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Spring wardrobes are all about easy, breezy pieces that transition seamlessly from chilly mornings to warmer afternoons. A versatile crewneck T-shirt is the perfect foundation for that lineup — something you can throw on with leggings, jeans, shorts, or a skirt to feel comfortable and still look put-together. If your closet needs a new tried-and-true staple that you can build an entire look around, Amazon has the perfect classic tee at a steal!

Now just $8, the Prettygarden Oversized Crewneck T-Shirt is on sale for a whopping 68% off the usual $25 price. This deal is available for the white and black versions, but a total of 20 colors are currently discounted to between $8 and $15. Several spring-ready colors like coral, lavender, and light blue are priced at just $12, so you can stock your wardrobe with a variety of hues and still save big.

Prettygarden Oversized Crewneck T-Shirt, From $8 (was $25) at Amazon

Courtesy of

A basic t-shirt is anything but ordinary when paired with the right accessories, but it can be hard to find those staple tops that strike the right balance of ease and style. This crewneck t-shirt hits all the high notes with its relaxed fit that can be dressed up or down. The white version of this tee, in particular, is a must-have for capsule wardrobes.

The universally flattering look of this crewneck tee makes it a standout. Lightweight and airy, it has a beautiful drape with a drop-shoulder that creates a classic silhouette, giving it unmatched versatility. Available in sizes small through XX-large, most shoppers purchased their usual shirt size and were happy with the oversized fit. 

Prettygarden Oversized Crewneck T-Shirt, From $8 (was $25) at Amazon

Courtesy of Ama

The fabric is a soft, breathable blend of 92% cotton and 8% elastane, so it has a gentle stretch but keeps its shape through wearing, washing, and drying. Shoppers raved that this t-shirt has "the perfect thickness," giving it an elevated feel without being too fussy.

Related: Walmart's $5 Hoodie Is 'Super Comfortable,' and It Comes in 10 Colors

A go-to for its comfort and effortless style, several shoppers shared that they've purchased this shirt in multiple colors because it's "great to wear for spring." They appreciated the "soft and comfy" feel. One said "the relaxed fit looks trendy," but noted that the shirts "don't look bulky," just "flowy."

Shop More Deals

• Prettygarden Rolled Short-Sleeve Tee, $10 (was $25) at Amazon
• Isealsanxun Linen Crop Tank, $20 (was $30) at Amazon
• Anrabess Ribbed Scoop Neck Top, $9 (was $15) at Amazon

Stock up on a versatile wardrobe essential for less this spring, and snag the Prettygarden Oversized Crewneck T-Shirt while it's on sale for just $8. Don't wait — with a sale price this good, your favorite colors could sell out before you know it!

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.

More than half a century later, The Dark Side of the Moon still looms over rock music as one of the GOATs.

Released on March 1, 1973, Pink Floyd’s eighth studio album became a permanent fixture in music history. The record famously spent nearly 14 years on Billboard’s Top 200 chart, surviving through shifting eras of punk, disco, early hip-hop and the dawn of MTV.

At its core, Dark Side wrestles with big themes: time slipping away, greed, mortality and mental illness. Roger Waters’s songwriting featured blunt lines like, “Money, it’s a gas/Grab that cash with both hands and make a stash,” pairing grounded lyrics with sweeping, atmospheric production. 

.@pinkfloyd's 'The Dark Side of the Moon' re-enters this week's #Billboard200 chart at No. 194. It has now spent a record-extending 962 weeks on the chart.

— billboard charts (@billboardcharts) February 14, 2022

And the album’s epic intro and climactic finale—“Brain Damage” and “Eclipse, respectively—remain among the most recognizable moments in classic rock.

Over 50 years on, the accolades haven’t slowed. In February 2026, Collider ranked The Dark Side of the Moon as the No. 1 classic rock concept album, praising its cohesion and fearless exploration of mental health and overconsumption. The publication also included other Pink Floyd staples like Animals, The Wall and Wish You Were Here on its list.

Meanwhile, ShortList’sranking of the 50 best rock albums of all time crowned Dark Side the greatest of them all, placing it above Led Zeppelin’sIV and The Beatles’Abbey Road. Pink Floyd even claimed another top-five slot with Wish You Were Here.

For the 50th anniversary in 2023, Waters revisited the record with The Dark Side of the Moon Redux, released in October that same year. The project strips the original’s lush production in favor of a more stripped-back, spoken-word tone. On the reworked “Money,” Waters replaces David Gilmour’s iconic lead vocal and guitar solo with a whispered recitation and a lengthy poetic passage.

Reflecting on the reinterpretation, Waters said, “I love the original recording, by the way, and I love what Nicky (Mason) did and what Rick (Wright) did and what Dave did on the original recording.” He added, “The new recording is more reflective, I think, and it’s more indicative of what the concept of the record was. It is a reinterpretation and I hope that we can gain more from it than we did back in 1973.”

Regardless of whatever version you prefer, 53 years later, few albums have pulled through like The Dark Side of the Moon.

If you’ve ever tried to write the opening bars of a song, you know the truth: the intro has to do a lot of work in a very short amount of time.

That’s the idea behind a ranking from Rick Beato, the veteran producer and music educator behind the popular YouTube channel Everything Music, where he breaks down famous recordings, interviews artists, and digs into the craft behind classic songs. Beato has worked in studios for decades, has taught music at the university level, and he’s built a massive online audience by translating music-nerd details into plain-English “wait…that’s why it hits!” moments.

RELATED: Led Zeppelin Only Performed This Classic Song Live Once

In a recent video counting down his Top 20 acoustic guitar intros of all time, Beato explains what separates a truly unforgettable opening from a great chord pattern:

"Crafting the introduction of a song with a memorable guitar part is a difficult thing to do. There should be an identifiable instrumental hook called the signature. That begins the song. It’s usually a combination of a melodic line and the chord progression," says Beato before launching into the list.

In the end, Beato’s No. 1 choice was a 1971 classic that has lived on as a rock-radio rite of passage for decades: Led Zeppelin’s iconic “Stairway to Heaven.”

Before he reveals it, he tees it up like it’s the only possible answer: "Coming in at number one, well, I think you all know what it is. It really couldn’t be anything else."

RELATED: 1991 Hit Ranked No. 1 ‘Greatest One-Hit Wonder’ of All Time

Why 'Stairway' is Such a Monster Intro

Part of what makes “Stairway to Heaven” such a fascinating pick is the contrast between its cultural footprint and its chart story.

Despite being one of the most-requested songs on FM rock radio for years, “Stairway” wasn’t released as a commercial single in the U.S. at the time. Instead, it lived as the centerpiece of Led Zeppelin IV and grew through airplay, album sales, and sheer legend-building.

Musically, it also fits Beato’s definition of a “signature” intro: you can hum the shape of it, not just strum along. The opening pattern is instantly identifiable, but it takes its time, which makes that opening guitar part feel like it's teeing up something incredible, like you're lightly shaking a can of pop before you open it.

RELATED: Rock Legend, 81, Refuses to Play Fan-Favorite Song: ‘I’m Fed Up With That’

Rick Beato’s Top 20 Acoustic Guitar Intros

Here’s Beato’s full countdown:

1. “Free Fallin’” – Tom Petty
2. “Cat’s in the Cradle” – Harry Chapin
3. “Solsbury Hill” – Peter Gabriel
4. “Time in a Bottle” – Jim Croce
5. “Stay Away” – Alice in Chains
6. “Pinball Wizard” – The Who
7. “Crazy on You” – Heart
8. “Fire and Rain” – James Taylor
9. “Here Comes the Sun” – The Beatles
10. “Roundabout” – Yes
11. “Scarborough Fair” – Simon and Garfunkel
12. “Babe I’m Gonna Leave You” – Led Zeppelin
13. “Wish You Were Here” – Pink Floyd
14. “Closer to the Heart” – Rush
15. “Over the Hills and Far Away” – Led Zeppelin
16. “More Than a Feeling” – Boston
17. “Norwegian Wood” – The Beatles
18. “Angie” – The Rolling Stones
19. “Hotel California” – The Eagles
20. “Stairway to Heaven” – Led Zeppelin

Now the only real question: if you had to pick just one… would you put “Stairway” at No. 1, too?

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While fashion trends tend to move at the speed of light, classic items like denim are timeless and continue to stay relevant—no matter the season. Whether you're curvy, petite or prefer a more relaxed fit, there's a pair of jeans out there guaranteed to make you feel like a million bucks. One particular style that celebrity stylists always seem to come back to, though, is straight-leg jeans. They're universally flattering, and you can dress them up or down, making them the perfect pants to take from day to night. While you might not know where to start because there are so many ways to wear them, you've come to the right place. Celebrity stylists tell Parade exactly how to style straight-leg jeans—whether you prefer them paired with sneakers or a blazer and heels.

"The great thing about straight-leg jeans is [that] they create such a balanced silhouette that you can really play with your tops," says celebrity stylist and founder of Style Club, JenniLee. "I love pairing them with fitted tops—fitted long-sleeve tees, short-sleeve tees, turtlenecks and even just a simple tank top. Anything that looks great tucked in creates that streamlined look."

Even if a tucked-in look isn't your thing, JenniLee is doubling down on the fact that these jeans are insanely versatile—almost overwhelmingly so.

"You can dress them up with a going-out top, sexy high heels and a statement clutch for a comfortable but elevated vibe, or keep it casual on the weekend with your favorite tee and a blazer, cuffed at the ankle with sporty sandals or ballet flats," she adds. "What I love most is their range—they work just as well in a very casual setting as they do completely glammed up with a sheer top, lacy bra and cropped sequin jacket for a night out."

And that's just the beginning. Celebrity stylists share even more outfit inspo and the dos and don'ts of wearing straight-leg jeans ahead.

Related: 7 Best Jeans Styles for Women Over 50, According to Celebrity Stylists

What Are Straight-Leg Jeans?

If you're in the market for a slim, form-fitting pant style, straight-leg denim is the way to go. JenniLee describes this type of jean as having a consistent width from hip to ankle, creating a clean, streamlined silhouette.

"Unlike skinny jeans that taper at the ankle or flares that widen at the bottom, straight-leg jeans maintain that straight line all the way down," she explains. "They're incredibly versatile because they work equally well with a cuff or without, which means they pair beautifully with so many different shoe styles. It's a classic silhouette that never truly goes out of style, and right now we're seeing them on the runway in every type of wash—from the most distressed, faded, ripped-up versions at Simkhai to super clean washes like the dark and high rise at Saint Laurent and the medium rinse and rise at Toteme."

Celebrity stylist Julie Matos also adds that straight-leg bottoms are the most intelligent silhouettes in denim.

"They fall straight from hip to hem, creating a clean vertical line that feels structured but never stiff," she shares. "Unlike trend-driven shapes, straight-leg denim doesn’t overstate itself. It’s refined, balanced, and quietly powerful."

And she agrees with JenniLee's point about their versatility; it's the thing she loves most about this style of jean, too. The ways to style them are endless.

"They can lean masculine, minimalist, romantic or sharply tailored depending on styling," Matos says. "They don’t dictate—they adapt."

Are There Major Dos and Don'ts For Wearing Straight-Leg Jeans?

Matos and JenniLee break down a few "Dos" and "Don'ts" of styling straight-leg jeans.

Dos for wearing straight-leg jeans

DO: "Pay close attention to fit—this is crucial. The jeans should sit comfortably at your waist without gaping or pinching," says JenniLee. "Take them to a tailor—it's well worth it for the perfect fit." 

DO: Pay attention to the proportions of the jeans. "Where the hem hits matters," Matos shares. "I prefer a slight crop that shows the ankle or a clean break at the shoe. Tailoring is never optional if you want polish."

DO: Choose shoes that add something more to the outfit. Experimenting is encouraged. "Instead of defaulting to the expected white sneaker, try a kitten heel in an unexpected pop of color like red," JenniLee states. "It keeps things interesting. [Even] if you think the shoe won't work, definitely try it!"

DO: Try fitted tops that tuck into your straight leg jeans well. JenniLee shares her advice on this: "The straight leg pairs perfectly with a streamlined silhouette on top."

DO: Consider the rise that works best for your body. Luckily, this versatile jean offers plenty of options. "Straight-leg jeans come in high-waisted, mid-rise, and low-rise versions, making them flattering for a variety of body shapes," says JenniLee.

Don'ts for wearing straight-leg jeans

DON'T: Ignore the proportions of the rest of your outfit. Matos says this is incredibly key. "If you're wearing volume on top (like an oversized jersey or cropped sweatshirt with volume in the sleeves), make sure you're balancing it with the clean lines of the jean."

DON'T: Pick a style that's so long they drag under your shoes. According to JenniLee, this is a quick way to ruin any look. "Either head to the tailor and have them give you a hem to the shoes you wear the most, or go DIY and cut them and leave the frayed hem."

Related: 12 Ways To Make Any Outfit Look More Expensive, According to a Celebrity Stylist

What Are the Best Shoes To Wear With Straight-Leg Jeans?

As JenniLee mentioned above, experiment with your footwear when it comes to styling straight-leg jeans. They're such a classic style that you can really play around with trying something new. She thinks they truly go with everything, and she shares a few of her favorite styles to pair them with.

For starters, sporty options like the Nike Rift sneaker-sandal hybrid or Puma's SpeedCat sneakers are perfect in her eyes. She also loves platform sneakers styled with low-rise straight-leg jeans.

"[I also love] classic ballet flats or loafers for an effortlessly classic look," she adds.

For something a bit more dressy, she loves pumps or kitten heels.

Matos is a fan of pointed-toe pumps for a clean and polished look as well. She's also a huge fan of sleek ankle boots with a narrow shaft, minimal leather sneakers, strappy heels for contrast, or, much like JenniLee, loafers and ballet flats.

"[They bring] understated sophistication [to an outfit]," she says.

Related: 7 Best Ways To Wear Ankle Boots With Jeans, According to a Celebrity Stylist

How To Style Straight-Leg Jeans: 8 Best Ways, According to Celebrity Stylists1. With a blazer, fitted tee and pointed heels

Streetstyleshooters/Getty Images

Matos describes this look as modern power dressing. A blazer is perfect for a casual (yet still chic) work look, but pair it with a fitted tee and pointed heels to elevate it even more.

"It's effortless but intentional," she says.

2. With a crisp button-down and loafers

Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

A button-down and loafers offer a classic way to style a pair of straight-leg jeans. It's the perfect outfit to take from work to a casual dinner or drinks with friends. Matos loves this look because it's so low effort but still looks polished.

"[It's] timeless, sharp, and always relevant," she adds.

3. With a monochrome or denim-on-denim look

Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

Matos says there's something so polished about a fully monochrome look. Whether you want to try a black-on-black, denim-on-denim or a full color look, it's a sleek way to style straight-leg jeans.

"[It's also] lengthening, confident and quietly impactful," she says.

Related: 7 Ways to Style Cargo Pants at Any Age, Celebrity Stylists Reveal

4. Tucked into tall boots with a leather jacket

Alo Ceballos/Getty Images

Jennilee says that straight-leg jeans are perfect for tucking into tall boots without bunching up—whether you prefer cowboy or over-the-knee ones. Adding a collared leather jacket or bomber to the mix makes for an effortlessly cool look. As a base layer, she suggests a fitted sweater or turtleneck.

"This look [is] polished but still has edge," she shares. "Perfect for winter when you want to feel pulled-together but comfortable."

5. With a cropped sweatshirt and sporty sneakers

Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images

For a sportier, casual everyday look, JenniLee loves to pair straight-leg jeans with a cropped sweater or jacket and sneakers.

"The volume on top contrasts beautifully with the clean lines of straight-leg jeans," she explains. "Letting the jeans stack up and pool around your shoes creates that casual cool vibe. It's comfortable but still looks intentional."

Matos loves a look like this as well and describes it as especially strong for petites.

"[It] sharpens [your] proportions," she adds.

6. With a cashmere knit sweater and heeled boots

Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

This look is another favorite of Matos's. A cashmere sweater is gorgeous with almost anything, but pair it with a pair of straight-leg jeans and heeled boots? You've easily got yourself an off-duty model look.

"The tension between softness and structure feels elevated but wearable [with this look]," she adds.

7. With the "wrong shoe"

Christian Vierig/Getty Images

JenniLee really leans into the idea that you can get away with some bold and funky shoe choices when wearing straight-leg jeans. Even if you think a shoe might be too bold to pair them with, try it anyway! She loves styling a funkier shoe choice with straight-leg jeans, a quarter-zip or cropped sweater and a kitten heel in a bold color like red, bright blue, emerald or yellow.

"This is about pushing against the expected basics," she shares. "Instead of reaching for predictable sneakers to pair with a sportier sweater, the kitten heel elevates the whole look and makes it feel intentional and fashion-forward. It's unexpected and fun."

8. With a silk camisole, minimal heel and statement earrings

305pics/GCImages

According to Matos, this is another simple yet impactful way to style straight-leg jeans. You can cuff your jeans to add a little something extra to a look like this, or a pair of statement earrings if you'd like to dress it up even further.

"[I call this] high-low styling that feels editorial, not overdone," Matos says.

Up Next:

Related: 9 Best Jeans for Short Women, According to a Celebrity Stylist

Sources:

• Julie Matos is a celebrity stylist who has worked with celebs such as The Hunger Games and Game of Thrones actress Natalie Dormer and comedian Chelsea Handler.
• JenniLee is a celebrity stylist and founder of Style Club who has worked with clients like Chris Pratt, Scarlett Johansson, Lauryn Hill and Greta Gerwig.

As the first tender shoots of spring emerge from winter’s barren soil, the sunny faces of daffodils are there to greet them. Rising from the earth with the promise of brighter days ahead, it’s no wonder the daffodil has been designated the birth flower for March.

When selecting flowers to celebrate a March birthday, the options span from pure white daffodils to golden yellow, apricot and even peach varieties of this cheerful bulb.

Expert florist Carmela de Castro of Orchid Republic Floral Boutique explains why daffodils make meaningful birthday bouquets: “As a seasonal spring flower, it symbolizes all good things, like hope, new beginnings and happiness.” Beyond these positive attributes, the daffodil’s bright hues lend themselves to vibrant floral arrangements as well.

Read on to learn more about the stories hidden behind the daffodil’s sunny exterior and why the March birth flower has been treasured across cultures for centuries.

Related: What Is Your Birth Flower? Find Out the Meaning Behind the Blooms for Each Month

What Is the March Birth Flower?

The March birth flower is the daffodil, known by its botanical name "Narcissus." The most common types feature yellow trumpets surrounding a darker yellow or orange cup-like corona, and white daffodils without any yellow at all are also popular.

Depending on the type and cultivar, blooming daffodil flowers can range from early spring through early summer.

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What Does the Daffodil Symbolize?

Beyond the associations of hope, new beginnings and happiness, Castro says that daffodils have special symbolism in some cultures as well, explaining: “The narcissus paperwhite varieties are also prominent in China as bearers of luck and prosperity. The myth is that if they bloom during the Spring Festival or Chinese New Year, you'll be very lucky the whole year or season.”

Even the somber aspect of daffodils reflects optimism in its own way, according to Castro: “It is not uncommon to give daffodils as gifts to cancer patients because they represent hope for a cancer cure.”

So in sickness or health, daffodils convey faith in brighter futures.

Related: What Does the Lotus Flower Symbolize, Exactly? Experts Reveal Its Significance

Daffodils in History

Daffodils have a long documented history spanning back centuries. These spring blooms were first described nearly 2,500 years ago around 300 BC by the ancient Greek botanist Theophrastus in his book, Enquiry into Plants.

But the popularity of daffodils has grown far more recently. They were unknown to the British Isles until the Roman conquest, when they were brought over for their purported healing properties. The sap from daffodil bulbs was thought to have medicinal value.

In the 19th century, daffodil varieties and classifications expanded greatly thanks to keen interest among breeders and collectors. Still, it wasn’t until the 1930s that daffodils really took England by storm. By the 1950s, twice as many daffodils were being grown in England as tulips. 

Castro references the book Daffodil: The Remarkable Story of the World's Most Popular Spring Flower by Noel Kingsbury regarding the daffodil’s role in certain cultures: “In Muslim nations in the Middle East, fresh daffodils were planted or offered in cemeteries as a symbol of death and the afterlife."

Even in memorial contexts, the daffodil as the flower that returns every spring carries hopeful symbolism of renewal.

Related: Why Are Poppies Used for Memorial Day? Here’s What They Mean

How To Care for Daffodils

Castro shares insider tips for enjoying daffodils longer as cut flowers, explaining: “We suggest getting your daffodils in bud form and separating them from other flowers if keeping them in a vase because their stems tend to get sappy and soggy easily. Cut the edge of the stems every couple of days and change the water frequently. Do not fill up the whole vase, keep it shallow just to keep the ends of the stems wet. They can last up to a good 10 days.”

Follow these pro recommendations and your birthday daffodils will stay perky from first unwrapping to when you blow out the last candle.

Related: What Is Your State Flower? Your Guide to All 50 Blooms from Alabama to Wyoming

March's Secondary Birth Flower: The Jonquil

Beyond the iconic daffodil, March babies also have the option of the jonquil as their birth flower.

Resembling tiny daffodils, jonquils feature clusters of tiny, fragrant blossoms. Their scent is one difference from daffodils, as Castro notes: “Jonquils have a more intoxicating fragrance compared to daffodils.”

What Does the Jonquil Symbolize?

Given their close resemblance to daffodils, Castro says jonquils share similar symbolism: “Because of their uncanny resemblance, it's not surprising to give you the same flower meaning as their daffodil twins. But we know that jonquils are perfect for seeking sincere apology or forgiveness.”

With a more pronounced fragrance and diminutive size, the delicate jonquil flower eschews the showy optimism of daffodils for subtle reach outs to mend relationships. So for March babies seeking reconciliation or wanting to convey heartfelt apologies, the tiny jonquil’s shy grace speaks volumes.

Related: 26 Best Easter Flowers to Celebrate the Holiday and Fill Your Home With the Beauty of Spring

Jonquils in History

While less documented than the daffodil, the jonquil shares a close kinship as a member of the Narcissus genus. Jonquils are native to the Mediterranean region and have been cultivated in similar warm climates worldwide for centuries. These fragrant flowers produce an oil used in perfumes.

Jonquils are perennial plants that flourish year after year, enabled by their underground nutrient-storing bulbs. Each spring, fresh green foliage emerges from the bulbs to provide bursts of sunny blooms. Gardeners across eras have prized jonquils both for their attractive clustered flowers and intense sweet scent.

How To Care for Jonquils

According to Castro, caring for cut jonquils would be similar to daffodils. Separate jonquil stems from other bouquet flowers, change the water daily and make neat cuts across the stems every few days to maximize their vase life.

The steadfast daffodil, reemerging every spring to trumpet in the warmer seasons, carries hopeful symbolism that spans cultures and eras. Gift its sunny optimism to the March babies in your life. And if seeking forgiveness or reconciliation is on the agenda, bring along the sweeter-scented jonquil to pave the way.

March Birth Flower Tattoos

Here's some tattoo inspiration that incorporates the March birth flower.

@deaasfrn_

March 🌼 #flowers #birthflower #daffodil

♬ เสียงต้นฉบับ - user4083609495293 - First Diamond🇹🇭 @liveforlines

Should I do the rest?

♬ Lady May - Tyler Childers @circletattooserena

Replying to @Brenda Lee Perez birthflower March 🌸 #birthflower #birthflowertattoo #singleneedletattoo #finelinetattoo #finelinetattooartist

♬ mr porcelain demo - Jude York @bunami.ink

@chelsey..battise antworten 🖤 #tattoo #birthflowertattoo #tattooidea #minitattoo #tattootok #singleneedletattoo #asmr

♬ You should follow me - Ash

Related: What Do Flower Tattoos Symbolize, Exactly? Plus, the Prettiest, Daintiest Floral Tattoo Designs To See

If you'd asked me before I had kids, I don’t think frozen pancakes would have made my “green light” breakfast list. I probably would’ve rolled my eyes at the idea. And yet, almost six years into full-time working motherhood, they're on the menu at my house…a lot.

In fact, I consider pancakes an 'anchor meal' in our home, meaning they’re a guaranteed success for breakfast, lunch or even dinner. No matter what kind of day we’re having, I know my kids will always eat pancakes. They’re one of the few reliable, no-drama foods that consistently end in full bellies instead of bargaining, pleading or a rejected plate.

And honestly? As someone who will always order “pancakes for the table” at brunch, I don’t mind a few frozen hotcakes helping me through the weekday morning shift, too. They’re accessible, filling, comforting and they help get everyone out the door with a lot less chaos. When mornings are moving fast and little hungry voices are getting louder by the minute, having something dependable in the freezer feels like a small parenting win.

Frozen pancakes are also surprisingly versatile. On weekends, I’ll fry up an egg and use the flapjacks as the “bread” for a pancake breakfast sandwich, or pile them high with fruit and drizzle them with syrup when we want something a little more special. They can be simple, satisfying and surprisingly versatile.

And although I tend to grab the same ones again and again, I was curious to know if I was missing a hidden gem in the freezer case. To find out, I picked up seven different popular brands and had a proper frozen pancake taste test. At the end of the day, I found a lot to love—and one clear winner. Read on to find out which hotcake ended up on top.

Related: I Tried 17 Different Pancake Mixes and the Winner Stole the Show

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What To Keep in Mind When Shopping for Frozen Pancakes

Courtesy Jeanette Donnarumma

Before you toss a package of frozen pancakes into your cart, take a peek at the back of the box. For the closest-to-homemade taste, choose a brand with a short list of ingredients that includes items you can pronounce. If you see buttermilk in the list, the pancakes should have a bit of a tang and a soft, tender texture.

Depending on your priorities, preferences and budget, you can find options made with organic ingredients or with added protein, which can make them feel a little more substantial, especially if pancakes are a frequent anchor meal in your weekly rotation, too.

Also, give the ingredients list and the nutritional information box a peek to get a sense of how sweet the pancakes might be, even before you add the syrup. Some pancakes are intentionally neutral, making them a great base for toppings, while others lean sweeter and taste closer to dessert.

Related: How To Make Pancakes That Taste Like They Came From IHOP

How I Chose These Frozen Pancakes

Courtesy Jeanette Donnarumma

For this ranking, I focused on the brands that felt most accessible, the ones I regularly see (and buy) as a busy frozen pancake consumer.

When I’m at Trader Joe’s, I always grab the organic silver dollars and I've definitely spotted frozen pancakes at Aldi and Lidl. I also did some online digging and polled a few mom friends' group chats to find out which boxes were in their freezers. All of that intel gathering led to the seven brands that went head-to-head in this tasting.

Related: I Tried 12 Popular Maple Syrup Brands and the Winner Will Make Your Breakfast So Much Better

Parade

How I Tested These Frozen Pancakes

Courtesy Jeanette Donnarumma

Every box offered microwave, toaster or oven instructions, but I stuck with the method I use most in real life: the microwave.

As a family, we prefer pancakes soft and tender rather than super crispy, and let’s be honest, the faster breakfast gets on the table, the faster those tiny creatures are fed and happy.

To keep things consistent and avoid masking flavor differences, I topped each pancake with a small pat of unsalted butter. That way, I could focus on texture, sweetness and overall pancake flavor without the syrup stealing the show.

Related: I Tried 20 Popular Salted Butters To Find the Absolute Best

7 Frozen Pancake Brands, Ranked Worst To Best7. Lidl Buttermilk Pancakes

Courtesy Jeanette Donnarumma

The packaging on these looks very similar to other budget-friendly options at first glance, but the flavor was noticeably different. Instead of a classic buttermilk balance, these skewed overly sweet, almost like a dessert pancake. They were the least versatile of the bunch and not a "buy again" IMHO.

Related: If You Like Aldi and Trader Joe's, You'll Probably Love Lidl—Here's What You Need to Know

6. Eggo Buttermilk Pancakes

Courtesy Jeanette Donnarumma

Eggo won my frozen waffle ranking, but they didn't fare as well in the pancake category. These leaned more salty than sweet and had a slight artificial flavor that kept them from tasting like ones I would reach for again. The color was nice, but the overall pancake experience felt more processed than comforting.

5. 365 Whole Foods Market Buttermilk Pancakes

Courtesy Jeanette Donnarumma

This is a very reliable, classic, straightforward pancake. Not too sweet, not too salty—just plain in the best way. These would be a great base for topping with fruit or maple syrup. It's a solid middle-of-the-pack choice, especially for families who want something neutral.

Related: I Went to Whole Foods With My Chef-Husband and My Grocery Shopping is Forever Changed

4. Breakfast Best Buttermilk Pancakes

Courtesy Jeanette Donnarumma

These Aldi-brand pancakes are fantastic. They have good flavor, a nice airy texture and that signature griddle-ring around the edges that makes them feel more homemade. They're not too dense and not too sweet, making them an excellent everyday freezer staple.

Related: 23 Must-Buy Aldi Snacks, According to a Superfan

3. Stop & Shop Buttermilk Pancakes

Courtesy Jeanette Donnarumma

These supermarket store-brand hotcakes delivered one of the most developed flavors of the group. They were more caramelized on both sides than most, with a deeper color and slightly chewier texture that made them feel closer to diner-style pancakes. They easily earned a spot in the top three and are a good reminder to never underestimate store brands.

Related: We Tried 10 Popular English Muffin Brands and Found a New Favorite

2. Kodiak Protein-Packed Power Flapjacks

Courtesy Jeanette Donnarumma

This one was a bit of a surprise. When I taste-tested 17 different pancake mixes, Kodiak ranked near the bottom of the list, but I had different feelings about the frozen version of these popular hotcakes. They had a pleasant cakey texture and were just sweet enough. There was no weird aftertaste from the added protein, and I love that these are a little more filling and substantial. They're a great pick for busy mornings when you want breakfast to actually stick.

Related: 23 High-Protein Breakfasts That Aren't Eggs

1. Trader Joe’s Organic Silver Dollar Pancakes

Courtesy Jeanette Donnarumma

This was the clear winner across the board. Trader Joe's Organic Silver Dollar Pancakes are light, airy and genuinely delicious, with the bonus of organic ingredients and an adorable kid-friendly size. I don’t even have to cut them up—my kids can just grab and eat! They're also very snackable for the adults. (Ask me how I know this.) The flavor and texture were the most balanced of the bunch, making them the frozen pancakes I’d reach for again and again.

Related: How to Make French Toast 10x Better, According to Reddit

Final Thoughts

Frozen pancakes may not have been on my radar before motherhood, but after tasting my way through these seven brands, I'm more convinced than ever that they'll continue to be a go-to in our family's breakfast rotation. The best options deliver real pancake flavor, a soft and fluffy texture and the kind of convenience that makes busy mornings feel just a little easier.

Whether you’re looking for a protein boost, a budget-friendly box to keep stocked or a kid-approved staple you can heat up in minutes, there’s truly a frozen pancake out there for every household. And if you want the closest thing to homemade straight from the freezer, Trader Joe’s Silver Dollar Pancakes are the one to beat.

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Related: The Fun and Easy French Toast Recipe Fans Are Calling ‘Genius’

As winter’s chill gives way to spring’s optimism, March babies have not one but two glittering birthstone options: aquamarine and bloodstone, which at first glance appear quite different. Aquamarine's color often makes people think of the sea and ocean voyages. Bloodstone's dark green hue with red spots evokes images of ancient warrior amulets and mystical healing stones. But despite their different looks, both crystals have a reputation for bringing good luck and protection to those who wear them.

Delve deeper to uncover the special history and hidden strengths of your March birthstones. Will you identify more with aquamarine’s blue soothing waves or bloodstone’s earthy vitality? Read on to learn what makes these gems uniquely suited for those born under March’s changeable skies.

Related: Here’s Exactly What Your Month's Birthstone Says About Your Personality

What Is the Traditional Birthstone for March? Bloodstone

iStock

Bloodstone.

According to Matt Harris, a Gemological Institute of America graduate, member of the American Gem Trade Association, and owner of Matt Harris Designs: "Bloodstone was referenced in an 1870 Tiffany & Co. poem as the traditional March birthstone." 

He goes on to explain why bloodstone (aka heliotrope) was later rejected as the official March gem: "In 1920, the National Association of Jewelers adopted their ‘modern’ birthstone list, which contained only transparent gems. Maybe that’s why aquamarine is much more recognized ... who doesn't like a sparkly gem?"

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What Is the Modern Birthstone for March? Aquamarine

iStock

The modern March birthstone, replacing bloodstone, is aquamarine. 

As gemologist Sacha Jarmon, founder of LOVE SARO, describes: "Aquamarine AKA 'The Stone of Serenity' is referred to as the 'modern' birthstone for March."

Jared Silver of Stephen Silver Fine Jewelry is a fan of the stone. “Aquamarines make a practical choice for everyday wear, since as beryl gems, they rank high on the hardness scale, just behind diamonds, sapphires, and rubies.”

March Birthstone Color

The aquamarine color ranges from a light, sky blue or blue-green to a deep blue at times, while bloodstone's color typically appears as a deep, rich green with red speckles throughout.

Is the March Birthstone Rare?

“Aquamarine and bloodstone are not traditionally considered rare, but both are wonders of the mineral kingdom,” shares Jarmon. 

Harris notes that aquamarine that’s deep blue is a bit rarer, but “won't be as expensive per carat as would be a diamond, emerald, sapphire, ruby or alexandrite.”

Related: What Is Your Birth Flower? Find Out the Meaning Behind the Blooms for Each Month

Aquamarine Meaning and History

The cool blue tones of aquamarine have long been associated with shimmering ocean waters and sailors' tales of mermaids' treasures. As Jarmon describes, "The name aquamarine is derived from the Latin meaning 'water of the sea.' In ancient folklore, it was known as a treasure of mermaids and used as a talisman by sailors for good luck, fearlessness and protection."

True to these maritime myths, the aquamarine embodies a peaceful tranquility, as calming as a breezeless sea at high noon.

Jarmon explains, "Aquamarine can help center one's energy by easing worries and soothing the mind." Enhancing communication is another signature quality, as she notes its link to the throat chakra: "It is connected to the throat chakra, assisting with articulate expression of thoughts and feelings." 

The blue glow of aquamarine can evoke a sense of harmony, as Jarmon says it "exemplifies the feeling of tranquility and bliss, as if floating on water." 

So, if you need stability through March’s ups and downs, aquamarine's clarity and calm make it the perfect amulet!

Where Is Aquamarine Found?

Aquamarine is found all over the world. Jarmon notes aquamarine deposits exist in Brazil, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Australia, Africa and the United States.

Bloodstone Meaning and History

The bloodstone's rich green hue is set off by fiery red speckles reminiscent of droplets of blood—hence its long association in lore with healing blood ailments and mystical properties like inducing the sun to turn blood-red in the sky. As Jarmon describes: "Bloodstone is also referred to as Heliotrope, from the Greek meaning 'sun turner.’ In the Middle Ages, the red spots found in bloodstone were thought to be spots of Christ's blood, attributing sacred healing powers to the stones."

True to these legends, bloodstone is believed to purify and renew vitality. Jarmon elaborates on its restorative qualities: “Bloodstone is known to dispel negative energy from the aura to bring one’s subtle energies back into balance and harmony. Bloodstone grounds one fully in the body, supporting physical strength through its connection to the root chakra."

So while aquamarine soothes like a balmy ocean breeze, bloodstone invigorates like an earthy forest walk. As Jarmon explains: "This stone offers strength and courage in times of adversity."

Related: What Exactly Are 'Chakras'? Here Are the Benefits of Balancing Your Chakras for More Inner Peace

Where Is Bloodstone Found?

According to Jarmon, bloodstone deposits exist in India, China, Brazil, Australia and The United States.

Now that you know the rich history and lore around these two mystical March gems, which will you choose to celebrate your birthday month? The soothing tranquility of aquamarine or the protective vitality of bloodstone?

Or maybe you don’t have to choose? As Silver says: “There is certainly a place for both gems in the world of birthstones. Jewelry lovers like to delve into the symbolism of their birthstone, and each gem offers different aesthetic and symbolic layers and textures that can be appreciated.”

Related: We’re Diving Into Everything There Is To Know About the Water Signs of the Zodiac

On March 1, 1975, the Eagles scored their first U.S. Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 single with “The Best of My Love.”

The hit was included on the band’s 1974 album, On the Border. The first of five chart-toppers, “The Best of My Love” also topped the Easy Listening (Adult Contemporary) chart in February 1975, spending one week at the No. 1 spot on both charts.

According to Out magazine, the song was written at Dan Tana's, one of the band's favorite Italian restaurants, with the lyrics stemming from drummer and co-leader Don Henley and the main "melodic line" coming courtesy of guitarist Glenn Frey.

In a biography of the band written by Marc Eliot, To the Limit: The Untold Story of the Eagles, Eliot writes that Henley was feeling "a lot of guilt and remorse" over a low-profile breakup with Suzannah Martin when he wrote the song. A sleeper succes, the single peaked due to audience demand and radio play fueling its popularity.

The Eagle’s other No. 1 hits are “One of These Nights,” “New Kid in Town,” “Hotel California,” and “Heartache Tonight.”

The group officially broke up in 1980, following their final concert in July 1980. Reports revealed inner fighting and tension among the members, Don Henley famously stating they’d get back together “when hell freezes over.”

For the next 14 years, the members pursued solo careers before reuniting in 1994 for their Hell Freezes Over Tour, a wildly successful and apropos-named return that featured the original members and became one of the highest-grossing events of the ’90s.

These days, the guys are celebrating their farewell Long Goodbye Tour. Extending dates through May, the band announced a third leg hitting Atlanta’s Truist Park on May 5, Nashville’s FirstBank Stadium at Vanderbilt University on May 9, and Arlington, Texas’ Globe Life Field on May 16. Special guest Tedeschi Trucks Band will join the band for all “Act III” shows, per Billboard.

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Related: 1971 Smash Hit Ranked Best Album From This Soft Rock Queen

In 1976, Henry Gross had an international hit with the song “Shannon.” The song written and performed by the Sha Na Na founding member was his only solo hit, peaking at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 on June 5, 1976, and reaching No. 1 in Canada.

The soft rock ballad featured a chorus that included the lines “Shannon is gone, I hope she's drifting out to sea” and a reference to a mother’s heartbreak. But the song wasn’t about a traditional breakup or loss of a loved one. Instead, it was about the death of a dog.

Gross, now 74, once told Classic Bands that “Shannon” practically wrote itself. “I wrote ‘Shannon’ in about twenty minutes, but it wasn't twenty minutes that I had booked. It wasn't twenty minutes that was pre-set to write. It just kind of happened,” he revealed.

Gross shared the backstory of the song in a 2018 interview with Goldmine, revealing that the song was inspired after he had lunch with Beach Boys co-founder Carl Wilson.

“I had toured with the Beach Boys and Carl Wilson invited me to his home in Beverly Hills for lunch, but two husky dogs knocked our intended meal to the floor,” he said. “Carl apologized, and I told him not to worry about it, as I have an Irish setter at home named Shannon, and it could have happened there, too. Then Carl got quiet. He said that he also had an Irish setter named Shannon and that she was hit by a car and killed a month ago. That was the inspiration for the song on Terry Cashman and Tommy West’s Lifesong label.”

Gross added that he continued to perform the song decades later at animal shelter openings and fundraisers.

The Beach Boys passed on the song

In an entry on his  official website, Gross shared that Wilson had invited him to his home to “spend a day talking guitars, cars, and rock and roll.” After Wilson’s two Alaskan husky dogs jumped on the counter and “inhaled” their lunch, the musicians exchanged stories about their Irish Setter dogs named Shannon.

Gross noted that he spent the rest of the day with Wilson jamming and driving around, and the hit song was ultimately born following their special day together.

In an interview with Vintage Guitar, Gross revealed that he originally wrote “Shannon” for Wilson. “I wrote the song for him, recorded it on one of the first Sony cassette machines, and sent it to him,” he said. “At the end, Shannon howled. It was really charming and corny. But the Beach Boys didn’t cut it.”

“Later, I was rehearsing in L.A. and ran into Carl. He said, 'Henry, I heard your song on the radio. It sounded so much better than that tape you sent me,’” Gross recalled. “I thought, ‘What a weird thing to say.’ My tape was a voice, a guitar, and a cassette machine! Then I figured out what he meant when he was in Nashville doing demos with a friend of mine. He was using 24 tracks and every musician you’d use on a record, and it sounded incredible! I thought, ‘No wonder he didn’t get it.’”

A radio rant

The popularity of Gross’s song “Shannon” got the attention of radio legend Casey Kasem—and it even prompted a tirade so massive that it had to be cut from Kasem’s American Top 40 radio show.

According to Grantland, after a listener requested that Kasem play “Shannon,” the famous radio host introduced the sad song as one “about a situation that we can all understand, whether we have kids, or pets, or neither.” Casem said the listener wanted to dedicate the song to his late pup, Snuggles.

Casem had been forced to segue into “Shannon” from the up-tempo Pointer Sisters song “Dare Me,”  and it rattled him, causing him to flub his take multiple times.

In leaked audio from Kasem’s expletive-filled radio rant, he was heard complaining, “When you come out of those up-tempo g--damn numbers, man, it’s impossible to make those transitions, and then you gotta go into somebody dying.”

“You know, they do this to me all the time,” he ranted in the radio outtake. “I don’t know what the hell they do it for, but if we can’t come out of a slow record, I don’t understand. Is Don on the phone? OK. I want a g--damn concerted effort to come out of a record that isn’t a f---in’ up-tempo record every time I do a g--damn death dedication … I want somebody to use his f---in’ brain to not come out of a goddamn record that is, uh, that’s up-tempo, and I gotta talk about a f---in’ dog dying.”

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You have a job where you're sitting at the computer all day, and your body is begging for more movement — or, at least, to stand. That's where walking pads and standing desks enter the chat. Walmart is selling both of those items at incredible rates, such as the Edx Electric Standing Desk for 49% off, so that you can fit your standing goal throughout the day. 

The furniture, which originally cost $130, has been reduced to $66 in the smallest (40-by 24-inch) size. The rest of the three sizes offered are also on sale, with the biggest size at 63 by 24 inches. Make sure to measure your living area before purchasing to see which size works best in your space. The desk is sold in four colors: oak, black, rustic brown, and white. 

Edx Electric Standing Desk, From $66 (was $130) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

The range in which you can adjust your standing desk is between 28.35 inches and 46.46 inches. There are three memory buttons that allow you to save your preferred heights, as well as a button to lock in the height, and up and down buttons to alter the height. The LED display tells you the accurate height for clarity. The rectangular desk can hold up to 154 pounds and provides ample space for laptops, monitors, and more. 

One of the best attributes this desk offers is that it's quiet, under 55 decibels, so you can maneuver it without significant sound. Assembly is required, but the package comes with instructions and installation tools. Shoppers said it took about two hours to put together and was not difficult to do. It features a metal base with a wooden top, so you just need to wipe it to clean properly. 

Related: Walmart’s 'Sturdy' $33 Rolling Clothes Rack Is a 'Great Option for Small Spaces'

With over 3,400 five-star ratings, customers described the desk as "durable," "spacious," and "smooth," adding that it's the "perfect" workspace. You can even place your walking pad underneath as several reviewers did. One shopper even utilized it as an entertainment table for their bed. 

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Whether you sit or stand throughout the workday, or both, this convenient standing desk will serve its purpose. Improve your daily life by purchasing the piece at Walmart now, while it's 49% off! 

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For generations, women have quietly—and sometimes boldly—defined the rhythms of our kitchens and dining rooms. From television pioneers who made technique feel approachable to cookbook authors who preserved regional traditions to first ladies who transformed policy on school nutrition, their influence reaches far beyond individual recipes. They helped transform home cooking from an obligation into a creative expression, shaped what we consider authentic, and elevated everyday meals into meaningful rituals. Through restaurants, media and publishing, they expanded the public's palate and invited new flavors, cultures and stories to the table.

Others reshaped the systems behind the scenes. Some pushed for more nutritious school meals and clearer food labeling; others advocated for sustainable farming, equitable labor practices and global culinary recognition. Together, these leaders changed not only what we eat but also how we source ingredients, who gets credit in professional kitchens, and what dining represents in our culture. Their legacy lives on in grocery aisles, kitchen goods, restaurant menus and the expectations we now carry about quality, access and representation in food.

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12 Food Trailblazers We're Celebrating for Women's History Month 2026

Let's talk about some of the most treasured female culinarians who continue to inspire us and bring magic to our tables.

1. Julia Child View this post on Instagram

It goes without saying that Julia Child absolutely must be on this list of inspiring female culinarians. She demystified French cuisine for American home cooks at a time when "gourmet" food felt inaccessible. Through Mastering the Art of French Cooking and her groundbreaking TV show The French Chef, she taught technique, precision and confidence. She pioneered the idea that serious cooking skills could belong in everyday kitchens, helping spark America's modern culinary awakening.

While there are endless dishes Child is known for, among her most famous are boeuf bourguignon, coq au vin, sole meuniere, French onion soup, chocolate mousse and her "perfect" French omelet. Not only did she bring French cooking to the United States, but her foundation, the Julia Child Foundation, promotes food literacy, supports culinary research and provides scholarships and professional development opportunities to non-profits.

2. Alice Waters View this post on Instagram

Alice Waters revolutionized American dining by centering menus around local, seasonal, sustainably grown ingredients. Opening the iconic Berkeley, Calif., restaurant Chez Panisse in 1971, she built direct relationships with farmers and helped define the farm-to-table movement. Her influence extends into school food reform through the Edible Schoolyard Project, reshaping how communities think about food systems.

Waters is known for her hyper-local and seasonal dishes, most notably her baked goat cheese salad that has remained a staple on her Chez Panisse menu. Additionally, shaved-vegetable salads, seasonal soups, baked salmon in fig leaves and fruit-based desserts, based on what's currently in season in California.

3. Edna Lewis View this post on Instagram

Edna Lewis preserved and elevated traditional Southern cooking rooted in Black agricultural traditions. She emphasized seasonality long before it was trendy, and documented recipes that honored cultural culinary practices with refinement and dignity. Her work reframed Southern cuisine as sophisticated and deeply connected to land and heritage.

Through her cookbooks in the '70s and '80s, notably The Taste of Country Cooking, The Edna Lewis Cookbook and In Pursuit of Cooking, Lewis brought us classic Southern recipes like fried chicken, cornbread, country ham with red-eye gravy, shrimp and grits, tomato sandwiches, watermelon rind pickles and peach cobbler.

4. Madhur Jeffrey View this post on Instagram

Madhur Jaffrey transformed Western understanding of Indian food by presenting it as nuanced, regional and home-based rather than restaurant-only fare. Her cookbooks and television appearances in the '70s and '80s made Indian ingredients and techniques accessible, paving the way for global appreciation of South Asian cuisine.

Her cookbooks brought us chicken tikka masala, tandoori chicken, chicken korma, green lentil curry, buttery dal cauliflower, spicy coconut shrimp and stir-fried pumpkin, and she taught us the importance of utilizing spice blends and aromatics to make Indian dishes shine.

Related: 10 Pizza Hut Items From the '90s That Need to Come Back (Especially the Bigfoot)

5. Marcella Hazan View this post on Instagram

Marcella Hazan reshaped Italian cooking outside Italy by focusing on simplicity and ingredient integrity. She taught Americans that authentic Italian food wasn't about heavy sauces, but about balance and restraint. Her precise, authoritative voice influenced generations of chefs and home cooks, standardizing how Italian cuisine is understood abroad.

She's most famous for her three-ingredient tomato sauce with onion and butter, roast chicken with lemon, bolognese sauce, classic meatballs and fish in "crazy water," a poached fish dish that showcases how simple, fresh dishes can shine with minimal ingredients.

6. Fannie Farmer View this post on Instagram

Fannie Farmer, known as "the mother of level measurements," modernized cooking by standardizing measurements in recipes, introducing level measuring cups and spoons as a scientific approach to baking and cooking. Her work professionalized domestic cooking education and made recipes more reliable, shaping how virtually all modern cookbooks are written.

In her trademark 1896 book, The Boston Cooking School Cookbook, also popularly known as The Fannie Farmer Cookbook, she transformed American cooking habits and became a staple in kitchens everywhere, offering detailed, scientific, and accurate recipes that folks could replicate at home.

7. Ruth Wakefield View this post on Instagram

While this name may not be familiar to you, Ruth Wakefield's invention of the chocolate chip cookie in the 1930s created one of the most iconic desserts in the world. Beyond the cookie itself, her partnership with Nestlé helped pioneer branded recipe marketing, influencing how food companies and home baking culture intersect. Without Ruth, we may never have had the most famous cookie everyone knows and loves.

Wakefield was a professionally trained dietitian and chef, and the co-owner of the Toll House Inn in Whitman, Massachusetts, who developed the cookie by incorporating chopped chunks of Nestlé semi-sweet chocolate bars into her trademark cookie dough. While they were originally called Toll House chocolate crunch cookies, the name was shortened to "chocolate chip cookies," and the recipe remains stamped on the back of Toll House chocolate chip packages to this day.

Related: The 'Magnificent' '90s Dessert From Little Caesars That Fans Still Can't Stop Talking About

8. Michelle Obama View this post on Instagram

Michelle Obama brought national attention to nutrition and childhood obesity through the Let's Move! initiative. By promoting healthier school lunches, home gardens and food education, she helped mainstream conversations about access to nutritious food and public health.

The White House Kitchen Garden became a powerful visual symbol. By planting and harvesting vegetables publicly, she helped normalize conversations about growing food, cooking at home and understanding where food comes from. School garden programs expanded during this period, and food literacy became part of mainstream conversations.

9. Ina Garten View this post on Instagram

Ina Garten redefined entertaining with relaxed elegance. Through her Barefoot Contessa cookbooks and television show, she emphasized approachable yet refined recipes, encouraging home cooks to host confidently. She shaped contemporary food media by blending warmth, simplicity and sophistication.

Garten encouraged home cooks to prioritize quality—good olive oil, fresh herbs, and proper seasoning—while removing the intimidation of hosting. By blending elegance with ease, she influenced grocery shopping habits, menu planning and the expectation that a thoughtfully prepared meal at home can rival a restaurant experience. She also constantly reminds us that preparing and gifting food is one of the best ways to express love and gratitude.

10. Padma Lakshmi View this post on Instagram

As the host of Top Chef, Padma Lakshmi helped elevate food television into a serious platform for culinary artistry and cultural storytelling. By spotlighting immigrant chefs and diverse cuisines, she has influenced which foods gain mainstream recognition and reshaped public understanding of American dining.

Beyond television, her writing and advocacy have encouraged diners to think more critically about culture, identity and equity in the restaurant industry, shaping a more inclusive understanding of what defines American food today.

11. Rachael Ray View this post on Instagram

Rachael Ray democratized cooking for busy households with her 30 Minute Meals concept. She made cooking feel fast, informal and achievable, influencing family mealtime culture, kitchen product branding and the rise of personality-driven food media.

Her conversational style, simplified techniques and emphasis on pantry staples influenced how grocery stores market convenience ingredients and how families plan weeknight meals. By prioritizing speed, accessibility and confidence over perfection, she helped redefine everyday cooking for a generation—that's a movement we can get behind.

12. Martha Stewart View this post on Instagram

Martha Stewart transformed the way we eat and cook by reshaping home cooking from a basic domestic task into an aspirational, creative, and brand-driven lifestyle.

Similar to Garten, Stewart made the concept of "gourmet at home" mainstream, elevated presentation as much as taste, turned domestic skills into a form of empowerment, professionalized home-cooking content with precise, polished recipes, influenced generations of food and television personalities, and built a multimedia food, cooking and lifestyle empire.

Related: 10 Canceled Food Network Shows We Still Miss (and Why They Ended)

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Cozy bedding definitely has its time and place. While we're looking ahead to spring, you may find that you still need a blanket to keep that cozy vibe going throughout the season. Something that's lighter than your standard winter fare yet still warm enough to do the job works best, as it provides just the right amount of comforting softness without weighing you down.

With its light and fluffy feel, the Bedsure GentleSoft Throw Blanket is one of the most practical spring blanket options available right now. It exudes that airy feeling that prevents it from feeling too overwhelming, but it doesn't sacrifice the soothing touch that you actually expect from a blanket. Retailing for up to $23 at Amazon, it's currently marked down in the off white version to just $13. There are 28 colors total, most of which are on sale.

Bedsure GentleSoft Throw Blanket, From $13 (was $23) at Amazon

Courtesy o

With its distinctive ribbed finish, this is one of those blankets that looks far more expensive than it actually is. Its low price point belies its inherently luxurious feel. The microfiber fabric has a gentle drape that feels substantial without being overly heavy, and that detail alone makes it the strongest blanket contender for the months ahead. It's perfect for setting at the foot of the bed or wrapping around yourself on cool evenings. 

Related: Amazon’s 'Super Cute' $24 2-Tier Under-Sink Organizer Is a 'Great Storage Hack'

Because it's so versatile, you can just as easily drape it over the back of the couch or toss it on a chair. The size is just right for curling up on movie nights, either solo or with the family. It exudes a restrained elegance with its rich texture, and it's available in an assortment of colors that range from soft neutrals to exuberantly bright shades. 

The polyester fabric may look elevated, but this blanket is remarkably easy to maintain. It's perfectly fine to toss it in the washing machine, without the risk of losing its color or fluff factor. One shopper dubbed it the "best blanket you will ever buy," adding that it's the "comfiest, dreamiest, most magical blanket" they've owned. Another person praised the "soft and fluffy" feel and added that it's "perfect for spring."

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It's rare to find an all-season piece as comfortable as the Bedsure GentleSoft Throw Blanket. It's made for year-round use, perfect for using on its own during warmer months and ideal for layering when it cools down. Now is the perfect time to stock up on the colors that you love!

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Get excited—there's another New York Times game to add to your daily routine! Those of us word game addicts who already play Wordle, Connections, Strands and the Mini Crossword now have Connections Sports Edition to add to the mix.

So, if you're looking for some hints and answers for today's Connections Sports Edition on Sunday, March 1, 2026, you've come to the right place.

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Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition puzzle for Sunday, March 1, 2026 / The New York Times

The New York Times

What Is Connections Sports Edition?

Connections Sports Edition is just like the regular Connections word puzzle, in that it's a game that resets at 12 a.m. EST each day and has 16 different words listed. It's up to you to figure out each group of four words that belong to a certain category, with four categories in total.

This new version is sports-specific, however, as a partnership between The New York Times and The Athletic.

As the NYT site instructs, for Connections Sports Edition, you "group sports terms that share a common thread."

Related: The 26 Funniest NYT Connections Game Memes You'll Appreciate if You Do This Daily Word Puzzle

Hints for Today's Connections Sports Edition Categories on March 1, 2026

Here are some hints about the four categories to help you figure out the word groupings.

• Yellow: Put money on one option.
• Green: Happenings on an NFL field.
• Blue: Think Billie Jean King.
• Purple: Not a meadow, but ...

Here Are Today's Connections Sports Edition Categories

OK, time for a second hint…we'll give you the actual categories now. Spoilers below!

• Yellow: BET
• Green: PRE-SNAP FOOTBALL MOTIONS
• Blue: TENNIS RACKET BRANDS
• Purple: ____ FIELD

If you're looking for the answers, no worries—we've got them below. So, don't scroll any further if you don't want to see the solutions!

The answers to today's Connections Sports Edition #524 are coming up next.

Related: 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day

What Are the Answers to Connections Sports Edition Today?

• BET: GAMBLE, RISK, STAKE, WAGER
• PRE-SNAP FOOTBALL MOTIONS: AUDIBLE, HARD COUNT, MOTION, SHIFT
• TENNIS RACKET BRANDS: BABOLAT, HEAD, PRINCE, WILSON
• ____ FIELD: PROGRESSIVE, RIGHT, SOLDIER, WRIGLEY

Don't worry if you didn't get them this time—we've all been there.

Up next, catch up on the answers to recent Wordle puzzles.

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Move over, Wordle, Connections, Connections Sports Edition, and Mini Crossword—there’s a new NYT word game in town! The New York Times' recent game, "Strands," is becoming increasingly popular as another daily activity fans can find on the NYT website and app.

With daily themes and "spangrams" to discover, this is the latest addictive game to cross off your to-do list before a new one pops up 24 hours later.

We'll cover exactly how to play Strands, hints for today's Spangram, and all of the answers for Strands #728 on Sunday, March 1.

How to Play Strands

The New York Times

According to the New York Times, here's exactly how to play Strands:

Find theme words to fill the board.

• Theme words stay highlighted in blue when found.
• Drag or tap letters to create words. If tapping, double-tap the last letter to submit.
• Theme words fill the board entirely. No theme words overlap.

Find the “spangram.”

• The spangram describes the puzzle's theme and touches two opposite sides of the board. It may be two words.
• The spangram highlights in yellow when found.
• An example spangram with corresponding theme words: PEAR, FRUIT, BANANA, APPLE, etc.

Need a hint?

• Find non-theme words to get hints.
• For every three non-theme words you find, you earn a hint.
• Hints show the letters of a theme word. If there is already an active hint on the board, a hint will show that word's letter order.

What Is Today's Strands Hint for the Theme: "Dressing down"

A hint for today's Strands game: Don't yell at me!

What Are Today's NYT Strands Hints?

Warning: Spoilers ahead!

In today's puzzle, there are six theme words to find (including the spangram). Here are the first two letters for each word:

• AD
• CA
• UP
• RE
• SC
• TH (SPANGRAM)

NYT Strands Spangram Hint: Is It Vertical or Horizontal?

Today's Spangram is mostly vertical.

NYT Strands Spangram Answer for March 1

Today's Spangram answer on Today's NYT 'Strands' Hints, Spangram and Answers for Sunday, March 1, 2026, is THERIOTACT.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Answers, Word List for Sunday, March 1?

• ADMONISH
• CASTIGATE
• UPBRAID
• REPRIMAND
• SCOLD
• SPANGRAM: THERIOTACT

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Paul Stanley, the man behind the iconic rock band KISS, joins the music community as they mourn the passing of the legendary Neil Sedaka.

The 74-year-old frontman commemorated the fellow music icon’s legacy by sharing a moving tribute on social media.

In a post on X, he shared a New York Times article announcing Sedaka’s death, accompanied by a message honoring the late singer-songwriter as a foundational figure in music.

Moreover, he also highlighted his works, celebrating the timeless impact they had in the industry.

Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley of KISS perform during their Sonic Boom Over Europe tour at Wembley Arena on May 12, 2010 in London, England.

“RIP Neil Sedaka. One of the Brill Building greats responsible for virtually everything on the radio before the “British Invasion”. Goffin&King, Mann&Weil, Barry&Greenwich, Sedaka&Greenfield. Hits later showed great songwriting never goes out of style,” he captioned his post.

https://t.co/k029zrGUCG RIP Neil Sedaka. One of the Brill Building greats responsible for virtually everything on the radio before the “British Invasion”. Goffin&King, Mann&Weil, Barry&Greenwich, Sedaka&Greenfield. Hits later showed great songwriting never goes out of style.

— Paul Stanley (@PaulStanleyLive) February 28, 2026

The respectful salute drew responses from fans who were also mourning Sedaka’s passing.

“True legend, whose music aged gracefully as he did,” a commenter said.

Fans also recognized Stanley for honoring the passing of a fellow music legend.

“I believe that a true musician appreciates other types of music even if it isn't their own style. Neil was a great songwriter and keyboard player, whether people like his music or not. Thanks, Paul, for acknowledging him,” one wrote.

On Friday, the “Calendar Girl” singer passed away at the age of 86.

The news was confirmed by his family, expressing how “devastated” they are by the passing of their beloved husband, father, grandfather and a “true rock and roll legend.”

"Our family is devastated by the sudden passing of our beloved husband, father and grandfather, Neil Sedaka," the Sedaka family shared in a statement as cited by PEOPLE. "A true rock and roll legend, an inspiration to millions, but most importantly, at least to those of us who were lucky enough to know him, an incredible human being who will be deeply missed."

Neil Sedaka performs live on stage at the Royal Albert Hall on September 18, 2017 in London, England.

Following the family’s statement regarding the passing, they are keeping other details private, including Sedaka’s cause of death.

Early reports suggested he suffered a sudden medical emergency Friday morning, leading to his being rushed to a hospital by ambulance, according to TMZ, which first broke the story.

Apart from his hit songs like "Oh! Carol” and "Happy Birthday Sweet Sixteen” and others he also wrote songs for other artists, including Connie Francis’ “Stupid Cupid” and “Everybody’s Somebody’s Fool” as well as Bobby Vee’s “Take Good Care of My Baby.”

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There's nothing quite as exhilarating as the feeling of completing the daily New York Times Wordle, Strands, Mini Crossword and Connections Sports Edition word games in one fell swoop. But sometimes that can be easier said than done. If you need help with today's Connections puzzle, keep reading.

Spoilers ahead! We've warned you. We mean it. Read no further until you really want some clues or you've completely given up and want the answers ASAP. Get ready for all of today's NYT 'Connections’ hints and answers for #994 onSunday, March 1, 2026.

Today's NYT Connections puzzle for Sunday, March 1, 2026 / New York Times

The New York Times

If you've been having trouble with any of the connections or words in Sunday's puzzle, you're not alone, and these hints should definitely help you out. Plus, I'll reveal the answers further down.

Related: The 26 Funniest NYT Connections Game Memes You'll Appreciate if You Do This Daily Word Puzzle

Hints About Today's NYT Connections Categories on Sunday, March 1

1. An amuse-bouche.
2. Essential tools for public works.
3. Symbols associated with taking a trip.
4. Think: edible, but not.

Related: 300 Trivia Questions and Answers to Jumpstart Your Fun Game Night

Ready for the answers? Scroll below this image (the image that represents your very appreciated patience!).

iStock

Today's Connections Game Answers for Sunday, March 1:

1. LITTLE BITE: CANAPE, FINGER FOOD, HORS D'OEUVRE, TAPA
2. CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT: HARD HAT, LADDER, NAIL GUN, TOOL BELT
3. VACATION EMOJI: AIRPLANE, LUGGAGE, PALM TREE, SMILING FACE WITH SUNGLASSES
4. THINGS YOU DON'T EAT THAT END IN FOODS: COPYPASTA, JOHANESBURGER, KNUCKLE SANDWICH, LICORICE PIZZA

How'd you do?

Up Next:

- 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day
- Hints, Clues and Answers to the NYT's 'Mini Crossword' Puzzle

Did You Miss a Few Days? Let's Catch You Up With Recent Connections Answers

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The day just isn't complete until I've solved all of the free word games from the New York Times, including Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Strands, and Mini Crossword. And, of course, I can’t forget about Wordle, too! If you’re stuck on today’s Wordle answer, we’re here to help—but beware of spoilers for Wordle #1716 ahead.

Let's start with a few hints.

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How many vowels are in today's Wordle?

There are two vowels in today's five-letter word.

What kind of letter does today's Wordle start with?

Today's Wordle begins with a consonant.

Are there any double letters?

There are no double letters in today's Wordle.

Can you give another hint about today's Wordle?

A hint for today's Wordle is: a mistake or a type of flounder.

OK, that's it for hints—I don't want to totally give it away before revealing the answer!

Related: 16 Games Like Wordle To Give You Your Word Game Fix More Than Once Every 24 Hours

We'll have the answer below this friendly reminder of how to play the game.

SPOILERS BELOW—do not scroll any further if you don't want the answer revealed.

The New York Times

Today's Wordle Answer for #1716 on Sunday, March 1, 2026.

Today's Wordle answer on Sunday, March 1, 2026, is FLUKE.

-If you missed it, catch up with the answer to yesterday’s Wordle.

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Riley Green is once again the topic of conversation, with fans speculating about his love life. After being at the center of endless dating rumors over the past two years, the 37-year-old country star was recently shown cozying up to someone who isn’t Ella Langley or Megan Moroney. 

This time, Green was videoed in an intimate setting with Carly Pearce, 35. 

However, the clip, shared on Pearce’s Instagram page, doesn’t suggest the two are in a romantic relationship, but rather appears to be one of several teases, promoting an upcoming collaboration between them. 

The First Tease 

In the initial post, which arrived earlier this month after Pearce wiped her social media feed clean, she is shown sitting on a bed in a light-pink satin nightgown. Pearce is solo for that particular visual, but follow-up clips clue fans in that she isn't alone. 

View this post on Instagram

The Kentucky native slowly peels back the curtain to reveal the special someone by her side. 

The Second Tease

“Tomorrow. 9:30 a.m.,” she captioned another Instagram post, which features her on video nursing a glass of red wine as a mystery man’s hand rubs her exposed leg. 

Video of Riley Green and Carly Pearce 

The third — and viral — clip, posted on Wednesday, Feb. 25, revealed that the person in the previous video was indeed Green.

View this post on Instagram

“Baby isn’t doing this, the definition of insane,” the caption reads alongside the clip, hinting at lyrics to Pearce's upcoming song. 

In the video, the pair harmonize while the “Worst Way” singer runs his fingers through Pearce’s hair and lovingly gazes at her, indicating that a duet is on the horizon. 

Reactions

The video quickly grabbed fans’ attention and sent shock waves through the country music community, with several fellow music artists chiming in on the comments section of Pearce’s post.  

“Yo,” Chase Matthew commented while Chuck Wicks added, “Ohhhhh s—t…no she didn’t.” 

The War and Treaty, The Band Perry’s Kimberly Perry, and rising artist Grace Leer also shared their own reactions, while fans flooded the comments with their own thoughts. 

“Was not ready for this,” someone wrote, while another person added, “Screaming, new collab!” 

“Are they dating now?”A third fan asked. 

Though the latest teases seem to point to a new song from Pearce in the near future, the timing of the posts makes everything even more interesting. Green recently appeared to be the inspiration behind Moroney’s latest album, Cloud 9, which arrived on Feb. 20. 

Green and Moroney never confirmed a romance, but he sparked even more attention when he seemed to respond to her album, by singing the lyrics like: “You can drag every letter of my name on a chain through the Mississippi mud / Tell all your friends, your mama and them that I’m a lying, cheating, stealing son of a gun,” while strumming an acoustic guitar and posting the clip to his Instagram page. More on that story can be found in Parade’s recent report. 

Pearce’s anticipated upcoming track does not yet have a release date, but it will follow her previous singles, "Dream Come True" and "Church Girl."

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Spring calls for clothing that moves with you, offers breathable coverage, and looks effortlessly put-together, whether you're curled up at home or stepping out for errands. The key is finding pieces that are comfy and stylish, and we found the perfect solution at Walmart. Right now, the retailer has its bestselling Mintreus Lounge Set marked down to as low as $18, a solid savings from its original $31 price tag. 

This set is a relaxed short-sleeved combo that you can wear in and out of the house all year-round. It has a top with a crew neckline and side slits, and is paired with comfortable long pants complete with an elastic waistband and handy side pockets.

Mintreus Lounge Set, From $18 (was $31) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Made from soft, lightweight rayon fabric, this set is the perfect balance between pajama comfort and street-ready style. The oversized fit and side slit details look great on all body types, while the high-stretch material ensures you can move freely without feeling restricted. Choose from an impressive 32 colors and prints, with sizes ranging from small to 2XL.

The Walmart find has racked up over 3,700 glowing five-star reviews, so it's obvious that shoppers adore this set. One customer raved that while it's great for relaxing at home, the "absolutely amazing" set can also be worn out with some smart styling. "Dress them up with a little bit of jewelry and a cute sandal, and I'm ready to go. I actually just ordered two more pairs in different colors. They're so buttery soft and cool."

This shopper isn't the only one who loved the set so much that they stocked up on multiple pairs: "The fabric is stretchy but not clingy. Very flattering as it does not show bumps or any imperfections. I get so many compliments on it. I have it in four colors."

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The rayon fabric gets particularly praise from customers for its subtle cooling effect, which is great for those who tend to run hot at times. As a bonus, the set is machine washable, so it'll be easy to maintain throughout countless wears in the years ahead.

For as low as $18, the Mintreus Lounge Set delivers serious value for a piece that can easily transition from bedtime to coffee runs. Grab your favorite color combination while it's marked down at Walmart. This can't-miss deal will only last for a limited time, and the loungewear duo may sell fast at this price!

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.