💌 linen dresses for spring, rice krispie recipe, pricier weddings

TODAY IS THURSDAY, ARPIL 24

WHAT TO EXPECT

• stories: pricier weddings, bubble shorts, healing your gut after antibiotics
• this week’s read: The Persistent
• recent articles: Linen dresses for Spring
• quote: on life’s experiences
• add to cart: for the love of florals
• recipes to try: rice krispie treats
• ICYMI

LIFESTYLE: COUPLES BRACE FOR PRICIER WEDDINGS
Weddings in the U.S. could soon get even pricier as tariffs drive up the cost of imported goods like flowers, dresses, wine, and décor. Since much of what’s used in weddings is sourced internationally, everything from floral arrangements to bridesmaid dresses is seeing a spike in cost, prompting engaged couples to book early and stock up. Florists and vendors are already noticing higher prices and are cautiously adding clauses to contracts to cover potential hikes. While love may be free, the price of saying “I do” is rising—leading some couples to consider smaller guest lists, elopements, or scaled-back celebrations.

FASHION: CONTROVERSIAL SHORTS TREND IS RISING IN POPULARITY
Bubble shorts are the latest (and most talked-about) trend bubbling up just in time for summer. Inspired by the voluminous bubble skirts that dominated the Spring/Summer 2024 runways, these playful shorts are now taking center stage in 2025 collections from designers like Chloé and LaQuan Smith. Made from soft cotton, silk, or satin, and defined by their rounded hem and flexible waistband, bubble shorts blend comfort with statement-making style. Whether worn high-waisted or slouched low, they offer a fresh alternative to your usual summer staples. With fashion insiders styling them with everything from cropped blouses to utility jackets, it's clear this silhouette is here to make waves—love it or hate it.

WELLNESS: HEALING YOUR GUT AFTER TAKING ANTIBIOTICS
Antibiotics are good fixes when you’re dealing with some sort of infection, but did you know they can heavily disrupt your gut health? They have the ability to kill off both harmful and beneficial bacteria, which can lead to symptoms like diarrhea, cramping, bloating, and even appetite loss. This imbalance is known as gut dysbiosis & can leave your digestive system super vulnerable (especially with broad-spectrum antibiotics). The great news is that your diet can help restore balance! If your daily intake begins to include foods rich in prebiotics (like onions, garlic, and oats), probiotics (such as yogurt and sauerkraut), fiber, and omega-3s, then you can support recovery + reduce inflammation. Specific foods to avoid are those that are highly processed, excess sugar, alcohol, and artificial sweeteners.

Have you ever wondered why pockets are so rare in women’s clothing, or why the holidays tend to be so stressful for women in particular? You may find the answers here.
The Persistent is an independent media startup that's 100% focused on telling women’s stories with topics ranging from health and parenting to art and culture.

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ON LIFE’S EXPERIENCES: We are not the sum of our possessions, but the total of our experiences. — Bette Davis

Who we are is built on what we've lived through, not what we own. Our joys, heartbreaks, challenges, and lessons—those are what form our identity and worldview. Experiences have the power to change us, grow us, and give us perspective in a way material things never can. In other words: your story shapes you more than your stuff ever will.

1. Tapestry Cotton Minidress

2. Outta Love Sunglasses

3. Ava Watch

4. Bethany Ballet Flat

5. Dior Mini Saddle Bag

(IN CASE YOU MISSED IT)