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Refreshing your dining space doesn’t always require a full kitchen makeover. Sometimes, a simple swap like upgrading your everyday dinnerware is all it takes to make meals feel a little more special — whether you’re setting the table for a quiet weeknight dinner or or hosting guests.

Right now, shoppers are loving Walmart’s latest flash deal on the Vesteel Stoneware Plate Set, which is marked down to just $22 (down from $38). The stoneware plates feature a charming speckled design and glossy glazed finish that gives them a handcrafted, high-end look. Shoppers are impressed, with one calling the set “lovely” and another saying the plates are “very pretty and durable.”

6-Piece Vesteel Stoneware Plate Set From $22 (was $38) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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The Vesteel Dinner Plates Set includes six 7.9-inch round stoneware plates. It’s a practical option for everyday meals, dinner parties, or anyone looking to refresh their tableware on a budget. 

Crafted from premium natural clay and high-quality glazed stoneware, the plates are designed to be scratch and chip-resistant. They’re fired at high temperatures to create a lead-free, non-toxic finish, so shoppers don’t have to worry about harmful substances leaching into their food. Plus, they’re microwave-safe, dishwasher-safe, and freezer-safe.

The plates are available in five colors, including brown, light green, light grey, black, and white, giving shoppers plenty of options to find a style that feels right for their kitchen. While most shades are on sale for $22, the white and brown options are slightly more at $23. That’s still a bargain for six plates made from stoneware, a material that has grown increasingly trendy in 2026 due to its durability and luxe look. 

At this affordable sale price, you can easily grab multiple sets and mix and match colors to create a table setting that feels more personal. Whether each family member has their own plate color or you like changing up your table decor for different occasions, the variety of shades makes it easy to create a look that’s uniquely yours. 

Shop More Deals

• Dolly Parton Jeweled Mosaic Tray, $24 at Walmart
• Fzbctldz 12-Inch Round Decorative Tray, $22 (was $26) at Walmart
• Vesteel Large Stoneware Bowls 4-Piece Set, From $27 (was $43) at Walmart

Related: Stoneware Dishes Are So on Trend in 2026, and Amazon Has an ‘Elegant’ 12-Piece Set for Over 40% Off

With its charming speckled design, durable stoneware construction, and $22 price tag, the Vesteel Stoneware Plate Set is a stylish way to upgrade your table. Don’t wait too long to grab one, as this Walmart flash deal is on for a limited time only!

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Love Island USASeason 8 is winding down to the most important fan vote. Which couple will get the chance to split $100,000 or person who will take the entire prize home alone? Here is when the final episode will stream on Peacock.

'Love Island USA' Season 8 Ends on July 12 Bryce Dettloff and Trinity Tatum on 'Love Island USA' Season 8

Ben Symons/Peacock

There are 35 episodes in season 8, according to IMDb. Sunday, July 12 at 9 p.m. ET will premiere the finale and reveal the final ranking of couples based on fan votes.

Four couples go into the finale episode. Each couple has a final date to reflect on their time together on the island. It's also the last chance for them to take a new step in their relationship unless they say something in their final speech.

The couples write kind words to each other in front of the rest of the cast in their finale formal wear. Host Ariana Madix joins the cast to reveal the ranking, starting with fourth.

Madix, 41, gives an envelope to the man and woman of the first place couple. Only one envelope has the money. The person who has the $100,000 decides to keep the money for themselves or split it with their partner.

Related: ‘Love Island USA’: Gabriel Reveals if He’ll Date Beatriz Outside the Villa

Who Are the Strongest 4 'Love Island USA' Couples? Aniya Harvey and Carl Lee Schmidt on 'Love Island USA'

Ben Symons/Peacock

The islanders are aware that no one is going to explore outside their couple after movie night. Melanie Moreno and Sincere Rhea had the biggest set back that night because his lies were revealed. He told Sol Dean that he was ready to choose her. Sincere also told Amora Robinson if they had more time in Casa Amor, then he would've chosen her.

Melanie is one of the most popular cast members as an original islander. She'll probably make it to finale with Sincere, but not win because of his actions.

KC Chandler matched with Tierra "Titi" Davis in Casa Amor. They shockingly didn't fall into the bottom karaoke test episode. But it's unlikely they'll surpass Zach Georgiou and Kayda Bosse again since they have been coupled up since the first week.

Mackenzie "Kenzie" Annis is also an original islander, but will likely fall to the bottom of the vote. She was at risk in the karaoke contest episode with Dylan Wrona, but they saved themselves by winning the contest.

Dylan told Kenzie that he doesn't trust her after watching her movie night clips and she kissed Gal Tshnieder. They are one of the newest couples and most of their time is spent arguing.

That leaves Aniya Harvey and Carl Lee Schmidt, and Trinity Tatum and Bryce Dettloff as the strongest couples. Public opinion could change when it's time for the finale. But the other couples have work to do to get in the top two spots.

Related: Who Is ‘Love Island USA’s Carl Lee Schmidt? Everything to Know About the Casa Amor Bombshell

Back in the summer of 1969, a psychological drama caused such a stir that it faced censorship battles, international controversy, and one of Hollywood’s most stigmatized kisses of death: an X rating. The film is Midnight Cowboy, and despite receiving that restrictive rating, it rode into the sunset as the year’s biggest cinematic triumph.

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A gritty and unvarnished take on male prostitution, drug use, and the underground scene in New York City, John Schlesinger’s film was adapted from James Leo Herlihy’s 1965 novel of the same name, with Waldo Salt writing the screenplay. It stars Jon Voight as a naive hustler from Texas, and Dustin Hoffman as his con-man buddy and roommate. The two anchor the film, showcasing the harsh realities of urban life, loneliness, and living hand to mouth.

Beyond the stellar cast and crew, the film features an incredible soundtrack. A compilation of folk-rock, pop, and original melancholic music, it was widely praised for capturing the mood of the late 1960s. It was also a massive commercial hit, peaking at No. 6 on the Billboard 200, achieving RIAA gold certification, and producing a Top 10 hit with Harry Nilsson’s "Everybody's Talkin’."

“Exploring the myth of the American dream, Midnight Cowboy is an essential text, telling a familiar story that sees a plucky young man journey from the country to the city seeking opportunity, only to be dismantled by its pace and brutal reality,” Far Out wrote of the film. “Worthy to be considered as one of the many excellent films that deconstruct the national dream, Schlesinger’s classic remains a pertinent piece of filmmaking that defies the stereotype of its X-rating.”

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the film initially received an R rating from the MPAA, but its studio, United Artists, appealed and pushed for an X rating rather than release the film with what executives felt was an inaccurate classification.

Though the film is pretty mild by today’s standards, at the time its portrayal of sex, drugs, and homosexuality was considered too provocative for mass audiences. Once some of the cast members got wind of the X rating, they thought their acting careers were kaput.

“We said, ‘We have big problems’ when we heard we got an X rating,” Hoffman told Larry King in 1994, “and we thought this could end everybody’s career. As a matter of fact, I was talked into doing a movie I wished I hadn’t done, because they had me so frightened that I had buried myself and reversed whatever good The Graduate did.”

The movie he’s referring to is John and Mary, a romantic drama co-starring Mia Farrow. Hoffman said his agent forced him into it to prove he was a “respectable person.” But even though Hoffman had his doubts, his co-star felt the opposite. In fact, Voight told Esquire in 2013 that he was positive they had an instant classic on their hands.

“The moment [Schlesinger] finished [the film], he was shaking,” Voight said, explaining how the director was having second thoughts about the film. “All of a sudden, he saw it as banal and vulgar. He’s having an anxiety attack, and I grabbed his shoulders to shake him out of it. I said, ‘John, we will live the rest of our artistic lives in the shadow of this great masterpiece.’”

The actor might have just been trying to calm his helmer down at the moment, but his premonition came true the following year, when Midnight Cowboy took home three of the seven Academy Awards it was nominated for. Winning Best Writing, Best Director, and BestPicture, the film revolutionized cinema, proving a rating is no match for great storytelling.

Nearly six decades later, it remains the only film to accomplish such a feat.  

Midnight Cowboy is streaming for free on Tubi.

Related: 1996 Film That Inspired One of Alternative Rock’s Most Haunting Ballads Became a Cult Classic

When former mayoral candidate Spencer Pratt posted a photo on Instagram earlier this week of himself, two mystery adults, and a little boy meeting with President Donald Trump in the Oval Office, everyone assumed that the child was his son. Now the reality TV star is confirming the theory, sharing more pics from his Washington, D.C. trip on X… and fans are divided.

On Wednesday morning, Pratt posted a photo of eight-year-old Gunner hanging in the Oval Office. And sure, the snapshot is certainly sweet. But that’s not what really sparked a backlash. Pratt also wrote, “You must love your country the way you love your child. Unconditional love. You make sure they play by the rules.”

The dad (he shares Gunner and three-year-old Ryker with wife Heidi Montag) continued, “But no matter what, you love them with your whole heart, you make up every day thinking about how to be of service to them, and you would die to protect them.” Cue the controversy.

You must love your country the way you love your child. Unconditional love. You make sure they play by the rules. But no matter what, you love them with your whole heart, you wake up every day thinking about how to be of service to them, and you would die to protect them. pic.twitter.com/wiU3xECRwR

— Spencer Pratt (@spencerpratt) July 8, 2026

Of course, the statement (like most of Pratt’s actions) seems like it’s meant to grab the public’s attention. And if that’s the case here, all we can say is mission accomplished! 

One X user commented on the post, “But parents also know when to discipline their children so they grow into good adults. Where is the same thing done for the country? Maybe the two shouldn’t be treated the same way after all,” and others said, “Absolutely not. Only a child has the innocence and potential to receive unconditional love” and, “Goal of turning One’s Child into a Political Trope is so Republican 2026.” 

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But the sea of social media skeptics weren’t the only ones posting on X. Others praised Pratt, his politics, and his parenting, replying to the photo with comments such as, “That boy looks so much like you! What a wonderful experience for him to be by your side”, “You and your family were born to do great things. Keep fighting”, “Imagine a world where that was true for every child! Parenting and patriotism two of the most impactful choices that can be made,” and “Your son is adorable. You are teaching him to fight for what matters. Love it.”

What’s next for Pratt and his family? While he won't be the next mayor of Los Angeles, the former The Hills star is currently working on the WAR Foundation—a movement he claims will: “Win the war against political corruption with innovative new media.” 

Six years ago today, on July 8, Glee star Naya Rivera died in a boating accident at Lake Piru in California.

Rivera was just 33 when she drowned on a boat trip on Lake Piru in Ventura County, while out with her 4-year-old son, Josey Hollis Dorsey.

She was declared missing after she failed to return from a boating excursion near her California home. Shortly after, they discovered her rental boat wit her unharmed son inside wearing a lifejacket.

After a search, Rivera was formally presumed dead. Her body was recovered on July 13 and she was pronounced dead from drowining. Her body was found on the seven year anniversary of the death of her co-star Cory Monteith.

According to the BBC, Ventura County Sheriff Bill Ayub suggested the lake's currents could have caused difficulties but she died saving her son's life. "The idea perhaps being that the boat started drifting - it was unanchored - and that she mustered enough energy to get her son back onto the boat, but not enough to save herself," he said.

Speaking to People, he parner Ryan Dorset said that "the last thing she said was his [her son's] name, and then she went under, and he didn't see her anymore".

"Something he's said over and over is that he was trying to find a life raft, and there was a rope, but there was a big spider on the rope, and he was too scared to throw it," Dorsey added in the heartbreaking interview from after her ultimely death.

Naya started her career as an actress and model before landing her big break playing Santana Lopez in Glee.

During her time on Glee, Rivera won a Screen Actors Guild Award and an ALMA Award. She also shared a nomination for a Grammy Award and Brit Award with her co-stars.

How Naya Rivera's Son Remember His Late Mother View this post on Instagram

Josey, was found safely asleep inside a life jacket aboard the drifting rental boat, with his mother saving his life during the accident. Dorsey believes the actress and singer is proudly “smiling down” on their son.

“He’s been taking piano lessons for a little over a year now, and he’s getting pretty good. It’s the one thing I connected with his mom,” he told Page Six on the anniversary of her tragic death.

He added: "I said, ‘Your mom — she’s always listening. … You don’t understand now, but one day when you’re an adult or maybe even a teenager, you’re going to thank me. You’re never going to quit as long as you’re living with me.'"

The duo keep the actress’ memory alive by having a“Mommy Garden” in their yard. “There’s roses and flowers and all these things that come back every year,” Dorsey explained to Page Six. “And [Josey] waters it when it needs to be watered and kind of takes care of that. It kind of looks like a wishing well. So we put that up for her.”

Perhaps a simple song on the surface, but George Jones’ country classic “He Stopped Loving Her Today” has gone on to become one of the genre’s major achievements. Over the years, the tune has topped numerous rankings, earning widespread recognition as the ‘Greatest Country Song of All Time.’  

One list, published byForbes in 2025, ranked the tune at No. 1 on the ‘Top 30 Country Songs of All Time,’ coming in ahead of songs like Patsy Cline’s “Crazy,” Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You,” and Lefty Frizzell’s “Long Black Veil.” 

Written by Bobby Braddock and Curly Putnam Jr., “He Stopped Loving Her Today” unveils the heartbreaking story of a man and his deep devotion to a particular love interest. Though the man’s relationship has ended and the person he loves fails to reciprocate the same feelings as he does, he makes a promise to remain committed to her in hopes she’ll one day return to him. 

The male character in “He Stopped Loving Her Today” hangs on to old memories in the form of letters and photographs from a time when he was romantically involved with his love interest, but things take a tragic turn when listeners are led to believe that, instead of moving on from the former relationship, as the title suggests, the man instead only stops loving the woman when he passes away.

A heartbreaking turn, indeed, but Jones’ subtle yet expressive vocal delivery over the gentle arrangement of piano and strings complemented the song’s narrative so much that it went on to win many awards, including a Grammy, and has become Jones’ most beloved signature hit. 

Released on April 14, 1980, as the lead single from Jones’ I Am What I Am album (the song also appears on Jones’ 2005 collection Hits I Missed…And One I Didn’t), “He Stopped Loving Her Today” served as Jones’ first No. 1 hit single in six years, ultimately reviving the singer’s career. The song not only topped the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, but appeared on the chart for 19 weeks. 

Jones, the beloved “Possum,” whose career spanned five decades, died on April 26, 2013, due to hypoxic respiratory failure. He was 81. In the days following the country legend’s passing, “He Stopped Loving Her Today” re-entered the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, where it rose to the No. 21 spot. 

Related: Country Music Star Announces Plans to Take a Break From Touring Following 10 Years on the Road

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Sometimes all you need is a small piece of jewelry to make an outfit feel more styled, and Anthropologie has a dainty option on sale right now. The brand’s Crystal Tennis Necklace is marked down to just $30 from $48, with a gold crystal design that can make even a simple top or dress feel more pulled together. It comes in one size, and the dangling teardrop stones give it a dressier look than a single-strand tennis necklace.

It’s made with gold-plated brass, cubic zirconia, and imitation rhodium. It has a convenient lobster clasp, a 16-inch length, and a 2-inch extender, so there’s room to adjust where it sits. The extender is especially helpful if you want to layer it with longer chains or slightly change the length depending on your neckline.

Crystal Tennis Necklace, $30 (was $48) at Anthropologie

Courtesy of Anthropologie

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This necklace is super practical if you like jewelry that can be worn alone or layered. The 16-inch length sits close enough to the collarbone to show above many different necklines, while the crystal strand and teardrop stones give it enough sparkle to wear with a simple dress or tank top.

One shopper who purchased the necklace in silver mentioned that it was smaller than expected but still called it “dainty” and said, “It looks like the real thing.” “I can wear it with so many outfits,” they added, noting that “it can be layered easily” with other jewelry.

Related: Nordstrom Rack's 'Fantastic' $100 3-Piece Gold Necklace Set Is Great for Layering and on Sale for $27

This necklace is the perfect middle ground between an everyday chain and a statement design. The teardrop stones add plenty of sparkle for dinner plans or dressier tops, while the shorter length and dainty size keep it wearable during the day, making it a much better fit for repeat wear than an oversized or heavily embellished piece.

Shop More Deals

• Corded Crystal Carabiner Necklace, $30 (was $48) at Anthropologie
• Soloist Crystal Mixed Chain Necklace, $30 (was $54) at Anthropologie
• Icon Post Earrings: Floral Edition, $20 (was $28) at Anthropologie

If you’ve been looking for new accessories to add to your summer jewelry rotation, this gold-plated Anthropologie find is a pretty pick that’s sparkly yet easy to wear. Be sure to add the Crystal Tennis Necklace to your cart while it’s still in stock and marked down to just $30.

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.

In 1997, the world was humming along to Hanson’s “MMMBop,” watching Ross and Rachel’s will-they-won’t-they saga unfold, and dodging Blockbuster Video commercials as if they were overdue rental fees. Then Bob Carlisle took over radio and music television like Michael Jordan in a Bulls playoff game.

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Released in April 1997, “Butterfly Kisses” wasted no time becoming a smash. A genre-defying ballad, it centers on sentimentality and a father’s love, tracing the rapid passage of time and emotional journey of raising a daughter from early childhood to saying "I do," all while blending soft rock, pop, and Christian music.

Say what you will about the saccharine nature of the bittersweet ballad, but people simply could not get enough “Butterfly Kisses.” Whether it’s the autobiographical nature of the song, co-written by Carlisle as a gift for his daughter on her sweet 16 birthday, or the fusion of a sweeping, piano-driven melody, an emotional crescendo, and soaring vocals, it resonated deeply with millions of music fans.

According to Billboard, “Butterfly Kisses” wasted no time ascending to the top of the mountain, hitting No. 1 on the adult contemporary chart just 3 weeks after its release and becoming one of the fastest non-holiday songs to achieve the feat. The track also catapulted its parent album to No. 1 on the Billboard 200, a monumental accomplishment as the world's first Christian album to top the chart.

“It’s thought that American Christian and Gospel music generates over $1.4 billion annually, with an extra billion or so around the rest of the world,” Far Out shared. The numbers are massive, yet Contemporary Christian Music struggles to find mainstream audiences. Despite rock legend Bob Dylan and country icon Johnny Cash wading into holy waters, CCM had largely remained a novelty.

That is, until "Butterfly Kisses" spread its wings.

Over on the Radio Songs/Hot 100 Airplay and Hot Country Songs charts, the song reached Nos. 13 and 45, respectively. Billboard doesn’t mention any chart action on the national Hot 100 because the track was released as a limited-edition single, not meeting the physical requirements for inclusion in the survey.

Not that it mattered: The song’s crossover success into mainstream pop and country radio led to a re-release of the album, which then went double platinum.

View this post on Instagram

Further, Carlisle won a Grammy for Best Country Song and three Gospel Music AssociationDove Awards, including Song of the Year. It’s a wild turn of crossover events for a contemporary Christian artist whose first two albums—Bob Carlisle (1993) and The Hope of a Man (1994)—established his tender, soul-influenced CCM sound but achieved only modest commercial success.

Today, the soft-rock anthem has become a beloved father-daughter dance song at weddings--Lainey Wilson even two-stepped to the classic with her father at her own wedding a few weeks ago--as well as an ode to fatherhood and a cultural touchstone that, sure, is overused and kitschy, but no doubt remains a clear statement of unconditional love.

Related: 1963 No. 1 Duet, Which Gave a ’70s Rock Band Its Name, Became an Era-Defining Classic

Shania Twain announced some exciting news.

The legendary 1990s country singer revealed that a new song from her upcoming studio album, "Faded Blue Jeans," will be out on streaming platforms this Friday. This will serve as the third single before the release of Little Miss Twain, out on July 24, and is a collaboration with Josh Homme.

"Faded blue jeans / Big holes in the knees / Had ‘em ever since I was 17," Twain teased on her official X account on Wednesday.

Previously, the "Any Man of Mine" singer shared a snippet of the track on Instagram on Tuesday, saying it’s “one more for the road,” before Little Miss Twain is released. The new album is set to have 15 tracks. So far, Twain has put out the songs “Dirty Rosie” and the title track with Tanya Tucker.

Faded blue jeans
Big holes in the knees
Had ‘em ever since I was 17

Faded Blue Jeans - out this Friday: https://t.co/ObfaCzh9Jj pic.twitter.com/2P4L6N9uWx

— Shania Twain 💎💎💎 (@ShaniaTwain) July 8, 2026

Born Eilleen Regina Twain, but best known as Shania Twain, the musician was born and raised in Canada. Twain started her professional music career in the early 1990s, signing with Mercury Nashville Records. Since releasing her first song, "What Made You Say That," in 1993, Twain has sold over 100 million records, making her one of the best-selling music artists of all time and the best-selling female artist in country music history.

Throughout her career, Twain has received five Grammy Awards, two World Music Awards, 39 BMI Songwriter Awards, inductions to Canada's Walk of Fame and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, as well as the Canadian Music Hall of Fame and Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame.

Little Miss Twain is her follow-up to her 2023 album, Queen of Me. During an interview with SiriusXM's The Pulse, Twain revealed that many of the themes of the tracks are inspired by her youth and childhood. When talking about "Faded Blue Jeans," she says that the song is inspired by young love.

"Thinking back to when I was probably about 12 and in puppy love, and how I was determined to resist letting go of my love if the parents didn't approve. It was quite dramatic, you know, falling in love when you're 12. So, the song's all about that," she shared.

Shania Twain performs at Thomond Park Stadium on July 07, 2026 in Limerick, Ireland.

Debbie Hickey/Getty Images

"A lot of Little Miss Twain is reflective of my teens, my roots as well as the energy of the rock and R&B I loved so much, but still with that Western twang," Twain wrote in a press release. "Where I’m from, you don’t go anywhere on a horse — you go on a snowmobile. I was dreaming about the Western lifestyle and I was living in a very different world than where I ended up."

"Faded Blue Jeans," featuring Josh Homme, will be out on streaming platforms this Friday. Meanwhile, Little Miss Twain will be released on July 24.

Related: Country Star With Major No. 1 Hit Releases New Song Amid 2026 Tour

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In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the cottagecore aesthetic can be a reminder to slow down. This aesthetic is all about nature-inspired pieces that feel dreamy, whimsical, and cozy. If you’re looking to incorporate some of that charm into your home, this Peuhop Solar Light Frog Statue at Walmart is a fantastic addition that’ll add a storybook feel to your backyard.

There’s no better time than right now to snag this solar light statue because it’s currently on sale for 50% off with a limited-time flash deal. Normally retailing for $20, it’s now marked down to just $10. Functional and decorative, this solar light statue might just be the missing piece that’ll bring your home’s outdoor space together. 

Peuhop Solar Light Frog Statue, $10 (was $20) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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Radiating with cottagecore charm, this solar light statue will transform your outdoor space into a magical storybook scene. This statue captures a slow-paced lifestyle, showcasing a frog sitting in a rocking chair with its legs crossed and a mug in its hand. Reviewers had fantastic things to say about this statue, describing it as "whimsical,” “adorable,” and “darling.” A shopper even commented that this statue evokes a sense of calmness in them, and another reviewer said that it makes them smile. 

Made of resin, this statue is weather-resistant. It’s designed to withstand intense sunlight, rain, and snow without cracking or fading. The rocking chair is etched with woodgrain lines, giving it texture and making it feel lifelike. Featuring a streaky finish, this statue looks as though it were hand-painted, which adds some artisanal charm. 

Measuring around 4 inches wide and tall, this dainty statue will fit beautifully in any area of your outdoor space, whether it’s your garden, porch, or patio. During the day it’ll add some cottagecore energy to your backyard. Fixed with an LED light bulb inside the mug, it’ll double as a soft light at night. However, if you want to use it solely as decor, you can keep it inside your house instead. 

Sustainable and environmentally friendly, this light relies purely on solar power rather than batteries or electricity. The back of the statue is equipped with a solar panel that should be placed in direct sunlight. It needs around five to eight hours of sunlight to charge. When it gets dark out, the light will automatically turn on and glow for six to 10 hours. Shoppers noted that the light isn’t too bright, but it does a great job illuminating the statue. 

Shop More Deals 

• Molumo Solar Light Gnome Statue, $36 (was $59) at Walmart
• Volivo Moon Fairy Solar Light Stake, $17 (was $25) at Walmart
• Mpow Solar Light Turtle Statue, $16 (was $20) at Walmart

Related: Walmart's $26 Solar Light 6-Pack Adds 'Just the Right Brightness' to Gardens and Yards

If you can’t get enough of the cottagecore aesthetic or simply want to add some cozy lighting to your backyard, don’t hesitate to snag the Peuhop Solar Light Frog Statue at Walmart while it’s still on sale for just $10. Be sure to hurry because it’ll only be available at this buzzworthy price for a limited time! 

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We all seem to know that person who seemingly can't help but raise their voice far too often. It seems like the smallest thing going wrong is enough to set them off and start yelling. And as someone who's always really hated being yelled at, I tend to assume that when someone raises their voice in my direction, it's because they're angry with me.

However, according to psychologists, when someone yells at you, it's often not about you—it's about them. In fact, there are a number of reasons why certain people are prone to raising their voices when talking to others.

Not only that, but there are also a number of personality traits that people who raise their voices tend to have, many of which highlight how misunderstood they might be.

And although there is no excuse for repeatedly yelling at others, it's certainly interesting to look at these patterns (especially if you know someone who needs to work on their temper).

To learn more about all this, Parade spoke with Dr. Sarah Porter, Ph.D., a consulting psychologist based in Texas, and Dr. Dave Cundiff, MD, a psychologist and the Medical Director at Crestview Recovery Center in Oregon.

Related: People Who Felt Constantly Criticized as Children Usually Develop These 13 Traits as Adults, Psychologists Say

Why Do Some People Raise Their Voices All the Time?

According to Dr. Porter, when someone raises their voice, it's usually not for the reasons you think.

"People often assume that someone who raises their voice is angry or intentionally trying to intimidate others," she tells Parade. "In reality, loudness is often a learned communication habit or a sign that a person's nervous system is overwhelmed."

And though there are various personality traits that people who raise their voice may have (and I'll get to those in a moment), Dr. Porter explains that "voice volume is less about personality traits and more about family or workplace dynamics, stress levels and emotional intelligence skills."

As Dr. Cundiff puts it, "Being loud is not always about being mad." As a matter of fact, there are a few factors that can contribute to someone raising their voice often, such as:

Growing up in a loud household

A loud household is often seen as a bad thing, and can be cause for concern regarding verbal abuse. However, a loud household can also mean that everyone simply speaks expressively and at a high volume. Either way, someone who grew up in a household like this might not notice an issue with raising their voice.

"In some families and workplaces, speaking loudly is the norm rather than a signal that something is amiss. Elevated volume may be the most reliable way to convey enthusiasm, grab someone's attention, or ensure one's point is heard," Dr. Porter explains. "Individuals used to these settings may be genuinely surprised to learn that their partners, coworkers or friends accustomed to quieter environments perceive their communication style as intense or confrontational."

Dr. Cundiff echoes Dr. Porter's sentiment.

"People who have grown up in homes where everyone speaks loudly all the time may think that speaking loudly is what most people do," he tells Parade. "Most likely, someone who grew up like this will never really know how loudly they speak or even notice it until they are spoken to about it."

Related: 9 Signs Someone Is Emotionally Overstimulated, Not Actually Angry, According to a Psychologist

Stress

"Ongoing stress keeps your body on high alert; that's when you see big emotional reactions," explains Dr. Cundiff. "Your increased volume may just be because you have been stressed for so long, and it has become a reaction before you even realize what you're doing."

Dr. Porter adds that when someone is stressed and speaks at a high volume, it can indicate that their "nervous system is stretched beyond its limits."

"When people are overwhelmed, frustrated or under sustained pressure, their voice volume may unintentionally increase because they have fewer cognitive and emotional resources available for self-monitoring," she says. "Prolonged stress can reduce our capacity for emotional regulation and make it harder to communicate calmly during difficult conversations."

Feeling unheard

Feeling unheard can also cause someone to raise their voice.

"Many times, people will yell or scream at others because they do not think anyone is paying attention to what they have to say," Dr. Cundiff says. "Often, people will yell simply so that someone will hear them. People tend to speak more calmly and with less anger when they feel listened to and respected."

Photo by Twenty47studio on Getty Images

4 'Misunderstood' Traits of People Who Raise Their Voice, According to a Psychologist

If someone frequently raises their voice, they likely have these common traits—which can be easily misunderstood, an expert says.

1. Emotional immaturity

Someone who raises their voice a lot may be emotionally immature, explains Dr. Porter.

"Emotional intelligence begins with recognizing our emotions in the moment and understanding how those feelings then influence our behavior and impact on others," she says. "Without this self-awareness, we often don't register our growing urgency or irritation until it spills over into our communication."

2. High passion and energy

According to Dr. Cundiff, individuals who raise their voice a lot are often incredibly passionate, high-energy people.

"Although some people may speak loudly as a reflection of anger, there can be many other reasons why a person speaks loudly, such as excitement, passion or being fully engaged in a conversation," he explains. "When you look beyond just the volume to consider the overall context in which a person is speaking, it will provide a better picture of that person's personality than simply focusing on how loud they are."

3. Impulsivity

There is a strong correlation between impulsivity and raising one's voice, per Dr. Cundiff.

"More impulsive people tend to act on impulses of emotion as opposed to taking some time to think about what they want to say," he explains. "Therefore, when someone is frustrated, excited, or perceives that conflict arises, there is a greater tendency for them to raise their voices to communicate and express their feelings."

4. Defensiveness

People who are defensive have an urge to stand up for themselves without thinking—and according to Dr. Cundiff, there is a correlation between defensive people and people who raise their voices.

"Very defensive individuals may view neutral comments as negative criticism or an attack on their self-concept," he says. "At that time, to protect themselves or express their views, louder speech is often used, whether it is done intentionally or unintentionally as intimidation."

Related: 11 Subtle Signs You’re Stuck in a ‘Functional Freeze,’ Psychologists Reveal

What To Do if Someone You Know Always Yells

When someone raises their voice with you, it can be tempting to yell back (or, if you're me, to burst into tears). However, when someone raises their voices with you a lot, "the key is to become curious about both intent and impact rather than jumping to conclusions," notes Dr. Porter.

If you suspect the person raising their voice at you "has repeatedly felt dismissed or overlooked," their yelling could "be an attempt to ensure their concerns receive attention," she says. It's important to reassure the person that you hear their perspective.

If you think the person is yelling in a response to high stress, talk to them about finding productive ways to reduce stress.

"Lowering your level of stress may help improve how you relate to other people," says Dr. Cundiff. "By developing effective strategies for dealing with stress and taking a moment to consider one's response before reacting, individuals can promote a calmer and more productive conversation."

And if emotional immaturity is at play, there are many ways people can work on that.

"Fortunately, we can purposefully deepen our emotional intelligence through practices like mindfulness, self-assessment questions and soliciting feedback from trusted others, helping ensure that our communication style better aligns with our intentions," says Dr. Porter.

Final Takeaways:

People who raise their voices a lot are not always simply angry—there is often more going on beneath the surface.

• There are many reasons why someone might raise their voice, including stress, desperation to feel heard and having grown up in a loud household.
• Personality traits that people who their voices often have include emotional immaturity, high passion, impulsivity and defensiveness.
• There are ways to work on one's volume and temper. Some people who raise their voice a lot may benefit from working with a therapist.

If you or someone you love are experiencing domestic violence, know you’re not alone and it isn’t your fault—and that there’s a safe way out. Please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, or go to thehotline.org for confidential help without judgment, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Up Next:

Related: People Who Trust Themselves Do These 7 Things Differently, Psychologist Says

Sources:

• Dr. Sarah Porter, Ph.D., consulting psychologist
• Dr. Dave Cundiff, MD, psychologist and Medical Director at Crestview Recovery Center

Shields shared some unfortunate news with their fans.

The English metal band took to Instagram on Wednesday to announce that they are officially breaking up. Shields originally disbanded in 2018 after the sudden death of their guitarist, George Christie, before reuniting again in 2023. After releasing a new album and touring as a band for three years, Shields shared that they will be playing their final show on Aug 14 at Sanctum Festival in England.

"Shields is a band that came to an abrupt end in 2018, for reasons many of you know. In 2023, we decided to pick it up again and see how it felt. We played shows, got excited, wrote and released an album that we are immensely proud of," Shields wrote in a statement. "Since becoming more active again, our priorities have become clearer, and we feel we have fully expressed ourselves. We feel that we can leave Shields where it is now, on our own terms. We all have our own feelings about this band ending, but what is clear is that we all want the best for each other and will always remain close friends."

They also gave a shoutout to Alastair Wain and Krishan Pujara, who joined the band in 2023.

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Shields is a London-based metal group that was formed in 2012. The group wrote and self-released their first EP in 2013, then began touring the UK relentlessly, gathering their strong following. In April 2015, Shields dropped their second EP, Guilt, which for the next two years would take them on tours running laps around Europe and the UK. In 2018, the sudden death of their founding member and guitarist, George Christie, caused them to disband.

Though many expected Shields to end for good in 2018, the group released Death & Connection in 2026, their most recent studio album.

"When I look back on the time spent creating Death & Connection, it was both beautiful and strange, complex and painful,” vocalist Joe Edwards shared with New Noise Magazine. “The want to address specific themes wasn’t something we considered, as the need to vent our personal troubles had grown to an impossible weight. We were only able to begin processing our pain through creativity."

"Upon the early days of creating this album, we were aware it was going to involve us revisiting the individual traumas that we’d been harboring, but we didn’t really anticipate the depths in which it had anchored itself to our lives. Processing pain in real time meant we had to display total vulnerability with each other," Edwards continued. "Thankfully, we have been friends for 21 years and have the stability in our friendship to comfortably and safely let this happen."

View the original article to see embedded media.

Despite the sudden announcement, fans expressed their love and support for Shields, wishing them the best of luck for their next adventures.

One user wrote, "Lots of love guys - thanks for all the music you’ve ever put out 🫰🏻."

"Sorry to hear this guys, but calling time on your own terms is noble and something not everyone has the stones to do, so big respect 🖤," Max, a musician, commented. "honoured to have shared a stage with you since your return! Looking forward to what each of you does next."

"Godspeed, gentlemen. From the release of "I Just Feel Hate" to Death & Connection and finally getting to meet and chat at Modern Era, your music and legacy has really meant a lot to me as a growing musician and a festival owner," Joe Hammond, the owner of Sanctum Fest, commented. "I’m really honoured to be hosting you for your final show."

"The show earlier this month was great, good people and incredible artists. Look forward to what you all do next, respect!" a fan wrote out.

"Thanks for all the music 🖤," one simply said.

"No way 😢 you’ll be so missed," another fan commented. "Absolute treasures in the industry ❤️."

View this post on Instagram

"Keep an eye out for whatever we might be doing next on our own paths, and thank you to everyone who has supported us, come to see us live, bought merch, and listened to our music," Shields concluded in their statement. "No band can exist without those who give it their time and energy."

The Sanctum Festival: Modern Metal Festival will take place from Aug 14-16 at the Dead Wax Digbeth in Birmingham. On top of Shields headlining Day 1 of the music festival, other acts include Swarm6ix, Alchemize, Cover Mouth, Vanita and more. Tickets can be purchased on the festival's official website.

Related: Beloved Pop-Rock Duo Causes A Stir After Disbanding

With Netflix preparing to introduce a new generation toLittle House on the Prairie (season 1 of the "reimagining" drops on Netflix July 9 at 3 a.m. ET), excitement around the beloved franchise continues to reach a fever pitch. The upcoming Netflix adaptation, inspired by Laura Ingalls Wilder's classic books, has sparked even more interest in the television series that first became a cultural phenomenon in the 1970s.

For Alison Arngrim, who made television history as the unforgettable Nellie Olsen, the enthusiasm is something she never imagined when she was cast at just 12 years old. More than five decades later, Little House on the Prairie continues to find new audiences around the globe, including podcasts, live shows, and fan events. Arngrim herself runs a podcast, The Alison Arngrim Show, and was featured on the 50th Anniversary show podcast with other cast members in May 2025. Her book Confessions of a Prairie Bitch: How I Survived Nellie Oleson and Learned to Love Being Hated, came out in June 2010.

"I never, in a billion, trillion years thought that 52 years later there would be this much fuss about the prairie," Arngrim tells Parade exclusively of the show that is in 140 countries. "I certainly didn't think I'd be doing a podcast about it, have a New York Times bestselling book, and multiple events. The emotional reaction from people all over the world, saying this show is part of their childhood and part of their family, is really unbelievable. Our show still means something to people this many years later."

I got in touch with the actor, comedian, podcaster, and author on Monday, July 6. In this exclusive interview, Arngrim discusses the Netflix reboot, the enduring success of Little House, her hit podcast, touring the world with her one-woman show, and why she believes the series continues to resonate with audiences more than 50 years later.

Related: 'Little House on the Prairie' Cast: Where Are They Now?

Q: What do you think about Netflix's upcoming Little House on the Prairie series?

Alison Arngrim: I'm excited to see it. Rebecca [Sonnenshine], the showrunner, talks about being raised on Laura Ingalls Wilder and the books. I joke about it in my stand-up act. I say, 'It's not a bunch of guys in a smoke-filled room with pinky rings and cigars going, 'Let's make Little House on the Prairie.' It is people who are very into it, so they're not going trash it. It is going to be be good.

The trailer's amazing. It's just breathing new life into everything else we do. People will turn around and watch our [original] show on Amazon again just to contrast and compare. It's just pouring gasoline on the big prairie fire. A rising tide lifts all boats. I love that they're going back to the books and will be in Kansas for a while. They're squeezing in a lot of historical things, and Dr. Tan, who is in the books, gets a whole character arc. And all the Native American characters are being played by First Nations actors. I love that."

Q: How did playing Nellie Olsen change your life?

Arngrim: It sounds completely cliché to say Nellie Olsen saved my life, but she absolutely did. Growing up, I was bullied. I was abused as a child. I went through every terrible thing. And I get on the show, and I'm the villain. I'm able to vent all my hostilities, and spew all my rage, and get everything out of my system.

And I'm surrounded by these people who are really kind to me and very nice. I'm in a safe space with good people, doing good work with adults who are completely kind and pleasant. I'm able to get out all of my negative emotions all day long and be rewarded for it.
If doctors had written up a prescription, they couldn't have done any better. I absolutely think it's one of the reasons I still have any of my marbles left.

[Editor's note: In a 2004 interview with Larry King, she revealed that she was sexually abused by a family member starting at the age of 6].

Related: Watch the Official Trailer for Netflix’s ‘Little House on the Prairie’ Reboot Right Now

Q: Do you have a favorite Little House on the Prairie episode?

Arngrim: My favorite episode is 'Bunny,' where Nellie pretends to be paralyzed. Doc Baker is trying to explain why she can't walk. Her parents are devastated. Mr. Ingalls has to stop what he's doing and build her a wheelchair. Miss Beadle has to send her schoolwork home. The entire town gets dragged into this 13-year-old girl's psycho, wackadoo drama, all because she was jealous of a boy Laura liked. Then Laura finds out she's faking and shoves her down the hill in the wheelchair into the pond. It's one of the greatest revenge-on-a-bully sequences in television history. It's epic because of how far Nellie goes. There's a whole scene with Doc Baker poking her foot with a needle. That's the best episode of the whole series.

Q: Let's talk about Michael Landon, who played Charles "Pa" Ingalls,and died in 1991 from pancreatic cancer. Did Michael Landon realize the show would have this kind of legacy?

Arngrim: Michael told several people, 'One day people will still be watching the show after we're all gone.' He said that long before he was diagnosed with cancer. He said, 'Long after I'm dead, people will still be watching Little House on the Prairie.' Nobody believed him. But Michael knew something. It was hitting some nerve with people. He got it.

Q: Looking back, would you play Nellie any differently?

Arngrim: I would have leaned in more. I would have doubled down on the whole thing. I always say, if you're an actor and you're thinking about doing something, and you're not sure, 'Should I?' the answer is yes. In fact, do even more than that. I would have doubled down and leaned in even more on the whole insanity."

Q: What do you remember about your audition for Nellie?

Arngrim: I was 12, and I hadn't read the books. I didn't know anything about Nellie Oleson. I got these sides, turned to my father, and said, 'This is not a normal part. This girl is a total bitch. My father was dying with laughter. He said, 'Don't change anything. Don't rehearse it again. Just do exactly what you just did.' I went in, and Michael Landon and the producers started laughing hysterically. They asked me to read it again. I asked, 'What would you like me to change?' They said, 'Nothing.' By the time I got back to the house, my agent called and said I'd been hired. Michael made decisions like that. He just knew."

Q: Why do you think Little House on the Prairie still connects with audiences around the world?

Arngrim: Everybody has a Mrs. Oleson at their job, and everybody has a Nellie at school. That's what people identify with. But because it's set in the 1800s, it doesn't date. I keep meeting people from Peru, Iraq, Iran, Israel, Colombia, Sri Lanka, Borneo, France, Argentina, Japan, Belgium, Switzerland—the whole world. They all tell me, 'The show is so emotional, and they identify with it because the Ingalls' problems are everyone's problems.'

Q: You, Little House actor Dean Butler, who played Almanzo Wilder, and series expert Pamela Bob started The Little House on the Prairie 50th Anniversary Podcast in 2024. What can you share about the Little House on the Prairie podcast now that it's in its third season?

Arngrim: It was going a few episodes to commemorate the 50th anniversary, and it turned into this epic podcast. We have had people we didn't think would come on. Melissa Sue Anderson [who played Mary Ingalls] came on. She was incredible. We've had Melissa Gilbert [who played Laura Ingalls], guest stars, people who worked on the show, historians, and fans. We break down the episodes. We have people who were on them talk about them. It's really the biggest deep dive into Little House.

Now we're into our third season. We have a Patreon, a whole fan group, and more than a million downloads. It has blown up to proportions we never in our wildest dreams imagined. People tell me they watch the episodes over and over again.

Q: You also host The Alison Arngrim Show, which started in 2018, with episodes dropping weekly on YouTube, Apple, Spotify, iHeart, and everywhere you listen to podcasts. Tell me about that podcast.

Arngrim: We've been doing The Alison Arngrim Show for a few years. We talk about the TV shows and the movies that made us feel good, and the people who made them, and people who are doing things now to make the world a better and more interesting place.

I have actors, authors, and all kinds of interesting people on. Sometimes I'll have a scientist, like Dr. Otto Yang from UCLA. But generally it's actors and authors talking about their lives and what they're doing now. I basically give them free rein to express themselves, and it's a very positive.

Q: Your memoir, Confessions of a Prairie Bitch, became a bestseller, and you're still performing your one-woman show around the world. What has that journey been like?

Arngrim: I got asked to come perform in New York, and they told me I needed to do 90 minutes. I thought, 'Ninety minutes? Who has 90 minutes?' I actually put together the one-woman show that became Confessions of a Prairie Bitch. All true stories, plus a question-and-answer segment. I have been doing it for years all over the country. Then I was doing it in France because La Petite Maison dans la Prairie is super popular there.

Next, From Netflix’s ‘Little House’ Reboot to ‘Big Brother’: What to Watch This Week

Willie Nelson is the last of a dying breed.

The legendary country singer is one of the most revolutionary musicians in history, having jumpstarted a type of country that is still talked about and revered to this day: Outlaw Country. The style was all about a rough, gritty, stripped back style that was unpolished in sound and substance, tackling real human issues and emotions. Perhaps the most famous group of outlaw country musicians ever was The Highwaymen.

The legendary supergroup was made up of Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, Kris Kristofferson, and Johnny Cash. It was an iconic group that is sadly no longer with us save for Willie. This feeling of loss is the subject of Nelson's song "Last Leaf," which he recently performed live, breaking the audience's hearts.

@outlaw5857

#willienelson #lastleafonthetree #outlaw #houston #texas

♬ original sound - Outlaw

"Last Leaf" is a song about the deaths of his fellow bandmates, and how Nelson has lived so long past the lives of his friends. It's a tragic song about the pains of aging and the feelings associated with having everyone go away. Nelson's age adds to the performance, giving everything a melancholic air that touched fans hearts.

Taking to the comments, fans shared their heartfelt emotions surrounding the performance and how beautiful the song is.

"How sad that the words of this song reflect his life. R.I.P. to Johnny, Waylon and Kris! You truly are the last leaf on the tree of country music and you’ve been the greatest of all time! Rock on Willie! 🥰❤️"

"There will never be another. So thankful for your talent.❤️❤️❤️❤️"

"The last leaf on the tree. 😢 That entire group of singers will and have always been missed.. so glad Willie is still here with us. ♥️"

The Highwaymen made an incredible impact on music, and their memory will live on forever through their solo and combined efforts.

Related: Bob Dylan, 85, Shocks Fans with Out of Character Behavior at Concert - 'This Is Such a Rare Capture on Video'

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It's July and pumpkin spice lovers can already get their hands on delicious treats at the bakery in Sam's Club.

The leaves won't change colors for a couple of months. But the Member's Mark Pumpkin Cream Cheese Blondies are here to enjoy, and hopefully stay for autumn.

Member's Mark Pumpkin Cream Cheese Blondies Are Now Available at Sam’s Club View this post on Instagram

This won't help the debate on when pumpkin season should start. Pumpkin spice is already showing up in stores days after July 4.

An Instagram account "Samsclubfoodreview" spotted a tray of nine blondies for $8.62. The cake has the necessary seasonal spices: nutmeg, cinnamon, and pumpkin. Each cake has a cream cheese swirl in the middle that is picture perfect.

Related: Sam’s Club’s New Bakery Treat Is Perfect for Summer Movie Nights

Sam's Club has a box of 72 frozen blondies available on the website for $55.22. This will be the first of many pumpkin-flavored items at the warehouse club.

Member's Mark previously had autumn desserts perfect for hosting Thanksgiving and more. Pumpkin spice cake balls, honeycrisp apple lattice pie, fall cutout cookies, pumpkin cream cheese cake roll, and pecan pie were available last year, according to Mashed.

Walmart And Sam's Club Summer Items Are on Sale View this post on Instagram

There is another good thing about early pumpkin spice items. Walmart and Sam's Club are lowering prices on summer essentials.

"This summer, we’re making even more investments in price, with thousands of Rollbacks across the products customers are shopping for most, including beef, fresh produce and beverages, grills, pools, toys and summer fashion apparel,"  Julie Barber, Executive Vice President and Chief Merchant, Walmart US said in a July 6 press release.

The Rollbacks include:

• Fresh Sweet Corn on the Cob ($0.25 each, was $0.68)
• Great Value Ice Cream 48 fl. oz ($2.50, was $2.97)
• Lay's Classic Potato Chips 8 oz bag ($2.50, was $2.97)
• 1 lb. 73% Ground Beef Roll, Fresh ($5.94, was $6.74)
• Frito-Lay Family Fun Variety Pack, 18-count ($8.97, was $9.97)
• Great Value Disposable Paper Plates, 200-count ($8.97, was $9.97)
• Fresh Red Cherries 2.25 lb. bag ($5.63, was $11.18)
• Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, Dr. Pepper and Diet Mountain Dew 24-packs ($9.97, was $13.97)
• Coca-Cola, Diet Coke and Coca-Cola Zero Sugar 24-packs ($9.97, was $14.97)

Sam's Club lowered prices on snacks and food perfect for grilling:

• Member's Mark Bone-In Chicken Wings ($2.00/lb., was $2.88/lb.)
• Member's Mark Whole Bone-In Pork Back Ribs ($3.18/lb., was $3.48/lb.)
• Member's Mark 88/12 Ground Beef ($5.97/lb., was $6.17/lb.)
• Member's Mark Beef Hot Dogs ($10.86, was $12.96)

Sam's Club Members can enjoy lower prices on more than 250 items. Hopefully, there will be more pumpkin-flavored items making an early appearance this year.

Related: Sam’s Club Just Stocked a Reese’s Sundae Shoppers Are Calling ‘Perfection’

Sometimes a single performance can transform a song into a timeless classic.

That was the case with "One Less Bell to Answer." Released by The 5th Dimension in 1970, the heartfelt ballad became one of the vocal group's biggest hits, topping the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart and reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. More than five decades later, it remains one of the defining soft rock ballads of its era.

The song had an unusual journey to success.

Written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David, "One Less Bell to Answer" was originally recorded by singer Keely Smith in 1967. Although that version received modest attention, it wasn't until The 5th Dimension recorded the song three years later that it became a major commercial success.

"Whenever we’d get ready to record, we would have what we called 'listening sessions," singer Marilyn McCoo said in an interview. "Before the sessions, our producer, Bones Howe, would go through a ton of music— he had such an incredible ear, and he could hear songs that really had potential — and he would wade through those songs and bring us what he thought were the best ones for us to listen to."

One of those songs just so happed to be "One Less Bell to Answer," which derived much of its emotional power from McCoo's unforgettable lead vocal.

Backed by Bacharach's elegant melody, lush orchestration and sophisticated harmonies, McCoo delivered a poignant performance about coping with the loneliness that follows the end of a relationship. The gradual emotional build, sweeping strings and soaring vocal climax also give the recording many of the hallmarks of a classic power ballad, even as it remained firmly rooted in soft rock and adult contemporary music.

Listeners immediately embraced the song.

"One Less Bell to Answer" became one of The 5th Dimension's signature recordings and further cemented the group's reputation for bringing Bacharach and David's sophisticated songwriting to mainstream audiences.

"When we formed the group it was originally called The Versatiles," McCoo told Classic Bands. "At the time we signed with Johnny Rivers, and went into the studio to record, he suggested we come up with something a little 'newer' sounding. He said The Versatiles had sort of an old ring to it. So, we all went home and the next day came back with a list of names. Ronald came in with the name The Fifth Dimension. We knew right away that was it. We all voted for The Fifth Dimension. It said everything we wanted to say."

Over the years, the ballad has remained a staple of soft rock and adult contemporary radio. Its timeless arrangement and universally relatable lyrics have also inspired numerous cover versions by artists spanning pop, R&B and jazz, further demonstrating the enduring strength of the song’s composition.

Although The 5th Dimension would continue to enjoy success throughout the 1970s, "One Less Bell to Answer" remains one of the group’s most beloved performances. Marilyn McCoo's expressive vocal turned the song into far more than a chart hit; it became an emotional touchstone for generations of listeners.

More than 50 years after climbing the charts, "One Less Bell to Answer" continues to resonate with audiences around the world. Its elegant melody, heartfelt lyrics and unforgettable vocal performance have helped it endure as one of soft rock’s greatest ballads.

Related: 1971 Classic Ballad, Named No. 1 Hit Song, Became a Timeless Motivational Anthem

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A pair of cute hoop earrings is an essential piece to have in any jewelry collection, especially ones that you can easily dress up or down for any occasion. The Crystal Squiggle Hoop Earrings at Anthropologie have a unique, stylish design that perfectly fits the bill, and they're on sale for over 60% off right now.  

For a limited time, you can snag the top-rated earrings for just $18, down from its original $48 price tag. They come in a versatile gunmetal color and feature a quirky squiggle shape with small crystal accents, adding just a hint of shine to help complete any outfit. 

Crystal Squiggle Hoop Earrings, $18 (was $48) at Anthropologie

Courtesy of Anthropologie

Shop at Anthropologie

Measuring 1.5 inches in diameter, the hoops are just the right size to stand out while still remaining subtle and elegant enough for everyday use. The post-style hoops fasten securely in the back, so you can wear them comfortably all day long.

The sleek design is easy to style with other jewelry. You can pair the hoops with a delicate chain necklace and stacked bangles, or keep your look simple by adding just a dainty cuff and a ring. You can also add this pair to a chic ear stack, layering them alongside minimalist studs and modern huggies.  

Related: Anthropologie's 'Cute' $34 Stoneware Bowl Set Is a 'Beautiful' Way to Serve Summer Salads

These earrings have earned plenty of high praise from Anthropologie shoppers, who called them "very pretty." One reviewer dubbed them "go-to hoops," adding that they're "fun for travel because they go with everything." Another said that they're "super comfortable," writing, "They really upgrade even the most casual fit."

Shop More Deals

• Floral Drop Earrings, $25 (was $44) at Anthropologie
• Paperclip Tennis Bracelet, $25 (was $42) at Anthropologie
• Crystal Charm Cord Necklace, $18 (was $54) at Anthropologie

If you've been searching for a cute and trendy pair of earrings that will go with practically anything in your closet, these crystal squiggle hoops tick all the right boxes. Grab a pair while they're still on sale for just $18 at Anthropologie. 

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.

Long before social media made elaborate cake decorating trendy again, bakers were creating desserts that became staples at birthdays, church suppers, holiday gatherings and afternoon tea tables. Many of those recipes have survived for generations, passed down through family cookbooks and shared at celebrations long before online cake ordering was even a thing.

Ask a group of accomplished pastry chefs to name the vintage cake they'll never stop baking, and you won't get seven versions of the same recipe. Instead, you'll hear stories—about grandmothers and holidays, childhood treats, restaurant signatures and recipes that have been lovingly passed from one generation to the next.

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The staying power of these cakes isn't just nostalgia. The best recipes and flavors earned their place because they were dependable and delicious. While these cakes span decades—or even centuries—of baking history, they all have something in common: they continue to bring people together. From Depression-era chocolate cakes and colorful 1970s creations to elegant European classics, here are the seven vintage cake recipes award-winning bakers still reach for today, along with the personal touches that keep them feeling just as special as ever.

Whether you're looking to revisit a family favorite or discover a historic dessert for the first time, these seven vintage cake recipes prove that great baking never goes out of style.

Related: I Tried the Viral Dot Cake at Home—and It’s My New Go-to Summer Dessert

What Is a Vintage Cake Style Called?

Victorian Era Lambeth-Style Icing

When people talk about vintage cakes today, they're often referring to elaborately decorated Lambeth-style layer cakes that became popular in the early 20th century and featured intricate buttercream piping, shell borders, rosettes and other ornate details. On the other hand, other people may think of vintage cakes as the semi-homemade cakes that filled community cookbooks and church suppers during the 1950s through the 1980s when boxed cake mixes became a popular shortcut for home bakers.

In reality, the term "vintage cake" can refer to both a decorating style and a recipe. Some vintage cakes are recognized for their nostalgic appearance, while others have earned the distinction simply by standing the test of time. Whether it's a Victorian-era sponge cake, a Southern layer cake passed down through generations or a Depression-era chocolate cake, these recipes have remained part of baking tradition for decades—and some for well over a century.

That's why you'll find such a wide variety of cakes on this list. While their flavors, ingredients and origins may differ, each has become a lasting part of baking history thanks to generations of bakers who continued making them long after the trends that surrounded them faded away.

Related: Lavender Almond Olive Oil Cake Recipe (With How-To Video)

What Does a Vintage Cake Look Like?

Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

There's no single look that defines a vintage cake because the category spans generations of baking traditions. Some are ornate layer cakes decorated with piped buttercream borders, rosettes and floral details, while others are simple loaf cakes, sheet cakes or fruit-filled desserts that rely on timeless flavors instead of elaborate decorations.

Other vintage cakes are far more understated. Whether elegantly decorated or delightfully simple, vintage cakes have endured because they evoke a sense of familiarity. They're the recipes that have appeared on holiday tables, at family reunions, birthday parties, church suppers and neighborhood potlucks for decades—earning a permanent place in home bakers' recipe collections. Whether elaborate or understated, vintage cakes prioritize timeless flavors and tried-and-true techniques over novelty ingredients and passing trends.

Related: We Asked 4 Chefs Their Favorite Berry Desserts, and We’re Taking Notes

7 Best Vintage Cake Recipes, According to Award-Winning Bakers

From dense chocolate creations to towering cake layers, these are the vintage cakes that made our list, straight from the award-winning bakers who love them.

1. Wacky Cake

Courtesy Nancy Mock

Few desserts better represent American ingenuity than wacky cake. Also known as crazy cake or Depression cake, the recipe emerged during the Great Depression when eggs, butter and milk were expensive or difficult to find. Instead, resourceful home bakers relied on pantry staples like vinegar and baking soda to create the lift and moisture typically provided by eggs. The result was an incredibly tender chocolate cake that remains popular nearly a century later.

Chef Alison Cates, a former executive pastry chef for MML Hospitality in Austin, Texas, and the 2017 recipient of the Jean Banchet Award for Rising Pastry Chef of the Year, says it's still one of her "most tried-and-true" cake recipes in her collection.

Chef Cates says that there's good reason to bring it back into mainstream use today. "It was developed when luxury ingredients were hard to come by—and with today's rising costs, it's an inexpensive recipe that uses ingredients people usually have in their cupboards already," she says.

She explains that the vinegar and baking soda reaction creates an exceptionally moist crumb, while the naturally vegan recipe is remarkably versatile. "I like to layer it with ganache made from dark chocolate and coconut milk. It's also great layered with jams and buttercream," Chef Cates says.

Nancy Mock, a food writer, recipe developer and founder of the recipe website Hungry Enough To Eat Six, agrees. "I love my grandmother’s vintage recipe for chocolate wacky cake," she says. She explains that even without traditional cake ingredients, the Depression-era dessert "has a delicious chocolate flavor and moist crumb."

Chef Mock recommends topping it with your favorite homemade frosting, fruit, ice cream or "even just a dusting of confectioners’ sugar."

2. Smith Island Cake

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If ever there were a cake with a story to match its flavor, it's Smith Island cake. The Maryland classic dates back to the 1800s and is famous for its impossible number of thin yellow cake layers separated by rich chocolate frosting.

For celebrity pastry chef Duff Goldman, Smith Island cake ranks as his top choice for favorite vintage cakes. A Baltimore native and founder of Charm City Cakes, Chef Goldman was also among those who lent their names in support of the legislation recognizing Smith Island cake as Maryland's official state dessert, underscoring both his appreciation for the cake and its place in his home state's culinary history. According to Chef Goldman, "not only does it taste rich, but it is rich with history too."

With its eye-popping stack of delicate layers, Smith Island cake isn't just visually impressive—it represents generations of Chesapeake Bay tradition. Chef Goldman says that 'back in the 1800s, women would make the cakes for the men who would embark on the fall oyster harvest as a way for them to have a sweet reminder of home." It's the kind of tradition that proves the best vintage cakes aren't simply desserts. They're edible pieces of local history, lovingly passed from one generation to the next.

3. Victoria Sponge Cake

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Named after Queen Victoria, who famously enjoyed a slice with her afternoon tea, Victoria sponge cake dates back to the 19th century and remains one of Britain's defining cakes. Traditionally layered with jam and buttercream, the simple yet elegant dessert has endured for generations thanks to its versatility and timeless flavor.

Eva Wong, the executive sous chef and pastry chef at the Armory Hotel Bozeman, is a fan of this classic dessert. "This is my go-to cake, as it not only tastes good, but it is a sturdy cake for building layers," she says.

Chef Wong stays true to the classic by adding her own subtle enhancements. "The version of Victoria sponge cake recipe that I use has both lemon and orange zest. If I want to enhance the flavor, I make a Grand Marnier cake syrup to drizzle on top."

4. Watergate Cake @iamsprung

Watergate cake ____________________ this week's Sprung On Food episode is The History Of Watergate Cake, and i had never tried it before. until now!  if you've never had it before, i highly recommend! it's ridiculously easy to make- and the classic recipe just calls for you to make it in a 9"x13" pan and plop the frosting right on top of that, and you can serve it from the pan (if making it into a layered cake is not your thing and you just want to get down to business)  and if you've never heard of Watergate cake, you can watch the episode's video on YouTube (@iamsprung channel) and Spotify, or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, or wherever you listen to podcasts

♬ Today’s Pick - Sari SM

Few cakes capture the spirit of the 1970s quite like Watergate cake. Exactly how it came by its name is still up for debate. Some believe it was created by a chef at the Watergate Hotel, while others think it was inspired by the era's infamous political scandal, with the cake's green color hidden beneath a layer of frosting as a tongue-in-cheek "cover-up." Whatever its true origin, the playful name helped turn an easy-to-make cake into one of the decade's most memorable desserts.

Award-winning New York pastry chef and food historian Katherine Sprung says the recipe perfectly represents its era. "Watergate cake was popping up around 1975 in an age when Jell-O salads and desserts were very trendy," she says.

Traditionally made using boxed cake mix and pistachio pudding, the cake remains surprisingly light and approachable.

Chef Sprung explains that the box cake and pistachio pudding mix come together to create a deliciously fluffy, moist and "perfectly pistachio-green aesthetic." Additionally, the Cool Whip-based topping keeps it from becoming overly sweet.

According to Chef Sprung, "it's really unique and very easy to make!"

Related: The 8 Best Cookbook Stands That Chefs Swear By

5. Chocolate Turtle Cake

Courtesy Chef Brian Walter

Long before it became a cake or ice cream flavor, "turtle" referred to the famous candy made with chocolate, caramel and pecans. First introduced in the early 1900s, the sweet treat got its name from its turtle-like shape, with pecans peeking out like little legs. It wasn't long before home bakers began transforming those same flavors into cakes, brownies, cookies and bars. One vintage Chocolate Turtle Cake recipe from a 1940s-era cookbook recently resurfaced on an online recipe site; a reminder that some of the best recipes never go out of style.

Brian Walter, the executive chef at Jersey City's 87 Sussex, has received numerous accolades for the Chocolate Turtle Cake that headlines his dessert menu. Chef Walter's version stays true to the cake's signature chocolate-caramel flavor while making one simple change that gives it a little more depth.

"I use walnuts in my Turtle Cake because they bring balance," Chef Walter says. "The caramel and chocolate are rich and sweet, and the walnuts add an earthy flavor, a little bitterness and a satisfying crunch that keeps the cake from feeling one-dimensional."

While pecans are the traditional choice in most turtle desserts, Chef Walter says walnuts give the cake a slightly more rustic character without straying from the flavors that made it a classic in the first place.

6. Hummingbird Cake

Photo by David Holifield on Unsplash

Hummingbird cake first gained widespread popularity in the United States after appearing in Southern Living magazine in 1978, where it quickly became one of the publication's most requested recipes. The cake is believed to have originated in Jamaica, where a similar dessert known as Doctor Bird Cake—named after the island nation's national bird—was promoted through tourism campaigns in the late 1960s.

Kristina Lavallee, founder of The Cake Girl bakery in Tampa, Florida, says it's the vintage cake she returns to time and time again, appreciating both its flavor and the memories it evokes. "[A] recipe that I always come back to is one of my all-time favorites: Hummingbird Cake," Chef Lavallee says. "It has been very popular since the '70s and is one of the classics that has never lost its popularity."

She says one of the easiest ways to elevate the recipe is by respecting its roots while making thoughtful improvements. "One tweak that I like to do is toast the pecans to bring more flavor out. I always use high-quality Madagascar vanilla, which really helps the flavor shine," she tells Parade.

Related: The Genius Way to Make Strawberry Shortcake 10x Better, According to an Award-Winning Chef

7. Danish Layer Cake (Lagkage)

Courtesy Mindy Crosato

Some vintage recipes survive because they're printed in cookbooks. Others survive because someone in the family keeps making them.

For Mindy Crosato, a Chopped champion and the founder of Decadent Creations in Oregon, Danish layer cake, known in Denmark as lagkage, is one of those recipes. The tradition began with her great-grandmother, Anna Weiss, who immigrated from Austria to Chicago in the 1930s. After discovering a Danish layer cake she loved at Stop & Shop in downtown Chicago, Weiss recreated her own version from scratch. Nearly a century later, Chef Crosato still makes that recipe.

"I make it every Thanksgiving and have been calling it Cornucopia Cake," she says, adding that "it’s four layers of a moist vanilla cake layered with three different colors of homemade jams and marzipan buttercream."

Chef Crosato also adds toasted almonds and marzipan fruit as a holiday topper. Even with those small changes, the heart of the recipe remains the same: a family dessert that has been passed from one generation to the next. In fact, she says her grandfather still has his mother's original recipe, a family keepsake that continues to connect today's celebrations with those from nearly a century ago.

4 Chef-Backed Tips for Baking Vintage-Style Cakes

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One theme emerged again and again while speaking with these accomplished bakers: the best vintage cakes aren't about reinventing the past—they're about honoring it.

1. Master the Original Before Making It Your Own

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One piece of advice came up repeatedly while speaking with our panel of bakers: don't be too quick to "improve" a classic.

Chef Walter recommends baking a vintage recipe exactly as it was written before making any changes. He says many home bakers are tempted to update vintage recipes too quickly. "My biggest piece of advice is not to rush in and modernize them," he tells Parade. Instead, you should respect the original recipe.

"Those recipes have lasted for generations for a reason," he says. "Start by making them exactly as written so you understand what makes them special. Once you've mastered the original, you can make thoughtful adjustments if needed."

Chef Lavallee shares a similar philosophy, saying the goal isn't to reinvent a family favorite. "People want to taste the cake that they remember, so I always focus on staying true to the original while making a few small enhancements," she adds.

2. Modernize With Intention

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While the bakers agreed vintage recipes deserve respect, they also weren't afraid to make thoughtful enhancements.

For Chef Cates, that means pairing Depression-era wacky cake with dark chocolate and coconut milk ganache. For Chef Crosato, that means replacing the instant pudding in her family's Danish layer cake with scratch ingredients and homemade touches like toasted almonds and marzipan fruit. For Chef Lavallee, it means toasting the pecans in her hummingbird cake and using high-quality Madagascar vanilla to deepen its flavor.

Isaac Bernal Carbajo, the executive chef of the Representation of Spain to the United Nations, believes refinements should always serve the recipe—not overshadow it. "The goal isn't to reinvent a classic, but to let great ingredients speak for themselves," he says.

3. Start With Great Ingredients

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Several of the bakers we spoke with also emphasized that simple recipes leave little room for mediocre ingredients.

Chef Walter recommends using real butter, fresh eggs, quality chocolate and pure vanilla whenever possible, while Chef Bernal Carbajo says choosing the best ingredients you can find allows each flavor to stand on its own.

4. Bake To Be Shared

Maria Korneeva / Getty Images

Perhaps the biggest lesson isn't about technique at all.

Chef Walter believes vintage cakes have endured because they were created with people—not perfection—in mind. He explains that "vintage cakes weren't designed to be flashy—they were meant to be shared. Their charm comes from honest flavors, solid technique and the memories they create around the table."

That sentiment resonated with Chef Lavallee, who says that's exactly what keeps her favorite vintage recipes alive generation after generation. "What I love most about vintage cake recipes is that they all bring us back to moments around the table with our loved ones," she explainss. "For me, hummingbird cake is one of those unique and flavorful cakes that, if done right, people remember for a long time after their last bite."

Sources:

These are the seven accomplished bakers we spoke with who shared the vintage cake recipes they still love to bake today.

• Alison Cates is a former executive pastry chef for MML Hospitality in Austin, Texas, and the 2017 recipient of the Jean Banchet Award for Rising Pastry Chef of the Year. She is known for creating thoughtful desserts that blend classic techniques with modern flavors.
• Nancy Mock is a food writer, recipe developer and founder of the New England-inspired recipe site Hungry Enough to Eat Six. Mock was the grand prize winner of the 2016 National Girl Scouts of America Cookie Recipe Contest.
• Duff Goldman is a classically trained pastry chef, bestselling cookbook author and television personality best known for founding Baltimore's Charm City Cakes and starring on Food Network's Ace of Cakes. Today, he serves as a judge on several Food Network baking competitions, including Kids Baking Championship and Holiday Baking Championship.
• Eva Wong is the executive sous chef and pastry chef at the Armory Hotel Bozeman. She previously worked as a pastry chef under Thomas Keller at The French Laundry in Yountville, California, and Slanted Door in San Francisco, where she refined her classical pastry techniques.
• Katherine Sprung is a New York pastry chef, food historian and host of Sprung on Food, a podcast where she explores the history and pop culture behind iconic recipes and ingredients. Chef Sprung was the winner of Food Network's Chopped Sweets.
• Brian Walter is an honorary James Beard Foundation Member and is currently the executive chef at Jersey City's 87 Sussex. Chef Walter has over 20 years of culinary experience and was named a "Top 5 Chefs in NJ” by NJ Life Magazine.
• Kristina Lavallee, better known as The Cake Girl, is the winner of Dessert Wars Cake Showdown on Food Network's Bake It Til You Make It and the founder of The Cake Girl bakery in Tampa, Florida. She is renowned for her hyper-realistic custom cakes, and her celebrity clients include Cardi B, Tom Brady, Jason Momoa and John Travolta.
• Mindy Crosato is a Chopped champion and the founder of Decadent Creations in Oregon. Over nearly two decades, Chef Crosato has grown her bakery into an award-winning business with two retail locations.
• Isaac Bernal Carbajo is the decorated executive chef of the Representation of Spain to the United Nations. A native of Spain, Chef Bernal Carbajo has built his career in both traditional and high-end gastronomy, bringing classical European pastry and culinary techniques to one of the world's most distinguished diplomatic kitchens.

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Protein is having a major moment — and not just at breakfast. Shoppers are increasingly reaching for high-protein snacks that are convenient enough to toss in a work bag, gym tote or cooler without sacrificing flavor.

Costco, in particular, has become a go-to destination for discovering protein-packed finds that quickly earn cult status on social media. From cottage cheese creations to frozen favorites, the warehouse giant has a knack for stocking products that keep both nutrition-minded shoppers and food lovers happy.

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The latest viral find? Honey Smoked Fish Co.'s Salmon Stackers, a grab-and-go snack that's making the rounds on social media and Costco fan pages. Available at Costco in a four-pack, each snack kit comes with honey-smoked salmon, lemon-chive spread, gluten-free rice crackers and even a mini spreader, making it a true no-prep meal or snack that fans say is "unexpectedly fantastic."

Think of it as the grown-up version of a snack pack—only with smoked salmon instead of deli meat, giving it the modern upgrade many health-conscious shoppers are seeking.

Shoppers Are Calling This Costco Snack One of Their Best Finds Yet

Costco

Each three-ounce tray delivers 13 grams of protein along with 1,200 milligrams of omega-3 fatty acids, making it a satisfying option when you need something that will actually keep you full. The salmon is fully cooked, never frozen, and lightly honey-smoked for a subtly sweet, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy lemon-chive spread and crisp crackers.

As a registered dietitian nutritionist, this is exactly the kind of convenience food I love seeing more of. Protein helps promote fullness and supports muscle health, while salmon is one of the best sources of heart-healthy omega-3 fats. From a flavor standpoint, pairing the salmon with crackers and a flavorful spread creates a balanced snack that's satisfying without requiring any assembly beyond quick spreading and stacking.

It's also refreshingly practical. Whether you're headed to the office, packing a road-trip cooler, need a post-workout bite, or don't have time to make lunch, these stackers are ready whenever hunger strikes. Keep them refrigerated, grab one on your way out the door, and you're set.

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Fans Are Saying They 'Absolutely Love' Costco's Salmon Stackers

Shoppers have been enthusiastic, with many calling the stackers a new staple thanks to their convenience and filling protein content. "They really are bomb!!" said one person. "I love the spread and the salmon is perfectly smoked," and "I absolutely LOVE these. I tell everyone about 'em," exclaimed two more. A few fans even shared their pairings, adding crunchy chili oil and cucumbers to elevate the entire experience.

If you're always on the hunt for high-protein snacks that don't require a blender, protein powder or hours of meal prep, these viral Salmon Stackers are worth adding to your next Costco haul. Sometimes the best snack is the one that's already packed, perfectly portioned and ready to eat.

Related: Fans Are Calling This Popular Snack Brand's Peanut Butter Chocolate Crunch Bar Their 'New Favorite'

Russell Christian of The Christians is celebrating an exciting birthday on Wednesday.

Russell, the former keyboard player, saxophonist and vocalist of The Christians, is celebrating his 70th birthday. One of the founders of the soul band, along with his brothers Garry and Roger, and Henry Priestman, Paul Barlow, Mike Bulger and Tony Jones, The Christians were established in 1985 in Liverpool, England. Since their formation, they have put out seven studio albums, including anniversary re-releases for their first two albums: The Christians and Colour.

British soul group The Christians (Garry Christian, Roger Christian, Russell Christian, Henry Priestman) pose for photo taken in 1989.

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The first five singles from their self-titled debut album, released in 1987, all made the top 40 in Britain, while The Christians peaked at No. 2 on the UK Albums Chart. Their second studio album, Colour, reached No. 1 in the UK, and many of the songs from that record hit the Top 20 in several other countries.

Despite their success throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s, the band broke up briefly in 1995 due to Garry Christian moving to Paris to record a solo album. Two years later, they reunited and went on a huge tour across Europe and the United Kingdom, regrouping as an acoustic group.

The Christians (Garry Christian, Roger Christian, Russell Christian) at the Diamond Awards Festival in Sportpaleis, Antwerpen, Belgium on November 1992.

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The Christians are still an active soul band with the current lineup of Garry Christian, Joey Ankrah, Neil Griffiths, Lionel Duke, Bobby Kewley and Mike Triggs. They recently released a new single, "When Saturday Comes," on May 22, and their most recent studio album is Soul from Liverpool in 2020.

In 2005, Russell Christian left the band because he didn't want to tour. Since then, he has pursued his own music career and has been self-releasing singles and EPs on Spotify. His most recent single, "Start a War," was released last month. Russell is now based in Las Vegas, and his solo project is influenced by "his love of American roots music" and combines the genres of Americana, folk, country, blues, indie, alt-country, rock and punk.

Related: Beloved '70s Singer, With No. 1 Hit Song, Turns 76