personal: the color that works for you is the one connected to a memory of joy, a version of yourself you trust, or a feeling you’re actively choosing to cultivate,” Lewis states.

Still, she can share some general tips on dopamine dressing (without a whole new wardrobe).

1. Start with one piece that genuinely excites you

To start, Lewis says you really only need one item in a color that “makes you feel something real when you put it on.” It can be a scarf, a pair of shoes or a top.

“Wear it with your existing neutrals and notice what shifts,” she suggests. “A single chromatic accent does more emotional work against a neutral backdrop than it would be buried in a colorful outfit.”

2. Go back to what made you feel good before

Think about your childhood: What was a color you loved? Maybe it was in a favorite outfit or a beloved character. Perhaps it was the paint on the walls of a room that felt like yours. Revisit the color. Lewis has a friend who adores hot pink and bright orange, not by themselves, but together. (“We wondered if it was because of sherbet she enjoyed as a child,” she shares.)

“Color nostalgia is neurochemically real,” she adds. “The associations formed in childhood around certain colors often carry emotional charge decades later. That color is worth revisiting.”

3. Map your colors to your intentions, not just your mood

Lewis suggests thinking beyond what you feel like wearing.

“Try occasionally reaching for what you want to feel,” she recommends. “If you have a hard day ahead, choose a color that has historically made you feel capable and settled. This is dopamine dressing used as a deliberate tool rather than a passive habit—and that’s where it becomes genuinely useful for building emotional resilience.”

Up Next:

Related: Color Psychologist Says These 5 Colors Are Worn Most by ‘Mentally Strong’ Women

Sources:

• Michelle Lewis is a color psychology expert and certified color analyst, the founder of ColorAnalysis.com and The Color Institute and the author of Color Secrets: Learning The One Universal Language We Were Never Taught.
• The Influence of Colours on Well-Being: Psychological and Physical Health. (2026) International Journal of Recent Advances in Psychology & Psychotherapy.
• Enclothed Cognition. (2012) Journal of Experimental Social Psychology.
• Adaptive Effects of Seeing Green Environment on Psychophysiological Parameters. (2019) Frontiers in Psychology.
• Multi-Color Light Filtering Glasses and Brain Wave Activity. (2023) bioRxiv.

If sipping on a Capri Sun takes you right back to your childhood, you’re not alone, as the popular drink brand has delighted generations of fans since the 1960s. But now that you’re an adult, you may have noticed that a pouch’s roughly six ounces of Capri Sun don’t quite quench your thirst like in your schoolyard days. 

Some people might alleviate that by pairing their Capri Sun with a glass of water, but die-hard fans have been outspoken enough about a different suggestion that the brand has taken notice and launched a first-of-its-kind larger version of Capri Sun. 

Related: Red Bull Permanently Brings Back Fan-Favorite Flavor

It’s now testing the Big Pouch, which holds roughly three times as much Capri Sun as the regular version. Fans are encouraged to share feedback using #CapriSunBigPouch on social media to help determine whether the Big Pouch earns a permanent spot in the Capri Sun lineup.

Capri Sun’s new Big Pouch holds roughly three times as much Capri Sun as the regular version.

Capri Sun

Related: Mountain Dew’s Bold New Limited-Edition Flavor Brings Back Popular Pairing

“Capri Sun fans have strong feelings about the pouches that shaped their childhoods, and that passion plays an important role in how we think about innovation,” said Claire Lukaszewski, Associate Brand Director of Capri Sun, said in a statement shared with Parade. “There’s an emotional connection to this brand that spans generations, and we don’t take that for granted. We want our fans to have a meaningful role in shaping what we do and the Big Pouch is one way we’re putting that belief into practice.”

Starting Monday, September 21, a limited number of Big Pouches will be released in a series of daily drops for $6 on Walmart.com while supplies last. While the test is currently exclusive to Walmart’s website, a representative for Capri Sun told Parade that  “it’s a chance for Capri Sun to hear directly from fans and see just how much appetite there is for a bigger pouch. Depending on the demand, it could be a permanent offering, which could be available elsewhere.”

Next: Coca-Cola Debuts New Limited-Edition Flavor Just in Time for Fall

Among the many talented folk artists to emerge from London in the late ’60s, Bridget St. John was the only one to have an entire record label created around her. She counted such luminaries as Paul Simon, David Bowie and Nick Drake among her contemporaries. But after making just a handful of albums, the gifted singer-songwriter essentially disappeared from the public eye for almost two decades. So why did St. John step away from what seemed to be an incredibly promising career?

As St. John told Chickfactor in 1999, music was a part of her life ever since she learned to play piano as a child, but everything changed when her grandmother gave her £20 to buy a guitar.

“Then when I went to university, I was around all these people that could play,” St. John explained. “I would just watch them, try to figure out what they did. My second year at university I met John Martyn [British singer-songwriter], so then I started learning a lot.”

St. John was also inspired by her travels through the South of France with American folk singer Buffy Sainte-Marie, in addition to the recordings of English singer Helen Shapiro, whose voice was deep (like her own), the Beatles and Bob Dylan. Not long after she started playing gigs, the poet Pete Roche introduced St. John to the famous radio DJ John Peel, who was so impressed with her music that he invited her to appear on his BBC radio show. Eventually, Peel and record executive Clive Selwood formed Dandelion Records specifically to release St. John’s music.

“John Peel played a pivotal role, not just in my recording career but in my performing career and in my life,” St. John said in a a 2019 interview with Charles Donovan for RnR Magazine. “My relationship with John was hugely important and still is really. After meeting John, everything evolved very naturally, without a plan on my part at least. I consider myself totally fortunate that things unfolded for me the way they did, that John and Clive Selwood created Dandelion Records and that I was part of it.”

St. John’s debut album for Dandelion, 1969’s Ask Me No Questions, was reportedly recorded in just 9 to 10 hours. Though the record wasn’t a commercial success, St. John’s music won her plenty of respect and admiration on the scene. She played at Bowie’s iconic and pioneering Beckenham Arts Lab, which started as a folk club and evolved into an all-encompassing center for a variety of different artists.

According to St. John, Bowie was very hands-on and “actually ran” the club.

“He’d sit there with his acoustic guitar and play and then introduce whatever guests,” she recalled. “I also opened for him at an open-air festival when Space Oddity first came out, and I’ll never forget, we were all sitting around backstage listening to the single, and everybody was looking at him like this is so great and he’s got his long curly hair…very sweet.”

St. John was also a regular performer at the legendary London club Les Cousins, where Simon often played when he first arrived in England, and where she became close friends with Drake.

“It was this great little place where you could always go and hear so many people,” St. John said. “Nick and I played there a lot. We were very much alike — we tended, if somebody’s talking, to be kind of quiet. I didn’t need to say much with him. I can remember sitting outside on Greek Street — outside a pub opposite Les Cousins waiting to go in and play and not really saying very much, and it was very comfortable — I don’t have to fill up the silence if it’s not necessary.”

Though St. John released three more highly regarded albums over the next five years, none of them were commercially successful. In 1976, she moved to Greenwich Village after traveling there to visit a boyfriend (though the relationship didn’t work out).

“I had never been there before and knew very few people,” St. John told Michael Freerix in a 2019 interview. “I slowly got to know people — and Chrysalis Music, my publishing company at that time, allowed me to make song demos through which I met up with some New York musicians. I did my first gig opening for John Martyn at Kenny’s Castaways — and that was the beginning of a long relationship with that club — playing there and working there. I also played the Bitter End and the Bottom Line as well as some East Coast college gigs. And in 1978, I played Carnegie Hall and was on the bill at one of the Central Park concerts at The Wollman Rink.”

Before long, unfortunately, singer-songwriters were “less in vogue,” as St. John put it, and she had fewer opportunities to play live. By the time her daughter was born in 1983, she decided to focus on being a mother and “stepped back” from performing, though she still worked sometimes “behind the scenes” at the clubs.

“There were definitely times when I wished I was onstage, but I didn’t have a clear path to doing that at the time,” St. John said. “By the ‘90’s, I decided to do other work — and basically took on helping people, mostly elders, in the sense of organizing things that had become challenging for them. All the while I never felt I had stopped making music or being involved with it. My focus was necessarily elsewhere.”

St. John made a return to the actual music business in 1996 with the release of her album Take The 5ifth, a collection of unreleased songs from 1975 to 1982. Since then, she’s continued to perform and has released a number of live and compilation albums. In 2025, she released a mini-album called Covering My Brothers, a tribute to Drake, Martyn, Kevin Ayers and Michael Chapman.

“They were my brothers — never lovers!” she told Uncut at the time. “They were people that stayed in my life, other than Nick, who died so young. I saw John Martyn three months before he died, he came to New York. Even though I didn’t see them all the time, the connection was there, like it is with good friends.”

Related: Iconic Singer-Songwriter, Who Paved the Way for Bob Dylan and Joni Mitchell, Vanished Without a Trace 52 Years Ago

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If you’re in need of a stylish storage solution to help declutter your home, you can’t go wrong with a bookcase. Most are chic enough to elevate and spruce up your space, and offer plenty of room to meet your storage needs. They come in all different kinds of styles, ranging from farmhouse to mid-century modern, so you’re sure to find one that complements your home’s aesthetic. For those who find charm in antique pieces, this Homfa Bookcase with Glass Doors at Walmart is a fabulous choice. 

This bookcase’s vintage-inspired design will add major style points, timeless appeal, and tons of storage to your space. While it’s not truly vintage, this piece definitely looks like a family heirloom or an expensive antique store find. Even though it looks and feels high-end, you can currently score it on sale for under $150. Normally retailing for $240, this stunning bookcase is now marked down to just $140 in two styles, including reddish-brown and white. 

Homfa Bookcase with Glass Doors, $140 (was $240) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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Everything about this bookcase oozes with class and sophistication. Featuring geometric panels and bold pillars inspired by Greek and Roman architecture, this piece nails the old-money aesthetic and captures the essence of quiet luxury.  

Boasting a bark-grain finish, the reddish-brown bookcase has a warm and traditional vibe. The exposed grains add some texture, giving this piece depth and dimension. If you prefer something a bit brighter and more modern, opt for the white style with a smooth and sleek finish instead.. Whichever bookcase you choose will bring understated luxury into your home, making it feel effortlessly elegant and posh.

While decorative, this bookcase offers a ton of storage space, seamlessly blending form and function. It’s fitted with three shelves at the top, behind glass-paneled doors. The doors help keep items inside protected from dust and falls while allowing you to proudly showcase prized possessions like books, decor pieces, trinkets, and LEGO collections. For size reference, the bottom two tiers have a 12.3-inch vertical clearance and the top tier has a 10.4-inch vertical clearance. 

Homfa Bookcase with Glass Doors, $140 (was $240) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

The bottom section of this bookcase features two solid wood doors with two shelves hidden behind them, offering a place to store miscellaneous items to reduce the visual clutter in your living space. You can store anything in these cabinets, whether it’s board games, linens, bedding, kitchen appliances, or dinnerware. The middle shelf is adjustable between three heights, designed to maximize storage space. It allows you to fit items of various sizes on each tier, minimizing unused space. 

Made of medium-density fiberboard (MDF) with a 350-pound weight capacity, this bookcase is sturdy and durable. The glass panels are tempered, which means that they’re multiple times stronger than standard glass. One reviewer raved about the piece’s “great quality,” noting that it’s “very well made.” They also mentioned that this bookcase was “easy to assemble” and described the finished product as “attractive.”

Measuring around 28 inches wide, 13 inches deep, and 71 inches tall, this bookcase takes advantage of vertical space. It provides plenty of storage without taking up much floor space, making it ideal for small and large homes alike.  

Shop More Deals 

• Casacomoda 6-Tier Lighted Tree Bookshelf, From $33 (was $58) at Walmart
• Hiphuta Farmhouse Bookcase with Doors, $100 (was $140) at Walmart
• Casacomoda 5-Tier Open Bookcase, From $40 (was $74) at Walmart

Related: Walmart’s Grecian-Inspired Bookcase With Old-Money Charm Is Giving Pottery Barn Vibes for Less

If you want to bring some organization and Grecian charm into your home, head to Walmart and snag the Homfa Bookcase with Glass Doors while it’s still on sale for just $140! 

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

When Elvis Presley took the stage for his legendary 1973 Aloha from Hawaii concert broadcast, he surprised fans by introducing a smoking hot blues track to his setlist.

Blasting through the performance, the King of Rock and Roll released the live recording as a single later that year, driving it straight into the Billboard Top 20. But while Elvis performed “Steamroller Blues” with total seriousness, the song had a lighter origin, and hailed from a completely unexpected source.

That tune was written three years earlier by James Taylor for his 1970 breakout album Sweet Baby James. Taylor wrote the song as a tongue-in-cheek parody that poked fun at late-1960s white blues-rock bands reported Songfacts.

The outlet noted that Taylor sang about having “the steamroller blues” while comparing his love to a cement mixer, a demolition derby, and a napalm bomb. Ironically, Taylor was battling a cold during the session, but with the LP on a tight production schedule, his congested vocals made it straight onto the final record.

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When Presley added his version of the song to his live performances three years later, it was a huge hit. U Discover Music named it one of his most surprising covers.

However, while Presley treated the song seriously, the outlet quoted Taylor who said the song was  “a joke. There were a lot of white guys playing the blues, college students singing Howlin’ Wolf and Muddy Waters, and it seemed comical to me. ‘Steamroller’ was just meant to be a take-off.”

But to the millions of fans hearing Presley perform the song during his Aloha from Hawaii concert, the song appeared tailor-made for him. It showcased his voice, which was in peak form, and the LP Elvis: Aloha From Hawaii via Satellite soared straight to the top of the charts.

Ultimately, “Steamroller Blues” remains one of the most unexpected crossovers in 1970s music history. What started as a lighthearted jab found an entirely new life under Elvis Presley’s direction. He completely stripped away the joke, brought his signature swagger to the track, and turned James Taylor’s album parody into an absolute power move.

Related: 1972 Chart-Buster Elvis Presley Had to Be Convinced to Record

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Michaels just rolled out a fall lineup that feels less like typical autumn decor and more like something out of a design editor’s mood board. Instead of the usual orange pumpkin overload, the new collection—aptly named Intentional Abundance—leans into moodier, richer tones.

Think deep burgundy, warm terra-cotta and earthy greens and neutrals that look like they’ve been collected over years rather than purchased in a single Target run. It’s the kind of decor that makes your space feel layered and lived-in, even if you assembled it all in one aisle.

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And leading the charge is a tiny piece that’s already turning heads—the 6.25-inch Burgundy Ceramic Vase by Ashland, ringing in at a wallet-friendly $7.99.

Burgundy Ceramic Vase by Ashland, $7.99 at Michaels

Michaels

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Don’t let the size or the price tag fool you. This little vase punches way above its weight class. Its deep, wine-toned finish is exactly the kind of saturated color that instantly makes a space feel warmer the second temperatures start to drop. And instead of a flat, boring surface, it’s got a subtle fig-like, bubbled texture that catches the light and gives it a handmade, artisanal look.

The best part is how effortlessly it slots into pretty much any surface in your home. Standing tall on a fireplace mantel, it becomes an instant focal point, especially when perched by candles or stacked books.

Related: Marshalls’ $25 Faux Berry Wreath Is the Cozy Fall Touch Your Front Door Needs

Set on an entryway table, it’s the kind of “welcome home” moment that makes a hallway feel finished. Tucked onto a bookshelf between hardcovers, it breaks up the monotony without overwhelming it. And on a coffee table, it adds just enough color and texture to feel styled rather than staged.

Michaels suggests dressing it up with a sprig or two of faux greenery or florals, but honestly, it holds its own even when empty—the color alone does a lot of the heavy lifting.

In a season where fall decor often means overspending on decorations you’ll store away come November, this vase feels like a rare win—cheap enough to feel like a no-brainer but polished enough to look like it cost way more.

Related: Michaels Is Selling Gorgeous Floral Plates for Under $7—and They Look Vintage-Luxe

If there’s one thing Martha Stewart knows, it’s how to pack a suitcase. And if there’s one luggage style she’s particularly loyal to, it’s aluminum.

Stewart has previously told Parade that she swears by her “great big Rimowa trunk on wheels,” which she uses to transport her meticulously organized wardrobe around the world. The lifestyle icon has praised the luxury luggage brand for its durability and famously smooth wheels, and Rimowa’s grooved aluminum cases have become something of a status symbol at baggage claim.

Now Away is putting its own spin on the elevated luggage look with a little help from one of basketball’s biggest stars.

The travel brand just launched its limited-edition Away x Sabrina Ionescu Series, marking both its first collaboration within the best-selling Aluminum Edge collection and its first product collection designed with New York Liberty star Sabrina Ionescu.

And for travelers who love the polished, hardware-forward look of aluminum luggage but aren’t ready to drop four figures on a suitcase, the timing couldn’t be better. For comparison, Rimowa’s Original Cabin currently starts at $1,550.

Related: How to Properly Pack a Carry-On, According to a Flight Attendant

Away’s Aluminum Edge Bigger Carry-On Gets the Sabrina Treatment The limited-edition capsule marks Away’s first collaboration within its best-selling Aluminum Edge collection.

Away

The star of the collection is the Aluminum Edge Bigger Carry-On ($468), a suitcase designed to fit approximately five to seven outfits, making it roomy enough for a long weekend or even a week away if your packing game rivals Martha’s.

Rather than being made entirely from aluminum, Away’s version combines a hybrid aluminum frame with the brand’s hard shell and a leather-inspired pebbled finish. The result delivers that sleek, structured aesthetic with a distinctly Away twist.

Even better, Ionescu has given it a personal makeover.

The collection comes in two exclusive shades inspired by the four-time WNBA All-Star and champion: No. 20 Pine and No. 20 Legacy, nodding to both her Northern California roots and, of course, her jersey number. Each suitcase also features a custom luggage tag bearing Ionescu’s signature and a quote, while the interiors are co-branded with the New York Liberty.

Chic extras include a custom luggage tag featuring a quote and Sabrina’s signature.

Away

Talk about a slam dunk at baggage claim.

The collaboration is a natural next step for Away, which became the Official Luggage Partner of the New York Liberty in 2025 through a multiyear partnership. For Ionescu, whose career keeps her constantly on the move, the new collection was designed around the realities of frequent travel.

And for the rest of us? Consider it proof that your airport outfit isn’t the only part of your travel look that can have game.

Up next:

Related: Hard-Shell or Soft-Sided Luggage? Professional Travelers Say There’s a Clear Winner

In the late 1970s, The Cars shared the stage with some of the biggest acts in the country. But there was one arena rock group they couldn’t stand, and frontman Ric Ocasek was vocal about it years later. The band was Styx.

Fresh off back-to-back mega-hit albums The Grand Illusion (1977) and Pieces of Eight (1978), Styx hit the road in the fall of 1978, inviting up-and-comers The Cars to open for them on their Pieces of Eight Tour and later for their Paradise Theater tour. It should have been a dream come true for the Boston-based new wave band, whose self-titled debut album had just been released that summer. But Ocasek, who died in 2019, hated every minute of it.

“We played one gig with Styx, which I can’t f—in’ handle,” Ocasek once said in an interview, per Ultimate Classic Rock. “All we did for two weeks after that was sing to each other in fake-operatic voices, back in the dressing room.”

“We did open for Foreigner – not that we particularly care for their music, either, but at least they were nice guys,” he added. “They were the only band to give us a sound check.”

Ocasek further explained that when The Cars opened for established bands like Styx, Foreigner, and Cheap Trick, they found that the headlining band’s fans were more into their music, which didn’t go over so well.

“We opened for about anybody in the beginning; we opened for bands that we really hated, like Styx,” Ocasek once told Classic Rock magazine. “Most of those bands would go watch us on the side of the stage to see what the f— was going on. And it seemed that the people were relating to us and not relating to them. So they got a little pissed.”

Of course, the Styx tour helped The Cars debut album soar up the charts. The singles “Just  What I Needed,” “My Best Friend’s Girl,” and “Good Times Roll” all became Billboard Hot 100 hits.

Decades later, Styx frontman Dennis DeYoung found out about Ocasek’s feelings about his band—and he countered some of The Cars singer’s comments.

Describing The Cars as “very tasteful musicians” who produced “catchy pop tunes,” DeYoung wrote on Facebook, “Really didn’t know they hated us but that’s not unusual for new bands who are trying to take the mantel from the reigning chart toppers. It’s as old a story as you can get. “

RELATED: Styx Legend Blasts ‘Shameful’ Rock Hall

“However the nonsense about us being pissed about our fans relating to them more than us was the real knee slapper,” the “Come Sail Away” singer added. “We were as big as it gets and the idea that our fans were anything more than polite to them is ludicrous. Because I liked their music, I watched part of one of their shows from the wings and realized they were better to listen to than watch. The idea that we would be envious of them is silly. We didn’t give them a second thought much less a first.”

DeYoung then gave a cordial shoutout to  The Cars’ Elliot Easton and Greg Hawkes.

Nearly 50 years after sharing the bill, both The Cars and Styx stand as two of the era’s biggest hitmakers that brought fans together—even if backstage, they couldn’t have been any further apart.

Related: 1979 The Cars Song, Never Released as a Single, Remains a Fan Favorite 47 Years Later

Ron Blair spent nearly 20 years away from the Heartbreakers. When he returned, he stayed through the band’s final concert.

The bassist turns 78 on Sept. 16. Blair played on the first four Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers albums, including 1979’s Damn the Torpedoes.

He also played bass on Del Shannon’s 1981 album, Drop Down and Get Me. Petty produced the record, and several members of the Heartbreakers backed the “Runaway” singer.

Blair was born in San Diego in 1948. His father served in the Navy, so the family moved frequently. Blair lived in Florida, Japan and Hong Kong before attending the University of Florida in Gainesville.

He started out on guitar. When a band he liked needed a bassist, Blair borrowed an instrument from a local music store and taught himself to play it. He later met Petty through the Gainesville club scene.

Drummer Stan Lynch invited Blair to a recording session in 1974. Mike Campbell and Benmont Tench were also involved, and Petty soon began working with the group. They became Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers.

The band’s self-titled debut arrived in 1976 with “Breakdown” and “American Girl.” Blair followed it with You’re Gonna Get It!, Damn the Torpedoes and Hard Promises. He played on “I Need to Know,” “Listen to Her Heart,” “Refugee,” “Don’t Do Me Like That,” “Here Comes My Girl” and “The Waiting.”

Blair told Guitar World that a bass tone by itself “doesn’t mean much.” He explained, “How it blends with the song, how it’s sitting against the rhythm guitar, is more important.”

The band’s schedule eventually wore him out. Blair left in 1982, and Howie Epstein took over on bass.

Blair then left the music business and opened a swimwear store with his wife. He sold the store around 1996 and began playing again with Campbell during the 1990s.

The Heartbreakers reunited with Blair at their Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction in March 2002. He joined the band on tour that summer and became a full-time member again.

Blair’s second run with the group included The Last DJ, Mojo and Hypnotic Eye. He also played the Super Bowl XLII halftime show in 2008, which opened with “American Girl.”

The Heartbreakers ended their 40th-anniversary tour with three concerts at the Hollywood Bowl in September 2017. Blair was there for the band’s first album in 1976 and its last concert 41 years later.

Related: ’70s Rock Legend, With a No. 1 Christmas Hit, Turns 80 Today

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Now that fall has nearly arrived, chances are you’ll want to soak up the last of year’s warm weather while you can. A great patio set can help you make the most of your outdoor space through fall and beyond. Amazon’s Qsun Rocking Chair Set is a top-rated option that will instantly elevate any porch, deck, or yard, and it’s now on sale for up to 40% off. 

Originally $100, the popular three-piece set is currently available for as low as $60 in select styles. While the gray option is marked down to the lowest price, you can also shop it in black, beige, light gray, and blue styles starting at $90. 

Qsun 3-Piece Rocking Chair Set, $60 (was $100) at Amazon

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The Qsun patio set is equal parts stylish and functional, including everything you need to level up your outdoor space for the season. It comes with two rocking chairs and a glass top table that’s ideal for holding drinks, snacks, candles, and more. Each seat is designed to support up to 250 pounds and features a compact build that fits easily in small patios and yards. 

Each piece is constructed of powder-coated steel and premium PE rattan, so you don’t have to worry about fading, molding, or tearing even in tough weather conditions. The seating also features soft, splash-proof cushions with removable zip covers, making them easy to machine wash and keep looking like new.

Related: Walmart’s ‘Beautiful’ Stoneware Dish Set Adds ‘Handcrafted Elegance’ to Any Table

The popular set has earned over 1,200 five-star ratings from Amazon shoppers. One reviewer praised its sturdy construction, writing, “The chairs are strong and comfy.” Another highlighted the chairs’ gentle rocking motion, calling it “very relaxing.”

With its sleek, simple design and compact build, this three-piece rocking chair set is a worthwhile upgrade to any outdoor space, including small patios, porches, and yards. Snag it for as low as $60 while it’s still on sale at Amazon. 

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In 1963, Jesse Fuller, a one-man band, wrote and released his first version of the folk song, “You’re No Good.” The song was included on Fuller’s album, San Francisco Bay Blues. The song follows the narrator’s tumultuous relationship with a woman who initially takes care of him, but then begins to show her affections to another man, making the singer want to “lay down and die.”

Rock Icon Bob Dylan was familiar with Fuller’s work and actually learned “You’re No Good” from him personally. At Dylan’s initial recording sessions for his eponymous debut album, the song became the first he worked on and recorded for the record. Dylan went on to record eight different versions of the track, playing with different intros and trying to find the balance of the tune. The final version ended up being faster than Fuller’s original, with Dylan’s own spin on some of the lyrics.

Dylan did, however, end up crediting Fuller in the liner notes for “You’re No Good,” saying, “[I] learned [the song] from Jesse Fuller the West Coast blues singer.”

Despite being somewhat of a signature of his debut into the industry, some feel that “You’re No Good” doesn’t get the love it deserves. In a 2021 ranking for Rolling Stone, “You’re No Good” was placed among the 20 “most overlooked” songs of Dylan’s career. Writer Rob Sheffield said of the track:

“From his oft-overlooked folkie debut, a prophetic blast of rockabilly. Even in this early stage, hustling to make his name in the folk scene, Dylan’s got rock & roll in his bones.”

Looking back on the initial reception of the song, this actually matches what critics thought at the time. The track was somewhat nonsensical, but music critic Paul Williams pointed out this was one of the only songs on Dylan’s debut album that pointed towards him being a rock star.

And a rock star he became. Now known as one of the best songwriters and musicians of our time, it’s clear that no matter his start, Bob Dylan will remain a staple in rock music for generations.

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Related: Iconic Folk-Protest Song, Ranked a ‘Greatest of All Time,’ Recorded 64 Years Ago

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There’s nothing quite like a mug of your favorite piping hot beverage to warm up a chilly morning or help you unwind after a long day. If you’ve had the same stovetop kettle for a while or you’re in the habit of microwaving your water, it might be time to swap for something that’s both faster and more stylish. The Martha Stewart Cordless Electric Kettle is easily one of the prettiest options out there.

The 6-cup device is an absolute steal at both JCPenney and Amazon right now, marked down from its usual $95 to just $60 for a limited time. You can choose from a variety of soft, muted colors that coordinate nicely with any kitchen, including cashmere (beige), caviar (black), honeydew (mint), indigo (navy), and sky (light blue).

Martha Stewart Cordless Electric Kettle, $60 (was $95) at JCPenney and Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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Selecting just one may be the hardest part! The model is truly striking, with a glass carafe allowing you to watch the water heat up while checking your fill levels at a glance. Powered by a 1500-watt motor, it’s designed to bring water to a rolling boil in just two minutes. Even better if you’re a true tea enthusiast, the handle has simple touch controls with four preset temperatures. Use the 160°F function for white, 175°F for green, 195°F for oolong, or 212°F for black.

The beauty of relying on the built-in temperature settings is there’s no risk of scorching your tea leaves — leaving you with a delicious and flavorful brew that’s prepared the right way. It also has a removable stainless steel infuser, so you can steep loose-leaf blends right in the carafe. When you’re ready to pour, the kettle lifts cleanly off the swivel base. And since there’s no cord, you don’t have to hold it in a cumbersome way. 

Even the spout is thoughtfully designed with a distinctive V-shaped silhouette to prevent spills and keep your counters clean. The LED display is bright and easy to read, keeping the temperature easily visible and making it easy for you to adjust with the simple touch of a button. There’s also a “keep warm” setting to lock in heat until you’re ready to sip. 

Shoppers love how seamlessly it fits into their kitchens. One reviewer noted that it looks “pretty on the counter” and heats water “very fast.” Another person agreed, adding that the “beautiful” appliance “feels very well built and high quality.”

Shop More Deals

• Martha Stewart Cosette 8-Piece Cookware Set, $135 (was $270) at JCPenney
• Martha Stewart Electric Toaster, $40 (was $65) at JCPenney
• Martha Stewart Cast Iron 7-Quart Dutch Oven, $72 (was $107) at JCPenney

Related: Martha Stewart’s Retro 1960s-Inspired Bakeware Collection Brings Joy to Home Kitchens, Starting at $12

If you’re looking for an easy way to streamline your morning routine or just want something more elegant than your current option, the Martha Stewart Cordless Electric Kettle makes an excellent choice for a great price. Pick it up while it’s 36% off at JCPenney!

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The 1990s were packed with amazing Tom Hanks movies, and many of them were based on true stories. One of those was the story of Apollo 13.

The first Apollo mission of the 1970s was aborted due to a disaster on the ship, and Hanks’ movie aptly titled Apollo 13 told the story. You can currently watch it on Netflix, but not for long, as it’s on the list of movies leaving the streaming giant in October.

When Is ‘Apollo 13’ Leaving Netflix?

The Tom Hanks movie is exiting the streamer on Oct. 1, 2026. That means the last day to watch it is on Sept. 30, 2026. It’s time to make a movie night of all of Hanks’ great flicks, especially those from the 1990s, as you never know when they’re going to disappear.

There are many big exits happening on this day, including Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory and The VVitch, so it’s probably time to sit down and see what you’ll miss the most.

The reason for Netflix quietly removing Apollo 13 is simple. It comes down to licensing agreements, and this one is coming to an end. There is a good chance that it will be added back to the streaming giant in the future, but for now, it’s going to head to pastures new. It’s just not clear where those pastures are, as of yet.

What Is ‘Apollo 13’ About?

The 1995 movie told the story of the aborted mission. After the success of Apollo 11, by landing a man on the moon, and Apollo 12, which deployed the nuclear-powered Apollo Lunar Surface Experiments Package (ALSEP), Apollo 13 was hoped to be the next mission land on the moon.

However, as the spacecraft journeyed to the moon, an explosion took out most of its oxygen and power. Astronauts Jim Lovell, Jack Swigert, and Fred Haise had to abort the mission and turn to Houston to get them back down safely.

While Hanks took on the role of Lovell and became the main face of the movie, it had a standout cast that included Gary Sinise (reuniting the two from Forrest Gump), Kevin Bacon, and Bill Paxton.

Apollo 13 is a dramatized story of that mission, and it’s based on the book Lost Moon: The Perilous Voyage of Apollo 13, written by Lovell and Jeffrey Kluger. The movie itself holds a 92% Rotten Tomatoes score, and while it’s not one of the most highly rated of all of Hanks’ movies, it remains popular with critics.

One critic shared, “The effects are suitably grand and slick and Howard does a good job communicating the silence of space.”

Another said, “In his finest directorial work, Ron Howard embraces everything that the astronauts of Apollo 13 aspired to be and ended up as. Unforgettable.”

In the end, it was nominated for nine Oscars and won two for Best Sound and Best Film Editing. If you are looking for something to watch that is meaningful and suspenseful, Apollo 13 is a must-watch before it leaves Netflix.

Cheryl Ladd hit the Emmy stage on Monday evening to honor the 50 years since Charlie’s Angels hit TV screens, but it was her lookalike daughter, Jordan Ladd, who caught our eye.

Cheryl, 75, played Kris Monroe on the hit TV series alongside Kate Jackson and Jaclyn Smith. Joining her at the Emmy Awards was Jordan, 51, who stunned on the red carpet in a black dress. Boasting ageless looks just like her mom, the dynamic duo could easily be mistaken for sisters.

“Who’s that lady? That fine lady is my gorgeous mom presenting the Emmy for best drama along with fellow icons @realjaclynsmith and #katejackson ,while celebrating the 50 year anniversary of Charlie’s Angels!” Jordan captioned her photo set. “T’was quite a night. One I’ll never forget.”

Take a look at the dynamic mother/daughter duo below as they post on the red carpet and snap selfies while sitting in the audience during the show.

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The Angels Still Honor Farrah Fawcett

While fifty years have passed, the surviving Angels haven’t forgotten where they came from. As the years go on, Jaclyn Smith continues to honor her dear friend and fellow Angel, Farrah Fawcett. While she gave Fawcett a sweet shoutout during her Emmy appearance on Monday, Smith also does work for Fawcett’s organization. Recently, Smith headed to the red carpet to join friends Morgan Fairchild, Donna Mills, and Alana Stewart to honor their late friend, who died of cancer in 2009. The event was a benefit for the Farrah Fawcett Foundation, which raises funds for HPV-related cancer research, patient assistance funds during treatment, and prevention programs.

Looking incredible in a monochromatic cream-colored suit, Smith glowed in front of the camera, as did the rest of the ladies.

“In Texas with my friends in support of the Farrah Fawcett Foundation and the annual TexMex Fiesta! What a wonderful time for a great cause. Thank you to everyone who joined us,” she captioned her photos.

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Related: Fans Can’t Believe ‘Charlie’s Angels’ Legend Jaclyn Smith Is 80 After Seeing These Stunning New Photos

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Traditional coffee tables may be a living room staple, but they can be tricky in smaller spaces. Not only can they take up a lot of floor space, but their low height isn’t always ideal for eating, working on a laptop, or crafting from the sofa. TV trays offer a more practical solution, but they tend to have a decidedly utilitarian look. A C-shaped end table, on the other hand, can give you the best of both worlds: a convenient surface that slides under your sofa or bed while taking up minimal space.

One option that’s worth checking out is the Chitooma C-Shaped End Table. Right now, it’s on sale for 49% off at Walmart, bringing the price down from $57 to just $29. For a piece of furniture that can serve several purposes throughout your home, it’s an especially budget-friendly find.

Chitooma C-Shaped End Table, From $29 (was $57) at Walmart 

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The table is available in brown or gray, so you can choose between a warmer wood tone or a more understated neutral. You can also buy one table or a two-pack, which is handy if you want matching tables on either side of a sofa, need one for multiple rooms, or simply want a second table for a partner or roommate.

Its woodgrain tabletop gives it a sleek look, while the solid steel frame provides the support you need for everyday use. Adjustable legpads help keep the table level while protecting your floors from scratches, and the smooth edges make it more comfortable to use around seating areas. The tabletop is also easy to wipe clean with a damp cloth, and assembly comes with instructions to help you get it set up without much fuss.

The compact design measures 20.5 inches long, 12.6 inches wide, and 27.2 inches tall. That means it can fit into tighter spaces without crowding the room, while the C-shaped frame gives you plenty of legroom. Most importantly, the base can tuck beneath a sofa or bed, allowing the tabletop to sit close to you without requiring a large footprint.

Related: Walmart’s ‘Sturdy’ $17 Over-the-Door Organizer Adds ‘Valuable Storage’ Without Taking Up Floor Space

That space-saving shape is also what makes the table so versatile. Use it beside the sofa for snacks during movie nights or as a convenient spot for your laptop while working from home. It can also double as a TV tray, breakfast table, nightstand, or crafting surface, making it useful in living rooms, bedrooms, home offices, and even patios.

Shoppers appreciated that combination of style and function. One reviewer said the table “fits perfectly, is great quality, and is super easy to assemble.” Another described it as “sturdy, pretty, and functional,” writing, “These tables are perfect because we can move them around wherever they’re needed! These are great for eating, using my laptop, crafting, and they look way better than the old-school wooden TV trays.” 

Shop More Deals

• Furnibear Lift-Top Coffee Table, $126 (was $248) at Walmart
• Nytyu TV Tray Side Table, $23 (was $35) at Walmart
• Krpimt C-Shaped End Table, From $30 (was $53) at Walmart

If you want an everyday table that takes up little space but can handle everything from laptop sessions to movie-night snacks, the Chitooma C-Shaped End Table is a practical choice. And with Walmart’s current 49% discount, you can save over $25 and get one for just $29.

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When faced with complex decisions, difficult conversations or changing circumstances, it is easy to feel pressure to have all the answers. Modern culture often rewards supreme confidence and immediate certainty, leaving little room to say three simple words: “I don’t know.”

Yet more than 2,000 years ago, one of history’s most influential thinkers built an entire legacy around the idea that admitting ignorance isn’t a weakness—it’s the absolute foundation of genuine intelligence.

Plato wrote dozens of foundational philosophical works that helped shape Western thought. His texts tackled everything from the nature of justice and love to government and reality itself. Yet despite spending decades recording these massive ideas, Plato made a striking, deliberate choice: he never included himself as a speaking character in a single one of his dialogues, per the Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy.

Instead of stepping forward to lecture his readers or declare himself an authority, Plato constructed conversations between other figures, primary among them his teacher, Socrates. By removing his own voice from the page, Plato forced readers not to memorize rigid declarations, but to examine the arguments, test the logic and participate in the search for truth themselves.

In his famous account of Socrates’ trial, the Apology, Plato captures the essence of this philosophy in a single, powerful realization.

Related: Quote of the Day: More Than 2,300 Years Ago, Aristotle Connected Overcoming Fear With Being ‘Truly Free’—And We’re Still Wrestling With the Same Problem Today

Quote of the Day by Plato

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“I am wiser than this man; it is likely that neither of us knows anything worthwhile, but he thinks he knows something when he does not, whereas when I do not know, I do not think I do; so I seem to be wiser than he is to this small extent, that I do not think I know what I do not know.”

Again, this quote comes from one translation of Plato’s Apology, which is one of four Socratic dialogues that he wrote, depicting the final days of Socrates. In the Apology of Socrates, Plato recounts the legal self-defense of Socrates, who was on trial for impiety and corrupting the youth in 399 BCE, according to Famous Trials.

Related: Quote of the Day: 65 Years Ago, Psychologist Carl Jung Drew a Line Between Our Past Traumas and Our Future—And the Message Is Still Vital Today

The Deeper Meaning of Plato’s Quote

The concept expressed in Plato’s Apology—often referred to as Socratic ignorance or intellectual humility—offers a refreshing antidote to modern burnout and information overload.

In everyday life, we frequently trap ourselves in the illusion of certainty. We assume we understand other people’s motives, predict outcomes accurately or hold the only correct perspective in a disagreement. Plato reminds us that pretending to have all the answers blocks us from actually learning anything new.

True wisdom isn’t about collecting an endless vault of facts or always being the smartest person in the room. Instead, it begins with the courage to recognize the limits of our own understanding. When we stop defending what we think we know, we open the door to genuine curiosity, better decision-making and deeper empathy for others.

Related: Quote of the Day: Stoic Philosopher Zeno of Citium on Why Listening May Be More Powerful Than Speaking

More Quotes From Plato

• “The beginning is the most important part of the work.” — Plato, Republic
• “Human affairs are not intended to be taken very seriously, still… one has to take them seriously.” — Plato, Laws
• “And at the touch of him every one becomes a poet, even though he had no music in him before.”

Up Next:

Related: Quote of the Day: In 1843, Philosopher Søren Kierkegaard Pointed Out the Ultimate Paradox of Life—And It Still Applies Today

Twelve years after Amy Purdy became the first Paralympian to perform on Dancing with the Stars, fellow Paralympian Ezra Frech delivered a jaw-dropping first performance on the Night One premiere of Dancing with the Stars season 35. And she was right there in the audience to cheer him on.

On Tuesday, September 15, Frech and pro dancer Daniella Karagach danced the tango to Kelly Clarkson‘s Since U Been Gone, choreographing some of their moves to creatively highlight his prosthetic leg.

Purdy, who lost both of her legs to meningitis when she was just 19 but went on to become a world champion and Paralympics silver medalist in adaptive snowboarding, was thrilled to see Frech shine on the show.

She excitedly supported him in an Instagram comment after his dance, writing, “I am #TeamEzra for life! He absolutely killed it! The energy in the ballroom was unreal! So cool being on this side of things cheering him on!”

Ezra Frech Explained How His & Amy Purdy’s Disabilities Are Different

“Winning the Mirrorball (Trophy) as an amputee would be legendary,” Frech told producers during a pre-recorded segment before his performance. Purdy made it to the finals with her partner, current DWTS judge Derek Hough, in 2014, but Frech noted a key difference between their disabilities.

“The difference between below-the-knee and above-the-knee (amputation) is massive,” he said. “Amy Purdy was on the show. She is a below-the-knee amputee, meaning she has full control over her lower leg. But I don’t have any control over the lower part of my prosthetic.”

It is possible, Frech told Karagach when they met, that his prosthetic could buckle if he’s “a little off” in his movements. He did, indeed, have moments during rehearsals where it did give him issues. Karagach also pointed out that her new partner “can’t quite walk in a straight line on his running blade and make it smooth,” so they worked out a way to move in “side-steps” rather than straight forward.

In early September, Purdy told her followers that she’s known Frech “since he was a little boy,” calling him “one of the most incredible athletes” she knows. She also celebrated “how powerful of a moment this is” to have a fellow amputee and Paralympian on the show, representing their community.

Frech, a two-time Paralympic gold medalist who competes in the T63 100 meter, long jump and high jump, was born with a congenital limb difference. When he was born, Frech was missing his left knee and fibula, or calf bone, and had only one finger on his left hand, per Yardbarker. He received his first prosthetic leg at just 11 months old.

But when Frech was almost three, he shared with Karagach in footage of their first meeting, doctors amputated the lower, non-functioning portion of his left leg so his prosthetic would be more comfortable. During that surgery, a toe from his amputated foot was transplanted onto Frech’s left hand, which made it easier for him to hold and grip items.

Ezra Frech Amazed the DWTS Judges & Fans Ezra Frech and Daniella Karagach perform on the first night of ‘Dancing with the Stars’ season 35.

Photos by Eric McCandless/Disney via Getty Images

Talking to Julianne Hough after the performance, Frech said, “It was intimidating, honestly, leading with a left hand that’s missing fingers, a left leg that’s not there. We met so many challenges, but we kept at it, we kept working … We wanted to lean into the disability as much as possible.”

Frech’s resilience, drive, and fluid movement — and Karagach’s creative choreography — left many viewers and fellow DWTS contestants amazed, with many people on social media calling their dance “insane” and “unreal.” The judges loved them, too, giving the duo the second highest scores of the night.

“He’s going to have my cry this whole season,” one viewer commented on Instagram. “He did truly amazing he should be so proud of himself.”

“I’m in awe,” another fan wrote. “Dani once again is an amazing teacher… she brings the best out of her great partners in every season!!! Erza I’m rooting for you! I’m a FAN 👏”

“I love how they used the prosthetic and leaned into using its unique movement properties instead of trying to hide or downplay it,” someone else shared. “Take notes, society–that’s how you should treat people with disabilities and body differences in ALL arenas!”

The second night of premiere week, with the female celebrities dancing with their pro partners, airs on Wednesday, September 16, at 8 p.m. ET.

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As the first hints of fall breeze in, autumn’s unmistakable comfort code takes over. Cardigans, especially the chunky, oversized kind, seem to multiply in wardrobe rotations, ready for everything from weekend errands to marathon reading sessions. 

The Saodimallsu Oversized Chunky Knit Button-Front Cardigan, now on Amazon for just $26, is perfect for anyone looking to embrace this seasonal shift. It’s not only on sale for over 30% off, but also embodies a style showing up in many autumn outfits.

Saodimallsu Oversized Chunky Knit Button-Front Cardigan, From $26 (was $43) at Amazon

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This cardigan boasts a luxury texture. The thick yarn, gold-stamped buttons, and relaxed, slouchy fit upgrade any outfit while keeping you comfy. The drop-shoulder silhouette and lantern sleeves nod to the boyfriend cardigan trend that has become a staple on social feeds. This sweater is less about looking put together and more about embracing the easygoing, layered style that defines cozy season.

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This kind of cardigan does not demand a special occasion. Layer it over a turtleneck for a subtle, retro vibe, or pull it on over joggers when comfort is the only goal. The neutral color options make it easy to pair with everything from denim to dresses, keeping your wardrobe flexible as the weather does its unpredictable fall dance. 

Metal buttons and ribbed cuffs provide a small dose of structure to the otherwise loose fit, so you get just enough polish for a video call or a spontaneous coffee run. One shopper said that it “fit beautifully,” calling it “soft,” “slightly oversized,” and a “great fall/winter piece.”

Another shopper called it “warm and cozy,” adding: “Great for the cold days. It’s heavy knit but soft and warm, which is what I wanted. It is a perfect fit.”

Saodimallsu Oversized Chunky Knit Button-Front Cardigan, From $26 (was $43) at Amazon

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Ease of care is another quiet win for this sweater. Machine-washable knits always find their way to the front of the closet, especially when they don’t shrink or lose shape. Shoppers said this one holds up well against the weekly laundry shuffle, which is handy as the urge to wear it on repeat grows stronger with each passing cold front.

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Related: Amazon’s $20 Linen Button-Down Tank Is the Perfect ‘Lightweight’ Summer Travel Companion

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Three competitors have suddenly disappeared from The Challenge: Cutthroat, and viewers who were hoping for an explanation aren’t going to get much of one from the show itself.

In the latest episode of The Challenge season 42, host TJ Lavin arrives at the villa following last week’s cliffhanger and delivers the news with remarkably little fanfare.

“Leo, Nelson and Josh all broke the code of conduct here on The Challenge, so they’re all gone,” Lavin tells the remaining competitors.

And that’s it.

Leonardo “Leo” Dionicio, Nelson Thomas and Josh Goldstein are simply gone from the game, leaving the Gray and Blue teams scrambling to recover.

But according to longtime Challenge spoiler account GamerVev, considerably more happened behind the scenes.

Related: Who Wins ‘The Challenge: Cutthroat’? Season 42 Spoilers, Eliminations, Disqualifications and Finalists

What Happened to Josh, Nelson and Leo on ‘The Challenge’? View this post on Instagram

The trouble reportedly began with a game involving Leo and Nelson.

In an Instagram post from April, GamerVev alleged that Leo used the N-word during the game and that Josh later repeated the word.

According to the spoiler account, Nelson then confronted Josh about the language before walking away. Nelson later returned to the kitchen, where items were reportedly broken. GamerVev specifically said there was no physical fight.

Production reportedly moved Nelson to a hotel before ultimately disqualifying him over the damage in the kitchen. According to GamerVev, Josh and Leo were also disqualified over their use of the racial slur.

None of those allegations have been confirmed on the show. Paramount+ has so far only given viewers Lavin’s explanation that the three competitors “broke the code of conduct.”

Related: How Old Are Johnny Bananas, CT Tamburello, Cara Maria and Brad Fiorenza From ‘The Challenge’?

Why Didn’t ‘The Challenge’ Show What Happened with Josh, Nelson and Leo?

Booooo the franchise that was created from THE REAL WORLD – edited out an actual teachable REAL WORLD moment.

Season automatically drops a grade for that alone – REALITY TV SHOULD NOT BE CENSORED!!!!!!!

🍅 🍅 🍅 🍅 🍅

— GamerVev (@GamerVev) September 9, 2026

That’s perhaps the strangest part of the entire situation.

The Challenge has never exactly shied away from conflict. Over its decades on television, fights, arguments and even incidents resulting in competitors being removed from the game have routinely become part of the show.

But GamerVev indicated before the episode aired that viewers shouldn’t expect to see this particular incident.

After last week’s episode, the spoiler account criticized the decision, writing on X, “Booooo the franchise that was created from THE REAL WORLD – edited out an actual teachable REAL WORLD moment.”

When another user suggested the footage might air in the following episode, GamerVev replied, “I was told no early on.”

That turned out to be correct. The new episode skips directly from Lavin arriving at the Village to his announcement that all three men are out of the game.

Related: Two-Time ‘Challenge’ Champion Dies at 44

What Happened on ‘The Challenge’ Last Week?

The removals come at an especially chaotic point in the game.

Nelson had been trying to launch a mutiny on the Blue Team and replace Josh as captain, but rookies Anna Leigh Wilson and Alexis “Lete” Lete refused to join him and Cara Maria Sorbello. With Josh, Anna Leigh and Lete holding a 3-2 advantage, the rookies had little incentive to surrender their majority.

Then the Orange Team won the daily challenge, seemingly putting Nelson and either Leo or Chris Underwood in danger of elimination.

But the game came to an abrupt halt when Orange captain Cory Wharton received devastating news from home.

Related: Where Was ‘The Challenge’ Season 42 Filmed? Here’s Every Location Featured in ‘Cutthroat’

Why Did Cory Leave ‘The Challenge’?

Cory learned that his daughter Maya had been hospitalized after suffering a collapsed lung.

Maya was born in 2022 with tricuspid atresia, a congenital heart defect in which the tricuspid valve doesn’t develop properly. She underwent two open-heart surgeries before turning 3.

After learning about the complications, Cory immediately left The Challenge to be with his family. His fellow competitors rallied around him during an emotional farewell.

With the Gray Team suddenly without an opposing captain for elimination, the elimination was canceled.

Why Couldn’t the Gray Team Choose a New Captain?

Lavin instead ordered the Gray Team to select a new captain on the spot. That didn’t go particularly well.

Leo and Adrienne Naylor voted for Adrienne, while Chris and Cassidy Clark voted for Cassidy, creating a 2-2 stalemate. Lavin gave the team one night to settle the matter.

The following morning, he unexpectedly arrived at the villa and warned the cast, “You know it’s never good when I show up to the house.”

There was already a clue that something much bigger had happened. In the group shot, Leo, Nelson and Josh were all missing. The episode ended there.

Related: Who Wins ‘The Challenge: Cutthroat’? Season 42 Spoilers, Eliminations, Disqualifications and Finalists