wash and go gel

FLUFFY SLIME RECIPE: EASY AND BORAX-FREE

Fluffy slime is a favorite among slime enthusiasts!

This recipe is borax-free, using baking soda and contact lens solution to activate the slime. The addition of shaving cream gives it that irresistibly fluffy texture.

This slime was the first in our collection of easy slime recipes for kids. We now have a variety of fun slime ideas, so be sure to explore and save your favorites for later!

Keep reading or watch the video below to see just how fun and simple it is to make this slime recipe!

Easy Fluffy Slime

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Please ensure adult supervision when making or playing with slime, and always follow the slime safety guidelines listed at the bottom of this page.

Fluffy Slime Ingredients

  • 1 cup glue
  • 3 cups shaving cream
  • 1 tablespoon baking soda
  • 2-3 tablespoons contact lens solution
  • Food dye or acrylic paint (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional; improves smoothness)
  • 2 tablespoons lotion (optional; increases stretchiness)

Fluffy Slime Basics

Before you make fluffy slime, there are a few important things to keep in mind. If it’s your first time creating fluffy slime, be sure to read all the tips and notes below before you get started.

WHAT IS FLUFFY SLIME?

You might be curious about what exactly fluffy slime is. Fluffy slime is just what it sounds like: a fluffy, stretchy slime that’s incredibly fun to play with. Its signature fluffiness comes from the addition of shaving cream.

FLUFFY SLIME NOTES

First, make sure you’re using shaving cream for this recipe, as shaving gel won’t provide the same level of fluffiness.

Second, since this recipe doesn’t use borax, your contact lens solution must contain boric acid. If it doesn’t, it won’t activate the slime, so be sure to check the ingredient list before purchasing any solution.

For this recipe, I used the Target brand Up & Up Clear Comfort Multi-Purpose Solution, which contains boric acid and is more affordable than name-brand options.

Elmer’s has also introduced a convenient product called Magical Liquid, which replaces both the baking soda and contact lens solution, allowing for fewer ingredients.

While I use non-name brands for the contact lens solution, I recommend sticking with Elmer’s glue. If you plan to make a lot of slime (trust me, your kids will love it), consider purchasing Elmer’s glue in a gallon size. We have both the standard and clear gallon jugs on hand.

How To Make Fluffy Slime

Add the glue to the bowl. For this recipe, we used regular Elmer’s glue.

Add the shaving cream, cornstarch, and color additive to the mixture. We used food dye to color the slime, but you can also use acrylic paint.

Note: The cornstarch is optional, but it will help give the slime a smoother texture. If you don’t have any on hand, don’t worry! However, if you do, I recommend giving it a try.

Mix the ingredients thoroughly, then add the baking soda and contact lens solution to the bowl.

Use a fork to mix the baking soda and contact lens solution into the slime batter.

After mixing, use your hands to start kneading the slime batter. You can dip your fingers in the contact lens solution to reduce stickiness.

Note: Fluffy slime can be quite messy at this stage. It may get all over your hands, and if you’re new to making slime, you might worry that you did something wrong. Don’t panic! Continue to knead, pull, and work the slime until it begins to stick to itself and come off your hands. For us, this took about 3 minutes of kneading.

You can stop here and start playing with the slime, or you can choose to add lotion to enhance its stretchiness. Keep in mind that adding lotion will also introduce moisture, making the slime sticky again. Don’t worry; just keep mixing, pulling, and playing with the slime, and it will return to its original texture.

That’s it!

I can’t express how much fun my kids have when we make slime! It’s a blast for both kids and adults to play with!

If you encounter any issues, be sure to check out the following section on troubleshooting fluffy slime problems.

Keep in mind that this slime will lose its fluffiness over time (it typically lasts about a day or two), so I recommend making it on the same day you plan to use it.

Fluffy Slime Troubleshooting

Q: What do I do if my slime is too sticky?

A: When you first begin kneading the fluffy slime, it will be quite sticky. This is completely normal, so don’t worry! As you mix, knead, and pull it apart, it will start to stick to itself and form the slime. If, after a couple of minutes, it’s still very sticky, add a bit more contact lens solution (one to two teaspoons at a time). Make sure to fully incorporate the newly added solution before adding more.

Q: Can you make fluffy slime with shaving gel?

A: Technically, yes, you can make fluffy slime with shaving gel. However, I believe shaving cream yields a much fluffier and less sticky slime, so I recommend sticking with shaving cream every time for the best results.

Q: I added the contact lens solution to the mixture, but it never made slime. What’s wrong?

A: First, ensure that your contact lens solution contains boric acid, as this is essential for making slime. If it doesn’t contain boric acid, it won’t work. If your solution does contain boric acid but the slime isn’t forming properly, you may need to add more to the mixture. Add it a little at a time (2 teaspoons to 1 tablespoon), mix thoroughly, and then reassess the consistency.

Q: Why is my fluffy slime stiff and breaking?

A: You likely added too much activator (either baking soda, contact lens solution, or both). Sometimes, adding a bit of lotion can help make the slime stretchier, but if you really overdid the activator, you might need to start over.

Slime Safety

Please ensure that an adult supervises children while they play with slime. It’s important to communicate to your child that this type of slime is not edible. If any part of the slime is ingested, seek medical advice immediately.

Parents or another responsible adult should always make the slime. This type of slime is not suitable for children aged 3 and younger.

If your child has sensitive skin, consider using gloves while playing with the slime or monitor them to ensure the slime doesn’t cause any irritation.

Always remind your child to wash their hands after playing with slime.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, making fluffy slime is a fun and engaging activity for kids (and adults!) that encourages creativity and sensory play. By following this simple recipe and keeping safety guidelines in mind, you can create a delightful and fluffy slime that will provide hours of entertainment. Remember to supervise children during play, ensure they understand the slime is not edible, and encourage good hygiene practices afterward. Enjoy the process and the fun of squishy, stretchy slime!

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!