News: Weekend: Stove, what kind of name is that?

Sunday, July 23, 2023

Weekend: Stove, what kind of name is that?

Daily Skimm

"14 rolls"

— The amount of duct tape one contest winner used to make an 18th century-inspired prom dress. Pretty duct-ing impressive.

Eyes On

Social Media Filters

The Story

TikTok is making people do a double take.

What now?

The app's "Aged" filter is giving users the chance to face the future — by estimating what they could look like when they're older, in real time. It's already been used in over 9 million TikTok videos, and those with the hashtag #agedfilter have 350 million views and counting. No surprise, it's also generating some strong reactions. While some are embracing what the future holds, others are making a beeline for the closest Sephora. That's to be expected given Americans' views on aging.

Not great, right?

You said it. According to one poll, more than 40 percent of women between the ages of 25 and 44 "regularly" worry about the signs of aging. That might explain why the market for anti-aging products reportedly reached $5.3 billion last year. And while these filters aren't new (see: Snapchat and FaceApp), the technology behind them has advanced, thanks to — you guessed it — AI. That means Aged may be more accurate, but as some experts have also pointed out, it could come with risks: Some studies have shown that filters can increase anxiety, negatively impact body image, and could trigger body dysmorphia. Not to mention that some plastic surgeons have noticed a rise in minimally invasive "tweakments" because of filters.

theSkimm

Extremely realistic filters may be entertaining, at least on their face. But it's yet another example of tech's potentially harmful impacts. Something to keep in mind as you're scrolling.

What's Happening

📰 In news…

A federal judge overseeing the classified docs case against former President Trump decided it'll begin in May. Meanwhile, NFL owners OK'd the sale of the Washington Commanders, ending the often controversial Dan Snyder era. The outgoing leader was also fined a record $60 million, after an investigation corroborated allegations of sexual harassment and financial misconduct.

📈 In business…

While the Twitter logo could soon be leaving the nest, Apple is apparently testing a new chatbot in an attempt to take a bite out of ChatGPT. That's as OpenAI and six other tech companies committed to meeting new AI safety and security standards. Oh and the gender pay gap is now the narrowest in history — though, there's still a long way to go.

🩺 In health…

Don't have time to exercise during the week? Turns out, weekend-only workouts may be just as beneficial for heart health. Speaking of good habits, volunteering could help prevent cognitive decline in older adults. Same with hearing aids — which are now apparently "cool." Plus, a solution for nail-biting may be at your fingertips.

Bookmark'd

Here's a look at the reads we've saved, texted, and emailed to our friends…

Meet the Chefs Who Feed Beyoncé and Lizzo on Tour…from organic purple popcorn to trucks that just transport ramen, chefs dish about life on the road.

How I Survived a Wedding in a Jungle That Tried To Eat Me Alive…destination weddings can be a big undertaking — particularly when you have to pack survival skills.

Why Your 20s Can Be the Loneliest Decade of Your Life…if your group of pals doesn't look like "New Girl" or "Friends," you're not alone.

Is Dr. Bronner's the Last Corporation With a Soul?...how a quirky family-owned company bubbled up into a big business, without losing its "vibey values."

Skimm Picks

Here are today's recs to help you live a smarter life…

1. A lightweight vacuum that'll do the dirty work for you.

This shapeshifting vacuum transforms into a handheld that weighs less than three pounds. Plus, it comes with a crevice tool, self-cleaning brush, and HairPro pet power brush. The best part? It's $70 off right now.*

Don't wait

2. What to buy from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale.

Some of our picks are already sold out, so build your ideal fall wardrobe while you still can.

Shop now

3. Our favorite wine subscriptions and accessories.

Wind down this Sunday by buying a few new items for your bar cart.

Cheers

Psst...looking for more discounts on brands Skimm'rs love? Check out all of our exclusive promo codes here.

Sunday Scaries, Who?

Here's one tip for a better start to your week.

Turns out, "Barbenheimer" isn't the only picture-perfect movie pairing. Whether you want something that'll make you laugh, cry, or all of the above, there are plenty of ways to make movie night twice as nice. So grab your favorite snack and pause the Sunday scaries with...

"A Few Good Men" and "Erin Brockovich." One is about a military lawyer who has to defend two US Marines charged with murder, while the other is about a legal assistant who helped hundreds of Californians take on a giant utility. The verdict? Both are courtroom dramas you won't object to.
"La La Land" and "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood." Set your sights on the Golden Age of Hollywood with these two movies. "La La Land" follows two struggling artists who fall in love — and sing and dance about it. While "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood" focuses on a darker side of Tinseltown.
"About Time" and "The Time Traveler's Wife." There's always time for Rachel McAdams. But the same can't be said for her characters, at least in these movies. Both romance films follow young couples racing against the clock, in some surprising ways.
"Bridesmaids" and "Girls Trip." If you've ever taken a trip with your crew — literally or figuratively — you know two things are practically guaranteed: big laughs and even bigger shenanigans. That's true for these two movies, as two groups of women find themselves in some sticky situations.
"Us" and "Parasite." Two terrifyingly good psychological thrillers that center around families — and the secrets they hide. Both are perfect for horror fans, and yes, watching with the lights on is acceptable.
"Pride & Prejudice" and "Emma." Calling all Jane Austen fans. Unlike "Clueless" these films are relatively straightforward Austen adaptations that follow young women looking for love, while also navigating the expectations that come with social status. Pro tip: If you have any sense and sensibility, you'll watch them with a sweet spread.
"Wild" and "Nomadland." Go on an adventure with the protagonists of these two films. After some heart-wrenching experiences, both women take their troubles on different solo journeys. Along the way, they find more than they expected.

Save the Date

Like ours, your work and personal calendars are probably hectic. So here are some events you should know about...

The British Open — and golf's major season — putts to a close.

The USWNT faces the Netherlands in its second game at the Women's World Cup. Ready, set, root.

Expect a starry, starry night as the Delta Aquarids Meteor Shower reaches its peak.

PS: Want more events like this on your cal? theSkimm App gives you a heads-up on when everything from holidays to sports games to awards shows are going down. Download it here.

A Skimm'r Story

Anyone with a group chat knows that sometimes the best advice comes from your friends and community. So we're asking Skimm'rs to share their advice on things in life that have worked for them. Next up: we're getting a little intimate.