16 BEST BRANDS SIMILAR TO & OTHER STORIES

A few months ago, I discovered & Other Stories and quickly became obsessed with their romantic silhouettes, luxurious fabrics, and refined details. However, as someone who loves browsing new arrivals, I soon wanted more variety.

So, I started exploring similar brands that offer a comparable aesthetic with fresh styles to browse. After hours of online shopping, I found some fantastic alternatives that any & Other Stories fan would love. 

The best part? These brands deliver stylish options without the high price tag of luxury labels like Dior or Chanel, making them a more affordable yet fashionable choice.

FRANK AND OAK

Frank and Oak is a Canadian brand founded in 2012, known for stylish, eco-friendly essentials. They focus on versatile pieces like polos, trousers, and joggers made from sustainable fabrics such as eucalyptus, organic cotton, and recycled polyester, similar to & Other Stories’ eco-conscious materials. Their modern designs fit well with & Other Stories’ looks, while also catering to an active lifestyle. With sizes ranging from XXS to XXXL, they offer options for everyone, from petite to plus size.

Prices range from $50 to $150, making Frank and Oak a more affordable choice for those who value quality and ethics. Their focus on understated colors and prints also makes it easy to mix and match with any wardrobe. While they lean more toward casual athleisure, their commitment to sustainability aligns with & Other Stories’ values.

& Other Stories carefully curates brands that match their aesthetic and values. Whether you’re looking for playful prints, structured silhouettes, or everyday basics, these brands offer stylish options made from eco-friendly materials, with a focus on affordable luxury and feminine details.

Each brand brings its own unique style, but they all share & Other Stories’ dedication to sustainability, versatility, and accessible fashion. From Sezane’s Parisian-inspired pieces to Girlfriend Collective’s activewear, these brands provide thoughtfully designed clothes that expand your wardrobe with the same care as & Other Stories’ own collections.

In the end, & Other Stories is a great starting point for discovering new indie designers who offer romantic, long-lasting, and eco-friendly styles for your closet.

APIECE APART

Apiece Apart is an American brand founded in 2016 that focuses on minimalist, elegant separates. Their collection features structured blazers, trousers, and dresses in neutral tones, made from high-quality fabrics like Italian cashmere, French linen, and Portuguese wool that get softer over time. This focus on durable, long-lasting materials aligns with & Other Stories’ values.

Their feminine yet versatile designs easily transition from work to the weekend, with clean, tailored lines that pair well with & Other Stories’ more relaxed styles. Sizing runs from XXS to XL, and prices range from $100 to $300.

While Apiece Apart leans more toward structured and mature styles, it complements & Other Stories’ romantic pieces with timeless, polished looks ideal for an everyday wardrobe.

TENTREE

TENTREE is a Canadian brand founded in 2013 that focuses on sustainable, casual basics with an outdoorsy vibe. They use eco-friendly materials like organic cotton, recycled polyester, and plant-dyed fabrics, similar to & Other Stories’ selections.

Their pieces, like t-shirts, sweaters, and pants, are versatile enough for anything from hikes to everyday wear. With each purchase, TENTREE plants 10 trees, reflecting their strong commitment to sustainability, much like & Other Stories.

Sizes range from XS to XXL, and prices are affordable, around $50 to $100 per item. The relaxed yet refined styles blend effortlessly with & Other Stories’ wardrobe pieces.

Though TENTREE leans more toward athleisure, it shares & Other Stories’ focus on sustainability, offering comfortable, eco-friendly basics for any occasion.

EVERLANE

Everlane, an American brand founded in 2011, focuses on minimalist, versatile basics with a commitment to transparency in sourcing and production, similar to & Other Stories’ ethical approach. Their pieces, made from premium fabrics like cotton, cashmere, and leather, prioritize comfort and movement.

With prices ranging from $40 to $150, Everlane offers affordable, long-lasting clothing thanks to their direct-to-consumer model. Their simple, clean silhouettes mix well with & Other Stories’ more romantic styles, while their neutral color palettes make layering easy.

Available in sizes 00-14, with tall and petite options, Everlane provides ethically produced essentials that can build a flexible, eco-conscious wardrobe. Though more focused on minimalism, Everlane shares & Other Stories’ values of transparency and affordability, making them a great match for sustainable fashion lovers.

GIRLFRIEND COLLECTIVE

Girlfriend Collective, founded in 2016, is a sustainable American activewear brand that makes versatile pieces like leggings, sports bras, dresses, and jumpsuits from recycled materials, including plastic bottles. Their designs are flexible for movement while polished enough to go from yoga to brunch.

With inclusive sizing from XXS to 6X, Girlfriend Collective caters to all body types. Their modern colors and fabrics have a clean, minimalist look similar to & Other Stories. Prices range from $48 to $108, comparable to brands like Lululemon, but with a much lower environmental impact.

The brand focuses on flattering, well-fitting performance fabrics without the revealing style of some other activewear brands. Their pieces can be layered with & Other Stories’ dresses or worn alone for low-impact activities.

Although Girlfriend Collective is more focused on athleisure, they share & Other Stories’ commitment to sustainability, making them a great choice for an eco-friendly, size-inclusive wardrobe.

PRINCESSE TAM TAM

Princesse Tam Tam is a French brand founded in 1991, known for its feminine, bohemian-inspired clothing and accessories. Their styles feature airy prints, flowing silhouettes, ruffles, and nature-inspired details, echoing & Other Stories’ romantic vibe.

Using lightweight fabrics like cotton, silk, and linen, their pieces are designed for all-day comfort and movement. Items like maxi dresses, blouse dresses, and skirts can easily be dressed up or down for various occasions. Their unique prints, including floral, botanical, and celestial designs, add charm without being overly trendy.

The silhouettes are relaxed but often include flattering details like waist ties. Despite being based in France, their prices are quite affordable, ranging from $100 to $200.

Princesse Tam Tam offers a more bohemian alternative to & Other Stories, blending romantic styles with easygoing French country charm.

CHELSEA28

Chelsea28, founded in 2012, is a Canadian brand known for feminine blouses, dresses, and skirts. Their styles feature romantic elements like ruffles, puff sleeves, floral prints, and dreamy fabrics such as tulle and lace, similar to & Other Stories’ vintage-inspired look.

They use fabrics like vintage-wash cotton, linen, and silk, offering soft movement and comfort. Their pieces are versatile, easily dressed up or down, and perfect for mixing and matching.

With fit-and-flare shapes, peplums, and retro necklines, their designs add sweet, timeless touches. Sizes range from XXS to XL, flattering both petite and curvy figures. Prices range from $80 to $180, reflecting their focus on quality materials and attention to detail.

Chelsea28 captures the romantic essence of & Other Stories, offering unique prints and quality fabrics at a higher level of affordability, making it a great addition to any feminine wardrobe.

REFORMATION

Reformation is a Los Angeles-based sustainable brand known for its feminine dresses and separates. Their styles feature retro-inspired details like puff sleeves, ruffles, floral prints, and waist detailing, similar to & Other Stories’ romantic look.

They use fabrics like silk, linen, and recycled or organic materials that are designed to last and align with & Other Stories’ focus on eco-friendly fashion. Their pieces are flattering and versatile, with details like cut-outs, pleats, and feminine necklines adding interest without being too flashy.

Reformation’s styles are more form-fitting than & Other Stories’ but suit all body types, with sizes ranging from 00 to 26. Prices are higher, around $100 to $300 per piece, but items are often on sale.

Reformation’s commitment to sustainable, stylish fashion makes it a great match for & Other Stories, adding a romantic, retro touch to an eco-friendly wardrobe.

SEZANE

Sezane, a French brand founded in 2013, is known for its feminine, practical clothing with a Parisian flair. Their styles feature classic pieces like blazers, shift dresses, and skirt sets, often with subtle details like ruffles or floral embroidery.

They use high-quality fabrics such as linen, wool, cashmere, and silk that are designed to last, similar to & Other Stories’ focus on durable materials. Their pieces are versatile and can be dressed up or down for work or weekends, with a slightly looser fit that flatters curves. Sizes range from XXS to L.

Prices are a bit higher, around $100 to $300 per piece, but the quality of the fabrics and construction makes it worth it. Sezane offers a smaller, curated selection with limited drops, rather than constant new arrivals.

The brand’s clean aesthetic with pops of color and prints complements & Other Stories’ style, making it a great match for creating laid-back, luxurious looks.

& DAUGHTER

& Daughter is a small, independent London-based brand known for its feminine, flowing styles. Their clothes, featuring floral prints, ruffles, and tiered dresses, have a romantic, bohemian vibe similar to & Other Stories.

They use comfortable fabrics like linen, silk, and cotton, aligning with & Other Stories’ focus on luxury materials. Their pieces are versatile, easily transitioning from day to night, and include feminine details like puff sleeves and peplums without being too trendy.

Prices are affordable, ranging from $100 to $150 for dresses, tops, and pants, similar to & Other Stories. Although their sizing is limited to XS-L, their flowing fits flatter various body types.

& Daughter offers unique, romantic pieces with a handmade touch, making it a great option for fashion-forward shoppers who appreciate natural fabrics and feminine designs.

COS

COS, a sister brand of H&M, offers minimalist styles with a refined look and quality fabrics. Their aesthetic, which complements & Other Stories’ romantic style with a Scandinavian twist, includes flowing midi dresses, soft blouses, sleek trousers, and knitwear made from natural materials like linen, silk, and cashmere.

Their clean, neutral designs make it easy to mix and match pieces. COS focuses on comfort and versatility, with clothing that transitions well from day to night. Subtle feminine details, like ruffles and peplums, add a touch of elegance without being overly trendy.

Prices are surprisingly affordable, ranging from $50 to $150, offering great value for high-quality fabrics. COS’s investment pieces are designed to last and fit well with the more romantic pieces from & Other Stories.

COS is a great choice for those who appreciate understated, chic styles and want to mix minimalist basics with the more detailed items from & Other Stories.

MADEWELL

Madewell is a popular American brand known for its denim and versatile everyday clothing. Their styles match the refined simplicity of & Other Stories with comfortable, stylish fabrics.

You’ll find feminine blazers, cozy sweaters, dresses, and well-loved jeans at Madewell. Their pieces have effortless silhouettes with subtle details like ruffles and button accents. The denim is soft and feels comfortable right from the start.

Madewell offers wardrobe staples that work well together, such as blazers with skirts or jeans, and sweaters with skirts and dresses. Their carefully washed prints add a touch of visual interest.

Prices are reasonable, between $50 and $150, and their high-quality denim lasts through many washes. Madewell’s laid-back, casual style complements & Other Stories’ look, making it easy to mix and match with their more refined pieces.

ZARA

Zara is the most budget-friendly option on this list, offering stylish, on-trend pieces at affordable prices.Their collection includes many items that have a similar look to & Other Stories, such as blouses, dresses, skirts, and trousers made from good-quality fabrics. You’ll find flowy silhouettes, rich colors, and feminine details like ruffles, puff sleeves, and floral patterns. Though the materials are less expensive, the craftsmanship is still solid.

You can refresh your wardrobe with basics like blouses, tanks, and knits priced between $20 and $50. These items pair well with Zara’s jeans, skirts, and trousers. Zara also offers stylish dresses and jumpsuits for weekends and nights out.

Zara’s fast fashion model means new collections come out every two weeks, so there are always fresh styles to explore. This is great for trying out new colors, prints, and cuts without spending a lot.

While Zara’s pieces aren’t long-term investments, they allow you to achieve a similar romantic style to & Other Stories at a lower cost. Regular sales and markdowns provide excellent value for the price.

HALOGEN

Halogen, Nordstrom’s own fashion line, is a great choice for affordable yet stylish wardrobe essentials. Their minimalist style is similar to & Other Stories, featuring blouses, dresses, trousers, and sweaters made from quality fabrics like silk, cashmere, and wool. The designs include smooth lines and feminine details such as ruffle sleeves and peplum waists.

Halogen’s pieces are versatile and easy to mix and match for both work and casual wear. Flowy blouses and knit dresses can be paired with loafers or heels, while tailored trousers work well from the office to dinner. The neutral colors make it easy to create various outfits.

Prices for most items range from $50 to $100, offering good quality without breaking the bank. Halogen’s fashion-forward designs provide great value, making it easy to build a polished wardrobe inspired by & Other Stories.

ARITZIA

Aritzia, a popular Canadian retailer, is a great alternative to & Other Stories with a similar stylish vibe. Their collections, especially from the Wilfred line, offer luxe fabrics and feminine silhouettes that match & Other Stories’ romantic and modern style. You’ll find cozy knitwear, flattering pants, and floaty dresses perfect for any season.

Aritzia uses high-quality materials like cashmere, silk, and wool, similar to & Other Stories. Their pieces work well for both day and night, making it easy to transition from work to evening wear.

Prices range from $50 to $150, which is affordable for the quality. Aritzia provides stylish, long-lasting pieces that fit well into a & Other Stories-inspired wardrobe. From elegant loungewear to office-ready outfits, their collections are definitely worth checking out.

MANGO

Mango is a great brand that offers a similar style to & Other Stories. Known for its affordable and trendy clothing, Mango features feminine silhouettes, playful prints, and rich colors. You’ll find romantic blouses, knit and wrap dresses, skirts, and trousers made from lightweight fabrics, just like & Other Stories.

Details like ruffles, puff sleeves, and floral patterns add a feminine touch without being overly girly. Mango’s pieces also transition easily from day to night with just a change of shoes or accessories.

Prices are budget-friendly, with many items costing under $100. Mango frequently updates its inventory, so you’ll always find new styles to explore. For a stylish, affordable alternative to & Other Stories, Mango is a top choice for feminine and sophisticated clothing.

CONCLUSION

Whether you’re a fan of & Other Stories’ minimalist aesthetic, its trendy pieces, or its commitment to sustainability, there are plenty of brands out there that offer similar vibes. From affordable options like H&M and Zara to more upscale labels like COS and Reformation, there’s a brand for every style and budget. So, explore these 16 brands and discover your next favorite fashion find!

16 TRENDY NIGHT OUT OUTFITS TO WEAR THIS WEEKEND AND BEYOND

Calling all weekend warriors and party peeps! It’s time to dust off your glad rags and hit the town. Whether you’re dancing the night away at a club, catching up with friends at a bar, or attending a swanky event, looking your best is half the fun. This guide dives into 16 of the hottest night-out outfit trends that are guaranteed to turn heads and make you feel confident. We’ve got all styles covered, from glam dresses to chic pantsuits, so get ready to find the perfect look for your next adventure!

SATIN EVERYTHING 

Satin is having a major moment, and it’s the perfect fabric to add instant sophistication to your night-out look. Slip into a bias-cut satin dress that drapes beautifully over your curves, or embrace a strong silhouette with a satin pantsuit. For a touch of edge, try a satin slip dress layered over a crisp white shirt or a cool graphic tee. Satin separates are also a great option – pair a satin skirt with a crop top or a bustier for a flirty vibe, or rock a satin bomber jacket over jeans and a cami for a more laid-back yet undeniably chic look. No matter how you wear it, satin guarantees a touch of old-school Hollywood glamour that will make you shine all night long.

FLORAL BLOUSE AND MOM JEANS

The classic floral blouse gets a trendy upgrade when paired with relaxed mom jeans. This playful combo is perfect for a casual night out or drinks with friends. Choose a floral blouse with a statement sleeve, like a puff or ruffle detail, to add a touch of femininity. Tuck the blouse partially into your jeans for a flattering silhouette, or leave it loose for a more relaxed vibe. Keep the footwear versatile – heels will elevate the look for a night out, while sneakers or cute flats are perfect for a more casual setting. Accessorize with a statement necklace or bold earrings to tie the outfit together. This look is all about effortless chic, making it perfect for those evenings where you want to look put-together but still feel comfortable and carefree.

SWEATER DRESS

Cozy never looked so chic! Sweater dresses are a fantastic option for a night out, offering both comfort and style. The key to pulling off this look is choosing the right dress for the vibe. Bodycon sweater dresses in rich jewel tones or with interesting textures like cable knit add a touch of glamour, perfect for a club night or a special occasion. For a more casual night out, opt for a looser-fitting sweater dress with a chunky knit or a midi length. Layer a turtleneck sweater dress under a statement blazer for a polished yet comfortable look. Accessorize with tights, booties, and a statement necklace to elevate your sweater dress from cozy to night-out ready.

TIED UP CROP TOP 

Channel your inner trendsetter with a tied-up crop top for your next night out. This versatile piece offers a ton of styling options to match your vibe. Want something flirty and feminine? Pair a cute floral or patterned tie-up crop top with a high-waisted skirt or wide-leg pants. Feeling bold? Rock a sleek black or metallic tie-up top with a leather mini skirt or high-waisted jeans. For a touch of the unexpected, layer a tie-up crop top over a flowy slip dress or a button-down shirt with the sleeves rolled up. The adjustable ties allow you to customize the amount of skin you show, making this a great option for all comfort levels. Don’t forget to play with accessories – a chunky chain necklace or statement earrings can add the perfect finishing touch to your tied-up crop top look.

CROP TOP WITH MIDI SKIRT

The crop top and midi skirt combo is a night-out staple for a reason. It strikes the perfect balance between showing some skin and maintaining a touch of elegance. Choose a fitted or flared midi skirt depending on your desired silhouette. A bodycon midi skirt pairs beautifully with a looser crop top, while a flowy midi skirt looks stunning with a more fitted crop top. Play with textures and patterns – a silky midi skirt with a sequined crop top adds instant glamour, while a denim midi skirt with a graphic tee crop top keeps things cool and casual. This outfit is endlessly versatile, allowing you to dress it up with heels and statement jewelry or dress it down with sneakers and a denim jacket.

ONE-SHOULDER TOP

The one-shoulder top is a night-out must-have for its ability to flatter and add a touch of drama. This asymmetrical silhouette draws attention to your shoulders and collarbone, making it perfect for showing off your décolletage. Choose a sleek satin one-shoulder top for a sophisticated look, or embrace a playful vibe with a ruffled or off-the-shoulder detail. Pair your one-shoulder top with high-waisted pants or a fitted skirt for a balanced look. Want to add some edge? Try a one-shoulder top in a bold color or metallic fabric. This statement piece allows you to keep the rest of your outfit simple, letting the top take center stage. Don’t forget to accessorize with a statement earring on the exposed shoulder for an extra touch of flair.

LINGERIE BODYSUIT 

Lingerie bodysuits are a daring choice for a night out, offering a sultry and confident look that’s perfect for turning heads. Key to this trend is choosing a bodysuit that feels appropriate for the setting. Lace or mesh bodysuits with intricate detailing are ideal for club nights or special occasions, while opaque bodysuits in richer fabrics can work for a more dressed-up dinner or bar outing. The beauty of the lingerie bodysuit is its versatility – wear it solo for a bold statement, or layer it under a blazer or kimono for a touch of intrigue. Pair it with high-waisted jeans or a skirt for a complete look. No matter how you style it, a lingerie bodysuit is guaranteed to make you feel confident and undeniably sexy.

BABY DOLL TANK WITH WHITE JEANS

A babydoll tank and white jeans can create a sweet and effortlessly chic look for a casual night out. The key is to elevate the outfit with a few key touches. Choose a babydoll tank with interesting details like lace trim, embroidery, or a smocked bodice to add a touch of femininity. Play with textures – a silk or satin babydoll tank adds a touch of luxury, while a crocheted or eyelet tank offers a more bohemian vibe. To balance the sweetness of the babydoll silhouette, keep the white jeans sleek and fitted. High-waisted white jeans will elongate your legs and flatter your figure. Complete the look with statement heels or mules for a dressier touch, or keep it casual with cute sandals or sneakers.

MONOCHROMATIC APPROACH

This timeless trend involves wearing different shades and tones of a single color, creating a look that’s both polished and effortlessly chic. Play with textures to add visual interest – combine a silk slip dress with a leather jacket, or pair a chunky knit sweater with sleek satin pants. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different shades within the same color family – a deep burgundy top with burgundy wine pants adds depth, while a light pink top with a dusty rose skirt offers a softer look. Accessorize with pops of color in your shoes, jewelry, or bag to add personality. The monochromatic approach is a flattering and versatile choice for any night-out occasion.

CASUAL ARTIST TOP 

Infuse your artistic spirit into your night-out look with a casual artist top. This isn’t your typical button-down – think relaxed silhouettes, bold prints, or unique textures. An oversized linen shirt with paint splattered patterns is perfect for a summer night out, while a flowy chiffon blouse with a dramatic ruffled neckline adds a touch of whimsy. Graphic tees with artistic prints or band shirts showcasing your favorite artists can also be a fun way to express your individuality. To elevate the look for the evening, pair your artist top with dressier bottoms like a high-waisted midi skirt or sleek leather pants. Accessorize with statement jewelry or a bold clutch to pull the outfit together. This look is perfect for those who want to express their creativity and stand out from the crowd.

FLORAL TANK DRESS

A floral tank dress is a summertime staple that effortlessly transitions into a breezy night-out outfit. The key to transforming this dress from daytime casual to evening chic lies in the details. Choose a dress with a flattering silhouette – a flowy A-line dress is universally flattering, while a fitted bodice with a full skirt adds a touch of drama. Opt for a floral print in a richer color palette, like jewel tones or darker florals, for a more sophisticated look. Elevate the outfit with statement accessories – a chunky gold necklace, sparkling chandelier earrings, or a bold clutch can add instant glamour. Heels will instantly dress up the look, while sandals or wedges offer a more relaxed vibe.

SIMPLE BLACK JEANS 

The humble black jean remains a night-out hero for its endless versatility and ability to be dressed up or down. The key to creating a standout look with black jeans lies in the details of what you pair them with. For a sleek and sophisticated vibe, try a silk cami or a bodysuit tucked in with a statement belt. Feeling a little bolder? Go for a cropped leather jacket or a sequined top for a touch of glamour. Black jeans also work beautifully with dressier tops like a satin blouse or a ruffled off-the-shoulder top. Play with footwear – heels elevate the look for a night out, while boots add a touch of edge, and booties offer a versatile in-between option. No matter your style preference, there’s a black-jean night-out outfit waiting to be created.

A ROMPER OR JUMPSUIT

Rompers, with their shorts silhouette, offer a flirty and fun option, perfect for warm summer nights or dancing the night away. They come in a variety of styles, from dressy lace rompers to playful printed ones. Jumpsuits, on the other hand, provide a more sophisticated and polished look. They come in a wide range of styles too, from sleek and tailored jumpsuits for a fancy dinner to flowy wide-leg jumpsuits for a more relaxed feel. Consider comfort as well – rompers offer more leg freedom, while jumpsuits can provide a more secure and covered-up feeling. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal preference and the specific occasion!

LEATHER SKIRT

Leather skirts are a timeless night-out staple, adding a touch of edgy sophistication to your look. The key to rocking a leather skirt for nighttime fun lies in playing with silhouettes and textures. A classic mini skirt in black leather creates a bold and confident statement, perfect for pairing with a silk blouse or a statement tee. For a more unique look, explore different skirt lengths – a midi skirt in a rich brown leather feels effortlessly polished, while a maxi skirt with a side slit adds a touch of drama. Don’t be afraid to experiment with textures – a buttery soft leather skirt feels luxurious, while a distressed leather skirt adds a touch of rock-and-roll edge. To balance the edgy vibe of leather, pair your skirt with feminine details like a lace cami or a ruffled blouse.

SILK MIDI DRESS

A silk midi dress is the epitome of effortless night-out elegance. The luxurious drape of silk combines with the universally flattering midi length to create a silhouette that’s both comfortable and undeniably chic. It’s a versatile option that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. For a glamorous look, choose a bias-cut dress that skims your curves or a halter neck style that shows off your shoulders. Keep accessories minimal and let the dress be the star of the show. For a more casual vibe, opt for a looser-fitting silhouette with a square neckline or short sleeves. Add a denim jacket or a leather moto jacket for a touch of edge, or layer a chunky knit cardigan over the dress for a cozy yet put-together look.

TROUSERS

Trousers are a fantastic option for a night out, offering a chic and polished alternative to dresses. The key to creating a standout look with trousers is choosing the right style and pairing them with complementary pieces. For a classic and sophisticated vibe, go for high-waisted tailored trousers paired with a silk cami or a tucked-in blouse. Feeling bold? Opt for a wide-leg trouser in a vibrant color or a metallic fabric for a head-turning statement. Trousers also work beautifully with statement tops like a sequined crop top or a ruffled off-the-shoulder blouse. Play with textures by pairing a flowy silk blouse with sleek satin trousers, or create a cool contrast with a chunky knit sweater over cigarette pants.

CONCLUSION

So there you have it – 16 sizzling night-out outfit ideas to take you from dance floor to dinner date and everywhere in between! Remember, fashion is all about expressing yourself and having fun. Don’t be afraid to experiment, mix and match trends, and create a look that makes you feel confident and fabulous. Now get out there and shine!