Toms teamed up with celebrity stylist Jamie Mizrahi on the summer's comfiest shoe collab 👟
Toms teamed up with celebrity stylist Jamie Mizrahi on the summer's comfiest shoe collab 👟 Mizrahi is known for working with celebrities like Meghan Markle and Jennifer Lawrence. Now, her A-list style is available in a limited-edition capsule collection.
Leave it to Toms to launch summer 2025's comfiest shoe—because, of course. The famed label, known for its supportive slip-on styles, teamed up with celebrity stylist Jamie Mizrahi on a new shoe collection that offers a fresh take on the most famous silhouette from Toms: the Alpargata.
Mizrahi is heralded as the creative genius behind some of Hollywood's most iconic red carpet moments, having masterminded looks for the likes of Meghan Markle and Jennifer Lawrence. Now, in this limited-time shoe collaboration, Mizrahi has infused her signature, effortless aesthetic into a capsule of slip-on sneakers that are equal parts functional and stylish.
Available in a range of unique colors and wrapped in a water-repellant suede material, the Toms x Jamie Mizrahi collection is here for a limited time. Browse full capsule below before it sells out!
More: Did Rothy's just drop spring 2025's 'It' shoe? Yes—and in four seasonal colors
Shop the Toms x Jamie Mizrahi shoe collaboration
Shop the Toms x Jamie Mizrahi shoe collection
What is the Toms x Jamie Mizrahi collection?
Toms collaborated with celebrity stylist Jamie Mizrahi on an exclusive shoe collection of comfy, colorful slip-on sneaker styles. The limited-time capsule is available to shop at Toms.com.
What are the most popular Toms shoe styles?
The Toms Alpargata shoe is considered one of the brand's most iconic silhouettes, with a convenient slip-on design that's endlessly comfortable and available in a wide range of patterns and colors.
More: Duchess Meghan celebrates Prince Archie's 6th birthday with sweet photo: 'Our sweet boy'
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Buzz Feed
5 days ago
- Buzz Feed
28 Comfy Shoes Ready For All Of Your Travels
A handmade pair of closed-toe huarache platform sandals if you need some extra height (those flowy pants you just bought are a little on the long side), but also refuse to commit to walking around in heels all day. These beauts are the perfect compromise! A pair of Birkenstocks, aka the go-to summer vacation sandal. Reviewers rave about their signature cork footbed and for good reason — it molds to the foot for unrivaled comfort and support. A pair of Dr. Scholl's kicks so you can ditch the laces while still enjoying the benefits of supportive and comfy sneakers. Did I mention these have memory foam cushioning? Because they do, and you will love it. A classic pair of ballet flats since these darling little shoes fold up nice and compact for easy packing — and good thing, too, because you've only got about an inch of space left in your suitcase! Or, these memory foam-cushioned knit flats that are just as convenient (and comfy!) but offer a more elevated look with their textured design. Promising reviews: "These shoes are so comfortable. I used them on a trip where I did a lot of walking, and there was no need to break them in, and I had no blisters. I have not had to clean them yet, so don't know how they will wash up." —Charlotte"I wore these, new, on a recent trip and couldn't have been more pleased with the fit and comfort. Added bonus, you can toss them in the wash and they come out great!" —Amazon CustomerGet them from Amazon for $29.80+ (available in sizes 5–11, wide sizes, and in five colors). A gorgeous leather slide because it'll take you about .0002 seconds to throw them on and complete the day's ~lewk.~ There's not a second to be wasted when you're on vacation, right?! A cute pair of Toms block heels to wear at brunch, art galleries, high tea, happy hour, you name it! You deserve to ~treat yoself~ on vacation and these are shoes you'll want for all those fun, splurge-y activities. A chunky pair of Fila platform sneakers that just might be the ultimate travel hack. A comfy, supportive sneaker that also gives you a boost so you can see above the crowd and actually watch the busker's performance? Genius! A flexible pair of water shoes if your itinerary's got some water-based activities. Don't let soggy feet ruin the day's fun. Wear these, and thank me later. A cute and casual Sperry sneaker you can wear with just about anything and everything in your suitcase. Plus, they come with a removable footbed for added arch support. A pair of braided chunky heels to slip on whenever you need a chic little going-out shoe, like when you're checking out that cool speakeasy you saw on TikTok. According to reviewers, these are actually comfy enough to wear all night long, too! Keen rose sandals that I just adore and almost always bring on my warm-weather trips. They look so darn cute, are unbelievably comfy, and best of all, can handle miles and miles of walking (even if I decide to stroll through the waves a bit). I've brought these on hiking/camping trips, but also on city vacations, too. I love knowing I can tackle any sort of terrain I might stumble upon in my adventures, even though they don't really look like your typical "hiking sandals."Promising review: "I bought these sandals about a month before I went on vacation. I walked around in them all day in very hot temperatures (38–40 degrees Celsius) with my feet sweating and swelling, and did not get any blisters or hot spots. I thought for sure they would start to smell, but they didn't! I read reviews of others not liking the ankle strap not being adjustable, but I did not have any issues. I definitely would not go hiking in these sandals, but they are great for everyday casual wear and are super cute. I love the wide-toe box for my problem feet. I will definitely be buying more pairs in different colors. These are the most comfortable sandals I have ever bought! I did have some rubbing on my big toe from the toe box material, but I got used to it quickly with no issues." —Ldc8Get them from Keen for $120 (available in sizes 5–12 and six colors — not all styles available in all sizes). A lightweight mesh sneaker if you (or your S.O.) want to look ~sharp~ without having to sweat away in stiff, uncomfy dress shoes. In the words of one reviewer, they're "absurdly comfortably" while offering a business-casual kinda vibe. My boyfriend has these in black, and the first thing he commented on was how light and breathable they are. He's definitely a comfort first, style second kind of person, but he doesn't have to compromise anymore, thanks to these. They're pretty much his new go-to shoe when we're heading downtown or out on a date (and he always looks so good in them). Promising review: "I love them, I originally bought a pair for a vacation where I needed something business casual and comfortable for walking… I wore them on my first day back to the office (left my $750 pair of Ferragamo's at the office). I intended to throw on the expensive pair… I got more compliments on these than I have for a high-end shoe + they're way more comfortable!" —Bobby DGet them from Amazon for $36.54+ (available in men's sizes 6.5–14 and 14 colors) A beautiful pair of Greek gladiator-inspired sandals so you can feel like a real Mediterranean local as you navigate the streets and local seaside markets. Even if you're not headed to Greece, you'll still feel like a goddess wearing these. A pair of Swedish wooden clogs, just in case you're worried you lack the... uhhh... coordination for navigating cobblestone and brick streets in heels. Have no fear — these shoes are extra sturdy and even have a heel strap for added reinforcement. No wobbling here! A pair of Crocs sandals featuring the same comfort and convenience the brand is known for, only a more aesthetic design. Whether you're a diehard Crocs lover or new to the cult, you're gonna want these cuties in your collection. A pair of quilted sneakers featuring memory foam insoles beneath that stylish exterior, because you deserve to look and feel like a million bucks when you're out and about globe-trotting. Psst! Some reviewers say these shoes run big, and recommend ordering a size down. Promising review: "I bought these shoes for my trip to the UK in September. They proved to be some of the most comfortable shoes I have ever owned. We toured English stately homes and gardens and walked everywhere we went, and these shoes gave me great support and comfort. I wore them on the plane and in the airports, and they stood the test. Love these shoes, and I have put them aside to wear for my next UK trip!" —Louisa CornellGet them from Amazon for $27.19+ (available in sizes 6–11, including wide sizes, and eight colors — not all colors available in all sizes). A pair of cushioned slides for an easy-on, breathable shoe that's pretty darn supportive. Ideal for TSA, but more importantly, for heading to the pool (or beach) and back a bajillion times. Promising review: "These shoes are amazing. I have plantar fasciitis, and by the end of the day, my feet are in a lot of pain. I can now stand and walk with no pain wearing these shoes. They appear to be cheap, but whatever material these are made of is more comfortable than Crocs! I bought the grey and loved them, so I bought another pair in brown. I'm going to take them with me on vacation because I know I can walk long distances with them. My feet do not sweat in them either!" —GGet them from Amazon for $23.98+ (available in sizes 5.5–17W, 4–16M, and 29 colors). A waterproof sneaker so you can tackle all that sightseeing, regardless of the weather forecast. These will keep your feet dry, and unlike typical rain boots, are actually comfy enough for endless walking! Promising review: "Probably the best item I've ever ordered from Amazon. I wanted to look stylish, and rain boots would have looked silly. Found these all rubber sneaker/rain shoes, and man! I'm glad I got these. Wore them to Europe during quite a bit of rain. Walked a lot and they were surprisingly very comfortable, too." —Its meGet them from Amazon for $33.99+ (available in sizes 5.5–11, in four colors in the high-top style, and in five other styles). Braided Plaka sandals that combine functionality with a breezy boho aesthetic, aka the perfect combo for oceanside strolls. The straps fit snugly around the foot without rubbing or pinching while the rubber soles are durable enough for sand, beach rocks, and other rough terrain. The famous Allbirds runner — uber soft and supportive everyday sneakers made from lightweight and breathable eucalyptus fibers, which means they're 100% up to the task of keeping you cool and comfy as you explore the world. Promising review: "Love these shoes!! So comfortable and look great. Wore them as all-day shoes at Disneyland, no blisters or other issues. I am already looking at other pairs to buy. Also great for traveling, extremely lightweight." —Michaela them from Allbirds for $98 (available in sizes 5–11W, 8–14M, and 21 colors). Elastic-strap sandals since the twisted strap is not only super cute but also super stretchy, which means the sandal conforms perfectly to your foot for a secure, comfy fit. A pair of Cole Haan leather sneakers because they're a sleek, lightweight shoe that can be dressed up or down. Pretty much a no-brainer for vacation. Promising review: "This is the third pair I have bought for my husband (navy, tan, and black). We travel a lot and he always takes a pair for daily wear and loads of walking. He says they are the most comfortable shoes he has ever had, and frankly, they are so great looking, you can wear them anywhere. In Europe, many men wear shoes of this style with their suits, and they look so sharp. These are so versatile, go with anything, and have a super-high comfort level. Catch them when they are on special!" —vieuxcarreGet them from Amazon for $65.19+ (available in men's sizes 7–13, two widths, and in 11 styles). A super cute strappy sandal for something that's stylish *and* supportive — both non negotiable for your big summer trip. These have a thick, cushioned footbed that's similar to Birks, only much cheaper. A pair of platform, lace-up Oxfords so you can trick all the locals into thinking you're actually overseas for an important academic conference... are you a Rhodes scholar or genius mathematician? They'll never know! A pair of combat boots if your personal style is best described as pop-punk. These are just the edgy-chic traveling companion you've been waiting for. Promising review: "I am in love with these boots! First, they are great-looking. I've worn them 10 times in the past two and a half weeks and received compliments five times. They look amazing with leggings, maxi dresses, and short skirts. The ankle doesn't gap and is adjustable with laces, but they actually open by way of a zipper on the inside ankle. So, once you get them fitted to your arch and ankle, putting them on and taking them off is easy. I know as I had to remove them for TSA at two airports. I've worn them in rain, slushy snow, sub-freezing temps, and 70-degree weather. So far, with a wipe of a cloth, they still look brand new. No scuffs and no cracks. Yesterday, I took them off after 31 hours of travel, involving a number of airports and lots of walking, and they still felt good." —AliceGet them from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in sizes 5.5–10 and in four colors). Or Dr. Marten gladiator sandals so you can rock those spunky pop-punk vibes without your feet overheating. These are definitely the summertime equivalent of your fave combat boots, offering a similar aesthetic in a more breathable and lighter open-foot design. A classic pair of slip-on sneaks made from a breathable and stretchy canvas material, which means your feet will sweat less and probably won't rub too much either... the two things that tend to cause blisters.
Buzz Feed
6 days ago
- Buzz Feed
47 Cheaper Versions Of Expensive Products That Deserve Your Undivided Attention
E.l.f. Suntouchable Invisible Sunscreen because when did sunscreen become one of the most expensive items in your skincare routine? Enter this affordable find, which offers SPF 35 *and* goes on smooth and clear without any white cast. It works well as a blurring primer to create the perf setup before applying makeup too! TLDR; it's the more affordable version of Supergoop. Buttery soft high-waisted leggings if you've had your eye on the Lululemon Align version but can't bear to shell out an entire Benjamin for one piece of activewear. These are made of a heavenly soft material *and* they're squat-proof. They're called ~Dreamlux~ leggings for a reason, people. A stylish pair of machine-washable pointed-toe flats, which probably look eerily familiar because they're just as cute as the ones from Rothy's and Vivaia — but these won't break the bank. The breathable material helps prevent sweating and the stretchy knit upper keeps you comfy all day long! You'll never run out of 'fits to pair these with. An Anthropologie-inspired reversible quilted throw blanket made of 100% cotton so you can add some character to any bland bedroom or living room in a flash! It's machine washable and comes in larger sizes in case you wanna use it as your main bed blanket — it's just that beautiful and cozy, so no one would blame you. A trio of hydrating lip sleeping masks that'll capture your attention when you realize you've been spending $24 on a single Laneige jar when you can get THREE of 'em for a fraction of the price. They're infused with berry extract and vitamin C to help heal dry, cracked skin. Rael Beauty's Miracle Patch — you get 96 in a pack, which is about a third of what you get when you splurge on Mighty Patches. These K-beauty hydrocolloid patches have super thin edges so they're nearly invisible. Wear 'em when you're out and about and no one will have any idea you're healing a zit while running errands. A three-pack of retro-inspired polarized sunglasses to diversify your accessory portfolio with some vintage flair without overspending a single pair of Ray-Bans. It never hurts to have ✨options✨ and you won't find a better bang for your buck. An adorable LED tomato light because it's got BIG Urban Outfitters energy but LITTLE price tag vibes. We love to see it! Plus, the UO version is pretty much always sold out. This one is powered via USB and comes with a remote that allows you to dim the light and set a timer. A TikTok-beloved "Soft" perfume rollerball reviewers can't stop raving about, with some even comparing it to lemon pound cake. YUM! This is gonna be a real treat for your senses *and* it rolls on nice and easy. It's basically a budget-friendly version of Pink Sugar, which goes for $65. An affordable longline sports bra with Lululemon vibes perfect for exercising, lounging, and everything in between. It's both comfy and supportive, so you can wear it solo OR as a base layer depending on what activity you're getting into. Reviewers say it's just as good (if not better!) than the expensive version. A MUA–approved black makeup sponge that does its job so well, you may forget about the Beauty Blender and Real Techniques versions, which aren't exactly cheap. If you want a flawless finish when blending concealer, foundation, BB cream, and even powders, this makeup sponge has you ~covered~ alright. It's also easier to see your product on the black surface of the sponge *and* it won't leave ugly stains behind. And a bottle of makeup brush-cleaning shampoo because you need to wash away the impurities residing in your brush bristles immediately!!! This stuff is formulated with gentle, plant-based ingredients and will give you the same results as the Beautyblender soap — but for half the price. A cult-fave luxury-scented candle — it'll upgrade your space with an upscale feel at a reasonable price. The divine scent features a blend of jasmine, oud, and sandalwood that'll carry you away to a paradise where everything is this amazing *and* affordable. A Skims-esque scoop neck top so you can enjoy that deliciously smooth fabric similar to the one in the cult-fave Skims top *with* the same fitted look to boot. The best part? This one is significantly cheaper and comes in a variety of colors. You'd be wise not to sleep on this one! A gorgeous laptop tote bag with such a luxurious feel, you'll probably wanna carry everywhere, even when you don't need your computer. It can fit laptops up to 15.6 inches and other essentials, like your phone, makeup bag, iPad, and more! You'll also breathe a sigh of relief knowing you didn't splurge over $100 on the pricey Béis Work Tote. Catrice "Instant Awake" Under Eye Brightener to help liven up your tired eyes with a lightweight formula that delivers superb coverage in just a few swipes. This tinted concealer contains hyaluronic acid and shea butter that may also help reduce dark circles over time. It's just like the $33 Becca version but for MUCH less so that should perk you right up. A Revlon one-step hair dryer and volumizer if you'd love to style and dry your hair at the same time but not go broke on the expensive hair tools. Mission accomplished! You'll speed up your routine while giving your hair an unbelievable amount of shine and volume. Dyson Airwrap who? CeraVe Retinol Serum, which can help refine your skin's texture and tone over time. This lightweight serum uses encapsulated retinol to gently reduce the appearance of pores and acne-related marks. If you've been too scared to try retinoids until now, this is a great place to start. Reviewers say it's better than the pricey options out there, like the $92 Murad Retinol Serum! A set of internet-famous Mellanni sheets that'll make it hard to get outta bed in the best way. You'll also do a double-take when you see the price because they don't cost hundreds of dollars, which is what you'd spend on Cozy Earth or Egyptian cotton sheets These are made with wonderfully soft moisture-wicking microfiber fabric that actually lasts. And these silky satin pillowcases so your bedroom will look and feel more luxurious for a fraction of the price of high-end brands like Blissy. These have a cooling effect that's sooo soft on the skin. It also creates less friction for your hair. An eyebrow soap kit to help you style your brows however you please. It'll make your brows look thicker using your existing hairs. Reviewers say it works just like the pricey name-brand versions and will help you get the precise texture, shape, and volume you want for your brows! Some soft microfiber makeup removing towels reminiscent of the popular Makeup Eraser but without the hefty price tag. Hello, you literally get 12 of 'em! Do I have your attention now? Add a bit of water and they'll wipe away the day's makeup with ease. A faux-leather belt for adding the perfect finishing touch to just about any outfit you come up with — for a lot less $$$ than the Gucci version! Even the most casual looks (think distressed denim and crop tops) can be taken up a notch with this trendy accessory. Some cleaning tablets similar to the popular Bottle Bright tablets but for way less $$$ (15 cents per tablet, to be exact). When it's time for a refresh, drop a tablet in a glass of warm water, then add your mouthguard, retainer, or Invisalign to demolish odor-causing bacteria, discoloration, and plaque! Bonus: You can even use 'em, to clean grimy water bottles and coffee tumblers. E.l.f.'s Holy Hydration! Thirst Burst Drops with hyaluronic acid to give your parched skin a big drink of water. Reviewers say it's a cheap swap for the $35 Watermelon Dew Drops from Glow Recipe, so I bet it'll pique your interest. This stuff will help hydrate, plump, and brighten your skin with each use. Wear it solo, apply it before makeup, OR add it to your foundation. A dreamy midi corset dress when you need that go-to flowy number so you can happily prance around in fields of wildflowers, knowing you saved *over* a hundred bucks. No seriously, the House of CB version retails for a staggering $225. 👀 Thank me later. A sunrise alarm clock if the $100+ Hatch option seems like a cruel joke. You'll get the same perks at a more sensible price. A half hour before your alarm, it gradually brightens from red to orange to bright white for a gentle wake-up call. There's also an evening routine setting for a soft, subtle glow to get you ready for dreamland. 🌙💤 LilyAna Naturals eye cream so you can brighten your under-eye area and reduce dark circles with nourishing ingredients, like provitamin A, vitamins C and E, and rosehip seed oil. We all know about the name-brand versions that can set you back a few bands, but you're too smart for that. A soothing Briotech spray that'll help calm angry, irritated skin with the same holy-grail ingredient used in Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Spray: hypochlorous acid. Give yourself a spritz to help treat inflammation, reduce redness, *and* strengthen the skin barrier. Elizavecca hair treatment you'll be glad to have on your radar because it uses collagen and protein extracts to restore over-processed hair. Dull, dry strands are gonna go POOF and you won't even have to spend quadruple the cost on Olaplex. A surprisingly affordable *and* chic wide leg petal pant, which checks so many boxes (pockets, elasticized waist, breathable, versatile), you might think you're hallucinating at first. These are more reasonably priced than the high-end versions, and you can wear 'em to lounge, run errands, or for an impromptu coffee date! A lash-extending E.l.f. Cosmetics tubing mascara because your lashes deserve the best and you don't wanna waste your time with dry, clumpy (expensive) formulas that leave you full of regret. This one is perfect for thin, delicate lashes. The lightweight tubing technology wraps around your eyelashes for a smudge-proof lift that looks natural. Plus, it's super easy to take off at the end of the day without tons of harsh scrubbing. A reviewer-beloved TruSkin vitamin C serum with vitamins C, E, and hyaluronic acid so you can hydrate and brighten your skin with *one* product It can also help smooth and fade blemishes and dark spots like an absolute charm! Reviewers say it works like the all-too-expensive SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic serum. Some thick but gentle melamine cleaning sponges that'll help you tackle all the grimy surfaces in your home. Forget Mr. Clean Magic Erasers and focus on these — they're much cheaper and just as effective. And! A pack of duster sponges if filthy baseboards are the bane of your existence and it's time for a better solution. Simply dampen the sponge and swipe it across dirty surfaces. When you're finished, just rinse it clean and be glad you didn't splurge on the Scrub Daddy. NYX setting spray to complete your fierce makeup look with a much-needed BANG! A spritz or two of this stuff will help lock in your product with a matte finish so it lasts for hours without constant reapplying *and* without splurging on Urban Decay's version. Nyx Fat Oil Lip Drip because even though it may not seem possible, you can indeed upgrade your pout game without hurting your wallet! It uses vegan squalane and raspberry and cloudberry oils to hydrate your lips. You won't even remember Dior's $40 famous lip oil after this. An Ugg-inspired suede mule slipper, which will make you do a double-take when you see the price because they're wayyy more affordable than the name-brand version without compromising on the cozy factor. These have a memory foam insole that molds to your feet for maximum comfort. They even come in half sizes, folks!! BestLand's high-performance matte lipsticks with literally every color you need for feeling *and* looking absolutely fabulous. It goes on smoothly and stays put all day long. Some reviewers even prefer it over more expensive brands that do the same thing, like Tarte, Stila, and Kylie — just to name a few! A set of remote-operated flameless candles that have the same enchanting effect of a real flickering flame but a much lower price tag, which will surely captivate you. Ditch the fire hazard and the expensive name-brand alternatives *cough* Luminara *cough* you've spent far too much on. An adjustable mini belted pack — yes, there is such a thing as a fashionable fanny pack that doesn't leave you in financial ruin. If you've been longing for the Lululemon one, this is a much cheaper (and dare I say, cuter) alternative. An elegant pearl choker if your fashion game could use an upgrade that only looks expensive. This necklace will have Vivienne Westwood clutching her pearls because it's basically identical to the expensive version with a budget-friendly price tag. A magical eye primer when you want your eye makeup to remain intact ALL day without any smudging or creasing. It'll seem too good to be true but believe the hype — reviewers swear this stuff works just as well as (if not better) the more expensive Urban Decay and Too Faced versions. A set of chic cylindrical wineglasses so you can feel like absolute royalty without overspending. These are just as glamorous as the Crate & Barrel version but each sip won't be a reminder of how much money you wasted. Cheers to that! 🥂 E.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer, which helps blur your pores to give you a buttery-smooth, matte complexion that's ~primed~ and ready to receive makeup. Listen up: It contains collagen, squalene, and hyaluronic acid so you know it's the good stuff — in fact, it's eerily similar to Tatcha's Silk Canvas primer and other expensive options. Pure Instinct Roll-On, a "pheromone-infused" scent that went viral on TikTok and rightfully so. It's cheaper than the Basic Instinct option, so you're already ahead of the game. It's made to blend with your skin's PH to create a unique scent that'll make you smell utterly irresistible. A cruelty-free brightening facial scrub that'll quickly become a series regular in your skincare rotation thanks to its magical powers. Reviewers love how well the sea kelp and French green clay work together to detoxify, soften, and get rid of dead skin cells. Plus, it's more affordable than the pricey versions, like Clinique and The Body Shop, for example.
Vox
6 days ago
- Vox
The internet is littered with advice. What's it doing to your brain?
As the eldest daughter in a family of six siblings, with a brain wired for strong convictions, Amy Lentz was born to give advice. Lentz is a 36-year-old with sea green eyes and wavy brown hair worthy of a shampoo commercial. She works as the chief people officer — the head of human resources — at Toms, the Los Angeles-based footwear company. To hundreds of thousands of followers on TikTok and Instagram, however, Lentz is known as @HackYourHR: a friendly face dispensing wisdom about career and workplace matters, from networking more effectively and receiving feedback without getting defensive to radiating 'executive presence' and navigating lowball job offers. 'As an older sister, I got called bossy,' she laughs, 'and in real life, as an adult, I get called helpful!' For decades, this kind of public-facing life advice was popular in syndicated newspaper columns, then on blogs and websites, and now it's everywhere on social media. While scrolling your platform of choice, it's easy to find yourself immersed in a world of bite-sized videos that, like Lentz's, dole out tips for performing better at work, optimizing your potential, and navigating relationship issues. (Exercise and diet advice are a whole other can of keto-friendly worms.) Some advice-givers are true subject matter experts, and others are ordinary people speaking from their personal experience. In either case, the creator's confidence and the gravity of the subject matter might make you pause your scroll. Here are the two books that will supercharge your business. Here's how to get over the fear that's stopping you from living the life you want. Did you know you can just wake up and have different standards for yourself? When Lentz started consistently posting videos in early 2023, she discovered that people were eager for professional guidance. 'The positive feedback really was kind of life-changing,' she says. 'For the first six months, I replied to every single DM and email that I received from people asking for my advice.' People sent screenshots of offer letters, asking her how to respond, and Lentz, locking into big sister mode, would just write the email for them. Some of the messages she received were painful and personal. After the death of a family member, one person felt they couldn't take time off, for fear of letting their team down, and wondered what to do. 'I think people are desperate to understand [whether] they're doing the right thing or not,' says Lentz. This is something of a desperate moment. Politically and economically, Americans are living through a period of tremendous uncertainty, as well as a loneliness crisis. For anyone worried about the security of their job or savings — and for anyone who feels they don't have close friends to consult on life's myriad challenges — there's an obvious appeal to video creators who seem sure of the path forward. A willingness to hear advice is not only understandable, but smart, as it leads to better decision-making. 'Research has overwhelmingly found that advice is really beneficial, and that people tend to under-utilize advice, usually causing them to make lower quality decisions,' says Lyn van Swol, a professor of communication science at the University of Wisconsin-Madison who studies advice and information-sharing in groups. The catch, she notes, is that most of that research looks at advice from one, two, or three other people, not dozens, hundreds, or thousands of strangers on TikTok: 'It's overwhelming — it's like a fire hose of advice.' When the right piece of wisdom reaches the right ears at precisely the right time, it can hit like a bolt of lightning. But for every earth-shaking revelation delivered on social media, you can spend hours scrolling through more mundane, but nevertheless urgent, guidance from self-assured individuals with varying levels of expertise. With so many voices on your screen, it would be reasonable to start feeling disoriented or anxious, unsure about your own decision-making skills. Short of deleting your apps, how are you supposed to wade through the morass, taking what's useful and discarding what isn't, as you make your way toward the better life that so many people already seem to be living? Seeking the wisdom of perfect strangers There are many ways of delivering advice, some more effective than others. It will shock nobody to learn that uninvited advice tends to go over very poorly. 'People are very resistant to taking unsolicited advice,' says Reeshad Dalal, a professor of psychology at George Mason University with a research background in decision-making and advice. Dalal then poses this question: Does a TikTok video qualify as unsolicited advice? Well, yes, in the sense that you didn't ask for that video to cross your feed. But then again, the algorithm did serve it to you based on your interests and viewing history — so could it be called semi-solicited advice? Van Swol categorizes advice videos as 'masspersonal.' They're interpersonal, but with mass reach; directed at the viewer, but not at you specifically. If part of the problem with unsolicited advice is that it feels judgmental, masspersonal advice smoothes away some of that unwelcome scrutiny and affords the viewer the buffer of anonymity. Offline, good advisers often employ the tactic of laying out a narrative around a problem before launching into their recommendation — a framework reflected on TikTok, where creators tend to blend advice with a personal story. Add in the parasocial element of social media, wherein influencers start to feel like your friends, and you have a recipe for advice that's surprisingly palatable, even though you didn't actively ask for it. According to social media creators, there's something else at play, too: a very real sense of loneliness and a hunger for answers. Chelsea Anderson, the self-styled 'Michael Jordan of babysitting' who shares hacks for child care and adult life on TikTok and Instagram, says that she has always consulted her female friends — 'a group of mirrors' — when she needs to make a big life decision. She feels that TikTok now serves as a space for people to do that external processing, not because it's better than in-person bonds but because they don't necessarily have anywhere else to turn. 'Community is disappearing, and I think that's why this content hits,' says Anderson. 'That room full of mirrors is harder and harder to access in real life.' In a world of unknowns, simple and concrete statements are a comfort — and the urge to seek out other people's advice is painfully, sweetly human. Americans are so lonely that the US Surgeon General's office released an advisory in 2023 stating that social isolation has an impact on mortality comparable to smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day. Although the hacks Anderson features in her videos are often lighthearted and imaginative, she has received messages from followers that seem like a true cry for help. 'Some of the questions people ask me make me really sad, because they're not questions you should be asking someone on the internet. They are questions you should be asking your best friend or your mom,' Anderson says, adding that she appreciates that people feel comfortable coming to her. Lentz has noticed a similar undercurrent of distress in the questions she receives about nailing job interviews and landing raises. 'I think people feel like they're getting left behind, for a number of reasons, and they desperately do not want to become irrelevant,' she says. Some of this fear is rooted in social comparison, but much of it is tied to daily concerns about funding retirement accounts and covering child care costs. ' If I were to get this promotion, I could afford more day care. So there's so much pressure on this interview,' Lentz says. 'There's so much weight to people's fears, and I think it's all justified based on our economy.' Doris Chang, an associate professor at NYU's Silver School of Social Work and a licensed clinical psychologist, understands the appeal of short-form advice videos on TikTok. 'There is a human attraction towards things that are really simplified,' she says. 'I can see people going, 'I feel like crap. This video is telling me something to do, and it's only two minutes long.'' She also notes that these videos aren't a substitute for therapy; professional counseling, however, can be expensive and difficult to access. In a world of unknowns, simple and concrete statements are a comfort — and the urge to seek out other people's advice is painfully, sweetly human. Who among us, grappling with a major conundrum, hasn't reached out to a trusted friend, family member, or counselor, hoping they'll shake a new solution loose or summon some wisdom we can't access yet? In these conversations, we lay ourselves bare, with our fears and insecurities on full display, and ask for help making sense of our mess. When we're meant to travel this life together, there's a deep loneliness in problems you don't feel that you can ask anyone about. So we do the next best thing — we go online. This is your brain on TikTok advice Self-improvement via TikTok is complicated by the fact that time spent on the apps can be a drain on mental health. Passive use of social media — scrolling — has been shown to be associated with anxiety and depression in adolescents, says Jacqueline Sperling, an assistant professor of psychology at Harvard Medical School and co-program director of the McLean Anxiety Mastery Program at McLean Hospital. (Active participation through posting and commenting, however, can have a positive impact on people, helping them find community and foster connections with others.) It's not just young people who are affected by social media: Research has shown that older adults who use social media are more likely to report symptoms of depression. Any wisdom gleaned from short-form life advice videos sits on a balance with these potential downsides. For people with anxiety in particular, looking at a lot of advice content on social media might end up exacerbating their worries. 'It can actually have this harmful function of feeding the desire for reassurance,' says Chang. 'There's an unlimited amount of information that can confirm or disconfirm your biggest fears and worries. For someone who's seeking certainty in the world, because that's what anxiety is really about, then being on social media a whole bunch is not going to be helpful.' In the field of decision psychology, too, Dalal sees a vicious cycle with anxiety and advice-seeking behavior. 'The finding is pretty robust: When people are anxious about a decision, they will seek out more advice. ... The reverse can be true as well,' says Dalal. 'Anxiety leads to seeking out advice, but knowing that there's all this advice out there might, paradoxically, increase anxiety as well.' Even among people who aren't particularly anxious, though, information overload can result in a feeling of overwhelm. 'There's a classical idea called 'the paradox of choice,'' says Dalal. 'If you go into a grocery store, and I show you 30 varieties of jam and say you can have one for free, that might stress you out. But if I give you three varieties of jam, you would walk away happy that you made the right choice.' Advice, he says, will operate in the same way. There is another way in which advice videos might affect viewers, and that is as a performance of confidence. In this corner of TikTok, creators are often the picture of self-assurance, speaking clearly and succinctly as they share their guidance, their eyes never straying from the camera. To a certain extent, advice videos are simply a vessel for the reality distortion that takes place across social media more broadly: People often present the most put-together versions of themselves online, leading viewers to feel badly about themselves in comparison. 'The contrast is really stark,' says Chang. 'You're like, my apartment doesn't look like that, and I'm not that confident, and I don't have the answers.' The most successful TikTok advisers may well be those who are most able to express self-confidence. 'A huge problem in advice research is that people are very persuaded by confidence,' says van Swol. It doesn't matter whether the advice is great or subpar: 'You have a lot of very confident people out there giving advice, and people cannot tell the difference.' (Meanwhile, people with a weak sense of self are especially prone to taking advice.) 'A huge problem in advice research is that people are very persuaded by confidence.' Some of those confident people are, no doubt, offering solid guidance and attempting to do so in good faith. Lentz is well aware of the power that she holds as someone giving advice online. 'I have high self-esteem, so if the person on the other end of the phone has a lower sense of self, sense of identity, they are susceptible,' she says. 'I do think there's responsibility with what you put out.' Still, when you're watching not one or two but dozens of advice videos, it's hard not to suspect that everyone has things figured out except for you — when, in fact, you're not as underqualified to navigate life as you might think. Nor is there a secret shortcut that nobody told you about. 'There is this desire for a magic formula,' says Chang, 'and if people are offering it with a lot of confidence, it does silence your own intuition about what might be best for you.' So, how do you navigate a world too full of advice? Across the board, experts say that the best way to move through the sea of life advice on social media is to spend some time interrogating a creator's credentials, background, and expertise before taking their suggestions. Sperling recommends using intriguing videos as a jumping-off point for consulting trusted sources and experts off of those platforms: 'The key thing is to not act immediately and to take that as an opportunity to learn more.' Interestingly, content creators say essentially the same thing. 'I think oftentimes, especially when it comes to people who post content, we assume they know something that we don't,' says Donavan Barrett, a 28-year-old tae kwon do teacher-turned-personal branding coach. 'Sometimes they do, but oftentimes they're just a regular person who decided to pick up their phone and record their opinion.' Barrett studied psychology in college and says he has always been the 'therapy friend' to those in his life. He now makes videos about mindset and motivation on TikTok, which reflect the type of work he does with private clients. In his videos, which often deal with overcoming self-doubt, he tries to show up as the person whose guidance he could have used as a young person. 'I come from a background where I wasn't given the education, the resources, or the know-how to trust myself,' he explains. Barrett knows how a green screen and a mini microphone can convey a sense of authority — he's made those kinds of videos, too. As a result, he recommends vetting creators before taking their advice and watching out for those who are overly prescriptive in their messaging, particularly when they've made it their business to issue guidance. 'The coaching industry, the advice industry, is huge and seems to only be growing,' he says. 'There are a lot of people who are going to project their experiences or shove you into their box.' Chang expresses a similar idea: 'Therapy is all about excavating and reflecting on your unique situation, strengths, resources, and contexts.' If advice videos don't accommodate an individual's specificity and instead offer one-size-fits-all solutions, she says, 'I think it's kind of a scam.' People are generally alike, 'ashamed of their needs and afraid to voice them, afraid to honor themselves, afraid to show their vulnerable hearts.' When figuring out which sources of advice to trust, Dalal recommends looking at trustworthiness, which encompasses both expertise and good intentions — the latter of which can be difficult to judge. As part of that due diligence, it's worth considering someone's financial incentives, which may or may not be 100 percent aligned with your best interests. Indeed, life advice videos can be a strong marketing tool for creators, who make much of their money via brand deals and affiliate marketing, or an on-ramp to related business pursuits. 'My entire business is from social media,' says Barrett; his clients find him through TikTok and similar platforms. Anderson is currently writing a book of child care and life hacks — she recently left her job at an advertising agency to become a full-time content creator — while Lentz looks at her online presence as a way of building trust and rapport with her audience. She's focused on her corporate career for the time being, but long-term, she would like to run for government office. Despite the thorniness of navigating advice on the internet — of opening your arms wide to that digital fire hose — there is a certain beauty in the guidance of strangers. 'A stranger and a friend can give the same advice, but when a friend gives it, it's easy to imagine that they have prejudices or limitations or resentments that will prevent them from being objective,' Heather Havrilesky, who has penned the advice column ' Ask Polly ' since 2012, writes to Vox in an email. 'It's easy with a friend to think, 'You're just saying that because you don't understand what it's like to be an artist and you never liked my husband and you think having kids is the most important thing anyone can do.' A stranger has the advantage of dropping down like a god and delivering a verdict without revealing their own prejudices and limitations.' Havrilesky isn't familiar with TikTok advice, but writing 'Ask Polly' for over a decade seems to have resulted in an approach to counseling strangers that is more complex — messier, perhaps — than what appears in some of those bite-sized videos. She used to feel that other people were usually the problem in her readers' lives: 'The early days were all about encouraging people to stand up for themselves and to refuse to settle for people, places, and things that they tolerated out of guilt, perceived obligation, or compulsive people-pleasing.' Now, she understands that people are generally alike, 'ashamed of their needs and afraid to voice them, afraid to honor themselves, afraid to show their vulnerable hearts.' Here, as in real life, there are no quick tips, no shortcuts, no magic solutions. Haley Nahman, who writes an advice column for her popular Maybe Baby newsletter, says she is rarely looking to provide answers, but rather to help readers reframe their questions. 'I find that you can wrestle with the wrong question for years,' she says, 'and when you reframe it, it's actually much simpler to answer.' Havrilesky doesn't attempt to offer a concrete path forward, either. Her goal is to incite catharsis or a perspective shift. She doesn't always know where an answer is going when she begins writing, but while unearthing her own feelings and facing her own fears (because people are generally alike), she ends up harnessing an energy that she hopes to impart to the reader. A bolt of lightning, passed from one hand to another.
