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Audrey Hepburn’s Son Reveals His Late Mother’s Beauty Secrets
Audrey Hepburn's eldest son, Sean Hepburn Ferrer, has opened up about how his mother maintained her classic good looks and enviable figure.
The Breakfast at Tiffany's star is one of the most iconic actresses of all time and had a look women still try to emulate to this day. But, according to People, there are some inaccuracies about how the actress maintained her phisique.
Sean Hebburn Ferrer and co-author Wendy Holden dispelled myths about the late actress in their biography, Intimate Audrey: An Authorized Biography. He wrote, “Despite decades of gossip that she had an eating disorder because she was so slim, she cooked and baked and ate what she liked but was careful with portions.”
“She started most days with a boiled egg, toast and jam,” he added, which she’d then follow with a walk “at a punishing pace for those of us trailing behind.”
He added that she would eat a salad or soup for lunch as well as "a scoop of her favorite vanilla ice cream with maple syrup."
“Supper would be a single plate of pasta pomodoro and a salad,” he recalled. The Roman Holiday star also loved chocolate cake so much she created her own flourless recipe.
Robert Wolders and Audrey Hepburn attends a UNICEF press conference where Hepburn reported on three-day trip to drought-stricken areas of Ethiopia, at the UNICEF headquarters in New York City, New York, 23rd March 1988. (Photo by Vinnie Zuffante/Getty Images)The star, who passed away in 1993, aged 63, was not a fan of plastic surgery and left her face untouched. “Any suggestion of plastic surgery was anathema to her, as she honored the history of every line on her face," Ferrer claimed.
Her son remembered a time that photographer John Isaac captured Hepburn during a UNICEF trip and sent her the photos, offering to edit the star's face. She replied, “Don’t you dare touch any one of those wrinkles; I earned every single one of them.”
In an early ’70s edition of American Vogue, Hepburn broke down her wellbeing and beauty regimen, which included “eight or nine hours” of sleep to make her “completely happy”; personally washing her hair every “four or five days,” a preference for “pretty-smelling bath[s]” and minimal make-up.
“I’ve never used much make-up. Only on my eyes, and I do them more or less as I always have… black liner and mascara, dark-brown eyebrow pencil… And I still use a very, very pale pink lipstick…. No base… No foundation. It isn’t a question of wanting to look the same; I prefer an unmade-up look simply because it’s better for me,” the Sabrina star explained.
Bruce Springsteen Receives Civil Rights Honor but Says Others Deserve It More
Bruce Springsteen has spent more than five decades telling the stories of everyday Americans through songs like "Born to Run," "The River," and "Born in the U.S.A." Along the way, "The Boss" has established himself not only as one of rock's greatest storytellers, but also as an artist unafraid to speak his mind about the causes he cares about.
That legacy was honored Thursday night when Springsteen received the ACLU's inaugural Ralph Ellison Award for Defenders of Civil Rights and Civil Liberties, presented during the organization's Biennial Leadership Conference in Washington, D.C.
But true to form, Springsteen, 76, made it clear he didn't feel the spotlight belonged to him. According to USA Today, Springsteen told the audience, "I never really considered myself much of an activist. At best, I'm a concerned citizen who plays guitar and says what's on his mind."
Instead, the Grammy, Oscar, and Tony winner used his acceptance speech to redirect credit toward everyday Americans standing up for their communities, saying he accepted the honor "for the folks who really deserve it": people across the country who, in his words, have "put their beliefs and their lives on the line in defense of the rights of their neighbors and in service of our American ideals."
View this post on InstagramSpringsteen then picked up an acoustic guitar for a stripped-down musical moment, performing one of his more recent songs written earlier this year.
The honor adds to a growing list of recognitions tied to Springsteen's advocacy work. Last month, he received the Harry Belafonte Voices for Social Justice Award at the Tribeca Festival, continuing a year that's seen him lean further into using his platform for causes close to his heart.
Even decades into a career filled with chart-topping albums, sold-out stadium tours, and no shortage of accolades, Springsteen used this latest honor to do what he's long been known for: turning the attention away from himself and toward the people he believes truly deserve it.
Trump Takes Aim at CNN's Kaitlan Collins With Surprising Jab During Correspondents' Dinner Roast
President Donald Trump didn't hold back during his White House Correspondents' Dinner speech.
While congratulating CNN anchor Kaitlan Collins on an award she received for her coverage of his administration, the president, 80, quickly turned the moment into a personal attack, delivering a series of pointed remarks that drew attention from the crowd.
"I want to personally congratulate CNN's Kaitlan Collins on receiving her award," Trump began of the award, which was given to Collins for her coverage of Trump's Oval Office blow-up with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy. "It was all about me. It's a fake — she shouldn't get the award, it was a fake. But I didn't mind, I said, 'Kaitlan, congratulations.' But it was fake, there's no question about it."
The jabs didn't stop there, with Trump turning to his go-to criticism of the 34-year-old CNN journalist: "She never smiles."
Trump: Kaitlan Collins is a young, attractive woman. She never smiles. Do you ever smile? I thought she had really made it big with a major new sponsorship but then I informed her that it was not her on the Bud Light can. It was Dylan Mulvaney pic.twitter.com/Eqfu4gs7kA
— Acyn (@Acyn) July 25, 2026"She's a young, attractive woman. She never smiles," the president said. "I said, 'Kaitlan, do you ever smile? Smile. You have a nice position, you're at CNN fake news, you should be a happy person. So smile, Kaitlan, just smile.'"
Collins, who had her back to the cameras at the time, appeared to brush off the remark — but it wasn't that jab that left the room of nearly 700 journalists stunned.
After commenting on Collins' facial expressions, Trump tried to land a roast-style punchline by comparing the CNN anchor to trans actress Dylan Mulvaney, referencing a three-year-old Bud Light advertising campaign.
"I thought Kaitlan had really made it big with a major new sponsorship, but then I informed her that it wasn't her on the Bud Light can, it was Dylan Mulvaney," he said at the rescheduled event, which was moved to Washington's Waldorf Astoria hotel, formerly known as Trump International, after April's dinner was derailed following an assassination attempt on the president.
Despite Trump's attempt to get a laugh, the joke was met with silence as he rattled on about the 2023 campaign, which saw Mulvaney post a short video to social media during March Madness featuring cans of the light beer. The campaign was met with backlash from the far right, and ultimately resulted in financial losses for the company, whose sales declined after the ad.
"Dylan Mulvaney cost Bud Light $35 billion in market cap," Trump continued, pivoting his speech toward criticism of the 2023 ad. "That was the worst commercial ever made by the way, for those few people who want to hear that. Most people don't care, but I would. I wouldn't want to hire Dylan any time soon."
He added, "Think of it, they hired Dylan Mulvaney and their market cap has gone down by $35 billion. Who wrote that commercial?"
Collins has yet to publicly respond to Trump's comments.
Shania Twain Has Someone New in Mind for Her Iconic Brad Pitt Lyric
More than 25 years after "That Don't Impress Me Much" became one of country-pop's most iconic songs, Shania Twain says she has one update in mind.
"Okay, so you're Brad Pitt / That don't impress me much (oh, oh, ooh) / So you got the looks, but have you got the touch?" Twain sings on the iconic 1997 hit.
While she wouldn't remove Brad Pitt from the famous lyric, the country superstar revealed there's another celebrity she'd happily add if she were writing the song today.
"Well, you know, Brad Pitt has never—I've never met Brad Pitt," the Canadian icon told Harper's Bazaar UK on Friday, July 24. "I just don't know whether he's avoiding me because he's offended that I put him in the lyric of the song or whether he's just never heard the song before. That's not possible."
"So, no, I wouldn't take Brad Pitt out of the song," she continued. "Maybe I would add some people, like I would add Harry Styles. Absolutely."
The "You're Still The One" artist shared that the new lyrics would likely be, "That don't impress me much / Who do you think you are? Harry Styles."
Shania and the former One Direction singer have formed a friendship over the years, beginning with her surprise appearance during his headlining set at the Coachella Music Festival in April 2022. Four years later, Styles invited the Grammy Award winner to open for him during his 12-night Together, Together residency at Wembley Stadium in London.
"When Harry asked me, he—I would consider that it was more of an invitation—when Harry invited me to do these shows with him, these 12 shows, I was really flattered and it really warmed my heart," she told Harper's Bazaar. "I was very impressed by that invitation."
Urologists Are Begging People Over 50 To Stop Ignoring This Warning Sign in the Summer
Now that we’re in the middle of the hottest season of the year, you’re likely naturally drinking more water—and that’s definitely a good thing. Even if you spend most of your time indoors, high temperatures increase how much you sweat, leading to fluid loss.
If you’re 50 or older, it’s especially important to drink enough water. Older adults are at increased risk for dehydration. Dr. José Salvado, MD, a urologist at Case Western Reserve University, explains that this is because as we age, our sense of thirst becomes less reliable. At the same time, kidney function gradually declines as we age.
Related: The Simple Hydration Trick I Wish I Knew About Sooner
Dr. Rajesh Patel, MD, the president of Associated Urological Specialists, tells Parade that medications such as diuretics, chronic medical conditions, cognitive impairment and mobility limitations that make it harder to access fluids are all reasons why older adults are at higher risk for dehydration.
“Unfortunately, studies show many adults over 70 don’t meet recommended daily fluid intake, making dehydration one of the most common preventable health issues I see,” he says.
There’s one sign of dehydration that both urologists say people over 50 should take seriously. Not only could it be a symptom of not drinking enough water, it could be an indicator of a more serious underlying health condition.
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How Hydration Needs Change as We AgeDr. Patel explains that while our body’s need for water doesn’t decrease as we age, our ability to recognize and respond to dehydration does. “Younger adults can often rely on thirst as a reminder to drink, but adults over 50 should be much more intentional about staying hydrated instead of waiting until they feel thirsty. Fluid requirements also increase during hot weather, illness or increased physical activity, so hydration should be adjusted accordingly,” he says.
Dr. Salvado agrees, emphasizing that older adults need to be more intentional when it comes to staying hydrated. Even if you don’t feel thirsty, it’s still important to drink water throughout the day, especially if it’s hot out, you’re feeling sick or you’re doing any physical activity.
How much water should people 50 and older aim to drink a day? While there’s no universal recommendation because hydration needs depend on body size, activity level, medications, kidney function and heart health, both urologists recommend aiming for between 2 to 2.5 liters (about 8 to 10 cups) of fluids a day as a general guideline.
Related: Doctors Are Begging You to Stop Making This Super-Common Hydration Mistake
“Patients with heart failure or chronic kidney disease should follow their physician’s recommendations, as more fluid is not always better,” Dr. Patel tells Parade.
The Dehydration Symptom To Take SeriouslyBoth urologists say that one easy way to know if you’re drinking enough water is to check your urine color when you pee. If it’s colorless to pale yellow, that means you’re drinking enough water. If your urine is dark-colored, that’s a sure sign that you need to drink more water.
Dark-colored urine is a symptom that should be taken seriously. Besides being a sign of dehydration, both doctors say that it can be a sign of another health problem, such as liver disease. “Excess bilirubin darkens the urine in people with liver disease,” Dr. Salvado explains.
If your urine is dark and contains blood, both doctors say this could be a sign of a urinary tract infection, kidney stones, or cancer of the kidney or bladder.
Related: The #1 Sign You Aren't Drinking Enough Water—and How to Tell if You're Overhydrated
Certain medications can also cause urine to be darker in color. Both doctors say that this includes phenazopyridine, rifampin, nitrofurantoin and some chemotherapy drugs. And Dr. Salvado explains that dark-colored foods, such as beets or blackberries, can darken urine color.
When To See a Doctor About Dark UrineIt can be tricky to know when to see a doctor because your urine is darkly colored. On the one hand, the health conditions mentioned above are serious and it’s best to catch them early. On the other hand, you may feel a little foolish if you see your doctor about it and it turns out that it’s simply due to that beet salad you had for lunch.
PSA: If you have any hint of a concern, it’s best to see a doctor. Even if your dark urine does stem from something as straightforward as not drinking enough water or due to something you ate, it’s better to know and no doctor should make you feel embarrassed about coming in.
“Dark urine is often the body’s first warning sign that something isn’t right. Sometimes the explanation is as simple as dehydration, but it can also signal infections, kidney stones, liver disease, or even kidney or bladder cancer,” Dr. Patel says.
He explains that one of the challenges is that kidney and bladder cancers can be relatively silent in their early stages, sharing, “Painless blood in the urine is a classic warning sign that should never be attributed simply to aging or dehydration."
Dr. Patel adds that if urine remains dark despite increasing fluid intake or if it is accompanied by blood, pain, fever, burning with urination, abdominal or flank pain, jaundice, nausea, vomiting or significant fatigue, medical evaluation should be sought promptly. “Even a single episode of visible blood in the urine warrants evaluation, particularly in adults over 50,” he tells Parade.
“If dark urine persists despite adequate hydration, it should be evaluated by a healthcare provider,” Dr. Salvado says.
Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and see a doctor if you have any concerns about your health, rather than ignore it and wait for more intrusive symptoms to occur. “Fortunately, many causes of dark urine are benign, but it’s always better to identify the cause rather than make assumptions,” Dr. Salvado says.
Your urine is an indicator of how your bladder, kidneys and liver are functioning. It’s worth it to take a look before you flush.
Up Next:
Related: Here’s What a Gastroenterologist Really Wants You To Know About Bidets
Sources- Li, S., Xiao, X. and Zhang, X. (2023). Hydration Status in Older Adults: Current Knowledge and Future Challenges.Nutrients. 15(11):2609.
- Dr. José Salvado, MD, urologist at Case Western Reserve University.
- Dr. Rajesh Patel, MD, president of Associated Urological Specialists.
- Common Characteristics of Liver Disease. Johns Hopkins Medicine.
1965 Rock Anthem, With 17-Year-Old Singer, Remains a Classic 61 Years Later
In 1965, a 17-year-old Rick Derringer led the McCoys to their biggest hit, "Hang On Sloopy," which reached No. 1 on the Billboard charts.
And while the band found success with it, the song wasn't originally meant for them at all.
The record actually started out as an R&B hit for the Vibrations in 1964, written by Bert Berns and Wes Farrell under the title "My Girl Sloopy." Berns, who founded Bang Records, also helped write and produce classics like "Piece of My Heart," "Brown Eyed Girl" and "Twist and Shout."
Bang Records' first hit came from the Strangeloves, a group of three Brooklyn producers named Richard Gottehrer, Jerry Goldstein and Bob Feldman. They spent 1965 touring the U.S. behind "I Want Candy," which reached No. 11.
They'd been playing "My Girl Sloopy" live for a while, but it was still too early to release it as their next single.
So, Berns had another idea. He asked the producers to find a group of young musicians who looked like the Beatles to record the song under a new title, "Hang On Sloopy."
At the final stop of the tour, the Strangeloves were backed by Rick and the Raiders, a local band led by a teenage Derringer.
"Coincidentally, the day that we were going to play as their backup band in Dayton, Ohio, we went out and bought Beatle suits," Derringer told Living Legends Music.
"We all had our little Beatle haircuts, we had our Beatle suits on. They hadn’t found the band that looked like the Beatles yet. And we went out there and they said, 'One of the songs we’re gonna play is ‘My Girl Sloopy' and we all went, 'Whoa, we love that song.'"
It turned out to be the right place at the right time. "So we played the heck out of it, because we knew it and loved it. They brought us backstage and they said, 'Would you like to come to New York tomorrow and record 'Hang On Sloopy?'"
The next day, they hooked a U-Haul trailer to their car and followed the Strangeloves to New York City. They recorded "Hang On Sloopy" in the studio a week later.
According to Derringer, the engineers were so thrilled with the recording that they jumped up and down in the control room, yelling "Number one! Number one!"
It was also around this point that the band renamed themselves the McCoys, to avoid confusion with the group Paul Revere and the Raiders.
Under their new name, the McCoys released "Hang On Sloopy" as a single in July 1965. By October 2 of that year, it had climbed all the way to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Derringer liked to joke that "Hang On Sloopy" kept the Beatles' "Yesterday" stuck at No. 2. Paul McCartney's classic took over the top spot the following week and stayed there for a month, but Derringer preferred his version of events.
"We like to say 'Hang On Sloopy' was No. 1 while 'Yesterday' was No. 2." he told WLOY Radio. "They don't have to know which one was going which direction."
Since its release, the song has become a garage rock staple, covered by everyone from the Yardbirds to Bruce Springsteen and the Smashing Pumpkins.
It was also named Ohio's official rock song in 1985 and continues to be played at Browns and Cavaliers home games.
Related: 1977 Hit Ballad, With 21-Year-Old Singer, Remains a Classic 49 Years Later
Tom Holland Reveals the One Thing He Hopes Fans Remember About His Spider-Man
After starring as Spider-Man, AKA Peter Parker, for the last decade, Tom Holland is reflecting on his time as the beloved Marvel character.
During a July 2026 interview with Kino TV, alongside his Spider-Man: Brand New Day co-star and wife, Zendaya, Holland was asked what he hopes "audiences will remember about" his take on Spider-Man. The 30-year-old actor shared that he would like fans to know that he and his castmates felt so much joy while making Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017), Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019), Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021), and Spider-Man: Brand New Day, which premieres on July 31.
"I think it's just really evident when you watch these movies how much fun we had making them," said Holland in the interview with Kino TV. "And I hope that that is something that is always remembered that these movies were something that we absolutely loved making and that the opportunity and responsibility is something that we've never taken for granted. So yeah, I hope that people look back on this time as like, 'Oh, this was a really fun time.'"
Jacob Batalon Discussed Growing Up With His 'Spider-Man' Co-StarsDuring a July 2026 interview with the Associated Press, alongside Holland and Zendaya, Jacob Batalon, who plays Ned Leeds, shared he appreciated being able to film with his Spider-Man castmates over the last decade.
"It's easy to hate people that you work with, and we're really lucky that we really loved working together and growing up together, and it's great," said Batalon.
Zendaya, who plays Michelle Jones "MJ" Watson, also shared that she feels both a sense of pressure and gratitude being a part of such a beloved franchise. She noted that Spider-Man fans span generations and have "a special connection in their own way" to the characters.
"You want to do justice to that. You want to make sure that you're doing the best work so that people feel seen and heard and understood, and you want to do justice to the characters," said Zendaya.
She clarified that she and her co-stars "are so lucky to be able to do this job."
"We get to be children for like our whole life, really, you know. We get to be adults that still get to play and imagine and dream and do the things that we would have pretended to do in our living rooms," said Zendaya.
Beloved Metal Band, Returning to Stage After 13 Years, Ranked Among 'Best Supergroups' of All Time
Tomahawk is not only making a major comeback this year but is also cementing its legendary status as one of the best supergroups of all time.
Joining Louder Sound’s elite rankings, the four-piece band was named among the greatest heavy metal supergroups that managed to live up to the hype.
Together with Murderdolls, Audioslave, Roadrunner United, Killer Be Killed and other notable all-star bands, the publication emphasized Tomahawk's versatility and stylistic range through the blend of “Native American folk music to the dizzying yet infectious rock songs.”
Despite carrying the label of supergroups, Tomahawk admitted that they personally don't place much importance on that title.
“I’ve never liked it and I’ve never felt comfortable with it and I don’t think any of us do. It seems sort of silly and unnecessary,” Duane Denison explained in an interview as cited by The Aquarian. “On the other hand, people want to call it something, so I’m not going to talk them out of it. I guess I can see why they might do that, but that certainly wasn’t our intent.”
Mike Patton of Tomahawk performs at the Best Buy Theater on June 2, 2013 in New York City.Henry S. Dziekan III/WireImage
Tomahawk was formed in 1999 after vocalist Mike Patton of Faith No More and Mr. Bungle and guitarist Duane Denison of The Jesus Lizard decided to start a side project focused on heavy, riff-based rock music.
The duo was joined by Melvins bassist Kevin Rutmanis and Helmet drummer John Stanier and introduced their music through their self-titled debut album, released in 2001.
Recalling the planning stages of creating the group and their working relationship, the guitarist revealed that their shared musical tastes were what brought them together.
“John Stanier and I had been talking about playing together for ages, and then when Patton and I met up and started talking about doing something, John was my natural choice for playing drums,” Denison continued, adding “Now with Trevor [Dunn] on bass, he’s obviously been friends with Patton for decades now, so that is a pretty natural fit. We all get along and have very similar tastes, from food to comedy. So it works out really well.”
Two years later, the band released their follow-up record Mit Gas in 2003 and toured extensively across the U.K., Europe and Australia.
Amid this, Tomahawk experienced multiple hiatuses despite releasing five studio albums.
Among the band's most significant recent milestones was its first live performance in 13 years.
The special event took place during an 18-song set at Brooklyn Bowl in Nashville, proving that their chemistry remained strong despite the long hiatus.
Related: '80s Metal Band, Disbanded After 22 Years, Ranked Among 'Best Supergroups' of All Time
This Oscar-Nominated Actress Just Made Her First Music Video Appearance in Nearly 30 Years
Demi Moore is proving she can still steal a scene even without a single line of dialogue.
The Substance actress, 63, made a stylish surprise cameo in KATSEYE's new music video for "Animal," marking her first music video appearance in nearly three decades. Released July 24, the video finds the K-pop group's members - Daniela, Yoonchae, Sophia, Lara, and Megan - scrambling through a fashion crisis backstage after failing to impress a panel of music executives with their outfits.
That's when Moore enters. Seated calmly in the corner while the chaos unfolds, the actress rises from her chair, flips back her signature waist-length dark hair, and takes control of the makeover. Dressed in a sharply tailored black blazer with a matching pencil skirt, sheer tights and diamond drop earrings, Moore brings a dose of old Hollywood energy to the fashion emergency before delivering the line, "All right, let's get wild!"
The cameo marks a full-circle moment for Moore, whose music video debut came all the way back in 1997, when she appeared in Bon Jovi's "Ugly" sporting a cropped crew cut and a black leather jacket. That same year, she also starred alongside Jon Bon Jovi in the film Destination Anywhere.
While the role is brief, fans were quick to celebrate seeing the Golden Globe winner pop up in an unexpected place. Moore has spent the past year enjoying one of the biggest career resurgences of her career following The Substance, and her appearance in "Animal" adds another memorable moment to an already headline-making run.
For KATSEYE, the surprise cameo gives the video an extra dose of Hollywood glamour. For Moore, it's proof that even after nearly 30 years away from music videos, she continues to prove that when it comes to style, she's always ready for her next transformation.
This Is the Most Expensive Perfume in the World (and Its $32 Affordable Dupe), According to a Fragrance Expert
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When it comes to your beauty collection, fragrances are undoubtedly one of the most pricey products you can purchase. Sure, there are also plenty of budget-friendly options available, but perfumes tend to cost a pretty penny. If a $200 scent is a splurge, you'll likely be feeling major sticker shock while reviewing our list of the seven most expensive perfumes in the world and their affordable dupes.
Many beauty lovers are shocked to discover that some fragrances can cost upwards of $1,000, and a select few even retail for several thousand dollars.
Whether they're made with ultra pricey ingredients or they're incredibly rare, there are plenty of reasons why certain luxury scents command such a steep price tag. To better understand the ins and outs of ultra-expensive perfumes, Parade consulted award-winning cosmetic chemist and luxury product formulator Vince Spinnato and Chavalia Mwamba, the principal perfumer at Pink MahogHany.
The perfume pros reveal what makes some perfumes so expensive and whether or not dupes can actually smell the same as their pricey counterparts. They also share tips for researching and finding a good dupe to make sure you're getting your money's worth.
Related: 17 Best Colognes for Your Man, According to Fragrance Experts
What Makes a Perfume So Expensive?In general, Spinnato says a perfume's price tag is determined based on the following cost drivers and marketing efforts:
- Raw materials: "Natural ingredients like rose absolute, jasmine, oud, ambergris and sandalwood are wildly expensive," he says. "Oud can run thousands of dollars per kilogram. Rose absolute takes thousands of petals to distill a single ounce. Rare or endangered-sourced ingredients (real musk, ambergris) push this further."
- Concentration: "Eau de parfum and parfum (extrait) contain a much higher percentage of fragrance oil than eau de toilette or cologne, so more of those costly raw materials go into every bottle," he explains.
- Packaging: "Heavy glass bottles, metal caps, magnetic boxes and elaborate presentation can cost more than the perfume inside, especially at the luxury tier," he says.
- Brand and marketing: "Advertising campaigns, celebrity endorsements and brand heritage (think Chanel, Guerlain) are baked into the price," he explains. "You're often paying for image as much as scent."
- Perfumer fees: "Working with a renowned perfumer (a 'nose' trained at a house like Givaudan or Firmenich) adds cost, like hiring a well-known designer," Spinnato says.
- Batch size and exclusivity: "Niche and small batch perfumes cost more per unit to produce, and artificially limited releases justify (and inflate) higher prices," he explains.
- Aging/maceration: "Some fragrances rest for weeks or months before bottling to allow the ingredients to blend properly, adding production time and cost," he says.
Chanel
Shop It at ChanelWith this luxury perfume, Spinnato says you're "paying for history" just as much as you're paying for the fragrance itself.
"This is the most concentrated, purest form of the original 1921 formula, sold in a large hand-finished flacon rather than the everyday retail bottle," he explains. "It's arguably the most iconic fragrance ever created, and the Grand Extrait format is Chanel's way of selling the connoisseur's version at a steep premium over the standard $150 eau de parfum."
Affordable Dupe: Dossier Floral Aldehyde Eau de Parfum, $32Dossier
Shop It on Dossier
“Dossier is transparent about which fragrance it's referencing and uses a similar top-to-base structure (aldehydes, ylang-ylang, jasmine, rose, sandalwood, musk)," Spinnato says.
The fragrance pro says reviewers "consistently" rank this affordable find as the "top pick for capturing that classic powdery bouquet" that the pricier Chanel fragrance offers.
Related: 7 Best Fine’ry Luxury Perfume Dupes at Target, According to a Fragrance Expert
Are Perfume Dupes Worth Buying?When it comes to perfume dupes, Spinnato says most experienced fragrance professionals don't view these more affordable alternatives as an "all or nothing."
"A common approach is owning a couple of true luxury bottles for when it matters, and a rotation of dupes for everyday wear, which is basically capsule wardrobe logic applied to perfume," he tells Parade.
Whether you prefer the real deal or you're a big fan of dupes, Spinnato says sampling before buying a full bottle is key.
"A $5 decant of the original lets you confirm it's your taste before spending $300," he explains. "And testing a dupe on your own skin matters just as much since skin chemistry changes how both the original and the dupe develop over the day."
One thing to consider? Mwamba notes that dupes sometimes "water down" the experience behind a fragrance "for the sake of a lesser expensive version."
All in all, dupes can be worth it for "accessibility and experimentation" but they're not necessarily a full replacement if you value "longevity, complexity or the luxury experience itself," Spinnato says.
How To Find a Good Perfume DupeNavigating the world of fragrance dupes isn't always easy, but there are a few ways to spot a good dupe.
Spinnato suggests starting by consulting fragrance communities such as Fragrantica, Reddit and Parfumo since fragrance lovers often congregate on these websites to discuss dupes of their favorite perfumes.
While you're at it, there are also dedicated dupe houses that specialize in recreating pricier scents at lower prices, so those companies are a good place to start.
He also recommends looking at the original perfume's fragrance notes on Fragrantica then searching for dupes with a similar note structure.
"This is more reliable than trusting marketing claims that something is 'inspired by' a specific perfume," he explains.
Related: These Are the 9 Best-Smelling Perfumes for Women, According to a Fragrance Expert
Do Perfume Dupes Actually Smell the Same?If you're a bit skeptical about perfume dupes, we can't say we blame you. But technology has progressively advanced over the years, making some dupes smell remarkably close to pricier products.
"Perfume isn't as proprietary as people think," Spinnato says. "Many popular scents can be reverse-engineered using gas chromatography, which identifies most of the compounds in a fragrance. Skilled perfumers can then reconstruct a very similar accord using their own materials."
Furthermore, most modern fragrances rely heavily on raw materials from a handful of major suppliers.
"If a dupe brand uses the same or similar synthetic building blocks, it can land close to the original," he explains.
Still, some dupes do fall short since the process of reverse engineering can only get you so close to the original formula.
"The precise ratios, rare or proprietary materials and specific grades of ingredients are still guesswork," Spinnato says.
Additionally, the concentration and quality of materials differs.
"A dupe might use a lower percentage of fragrance oil or cheaper-grade synthetics, which affects the opening, longevity and how it dries down over hours," he adds.
6 More of the Most Expensive Perfumes and Their Budget-Friendly Swaps1. Roja Parfums Haute Luxe, $3,500Neiman Marcus
Shop It at Neiman MarcusMwamba says this perfume's hefty $3,500 price tag is a result of many factors, including brand identity and several of the ingredients, including rose, jasmine and gold flakes.
The luxurious fragrance's key note is raspberry, but several other ingredients influence the floral scent, including vanilla, cinnamon, oakmoss and ambergris.
Related: The 14 Best Jasmine Perfumes for an Intoxicating Floral Scent, According to Fragrance Experts
Affordable Dupe: Alexandria Fragrances Trepak, $70Alexandria Fragrances
Shop It at Alexandria FragrancesTrepak could be considered a dupe for two of Roja's pricey perfumes. This affordable version was modeled off of Roja Parfums' Diaghilev fragrance, which has a "similar vintage chypre structure" to Roja's Haute Luxe as well, according to Mwamba.
Related: 11 Korean Fragrance Brands a Perfume Expert Wishes More People Knew About
2. Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540 Extrait de Parfum, $985Neiman Marcus
Shop It at Neiman Marcus"Created to mark Baccarat Crystal House's 250th anniversary, this is the most concentrated version of one of the most talked about status scent fragrances of the last decade," Spinnato says. “It's famous for building its entire identity around a single, expensive to produce ambroxan-based accord. The bottle itself, styled after Baccarat's iconic red crystal, adds to the cost."
The perfume has notes of saffron, jasmine grandiflorum, bitter almond, mossy woody accord, musky woody accord, ethyl-maltol and ambroxan.
Fragrancenet
Shop It at FragrancenetSpinnato says this is the "most talked about" dupe for Baccarat Rouge 540.
"Testers report it's about 85% close, with the softer saffron note helping people whose skin reads the original as too metallic," he explains.
3. Amouage Opus XV King Blue Eau de Parfum, $550Neiman Marcus
Shop It at Neiman MarcusThis luxury perfume is part of Amouage's experimental Library Collection.
"Amouage was originally founded to recreate the opulence of royal Omani perfumery, and their fragrances are known for their heavy use of natural oud, frankincense and rose, all of which are costly to source at the concentrations they use," Spinnato says.
This particular fragrance features a wide range of notes, including mandarin, amber, pink pepper, blackcurrant, frankincense, oakwood, patchouli, sandalwood, leather and oud silver.
Affordable Dupe: Perfume Parlour Royal Blue Oud, $36Perfume Parlor
Shop It at Perfume Parlor“This one matches the original's note list almost exactly," Spinnato says.
Similar to Amouage Opus XV King Blue, this fragrance features top notes of mandarin orange, black currant and pink pepper; middle notes of amber and frankincense; and base notes of oud, leather, oak, patchouli and sandalwood.
Related: 9 Most-Requested Discontinued Fragrances, According to a Perfume Expert
4. Louis Vuitton Ombre Nomade Eau de Parfum, $455Louis Vuitton
Shop It at Louis Vuitton"This fragrance is built around a massive dose of real oud wood, which is one of the most expensive raw materials in perfumery and sometimes pricier per kilogram than gold," Spinnato tells Parade. "It's consistently cited as one of Louis Vuitton's bestselling and most cult-followed scents. Plus, it's known in the fragrance community for extreme projection and longevity."
The fragrance pro says this perfume is a good example of a price that's "driven by genuinely costly ingredients rather than just bottle art.” It features notes of oud wood, incense and benzoin balm.
Affordable Dupe: Maison Alhambra Oud For Glory, $43CVS
Shop It at CVS"[This is] one of the most commonly recommended Louis Vuitton dupes across Reddit and YouTube comparisons. Note: Reviewers do warn that cheap Ombre Nomade clones in general can skew 'gasoline-y,'" Spinnato says, however many reviewers say it's a "dead ringer" for the pricier perfume.
Related: If You Wore These 11 ‘Iconic’ Perfumes in the ’80s, You Have Great Taste
5. Xerjoff Alexandria II Parfum, $630Bloomingdale's
Shop It at Bloomingdale'sThis fragrance is part of Xerjoff's Oud Stars collection.
"Each fragrance in the line is named after stops on Ibn Battuta's historic travels. The house is known industry-wide for pricing that reflects the genuine rarity of raw materials, rather than just marketing," Spinnato says.
Affordable Dupe: Dua Fragrances The Conqueror, $70The Dua Brand
Shop It at The Dua BrandAccording to Spinnato, this dupe has a 90% similarity rating from fragrance comparison sites. It's built on the same fragrance note structure and includes apple, cinnamon and lavender notes that open into rose, cedar and lily of the valley before finishing with oud, sandalwood and vanilla.
6. Clive Christian Original Collection No. 1 Feminine, $790Clive Christian
Shop It at Clive Christian"Clive Christian holds the Guinness World Record for the priciest perfume ever sold—the ultra rare $215,000 Imperial Majesty edition in a Baccarat crystal bottle with a diamond-set 18-karat gold collar," Spinnato says.
While that perfume isn't in regular production, the brand's standard No. 1 line is also quite luxurious at $790.
“It's expensive, partly for the story, partly because the formula reportedly uses well over 100 rare ingredients," he explains.
Affordable Dupe: Zoha Aroma No. 1 Inspired Oil, $48Zoha Aroma
Shop It at Zoha Aroma"Zoha Aroma builds its version around the same iris, ylang-ylang, heliotrope, rose and citrus spice structure," Spinnato says. “It's an oil-based concentrate rather than a spray, so it runs long on skin for very little money.”
Up Next:
Sources:- Chavalia Mwamba is the principal perfumer at Pink MahogHany.
- Vince Spinnato, aka The Couture Chemist, is an award-winning cosmetic chemist and luxury product formulator.
Costco's Refined 3-Piece Cotton Comforter Set Elevates Any Bedroom With Botanical Charm
Sometimes, it is the simplest changes that really make the biggest impact in a space, and if you are looking to upgrade your bedroom for fall, swapping out your comforter is a great place to start. Bedding with a warm neutral or earth tone color is perfect for the upcoming season, and some nature-inspired details such as a botanical print are even better, and that is exactly what this beautiful and cozy new three-piece comforter set at Costco achieves. It's cozy, it's chic, and it's affordable.
Charisma's 3-Piece Jemma Botanical Comforter Set elevates any bedroom with botanical charm. Featuring a chic botanical print, this comforter looks so luxe. It has a soft, refined texture to it that looks lived-in but sophisticated at the same time. The set comes in either a deep gemstone blue or a chic neutral beige, and both of these color options are perfect for this time of year. Plus, these colors are easy to pair with a variety of different accents such as throw pillows and blankets.
Charisma 3-Piece Jemma Botanical Comforter Set, Queen, $124.99 at CostcoCostco
This pretty comforter set comes with three pieces total, including one comforter and two coordinating pillow shams. The best part is its comfortable and breathable construction. This comforter is made out of 100 percent cotton for the face and the reverse. The fill is 100 percent polyester.
This comforter set is available in either a king size for $134.99 or a queen size for $124.99. The queen size comforter measures 90 inches by 92 inches, and its pillow shams measure 20 inches by 26 inches. The king-size comforter measures 106 inches by 92 inches, and its pillow shams measure 20 inches by 36 inches.
This comforter set is machine washable for easy maintenance. All you need to do is machine wash on warm with like colors. Tumble dry on low. Make sure to avoid using bleach and skip the iron as well to keep it looking as good as new.
You can find this beautiful botanical-themed comforter set on Costco's website now. It is not sold in Costco stores.
Related: The 11 Best French Groceries to Buy at Costco (and 3 to Skip)
Fans Believe the 49ers Are 'Cursed' After Coach Kyle Shanahan Suffers a Brutal Car Accident
Kyle Shanahan is recovering from a serious car accident, and the San Francisco 49ers' famously injury-prone reputation has fans convinced their bad luck has now reached the coaching staff.
The team announced that Shanahan, 46, was involved in a two-car collision on July 14 near his home in northern California, colliding with an SUV. According to ESPN, Shanahan broke his nose, three ribs, and his hand, needed more than 40 stitches in his face, and suffered a severe concussion. The team's official statement confirmed his injuries are non-life-threatening, and the other driver involved was not hurt. Authorities said drugs and alcohol were not a factor, and no one was cited in the crash.
What's caught fans' attention most, though, is the timing of the announcement itself, nearly 11 days after the accident actually happened. "Damn, that's a bad crash. How do you keep this under wraps for 11 days?" one commenter wrote online.
For many 49ers fans, the news fit into a familiar, painful pattern. The team has developed a reputation in recent years for an unusually high rate of player injuries, a narrative fans have jokingly nicknamed "the substation curse," referencing a since-demolished electrical substation once located near the team's practice facility. "49ers injury luck spreads to the coaches. Wild," one commenter wrote, while another added, "The substation strikes again," a phrase repeated by dozens of others throughout the thread.
Not everyone treated it as a joke. Several commenters expressed genuine concern for Shanahan's recovery, with one writing, "Based on these injuries, this could have easily been a tragic outcome," and another calling the concussion detail "scary as shit."
Assistant head coach Chris Foerster will take over Shanahan's head-coaching responsibilities, along with the team's coordinators, while Shanahan recovers at home. Doctors have not cleared him to fully participate in training camp activities until his concussion symptoms resolve.
1979 Rock Classic, Written in Two Years, Led to the Band's Split 47 Years Ago
Released in 1979, The Long Run became theEagles' longest-running No. 1 album. It was also the beginning of the end for the band.
A lot was shifting behind the scenes. It was the first Eagles album with bassist Timothy B. Schmit, who replaced cofounder Randy Meisner, and the last to feature guitarist Don Felder.
By then, the Eagles had already reached superstar status thanks to 1976's Hotel California. The harder part was figuring out what could possibly come next.
"I suppose we'd eventually finish some songs if we didn't have the pressure, but up to now it's been that way," Don Henley admitted in a 1977 interview, according to Ultimate Classic Rock. "I remember an interview I read a long time ago where [John] Lennon and [Paul] McCartney said that the only way they ever finished anything was to have a deadline, some kind of pressure."
That pressure didn't bring out the best in the band. Hotel California had already put a strain on them, thanks to its long recording process and an exhausting tour. Those tensions followed them into the next album.
They went into the studio in 1977 with plans for a double record, but nothing came out until September 24, 1979. And even then, it wasn't what they'd envisioned.
Longtime collaborator J.D. Souther and Bob Seger pitched in to help finish a 10-song record. "It made us very paranoid," guitarist Joe Walsh once said of the years that followed Hotel California.
"People started asking us, 'What are you going to do now?' and we didn't know. We ended up on the next album in Miami with the tapes running, but nobody knowing what was going on. We lost perspective. We just kinda sat around in a daze for ... months."
The band found itself torn between the pressures of fame and staying true to who they were. “You can get out," Henley said. "The problem is getting out without getting completely out – without losing touch with everything. You have to work out a happy medium to keep your health and your wits about you. It can be done."
That balance was hard to find on The Long Run. The album had moments of the band's classic sound, but too much of it felt overproduced. Critics weren't especially kind, and many saw it as a step down.
Commercially, though, the album was a huge success. Led Zeppelin's In Through the Out Door blocked it from debuting at No. 1, but The Long Run took over the top spot just a week later. It went on to win a Grammy, sell more than seven million copies and produce three hit singles.
Both the title track and "I Can't Tell You Why" reached No. 8, while "Heartache Tonight" hit No. 1 on Billboard's Hot 100 in November 1979.
Fans still wanted more music, but the band was falling apart. Things had become especially strained between co-frontman Glenn Frey and Felder, who could barely share a stage together.
During a July 1980 show in Long Beach, tensions escalated to threats of violence between songs. Not long after, Frey walked away.
Frey wasn't the only one who felt the band had run its course, but they still owed their label one more album. The Eagles gave fans more music with the double-disc Eagles Live in November 1980.
But putting the album together turned out to be just as messy as everything else going on between them.
According to producer Bill Szymczyk, Frey wouldn't record overdubs with the others, or even talk to them, so the team had to get creative. "I had my assistant in Los Angeles with Glenn, and I had the rest of the band fly to Miami," he recalled, per UCR. "We were fixing three-part harmonies courtesy of Federal Express."
The band was so ready to move on that they turned down $2 million to record two new songs for the album.
Looking back, Frey seemed at peace with it all. "We all came out here from different places, developed our talent, saw what it took to succeed and got the job done better than any of us ever imagined. At that point it ended, and life goes on," he once said. "We always vowed to quit when we were still on top and that's what we did."
Related: 1977 Hit Ballad, With 21-Year-Old Singer, Remains a Classic 49 Years Later
Clarks’ Braided Flip-Flops Feel ‘Cushioned’ But Look ‘Fancy’ Enough for Restaurants — Now 58% Off
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Packing for a summer trip tends to follow the same pattern. You start off organized, but somewhere between the “just in case” jackets and dresses for dinner, your suitcase fills up fast. And then come the shoes, which are always the hardest to narrow down. You want something comfortable enough for long walks, versatile enough to match multiple outfits, and compact enough that it doesn’t take up half your bag.
That’s why finding one reliable pair you can wear on repeat makes all the difference. Instead of packing multiple options, the goal is to bring something that can handle everything on your itinerary, from sightseeing during the day to dressier dinners at night. The Clarks Breeze Coral Sandals at Amazon fit that role perfectly, and they're down to their lowest price since the start of the year. Now as low as $25, down 58% from their original $60, they combine all-day comfort with an easy, polished look that works across settings, so you can pack lighter without feeling limited.
Clarks Breeze Coral Sandals, From $25 (was $60) at Amazon Shop at AmazonThese sandals keep things simple but not basic, reworking a classic thong silhouette with a few thoughtful updates. Four slim straps on either side meet at the toe post and come together in a woven, medallion-style knot, where multiple tones are braided together to create contrast and dimension. It brings in a bit of variation through the weave, so it doesn’t feel flat or one-note. The overall shape is clean and streamlined with a slightly sporty edge, while the subtle 1.25-inch platform adds just enough lift to feel noticeable without affecting how easy they are to walk in.
Style-wise, they hold their own — but comfort isn’t an afterthought. The brand’s signature cushion soft foam insole adds a plush, supportive layer that feels comfortable right away, with no break-in time needed. On the bottom, a lightweight, flexible sole with added traction moves easily with your step and can handle a variety of terrains without feeling stiff or clunky. One reviewer raved that they feel like "walking on a cloud."
Sizing runs from women’s 5 through 12, making it easy to find a comfortable, true-to-size fit. The sandals come in two colorways: a softer mix of blush, rose gold, and white, and a more classic black and gunmetal silver option. Both feel versatile in their own way — the lighter pair leans more seasonal, while the darker one works as an everyday neutral. Pricing stays accessible, too, with the former option starting at $25 and the latter at $28, so either way, you’re getting a great deal.
While the majority of shoppers were impressed by how “supportive,” “super comfortable,” and “stylish” they are, globetrotters in particular called the sandals “perfect for travel.” One shopper wrote: "The braided straps add a touch of style, and the metallic and neutral tones go with everything. Most importantly, they're incredibly comfortable for all-day wear thanks to the cushioned sole."
Another reviewer praised their elevated design and fit. "They are fancy, so you could probably get away with wearing them to a restaurant in the summer. They fit perfectly — and my foot is a little wide.
Related: Amazon’s ‘Magical’ Mushroom Table Lamp Brings Major 'Fairycore' Vibes for Under $20
The Clarks Breeze Coral Sandals make packing and getting dressed a whole lot easier, and at just $25, they're an absolute steal. Grab them while they’re 58% off and check one more thing off your summer wardrobe refresh list.
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‘Love Island: All Stars’ Winners Marry in ‘Intimate’ Ceremony
Love Island: All Stars winners Molly Smith and Tom Clare have wed in London.
The couple met on the first series of the British reality TV spin-off in 2024. They announced their engagement in September last year after Tom proposed in Dubai.
The couple confirmed the happy news by sharing multiple photos and videos from their special day on social media.
“Just Married ”, the newlyweds wrote in the caption. The 32-year-old bride wore a short white dress and a matching pillbox hat while the 26-year-old groom wore a classic black suit.
View this post on InstagramSmith also shared images on their special day on her Instagram Stories, including the couple exchanging rings and cutting their small white cake.
Clare also shared a sweet photo of his texts with his dad, who wrote that he “can’t believe” his son was getting married the next day to the “love of your life.” His dad also shared that Clare’s grandparents were “looking down on you with so much love.”
“We can’t wait for tomorrow, love you guys,” his dad wrote, with the reality star responding, “Aw dad this made me cry I love you.”
View this post on InstagramThis is thought to be the small, intimate ceremony for family before a larger event later in the summer. The couple told the Mirror in June: "We wanted to get married in Majorca, because that's where it all began, even if it's not where we met... Obviously, you've got to think about family members and how easy it is to get there when they've played a big part in it…"
The pair found fame on the British version of Love Island, originally entering on different seasons before meeting on the All Stars spin-off where former contestants looked for a second chance at love. Tom finished third on series nine alongside Samie Elishi, while Molly had been a Casa Amor bombshell on series six, where she met Callum Jones.
Blade Runner 2099 Flips the Franchise: Everything We Know So Far
There is a specific dread in knowing exactly how much time you have left, down to the day. That is what Michelle Yeoh carries into Blade Runner 2099, driving a series that finally has a place on the calendar. In front of more than 6,500 fans in San Diego Comic-Con's Hall H on Friday, Prime Video unveiled the first trailer and confirmed that all eight episodes arrive Nov. 25, 2026.
The teaser inverts many of the staples of the franchise. Set 50 years after Blade Runner 2049, the world has flipped: the official synopsis states the war has happened and the humans have lost, with replicants now the power brokers of the city and humans the second-class citizens. The tagline offers no comfort: welcome to a future we no longer control.
Showrunner Luisa also described this latest take on the Blade Runner aesthetic as "Sunlit Noir", drawing a contrast between the rain-soaked neon nights of the original Blade runner and the cold and snowy feel of Blade Runner 2049.
Yeoh plays Olwen, a replicant Blade Runner nearing the end of her engineered lifespan. Showrunner Silka Luisa has said Olwen knows down to the day when she will die, a certainty that gives every scene a countdown. Opposite her is Hunter Schafer as Cora, a fugitive who has spent her life adopting new identities to evade Blade Runners. Now, in a final bid to stop running, she becomes one. Schafer's voiceover carries the feel of a losing side: how much longer until we have nothing, until we are nothing.
The two are forced into partnership hunting a group of missing rogue replicants, a pursuit that leads toward a conspiracy capable of collapsing their fragile city. Olwen tries to guide Cora toward accepting that replicants are here to stay. As she says in the footage, humans want what was taken from them, but it is their time now.
Related: 5 'Blade Runner' Stories to Explore Before '2099' Drops
The road here was long. The series was delayed by the 2023 writers' strike, which pushed production out of Belfast and eventually to Prague and Spain, where filming wrapped at the end of 2024. Luisa worked closely with original Blade Runner director Ridley Scott, who executive produces, and described the collaboration as once in a lifetime, saying it mattered to touch the mythological canon points in his film with his blessing.
Beyond the two leads, the cast includes Dimitri Abold, Lewis Gribben, and recurring players Sheila Atim, Matthew Needham, Daniel Rigby, and Tom Burke, who has said despite the "Sunlit Noir" description the show sits closer to the aesthetic of the 1982 original than to the 2049 sequel. Luisa calls the visual approach a rebirth, distinct from the rain of 2019 and the cold of 2049. Billed as a limited series, its eight episodes are built to tell one complete story.
Billie Joe Armstrong Invites This ’80s Metal Frontman To Cover a Glam Rock Classic
Comic-Con is usually known for surprise celebrity appearances, but few expected one of the weekend's biggest moments to come courtesy of two rock legends from punk and metal. During Fandom's Comic-Con kickoff party in San Diego on Thursday night, Green Day frontman Billie Joe Armstrong welcomed Iron Maiden singer Bruce Dickinson to the stage for an unexpected performance of Mott the Hoople's "All the Young Dudes," creating a moment that united three eras of rock in a single performance.
Rather than reaching for a Green Day hit or an Iron Maiden anthem, the pair paid tribute to one of glam rock's defining classics. Written by David Bowie and immortalized by Mott the Hoople in 1972, "All the Young Dudes" has long connected artists across genres and Thursday night's performance proved its legacy is still very much alive.
The collaboration also carried a deeper connection for both musicians. Dickinson previously recorded his own version of the song for his 1990 solo album, Tattooed Millionaire, while Armstrong has often acknowledged Bowie's influence on his songwriting, even crediting the late icon as an inspiration behind Green Day's 2009 hit "21 Guns."
Backed by Armstrong's cover band side project, The Coverups, the performance felt less like a novelty and more like a celebration of the artists who shaped modern rock. Earlier in the evening, the group also tore through classics including Cheap Trick's "Hello There" and the Ramones' "I Wanna Be Sedated."
Dickinson's appearance made perfect sense for Comic-Con weekend, too. The Iron Maiden frontman recently expanded his creative world beyond music with The Mandrake Project, a comic book series tied to his latest solo album, and is in San Diego to sign copies of The Mandrake Project: Year Two.
Speaking to a local CBS affiliate after the performance, Dickinson joked that he had to dust off his memory before taking the stage. "We've performed with Green Day quite a lot of times, but we've been on separate stages in separate bands," he said. "I more or less remember the words." For one unforgettable song, those separate worlds finally came together, bringing punk, metal and glam rock fans along for the ride. Some rock crossovers you can see coming from a mile away. This wasn't one of them.
Super Bowl Champion Dead at 38 — What He Told His Wife Before He Died Is Heartbreaking
Jordan Devey, who won a championship with the New England Patriots in 2014, has died. In a GoFundMe, Devey's family shared that he "took his own life."
His wife, Linsey Devey, shared a heartfelt tribute to her husband on Instagram.
"Today would have been our 15th year anniversary. We have filled the walls of our homes and hearts with countless memories, joys, struggles, and triumphs," Linsey captioned a post on July 23. "We brought 4 beautiful children into this world that have your eyes, freckles, and compassion. You were our hero and our hearts ache in your absence. We love you. We miss you."
Linsey then shared the last three words that she heard her husband say: "We'll talk soon."
View this post on InstagramCondolences for the Devey family have been pouring in on social media and on GoFundMe, where more than $90,000 has been raised as of Saturday, July 25.
"Linsey, words fail me. We are here for you and lifting you and your family up in prayer every day. May you feel God’s presence supporting you through each moment until you see Jordan again," one person wrote.
"Jordan was one of the kindest and strongest men I have ever met. It’s hard to find the words to express the heartbreak of his passing. I’m so sorry for your loss," someone else said.
"Linsey there are no words for a loss like this. We are praying so hard for you and your sweet family," a third comment read.
Jordan, 38, spent nine years in the NFL, playing for the Patriots, San Francisco 49ers, Kansas City Chiefs, the Oakland Raiders, and the Buffalo Bills. He retired from professional football in 2021.
Jordan is survived by his wife and their four children, Cash, Maddy, Winnie, and Stevie.
READ NEXT: Is Lindsay Clancy Still Married? What Happened to Her Husband?
Psychologist Says the 1 Phrase That Instantly Shuts Down a Condescending Person Isn’t What You Might Think
Dealing with difficult people is unfortunately a lifelong task that many of us have too much experience with, am I right? For example, you might have to shut down a passive-aggressive person regularly. You might also have to stop people who are gaslighting you, asking intrusive questions, being confrontational or simply making rude comments, whether at work or at home.
All of that is exhausting, to say the least, but here’s the good news: Responding with one simple, surprising phrase often does the trick (or is at least a solid start). While saying it may be nerve-wracking, it may also very well be worth it. Remember, it’s okay (and good!) to set boundaries, especially when someone disrespects you.
Want to know more? Keep reading for a psychologist’s take on why some people are condescending (aka those who treat others as if they're inferior), the #1 phrase that shuts down condescending statements and other helpful phrases when dealing with one of these snobby people.
That way, the next time you find yourself in that situation, you’ll know exactly how to handle it (without escalating the argument)—and, hopefully, you can also avoid the tough emotions and conversations that otherwise ensue.
Related: 7 Phrases You’ll Often Hear From a ‘Know-It-All,’ According to a Psychologist
Why Some People Are CondescendingPeople may be consistently condescending for various reasons, but the most common one is insecurity, says Dr. Golee Abrishami, PhD, a psychologist and the Vice President of Clinical Care at Octave.
“A condescending person talks down to others to try to make themselves feel better or more secure in their place,” she explains.
Other reasons she lists include a person:
- Having a genuine belief in their own superiority
- Being unable to read the room regarding the appropriateness of their statements
- Feeling stressed
- Feeling defensive
Any of those sound familiar?
The #1 Unexpected Phrase That Shuts Down Condescending People, According to a PsychologistWhen someone is being condescending, they're probably suggesting you’re stupid, incapable or overreacting. They might ask something like, “You really don’t know the answer to that question?”
You may want to respond defensively or act like they're the one who’s missing something. You might also feel caught off guard and unsure of what to say. That’s where Dr. Abrishami comes in.
“If you’re dealing with a condescending person in your life, it helps to have some responses locked and ready to go,” she says. “When you have responses ready to go, you will be ready to stand your ground.”
She shares her favorite response: “I don’t think you meant that the way it sounded.”
This simple phrase works well for several reasons, she continues. For starters, it’s not overly aggressive, so it’s less likely to escalate the interaction. Plus, it’s a way to acknowledge the other person said something negative and that you aren’t going to play into it or stoop to their level. Last but not least, it encourages the other person to reflect, in which they might retract what they said, act differently and/or recognize your boundaries.
“Typically, people act out in a condescending way when they feel more powerful and superior than you,” Dr. Abrishami explains. “You need to show them that you don’t feel inferior to them by standing your ground and maintaining healthy boundaries.”
Related: Psychologists Warn: This Harmful Behavior Is Rooted in Insecurity
6 Other Phrases To Use When Dealing With a Condescending PersonWhile the above phrase is a psychologist-favorite, it’s far from the only one she recommends. Below, Dr. Abrishami shares six more helpful phrases you can steal.
1. “Thanks, but I’ll let you know if I need that explained to me again”Is someone “mansplaining” to you? Pull out this phrase.
“This one works because it’s polite, but at the same time, it shows that you’re holding a firm boundary on how you want to be spoken to,” Dr. Abrishami states.
2. “I’ll take that thought into consideration”If you’re receiving unsolicited advice or being treated like you don’t know what you’re doing, this can help.
“This phrase is good because it’s acknowledging you heard the other person, but not reacting or going thoughtlessly with what they said simply because they're acting in an overly superior way,” Dr. Abrishami says.
Afterwards, you can more easily change topics, moving on from the unhelpful discussion at hand.
Related: 11 Phrases That Make You ‘Instantly Unlikable’ in Group Settings, According to an Etiquette Expert
3. “Are you explaining that to me or just thinking out loud?”Want someone to reconsider their words or behaviors? This question might be just the one you need.
“This phrase can be a helpful response because it forces the person to reflect on what they said, admit it or backpedal on what they said,” Dr. Abrishami says.
For example, they might realize they're insulting your intelligence or being rude—and that you’re not going to let that happen.
4. “I heard you, and I've got it from here”You can be friendly and firm at the same time, and this phrase is an example of that.
“It acknowledges the comment but doesn’t invite more from the person who has already been condescending,” Dr. Abrishami explains.
5. “I appreciate your perspective, but I already know what to do”This phrase is a great alternative to the one above. Dr. Abrishami notes “it’s polite and non-confrontational at the same time” and indicates “that the comment is not additive to the situation.”
6. “Say that again but this time, talk to me like an adult”Feeling more spicy? Dr. Abrishami has you covered in those moments, too.
“This phrase is blunt and somewhat confrontational, but calls out the condescension in a direct way,” she shares. “It definitely shows the comment got to you, but provides a strong response in just the right circumstance.”
Final TakeawaysRegardless of how spicy you want to phrase it, remember that responding with a boundary-setting phrase is important.
“Condescending people can make you doubt yourself, decrease your self-esteem and normalize disrespect,” Dr. Abrishami says. “Creating and maintaining healthy boundaries can help protect you from the negative impacts of dealing with condescending people.”
If someone in your life is consistently condescending to you, or you struggle to set boundaries and handle condescending statements, she recommends talking to a therapist. They can help you navigate conversations that—while tricky and uncomfortable—can be effectively handled.
Up Next:
Related: Child Psychologists Say This Is the Parenting Phrase That Calms Kids Fastest
Source:- Dr. Golee Abrishami, PhD, is a psychologist and the Vice President of Clinical Care at Octave.
1971 Rock Classic, With 23-Year Old Singer, Was a No. 1 Hit 55 Years Ago Today
Marc Bolan was just 23 when he wrote and recorded "Get It On" with T. Rex. Fifty-five years ago today, it hit No. 1 — and would later inspire a Prince classic.
In March 1971, record producer Tony Visconti had flown to Los Angeles to work with Bolan and the band on a batch of new songs. One of those tracks, "Get It On," was about to become the group’s next single.
“He had a lined schoolbook chock-full of lyrics and chord symbols,” Visconti said of Bolan's songwriting process to uDiscover Music.
“He would open the book at the beginning of an album, and then when we had enough tracks recorded – say about 17 – he’d close the book. ‘Get It On’ was just one of about 50 or 60 he had in the book at the time.”
Visconti recalled getting a strong feeling about the track early on. “When I first heard it, only the day before we recorded it, it sounded like a hit to me."
"The next day we drove what seemed like miles and miles (typical of distances in LA) to Wally Heider Studios and recorded ‘Get It On’ – the sunshine seemed unbearable to us, with our maggot-like complexions from grey London.”
The whole thing came together in a single session. “Our engineer was a very helpful, and eager, Rik Pekkonin; I’d seen his name on many record covers,” he continued. “We did it in one evening, complete with overdubbed backing vocals from Flo & Eddie – we knew we had our next single.”
His instincts about the song proved right. "Get It On" became a massive hit on both sides of the Atlantic. It was the perfect summer anthem of 1971, spending four weeks at No. 1 in the U.K. and climbing to No. 10 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.
In America, it was retitled "Bang a Gong (Get It On)," since a different song called "Get It On" by the group Chase was already out.
The song continued to influence artists for decades, including Prince, who used it as a template for "Cream.”
Bolan sang "you're dirty-sweet and you're my girl," and Prince sang "you're filthy-cute and baby you know it." He pulled the same move again on "Peach."
Bolan was proud of the song well before artists like Prince took notes from it. "I honestly believe ‘Get It On’ was one of the best things I've ever done," he told Record Mirror in 1971.
"The only kind of criticism I'm going to accept about it is that if someone can say, 'Well, that's out of tune or the guitar work is crap.' OK, but I know it isn't."
All these years later, the song is still pulling in new fans, something Bolan sadly never got to witness. He died in a car crash in 1977 at 29.
Even so, "Get It On" and the rest of T. Rex's early-'70s run helped keep his legacy alive.
Related: 1977 Hit Ballad, With 21-Year-Old Singer, Remains a Classic 49 Years Later
