Rydelshort

Rydel ★ Special ★

collector’s issue!

by R5’s Rydel Lynch

e f i L r u o Y k c Ro LSE!) E G IN H T Y R E V E D N (A N U F RIENDS, F , S S E N IT F , N IO H S A F O T your room EVERY GIRL’S GUIDE o d e r • e ty gam your beau uy • live your dream p u • le y t s et the g g find your • y t r a p b throw a fa

Display until October 12, 2015

From the editors of Girls’ Life magazine

M

ost of you know me as Rydel from R5—the only girl in a band that I started with my brothers and our best friend. You know me as the girl who plays the keys (and headbangs!), the girl with the insanely chunky heels, the girl who loves to strike a #RydelPose in front of the amazing places we visit on tour. Basically, you know the rockstar version of Rydel. And while I love my life on tour—seriously, I’m the luckiest girl ever—there’s another side to me you don’t see as often…and that’s what I’m going to share with you in these pages.

I’m a daughter, a sister, a best friend, a girlfriend—and I’m offering all my best advice on how to keep the harmony (and have major fun) with all the important people in your life. I also love crafting, cooking, decorating and party planning. So, naturally, I’m spilling my favorite DIYs, recipes, decor ideas and hostessing hints.

It’s like this: For me, a rockstar lifestyle means approaching each day with an awesome attitude and making the most of every moment—and *all* of us can do that. (Trust me, I’ll show you how.) Oh, and all the typical girl stuff—like figuring out your fashion sense, crushing on the same guy for-ev-er and trying to balance a love of burgers with barre class? I’ve been there, done that…and I can tell ya exactly how I dealt with every dilemma.

I’m not saying I have all the answers—because really, what’s the fun in that?—but I’ve definitely got a good game plan for following your dreams and living a life you’ll love. So whether you’re already a proud member of the #R5family or just meeting me for the first time, welcome to ALL the secrets behind my wild and wonderful journey. I’ve had some crazy adventures so far—and I can’t wait to be part of yours!

f o e l Tab 4 FASHION Secrets to rocking a look you love, shopping your closet and sticking to a budget (while still looking cute!).

18 BEAUTY Easy hair ideas, clear skin secrets, tricks to flawless makeup PLUS beauty freebies.

32 BESTIES Become BFFs with everyone (yes, for real), the new rules of girl code and the secret to banishing fights forever.

44 GUYS I’ve got the inside scoop on the male mind. And, oh yeah, I’m also spilling how to go from BGF to GF, like I did with Ellington.

50 FAMILY TIES Have more FUN with family—seriously!

Plus, how to get your parents to let you live the life you want.

s t n e t Con 56 DREAM BIG The *real* way to find your path and check off every single item on your bucket list.

64 FITNESS Stay fit and fab even when you have ZERO time + how to chill out when things get crazy.

70 PARTY TIME Want to throw the most fabulous fête ever? I’ve got insta invites, easy sips + snacks, darling decor ideas and perfect playlists.

76 MAKE YOUR ROOM ROCK Your bunk is a sacred space, even if it’s shared (ahem, like my bus!). Make over your room in an hour with these fun and fast tips.

86 GET CRAFTY Cute and creative DIYs, whether you want to make your phone look adorable or whip up a gift for your BFF.

90 TRAVEL How to have amazing adventures around the world…or just in your own backyard.

N O I H FAS My philosophy on fashion? I just don’t think about it. Seriously. It’s really this simple: If I see it and I like it, then I wear it. My style is constantly evolving and I’m influenced by a million little things: what mood I’m in, what TV show I’m loving, what the weather’s like! But you know what I’m *not* influenced by?

What’s considered trendy or cool right now. I’m no slave to trends—I believe the outfit that looks best is the one you feel most comfortable in. Still not sure what to rock? Check out my anti-fashion rules and take the mini style quiz. You’ll have a so-you look on lockdown in no time.

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FASHION

s e l u r n o i Fash to live by 1. Utilize a uniform I’m not talking about plaid skirts and saddle shoes—I mean your own go-to style staples that’ll work whenever you don’t know what to wear. Turn the page to find mine!

2. Tell a story with your style I love how it feels to wear a meaningful piece, like my four favorite rings. And those band tees I talk about on page 8? I pick ’em up from every concert I attend—and each time I wear one, I remember how much fun I had.

3. Figure out your thing I live for chunky heels, killer boots and sporty sneakers—all with a bit of edge. Precious flats might be in style, but they’re just not my vibe…and I’m totally OK with that.

e!

Peek in my purs See all my hair essentials on page 27.

I always have

lotion with me.— Soft skin is so crucial.

y a d m o r f Go to night Tiny tweaks quickly turn daytime duds into a going-out get-up.

day look night look

A Floral frock with comfy kicks

1

2

Add fierce fringe and bold boots.

Done!

3

My street style

It’s great to go glam for the red carpet, but it’s fun to look cute on the daily, too. Here are my favorite everyday outfits...

1. Majorly mod platforms elevate a ripped jeans and baggy tee combo.

2. A faux fur topper turns any outfit into a total statement.

3. An LBD goes grungy when topped with a fleecy red flannel.

RYDEL

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FASHION

STYLE SCHOOL

k c o r o t How e e t d n a b a 1. Pop on *plenty* of accessories

2. Tie a flannel around your waist to add a pattern and create some shape 3. Pair black denim with black shoes to make legs look ultra long

Make a statement • Knot it in the front to create a quickie crop top • Pair with a princess skirt (I love tutus!) for an unexpected mix of styles • Top your tee with a faux fur coat for some drama

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the 4 things i’ll wear forever

Find your

! n o c i n o i fash I’ve always been inspired by strong, confident chicks with killer style. Whether it’s a celeb, an old school royal or even the girl next door, find your own inspiration for unlimited outfit ideas.

If I could only wear four pieces for the rest of my life, I’d happily step out in these stunners every single day…

BLACK LEATHER JACKET It’s the key to any rocker look.

DENIM JACKET My favorite is my mom’s from the ’80s!

Gwen Stefani She ALWAYS takes great fashion risks.

Debbie Harry er The Blondie sing is just so rad!

Scots Mary, Queen of ith Reign I’m obsessed w right now.

BLACK HOLEY JEANS These work with EVERYTHING. BLACK LEATHER BOOTS Add edge to any look.

INSPO, TOO! ERAS OFFER MAJOR y decade… b ts n e m o m n io My favorite fash

’50S

’60S

’70S

Pretty poodle skirts and femme silhouettes.

The hippie, boho vibe—so laid-back.

Love it.

Flared jeans and disco.

ALL THE DISCO!

’80S Scrunchies, acid wash, spandex, denim. Yes. RYDEL

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FASHION

? t i f t u o Y R E V E The key to

e m o s e Aw ! s e i r o s acces

Forget what you heard: More is more! Pile on these pretties to add a serious dose of It-girl appeal…

S Keep TONS OF SUNNIE our a few pairs in y ch ’em purse and swit up often.

gs bracelets & rin r4 I *always* wea special rings that are a to me, then add few extras.

y’re HAuTe HatS The dose like an instant of swagger.

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FASHION HACK

Get organized!

I use clear containers to keep all my jewelry easily in sight. Find them at any sewing supply store—that ring box is actually meant for spools of thread!

ERS K O H C & S E C A L K NEC dd a e s e h t w o h e Lov and t s e r e t in f o s ton to draw attention your face.

FASHION

s ’ s ’ e i e i m m r o style St M y m om !

WEAR WHAT YOU LOVE. This is our #1 rule: Toss aside anything that you don’t feel comfortable in. Even if it looks cute on your best friend or if it’s in all the magazines, if it’s not for you—if you don’t feel like yourself—then you shouldn’t wear it. I always want my kids to be who they are at all times and LOVE what they’re wearing. Do the same for yourself!

START EVERY OUTFIT WITH A SIGNATURE PIECE.

When you fall in love with an item— whether it’s earrings or shoes or a belt or whatever—make it your inspiration for the full look, and build the rest of the

outfit around it. When we were swooning over this lacy, high-necked blouse for Rydel, we started there and then picked everything else to complement it.

KEEP “FINDS” FOREVER.

If you love something, keep it—don’t worry about what’s trendy. You’ll feel good in it and people are going to be like, “Where did you get that?” You’ll stand out because you feel so confident.

So when you’re spring cleaning that closet, even if you think something might be a little out of style right now, just remember that fashion always comes full circle—so you’ll have your own vintage pieces!

xo Stormie

Stormie’s styling kit scuffs sharpie Fill in on dark shoes

Safety pins m or a Fix a fallen he ne too-low neckli

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Black and WHITE under tank tops Wear through something see-

tz soles hairspray Spri new to give stick to ng!) shoes (no slippi

rules

at every s t a e w s y m in I would be ren’t for e w it if t n e v e red carpet uru! g e l y t s y m ’s e my mom—sh tips… p o t e im t l l a r Steal he

FASHION

s e c r e t s g n i p Shop Stormie’s shopping strategy 1. Get in the zone Rydel only hits the mall when she’s searching for something specific—like a party dress or a new belt.

If you’re on a mission to find one fab thing, then it’s time to put on your blinders and stay focused. But my shopping style? I just go in totally open-minded and browse around for any game-changers that catch my eye.

2. Know where to look The most worthwhile spots to hit up in every store are the new arrivals and the sale bins. Anything else that’s in the middle area will be going on sale soon. Skip ’em!

3. It’s all about the FIND Shop ’til ya drop?

No, thanks! Be your own pro stylist with my mom’s tips for hitting the racks…

If it’s to-die-for, buy it. If it’s a classic item that’ll be in style forever—a great jacket, a flattering dress—buy it.

The goal is to build up a wardrobe of incredible pieces.

When I’m shopping with the kids and I say, “This is a find,” they trust that it’s going to be something they’ll fall in love with and wear a million times.

p o h s o t s e r o t Best s e

american eagl jeans

nasty gal oes jackets and sh

target basics band tees and

I get all my stretchy jeans here—and I will ONLY wear stretchy jeans! I like to be able to sit around and feel comfy and relaxed, so the perfect pair of denim is a #1 priority.

I always find awesome faux leather jackets and killer heels here.

If you’re not in L.A., head to their website (nastygal.com) to check out their massive selection.

Target is my go-to for pretty much all of my major shopping.

They’ve got really cute shirts, too—this is where I score a lot of vintage-inspired band tees.

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forever 21 trendy stuff I love how they make it sooo affordable to buy trendier pieces, like a see-through lucite clutch for a big night out or a cute kimono for an outdoor festival.

free people sale rack My mom and I will go here and raid the sale section to find good deals on gorgeous bohemian pieces.

Their airy, feminine dresses are perfect for summer.

t i h t i w y t f i r h t t e G STALK THOSE STAPLES The best place to start is with the basics. If you’re looking for the perfect comfy top or distressed jeans, you’ve come to the right place—because when everything is already loved, it comes prebroken in. That retro band tee will already be soft from being washed a bunch of times, and those flares will already feature fade marks. Cool.

IGNORE THE SIZES It takes practice to learn how to eyeball a garment size, but never go by just what the label says. Sizes have changed dramatically over the years (and even today they vary by brand), so if you like something, it’s always worth trying on.

Plus, one of the best things about thrifting is that when you save money on an awesome new skirt, you’ll have some extra pocket change to get it altered to fit perfectly.

THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX

SHOPPING HACK:

Sign up for hand-me-downs I’ve been the queen of hand-medowns since I was 12. Grandma’s jewelry? Oh my stars, I love it so much! Just tell your family members that you’ll happily take clothes and accessories off their hands for them.

People are always looking to get rid of stuff, and you can score great, one-of-a-kind things that nobody else will be wearing—like my Aunt Shae’s belt I’m wearing here!

Remember: You’re not just buying someone’s old prom dress—you’re buying all that old prom dress’ potential. Vintage pieces might not nail every current trend, but they still have great elements.

While you’re shopping, get creative and play stylist—think about how you can tweak a piece to be exactly what you see on the streets.

EXPLORE THE WHOLE STORE Not usually stoked about dresses? At a thrift store, you’ll find lower prices plus options from all different eras—meaning way more room to roam. When a jacket is only $15 instead of $50, it’s a lot easier to experiment with styles that are a little out of your comfort zone. Get adventurous and try something totally new—even if you just wear it to a tea party.

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MOSTLY Bs MOSTLY As

Bold and Boho You’re a fabulously free spirit who goes wherever the wind blows—which is why a flowy maxi dress totally fits your vibe. Top it off with a floppy hat for an effortless look—perfect for everything from chilling at Coachella to finally taking that weekend road trip.

Every time you put on a new outfit, think of it as an opportunity to try on a whole new attitude.

So who should you be today? Take this quiz to find your perfect look...

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Girly and Glam Style is your middle name, so glitz it up with feminine florals and fun silhouettes, like a crop top ‘n’ midi skirt combo.

And when you’re feeling seriously stellar, max out your inner movie star with a red carpetready cat-eye or bright lip. You’ll be the belle of the…hall.

t i f t u o h c i h W 1. Buzzzz! The alarm’s going off.

What’s your ideal wake-up tune?

2. When ya hopped out of bed this a.m., you were most looking forward to…

A. "Go Your Own Way" by Fleetwood Mac B. "Firework" by Katy Perry C. "Just a Girl" by No Doubt D. “Run the World (GIRLS)”

by Beyoncé

A. Hitting the beach with your babes after school.

B. The premiere of your documentary in the school’s film fest.

C. Your band’s standing Thursday night gig at the local coffee shop.

D. Tonight’s soccer banquet with your team—so much fun.

MOSTLY Ds MOSTLY Cs

Pretty and Punk Your rad vibe rocks harder than your Spotify playlist—and that’s saying something. Step off the stage (and into the streets) in your fave skinnies, a band tee and a leather jacket. PSST: Keep makeup natural to avoid looking costumey.

But, hey, it’s A-OK to paint those nails black.

Sweet and Sporty You’re up for anything—and you need an outfit that will carry you through whatever adventures come your way today. No need to sacrifice style, though— floral sneaks with a hidden wedge will take you from kickin’ it with your crew to killin’ it on the court.

? k c o r u o y d l shou 3. You didn't leave enough time to wash your hair—whoops. You quickly:

4. You just got paired with your crush in chem. What's your next move?

5. Time to relax. What's the ultimate chill sesh looking like today?

A. Throw it in a loose braid and wrap your roots in a scarf.

B. Spritz it with dry shampoo and swoop it into a sleek topknot.

C. Shake in a little texturizing powder and sport that bedhead.

D. Pull it into a ponytail (duh).

A. Start a super casual convo. Why be anything but yourself?

B. Go full-scale flirt and dab on some lip gloss. Gotta look cute under those goggles.

C. Play hard to get—nicely. You're feeling too cool for school today.

D. Boy? You're too enthralled by the lesson. Bring on the experiments!

A. Long, lazy walks through the park are the perfect way to clear your head.

B. A DIY mani/pedi always makes you feel fab and fresh.

C. Strumming out your stress at your weekly guitar lesson.

D. Going for a run. There's something weirdly relaxing about it.

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E B AU Y T

F

eeling beautiful on the outside is only possible when you feel beautiful on the inside—it’s all about being yourself and doing what feels authentic to the true Y-O-U. If you’re a total makeup junkie and like wearing it every day, then go for it—that’s your thing. And if you don’t like makeup? Then don’t wear makeup! It’s simple: Just do whatever makes you feel confident. There was this one tour where I wore tons and tons of dark eyeliner all the time…and I look back and I’m like, “Why?!” I know I’d never do it again—but at the time, I felt super cool. And that’s all that matters.

RYDEL 19

BEAUTY

s e l u r y t u a e b 5 y M 1. Cleanse face 2x per day.

I absolutely never (ever!) sleep in my makeup. No matter how tired I am, I’ll still take off my makeup and wash my face before I go to bed. Beauty sleep is real—your skin needs to breathe and repair itself overnight, and it can’t do that if you have on dayold makeup (or even just the random chemicals that land on your face during the day). Wash up!

2. Slather on the sunscreen.

I don’t go out of the house without plenty of SPF first—it’s the most crucial step in any beauty routine.

Look for an oil-free face formula (it won’t make you break out or feel greasy), and grab a more hydrating formula for your body. More tips on page 28.

3. Go easy on the heat.

Lots of heat-tool styling (like blow-drying, straightening and curling) causes major damage to your mane, so I try to leave it alone when I’m not touring.

I’ll wash it, then let it air-dry or sleep on it. Try sleeping in damp braids to wake up with waves.

1

And the 3 things I NEVER do* I never wash my hair every day—I still shower daily (duh!), but sudsing up snaps strands.

never do a plain pink mani.

2 INope!

I will wear pink everything else, but not polish. never rock edgy ear pierc3 Iings—they’d get in the way of the in-ear monitors I wear onstage. *But don’t quote me. My style changes all the time!

4. Use every last drop.

I don’t know where this obsession came from, but I always cut open my shampoo, lotion, makeup— everything—so I can use even the very last drop. Just turning it upside down isn’t good enough! If you cut it open, you literally find another week’s worth of product in there. Funny story: For Christmas, Ellington got me this tool that rolls and squeezes everything to the bottom of the bottle so I can scoop everything out. So sweet.

5. Lotion all day, every day.

Smooth skin is everything! I lotion up from head to toe every day. My favorite is Bath and Body Works in the Pink Chiffon scent—I love it. I’m also into sugar scrubs and frequent shaving to keep my legs ultra soft. Get the DIY on page 28.

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The perfect selfie

The trick to a solo pic?

It’s all about the angle— so the selfie stick is a must because it gets your phone far enough away from your face.

I’m usually with a ton of people, so it lets me get everyone in, PLUS the background. They fold up, so I can just pop it in my purse and always have it with me.

RYDEL 21

BEAUTY

p u e k a m Pretty ! y s a e e mad nighttime

d ay t im e

3

5

mins!

mins! ted SPF or primer to 1. Smooth on some tin . get a nice, even base m blush into cheeks.

2. Blend a bit of crea e in the mood.

Add mascara if you’r lm with a rosy tint— 3. Dab on a little lip ba my natural color. anything to bump up

BEAUTY SECRET! SCORE SAMPLES

I try a ton of free samples and always use ’em up— it’s a great way to find out if you love something before you buy it. Head to Sephora or a department store beauty counter for tons of fab freebies.

1. Start with a bit of found ation. I blend with my finge it in rs, which is su per easy.

2. Sweep on so me blush—I like a little color on my cheeks .

3. Mascara, m ascara, masca ra (three coats plus a swipe o !) f shimmer eye shadow.

4. Dab on a p retty lip gloss —I usually go pale pink with for a bit of shimm er.

5. Wrap a few sections of ha ir around a curling rod to add some wa ve.

t o o l k it • Foundation, tinted moisturizer or BB cream • Powder blush + brush • 3 shades of shadow: light, medium and dark • Eyeshadow brush • Liner brush or Q-tip • Lip gloss

k is usually smoky. So while my loo I either go natural or ally girly tot t ge it’s so much fun to very low-key, I think Doing t. en ev big or t a red carpe and glammed up for favorite my is s he las of s lot er and a smoky eye with lin gown, everything—a white th wi rks wo it use beca e! ver you lov a leather jacket, whate

k o o l e h t t e G

e y e y k o m s My glam 1. Dab foundation on just your T-zone, then blend with a beauty sponge or fingers for a flawless finish.

2. Swirl a blush brush in your favorite hue, then smile and swipe it onto the apples of your cheeks.

3. Use a fluffy shadow brush to dust a sheer, shimmery shade over the entire lid of both eyes, extending just past the creases.

4. Dip the same brush (or use a stiffer one if possible) into your medium eyeshadow and lightly swipe it into the creases and corners, then use a Q-tip or liner brush to line your bottom lids.

5. Run your dark shade along your lashline in the outer corners of both eyes (kind of creating a “V” shape).

6. Top it all off with plenty of mascara and a little bit of lip gloss. Smile, gorgeous!

LASH LOVE

r ays have to wea lw a ’t on d I so I dye my lashes t they they’re so ligh y ll a m or n — mascara pair of ma, I’ll pop on a ra d a tr ex r Fo disappear! gstore. b ‘em at any dru a gr n ca u Yo s. falsie RYDEL 23

BEAUTY

: o p s n i e n a Major m

y m o t s t e r c e s e h t t Ge When it comes to strand styling, I think the messier, the better. I’m not a fan of anything too fussy or perfect! But hair that’s a little wild should still be chic—not sloppy.

Here’s how I trick out my tresses…

PRIMPED-OUT PONY Ahh, I love this look: my signature high pony from when I had bangs. This was back in 2012 during our first tour ever. To get the sleek look, flip your head upside down and brush your hair straight down toward the floor to make it smooth, then pull into a pony right at your crown and flip back up. Secure with a hair tie, then hide it: Just grab a 1” section of hair from the bottom of the pony, wrap around the base and secure with a pin.

CROWN BRAID The secret to the chunkiness of this style is the Dutch braid—it’s super similar to a French, except you pull sections of hair over each other (instead of under), which makes the braid stick out and sit on top of your hair.

Search for “Dutch crown braid” tutorials on YouTube and you’ll find tons of how-to vids.

COACHELLA CURLS Beachy, textured curls are my go-to when I want a bohemian vibe—perfect for a music festival. I use a curling rod, which is like a curling iron, but doesn’t 24 RYDEL

have a clamp. Start a few inches down from your roots, grab a 2” section of hair and wrap around the rod. Then switch directions each time as you work your way around your head. Tousle with fingers, mist with texturizer and you’re good to go!

BITTY BUN I wore this to Dancing with the Stars, but it’s also really great as a more casual look because it’s the perfect thing to do with second-day hair—especially the day after you’ve worn it curly, when it’s been sort of smashed into loose waves. Grab the top section (everything above your ears), pull it straight back and tease at the root a bit, then twist it into a mini topknot and secure with a clear elastic and pins.

ROCKER WAVES This is rockstar hair, literally—this photo was taken behind the scenes at our #SometimeLastNight album cover shoot. Major body and plenty of waves are perfect for head-banging! All that volume is thanks to a healthy dose of texturizing spray, tons of teasing at the root and big curls created with a large barrel iron.

MESSY TOPKNOT I’m a messy bun girl so it’s really fun to build a big, poofy one that looks ultra glam for the red carpet. The secret here is teasing the tail: Spritz your hair all over with a texturizing spray, pull it into a pony on the top of your head, then tease the entire length to build lots of body.

Wrap the tail around the base, then secure with pins. Easy.

PRIMPED-OUT PONY

y styles!

ROCKER WAVES

MESSY TOPKNOT CROWN BRAID

BITTY BUN

COACHELLA CURLS

RYDEL 25

BEAUTY

k o o l e h t t e G

Fancy fishtail

1. Prep hair with a dry texturizing spray. Split into two equal parts.

2. Grab a small piece of hair from the outside of the left part, and cross it over to join the right part.

3. Grab a small piece of hair from the outside of the right part, and cross it over to join the left part.

4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 again and again (and again).

1

4

2

3

5. Work your way down, making sure to pull tightly each time.

As you get near the bottom, grab super small sections (or it might start looking like a regular braid).

6. When you reach the bottom, tie it off with a clear elastic and then gently stretch it apart with your fingers to make it look messy and textured.

5

6

Must-haves s l a i t n e s s e g My stylin These are the 4 things I rely on to keep my hair looking cute...…

LEAVE-IN CONDITIONER. My absolute favorite is It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In. I spritz it on my strands after every single shower to keep my hair healthy and help tame frizz.

DRY SHAMPOO. My must-have with me at ALL times—especially when my roots are growing out—is the Batiste Hint of Color Dry Shampoo in Blonde. It keeps my mane looking fresh.

VOLUMIZING POWDER. You dust this stuff into your hair and it’ll make it sticky and give it volume—perfect for styling buns, ponies and braids. Try Osis+ Dust It by Schwarzkopf.

CURLING ROD. This is the easiest to use—you just wrap your hair around it. Be careful not to burn your fingers (which happens to me pretty often). DIY: If you have a curling iron with a clamp, just use a mini screwdriver to remove it.

Mane MUST

Scrunchies I can’t live without scrunchies—I always have one on my wrist.

They’re probably from the ’80s!

Hair hack

Hint of color Play with fun pops of color to brighten up your look. Hair chalk washes right out—so you can get crazy creative.

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BEAUTY

t e g o t w Ho ! n i k s s u gorgeo

Pick the perf products

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to a skin care regimen. A standard three-step routine (cleanse, tone, moisturize) is one of the most popular options, so that’s a great place to start. And you don’t necessarily need to invest in expensive products—I use a $10 antibacterial cleanser that works really well for me.

The key is to listen to your skin and seek out advice from a doctor if you aren’t getting results you love.

When my skin wasn’t looking so flawless all the time, my dermatologist told me to stop moisturizing—and since then, my complexion has been so much better!

That won’t be a solution for everyone, but it shows that talking to a pro can make a big difference.

Fast fix: Mix ur sugar with yo

favorite body oil. wash or baby

Be besties with ’block

So many girls think that you only need sunblock if you’re going to be hanging outside all day or sitting at the beach. No! Sunscreen on your face is a must— every single day. Get an oil-free face formula to wear underneath your makeup or as your one-step routine, and reapply if you’re spending tons of time outside.

And if you wear a tinted moisturizer or foundation, make sure to choose one that also contains SPF so you can double up on your protection. Safe is smart!

Show some love

A few times a month, your face deserves some TLC— and face masks are such an easy way to make sure your skin gets pampered with whatever it’s craving.

Recently, I’ve been DIYing with raw, organic honey: All you do is smooth the stuff all over your face and let it sit for about 15 minutes before rinsing off. The benefits are awesome—it nourishes skin with vitamins, helps it retain moisturize, preserves natural oils for a nice glow and cleans out pores. Try it! And then my other fave is to go to Sephora and grab their stick-on paper masks. They look a little creepy (see above!)…but they make specialized treatments for every skin type.

28 RYDEL

Sugar scrub DIY WHAT YOU’LL NEED • 1/2 cup brown sugar • 1/2 cup granulated sugar • 1/3 cup oil (olive, almond or coconut) • 2 tbs honey • 1/3 tsp essential oil (lavender, peppermint, etc.)

WHAT TO DO Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined. Store in an airtight container.

To use, apply to damp skin and gently rub in a circular motion to exfoliate. Rinse with warm water and pat dry.

The perfect shave I looove it when my legs are soft!

All it takes is 3 get-smooth steps…

1. Exfoliate with a sugar scrub to bring the hairs up and bust ingrowns. Check out my DIY. 2. Lather up with a moisturizing bar soap (my fave), then use a men’s razor to erase stubble. I use the Gillette Fusion—it’s the best.

3. Moisturize.

BEAUTY

Cuticle tats

! t i d e l i a N I’ve loved painting my nails ever since I was little—my mom was a nail tech, which was always just the coolest thing (so many good tricks!). Switching up your tips is a rad way to experiment with your look. Here are some of my most major manis...

Rainbow brights

Baby blues 30 RYDEL

When your white-hot pedi starts to get dull, paint a bright polish right on top—when used as a base, white makes neon shades pop.

i d e p / i n a m t c e f r e p e h T 1. Start with a clean canvas

5. Be all about that base

Erase any trace of previous polish with a non-acetone remover (no harshness).

Don’t skip this step—or risk staining your nail beds and having your polish chip in no time. Start with a sticky base coat that helps polish adhere. Or, if unevenness is an issue for you, try a ridge-filling base coat for smoothness.

2. Shape and smooth Use a file to form nails into your desired shape, then remove ridges and smooth it all out by rubbing with a buffing block.

3. Soak and scrub Dip your digits in warm, sudsy water. Aim for 3 to 5 minutes for fingers, and at least 10 minutes for toes. Then, gently exfoliate with a sugar scrub (get my DIY on page 28), rinse and pat dry.

4. Care for your cuticles A lot of people will trim cuticles for this step—but don’t! Instead, my mom always recommends just applying a luxe cuticle cream, and then pushing them back with a cuticle stick.

6. Get polished Paint on your first coat and let it dry fully before moving on to the next. Only use exactly as much polish as needed—if you apply too much, it’ll get thick and dry unevenly. Apply a second coat of polish, then fix any slip-ups with an old eyeliner brush dipped in polish remover.

7. Top it off The last step is simple: Seal the deal with a shiny topcoat. Reapply it every other day to resist chipping, keep everything shiny and help your paint job last for days.

RYDEL 31

S E I T BES My brothers and Ratliff are my best friends in the world. We’re always together and, yeah, being the only girl gets a little old sometimes. That’s why I’m so thankful for all the awesome ladies in my life, especially my girlfriend squad. Whether we’re sipping chai at a tea party or texting inside jokes, my girls and I always have an amazing time. And while we don’t get to hang out as often as we want, I know they’ve always got my back. Ready to tighten your bond with your BFFs—and make some new soul sistahs? Read on…

32 RYDEL

Life on the road is WAY better when your best girlfriends decide to visit. Group hug!

BESTIES

e k a m o t How e n o y n a with I love meeting new people.

When R5 is on tour, I get to talk to hundreds of fans a day. But even for the most outgoing girl, breaking the ice with a new bud requires a bit of bravery.

Here are my secrets for making it easy‌

s d n e i r ef

1. Be friendly Take a deep breath, smile, walk up and start a conversation. Honestly, what do you have to lose? If it goes well, great.

If not, there’s always the next person.

2. Laugh a little I always try to make people laugh.

Getting someone to giggle erases any awkwardness, and being a little goofy shows you’re approachable and fun.

3. Get her talking Connect over what you have in common.

I know that sounds really basic, but you only need to figure out one thing (“OMG, I love guacamole, too!”) to keep the convo rolling on its own. When in doubt, ask about her favorite movie or band (R5, duh!)—everyone has one of those.

4. Say something nice Who doesn’t love a compliment? Just keep it sincere. Amazing shoes? Impressive presentation in chem class? Great haircut? There’s almost always something you can say you really like—and it subtly lets her know you’re a kind, positive person she’s gonna love being around.

5. Make a plan I’m a huge planner. (I got it from my mom.) I love going out and doing things, so when I meet somebody cool, I’ll invite her to join me for something fun and active, like a hike. It’s a great way to get to know each other, and bam!—you’ve made your first memory together.

6. Bring her in As soon as a newbie comes into the girlfriend squad, the first thing I do is teach her our favorite card game, Liverpool Rummy. It takes a lot of patience to teach someone cards, let me tell you, but sharing something you love lets your new girl know she’s someone you really want to hang out with.

RYDEL 35

BESTIES

e s o l c g Stayin razy)

c s t e g e f i l n (even whe

I

’m going to be honest—my friends and I don’t usually talk that much while I’m on the road. My brothers and I are always busy with shows and fans…somehow the days just slip by. Sound familiar? Yep, it can be just as hard to connect to your own crew when your day is packed with tons of homework, practices, clubs, sports and everything else under the sun.

That’s why it’s all about the little things. If I see something that reminds me of a certain person or a silly inside joke we have, I’ll call them or text them right away like, “You’ll never guess what I just saw!” It’s always hilarious, and it’s a great way for me to show that I’m thinking about them. So take a second, snag a Post-it, draw a smiley face or a heart and stick it on your BFF’s locker.

Or text her in the a.m. to wish her good luck on the test you know she has that day. Or ask her how her field hockey game was the night before. While it’s great to spend tons of time together at a sleepover or talk all afternoon over tea, taking a second out of your crazy busy day to let your girl know you care is just as important.

36 RYDEL

Friend moved far away? Your bestie is going off to camp? Bud could just use a boost? Sending an emoji is a start, but to really show her you care, nothing beats good old-fashioned snail mail.

I love surprising my girls with homemade cards. Not only can you write a sweet message, but you can decorate it so they know it’s just for them. Can’t do that with a smiley text, can you? The easy instructions are on page 87.

I Love dancing the night away with you guys and getting endless giggles!

RYDEL’S BFf BONDING HACK

!

Y M M U R L O LIVERPO

Liverpool is a little complicated, so I’m laying out the rules in the simplest way possible.

1

For each hand, you’ll be playing with a certain goal of groups and runs. (Groups = 3 cards of the same value. Runs = 4 cards in a row of the same suit.) Here are the hands…

DEAL #1: Two Groups DEAL #2: One Group, One Run DEAL #3: Two Runs DEAL #4: Three Groups DEAL #5: Two Groups, One Run DEAL #6: One Group, Two Runs DEAL #7: Three Runs

2

Use two decks for every five players. Deal each person 11 cards, then place the remaining cards facedown in a pile.

3

With the goal of being the first to run out of cards, take turns picking from either the facedown pile or faceup discard pile. When you achieve the set goal, place those cards faceup (more than one person will probably achieve the goal each round). Once the goal is achieved, players try to discard their cards by adding to others’ sets until they have no cards left. When someone runs out, count everyone’s points (five points for 2-9, 10 for face cards and 10s, 15 for aces and jokers) and then move on to the next goal. Once all the rounds are finished, the person with the fewest overall points wins!

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BESTIES

s of amazing r a e y e iv f o t ’s Here o many, t d n a ip h s d n ie fr memories! e m o s e w a e r o many m

ODE TO MY BESTIE To Lori…my soul sister, partner in crime, BFF! From our sushi dates to discovering “the future,” I never thought I’d find anyone so much like me. You brighten up every room and I love how you can make anyone laugh, no matter what—especially me! We always have so much fun cooking together (and your egg salad is the bomb). Thank you for always being my right-hand girl in the kitchen… and in life. And above all, thanks for always “accidentally” feeding me cards in Liverpool Rummy so I can beat you! Hahaha ;-)

I LOVE YOU!!!! AND I MISS YOU! AND I MISS THE DUCKS! Aaaaaaaaaand left, right, center, center.

P.S. Looooooved your cameo in the “Bad Blood” music video.

And say hi to Helen for me, LOL. RYDEL 39

BESTIES

Rydel’s girl code Just like cards, when it comes to friendship, you’ve gotta play by the rules. Girl code comes with tons of written (and unwritten) guidelines, but I def think some rules are more important than others—so here are my top five BFF unbreakables. Let’s have each other’s backs, ladies…

Honesty is the best policy.

I’m pretty much the most straightforward person ever. I’d never lie to my friends and I want them to be totally honest with me—even if it means telling me they hated my latest red-carpet look. Just remember to deliver it kindly (“You know, that pink dress looks so awesome on you, maybe try it over that black one…”).

40 RYDEL

Be real.

Acting fake is the absolute worst, both for you and your friends. While it can be easier to hide your emotions than to tell somebody how you feel, someone always ends up getting hurt. The more genuine you are and the more you act like yourself, the more fun you’re going to have—trust me.

Don’t take yourself too seriously.

So much drama stems from girls taking things their friends say totally out of context. I try to keep unnecessary fights to a minimum by letting my girl know if something she said rubbed me the wrong way. If she didn’t mean it, we just move on.

Support each other.

As a singer, I have to deal with haters on a regular basis. With so many people trying to bring me

down, it’s the best feeling in the world to know my crew is sincerely wishing me well. If your friend is doing something awesome, let her know you’re her biggest supporter. Why? Because soon it will be your turn to shine—and she’ll be there cheering you on all the way.

Bond, bond, bond!

A lot of the time, friendship is just hanging out and laughing until you can’t breathe. When my friends and I get to giggling, nothing can stop us—and it feels amazing. But my friends also know that when life isn’t all homemade cupcakes, they can count on me to stand by them. Your BFF’s boy breaks her heart? Be there with ice cream and tissues. Your teammate flubbed a goal that would have won the game? Remind her that everyone on the squad is responsible for wins or losses. Your lab partner’s grandma passed away? Ask her how she’s doing— and really listen. It sounds super obvious, but the words “Are you OK?” let other people know that you are paying attention—and that you truly care.

Q

Girl Code Is it ever OK to date a guy your friend called dibs on?

It depends. Does she still like him?

Sorry, he’s off-limits for now. You really like him and she’s already eyeing another cutie?

Talk it over—chances are she won’t stop you from making a move.

6 things besties should never say

“I just don’t get what you see in that guy,” Unless he’s majorly bad news, clearly she sees something, so zip it…for now.

“I know I promised, but...”

A promise is a promise. Period.

“You don’t need more friends. I’m your BFF.” Being a real friend means not being jealous of the other girls in her world.

“So sorry you’re down, but I can’t hang out this week.

I have SO much to do.”

Ya gotta make time for your girls, even if it’s just walking to school together and talking on the way.

“You’re not seriously going to eat that, are you?”

You’re her friend, not the food police.

“I can’t stand your mom.”

Because, hello, it’s her mom. Even if she’s grounded for something stupid, no way.

RYDEL 41

BESTIES

f i g h d ts n e i r F

E

verybody gets in fights with their friends…and it’s always the worst.

I’m super lucky, though, that I rarely gripe with my girls. Know why?

It’s not because my friendships are all totally perfect (they’re not!)—I just try not to let fights happen in the first place. Check out my how-to for sidestepping BFF breakups (or, if it’s too late, how to solve them super quickly)…

Too late?

How to avoid a friend fight: If I feel conflict coming on, I just sort of cut it off. I will approach my friend and say, “Let’s just solve this right now.” I’m really honest…and really blunt. I hate when things get to the point where people aren’t speaking to each other.

Like I said before, the silent treatment is lame. On the other hand, you do need enough time to cool down and be able to talk about it without totally freaking out on each other.

In my opinion, the best thing you can possibly do is be upfront and honest and attack a conflict head-on. Then talk it out until you’re both satisfied.

Oh, and try not to get nasty or overly dramatic—that’s not helping anything.

The final step? Hug it out, of course.

42 RYDEL

Here’s what to do now...

Write through it.

Writing always helps me process my feelings and understand exactly what happened. Taking the time to jot down what you want to say when you’re finally able to talk it out with your BFF is also very helpful.

Give it some time.

Don’t text!

Seriously. Don’t do it. It’s nice to have time to write out what you feel (see #1), but texting never ends well. Set up an in-person conversation in a calm, private place instead.

Admit your faults.

You might be mad about something she said, but more than likely you said something to upset her, too. Unless you really-really-really did nothing wrong, be willing to say you’re sorry.

aking new m r (o s F F B g in rt, hav Long story sho nd bring a h it w h g u a l , n count on friends) you ca t thing EVER— s e b e h t is s e r tu along on adven wrapped up in g in t t e g y b p u so don’t mess it stie love! e b d n a e c a e P . rama unnecessary d

xoxo Rydel

S Y U G Full confession: I’ve only ever had one boyfriend. On top of that, I’ve been crushing on the same guy for most of my life—and the only reason I stopped is because my crush became my BF. So why listen to me when it comes to guys? Well, for starts, I’m related to four of them— so I pretty much get the inside scoop on every dude dilemma (ever) on a daily basis. But I’ve also figured out the #1 thing every girl wants to know: how to go from BGF to GF. So if you’re having boy trouble, or you’re just not sure how to manage that unrequited love, read on.

44 RYDEL

DITCH THE FRIEND ZONE:

BGF TO BF

S

ecretly pining after your BGF (aka your best guy friend)? We all know I’ve been there. And although not knowing whether he secretly likes you back stinks—say nothing of risking your friendship if you work up the nerve to ask—starting a relationship as friends is a fab move to make. After all, there’s nothing better than a boyfriend who already knows your favorite ice cream flavor, how you like to spend a rainy afternoon and which movie always cheers you up. Want to know how I made the move?

I’m spilling here (and now you know my secrets, Ellington!)…

LET THINGS EVOLVE ON THEIR OWN If you’ve got it bad for your boy, the best thing to do is to let your relationship grow naturally. If you’re bound to be more than just besties, he needs time to find his feelings on his own. Randomly blurting out that you’re meant to be together forever will only freak him out.

DON’T BE AFRAID TO GET FLIRTY That doesn’t mean you have to keep things neutral, though.

Some playful flirting can help you test the waters to see if you and your friend really have chemistry. If he’s flirting and teasing back, there’s a good chance he’s interested.

GIVE IT A NUDGE IF YOU NEED TO Sure, it’d be great if he took the plunge and ’fessed up first that he was ready to be your boyfriend, but boys can be just as nervous as girls about whether or not their feelings are reciprocated—so feel free to take a little initiative and hint at a hangout for just the two of you.

BE UPFRONT AND HONEST Ultimately, though, you’ll have to talk about it either way.

When you and your BGF finally have the convo, don’t be afraid to tell him how you feel. Sure, it can be scary, but your BGF is your best guy friend because you already know you can trust him and talk to him about your feelings. When it’s time, be open about the fact that you like him and that you want to try going on a date—it’s bound to pay off.

RYDEL 45

GUYS

d n i h e b h t The tru n o t g n i l l e Ryd

I’ve liked Ellington as long as I’ve known him • I always thought he was so cute, nice and funny. Plus, he’s super talented—and one of my best friends. But he also has a really flirty personality...so although we were always joking, teasing each other and being playful, I kind of figured it was just how he acted with everyone. And though I really liked him, I was OK with strictly being friends.

When I confessed my crush to my mom, she was a little worried • Not only was Ellington best friends with all of my brothers and a member of my band, he also was dating another girl.

My mom tried to help me move on, but ultimately I just couldn’t shake my feelings. And Mom agreed. She said that, whether or not he knew it yet, she could tell that there was something between us, something worth waiting for. (And, spoiler alert, it was.)

One night after a show, I couldn’t stand it anymore • Ellington and his girlfriend had broken up, my crush was stronger than ever and, more than anything else (and I know this sounds silly), I really wanted to have my first kiss. As soon as we got offstage, I was sure I was going to ask him to kiss me.

I was so pumped from our performance that I actually had the guts to go through with it—even with all my brothers right there. And what happened? I got shot down! OK, not exactly, but Ellington said that if we ever did kiss, it wasn’t going to be with everyone watching.

My brothers thought it was all a big joke, but a couple days later, when the boys weren’t around, he finally gave me my first smooch. I just about died!

My brothers thought we were faking at first • We’d always been flirty, so they figured we were just playing the ultimate prank. They used to tease us, like, “Would you two just kiss already?” and “Hey, lovebirds, we’re in rehearsal,” but they didn’t realize 46 RYDEL

S EAP DATE 5 FUN & CH only way to dinner, but it’s not the

a fancy It’s nice to go out to you can have fun are a thousand ways ere Th te. da at gre a have at least super cheap). s of them are free (or with your guy—and lot y on the Be kids again. Get sill d out rea Sp rk. pa the the in rs— Picnic swings or monkey ba shine you ng bri ly on the grass in the sun on nostalgia will favorite while listening to your er. eth closer tog &Js. bands and eating PB dHold your own Choppe lash ch Ea . ge Hit up the beach. Sp en inspired chall catch to around in the waves, person has 30 minutes on lk d, wa ative cre sly some rays on the san iou lic de a ke ma a sand in the the water’s edge, build dish from whatever’s y da the ke ma n wacky for s int castle—you ca po s nu fridge. Bo y/sweet ce) jui kle pic e adventurous/chill/funn (lik ts ien ingred e. dim a ing nd spe ers ut tov ho wit or transforming lef out of your (like making pancakes Go for a hike. Whip up n , take en the , Th on s). ati oe cre tat x po mi d il mashe own tra oose a ch te to ola turns taste-testing work off all the choc ing ! joy too en , ile OK wh are winner. Ties chips you put in the great outdoors.

that we were both pretty serious. And when they finally found out for real, they freaked. We were at the beach, and Ross caught us holding hands under the blanket.

He started screaming! Once the other boys caught on, they all tackled Ellington. It was kind of crazy.

A couple weeks later, Ellington picked me up for our first official date • Because it was my first date ever, my family was determined to mess with him. My dad answered the door with a baseball bat and my brothers were all standing there acting “scary” (which actually was pretty funny). Then they all watched as he gave me flowers and we left for dinner. But once we got to the restaurant, the food wasn’t great…and then the movie we saw was lame, too! Luckily, the night picked up when we headed over to Amoeba, where Ellington bought me my first records—totally romantic.

The night was perfect in its imperfection—I wouldn’t change a thing • After all, it was my first date with Ellington, which means it could’ve gone totally wrong and would’ve been amazing no matter what. But somehow take two was even better. On our second date, we found this awesome, hidden gazebo—and then we danced and laughed under it all night. It was the best date, and totally made up for the long wait. And since then, things have been better than I could’ve ever imagined.

RYDEL 47

GUYS

r o f k o o l o t t a h W

I

’m the first to admit it: I am super fortunate that the perfect guy for me popped right into my life. Yep, I was lucky...but I know full well that finding the right guy is no easy task. No doubt the ideal match is different for every girl, but there are a few things he definitely should be…

NICE No matter what else he is, a good boyfriend is always nice to you. Teasing is fair game if you have a playful relationship, but you’ll know he’s crossed the line when he makes fun of that secret you shared in confidence. And if he does?

Gone. You deserve a boy who treats you right.

pretend you love it), but you do need someone you can trust. Even little white lies can add up over time, so make sure your guy knows how to be real with you.

THOUGHTFUL Whether it’s quick text messages throughout the day or a phone call at night, one of the best things a boyfriend can do is let you know when he’s thinking about you. After all, grand gestures are totally unnecessary when you have little reminders that you’re always on his mind.

FUNNY He doesn’t need to be ROTFL funny—or even know how to tell a good joke—but your BF does need to be someone that you can laugh with.

And if he can actually make you laugh (on purpose or not), then that’s an added bonus.

CARING He doesn’t have to be über sensitive, but he does need to care about you and be there if you need to vent. If you can’t share your feelings with your boyfriend, it’ll be a lot harder to talk through tough times you might have later on.

HONEST You don’t necessarily need a boy who’s going to call it out all the time (you don’t have to tell me if you hate my favorite comfy sweater, just don’t 48 RYDEL

best guy friend ur yo to it m d a rd to … “It can be ha ut the ELLINGTON SAYS you, Delly!— b at ’ in ok lo , um your crush— er it that he’s also and-aid. Wheth b a f of g in ll it is fast, like pu best way to do heart.” nd go with your a t es on h e b , ot works out or n

in a guy

WHO NOT TO CRUSH ON They say all’s fair in love and war, but when it comes to crushes, there is such a thing as off-limits. You can’t always control who you like, but if someone who you shouldn’t is catching your eye—look away. The officially uncrushable list includes…

• Your BFF’s BF. No good can come from having feelings for your bud’s

boy. Get to know him well enough to give the stamp of approval, but if you start to get that butterfly feeling when he comes around, steer clear.

• Your teacher. You know how sometimes you doodle your crush’s initials on the side of your homework? Just imagine turning that in—to the guy whose initials it is. Yeah, pretty

embarrassing (and, sorry, Pretty Little Liars, it’s also totally illegal and career-ending if he likes you back).

• Your ex. You gave a relationship a shot before…and it didn’t work. It was hard enough getting over him the first time things imploded, so don’t let yourself get sucked back in for a doubly painful round two.

E I T Y L I M A F My family is everything to me.

Not only are they my biggest supporters, they’re also my best friends. I know they’ll always be there for me no matter what.

Whether your family is super tight or a little more reserved, you can always get closer. How? By spending time together, talking and getting to know each other better.

Who knows? You might even end up starting a band ;)

50 RYDEL

ES

FAMILY

o d o t s g n i h t n Fu y l i m a f r u o with y My family is together pretty much 24/7—and that’s forced us to get creative when it comes to finding fun things to do. Want to kick YOUR family night up a notch? From board games to Battlestar Galactica, these tips will take ya from sorta boring to serious family bonding.

Get your game on Take a break from all those nights when everyone is just staring at separate screens and go old school with board and card games—my brothers and I are obsessed.

Get a little healthy competition going with classics like Sorry, Rummikub and Monopoly, or give a couple hands of Rummy a shot. Winner picks where you get dinner!

Tune in It’s tough to get everyone away from the TV, so why not pick a show for your whole family to watch together?

Not only will you always have something to talk about, it 52 RYDEL

e the The holidays ar !

N IO IT D A R T W E MAKE A N . mily traditions fa g in t r ta s r best time fo surprise you… ’t n o w e it r o v I’m sure my fa and Mamoo <3 m o M y m h it w Cooking also gives you something to look forward to each week.

Our current fave? Reign is just so good.

Get active There’s nothing better than gathering up friends and family for an intense game of flag football or beach volleyball. Your clan isn’t super sporty? Try something fun and mellow, like croquet.

D R O W E H MUM’S T to have a My mom is the best—I can tell her absolutely anything, and I feel like we never run out of stuff to talk about. But believe me, building that sort of relationship with your mama takes a little time, a lot of love and a couple secrets…

How better convo with your mom Help her out One of the best ways to bond with your mom is to show her you’re there for her.

Whether you’re chopping up veggies for dinner or riding along to pick up your big sis from choir, she’ll totally appreciate you—and the extra quality time.

Sneak out together Be a little rebellious. Grab your mom and ditch that bazillionth Little League baseball game (your 9-year-old brother will live) to go get your nails done or see a movie. Breaking the rules together is silly, a little scandalous and the perfect way to loosen up around each other.

Be honest…really, really honest

UT! TALK IT O s? ng about your parent

ythi Think you know ever … d some of these fun Qs Try asking Mom or Da your first date?

1. Where did you go on up? to be when you grew 2. What did you want tle kid? lit a as t thing I ever did 3. What’s the funnies concert you ever saw?

4. What was the first rocked? iest fashion trend you az cr e th s wa t ha W 5.

I’ve never, ever lied to my mom. That might sound hard to believe, but I really think trust is the most important part of our relationship. Yeah, things might get a little uncomfortable sometimes, but if you feel like you can spill the serious stuff to her, it’ll be even easier to talk to her about the little things.

Ask for advice Whether you’re bickering with your bestie or handling a heartbreak, your mom has probably been there. Talking to her about what’s going on in your life can be super helpful—and will make her feel like she can open up to you, too.

RYDEL 53

FAMILY

. t s e b e Be th . r e v e . r e t h g u a d

Sometimes it can seem hard to relate to your dad. Maybe he’s all about March Madness while you’d rather watch reality shows, or he just doesn’t get why you love crafting so much. But trust me—hanging out with Pops can be just as fun as being with your mom. Here’s how to bond way better with the #1 guy in your life…

Show him you care And no, I don’t just mean with a card on Father’s Day (though that’s always nice!). When he’s doing something you’re totally not into, like watching golf or working on his motorcycle, hang around and ask him to explain. He’ll love talking about something he’s passionate about, but he’ll love hanging out with you even more.

Open up Your dad probably really wants to know what’s going on in your life, but he might not know how to ask. Yeah, you should probably spare him the details of how bad your period is this month, but let him know what’s going on with your friends or tell him about that awesome speech you just gave in class.

The more he knows about you, the more you’ll have to talk about. Bonus tip: It goes both ways, so why not ask him about work or that new home project he’s been planning?

Listen & learn Dads are some of the smartest guys out there, so take advantage of it when he tries to teach you something. Pretty much everything I know about money and finance, for example, came from playing Cashflow with my dad. The little moments can end up making a big difference, so embrace ’em.

54 RYDEL

ht be the ig m m o m r u o Y F TOUGH STUF hen you’re in w o t o g u o y n o first pers alking to your t y r t t u b , e d o crisis m always is d a d y m w o n k dad, too—I ferent perif d a g in r e f f o great for k toward r o w e m g in p l e spective and h a shot. im h e iv G . n io t a solu

e v o l y l r Brothe

H

aving brothers can teach you a lot about life— from little things like how to throw a perfect spiral to big things like how guys’ brains work (which can be a little scary, let me tell you). Sometimes, though, it can feel like your brother is from another planet. How are you supposed to even

talk to him, let alone have a life-changing heart-to-heart?

For me, it’s all about seeing each other as friends, not just siblings. When I was growing up, my brothers would have “bro talks”—meaning no girls (aka no Rydel) allowed.

One day, though, I decided I wanted to be part of it and hung around. At first, I just listened. Soon, though, they started asking me for advice— and vice versa.

The other thing that’s so important is to find something you both love. If you and your brother(s) are huge sushi fans, go on a mission to find the best spicy tuna roll in town. Or if you’re both obsessed with horror movies, stay in one Saturday night and have a mini-marathon. Once you start acting like you’re buds and making memories, your bond will become stronger than you ever thought it could.

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I B M DREA I’ve known since I was little that I loved performing. My dream was to be onstage...but how would I get there? Well, that was a little tougher to figure out. It’s been a long, difficult journey with plenty of twists and turns (and I’m hardly finished), but I’ve discovered a lot along the way. After starting as a dancer then giving R5 my blood, sweat and tears before finally making it into something great, I have a lot of lessons to share.

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IG

One of my favorite things in the world is performing onstage and being able to look out at all the beautiful #R5family. You guys make me so happyyyyyyy!

DREAMS

W

hen I was younger, I was a dancer. I sang sometimes, too, but I figured that’s what I’d be doing onstage— dancing. But then I started a band with my brothers. For a while, I thought of it as just a casual thing, something fun to do with my family...until one day when I skipped a concert with them for a dance recital. As soon as I got home, my brothers told me how much they’d missed me at the show—and how being onstage was different without me. At that moment I realized that being onstage without them hadn’t felt the same, either.

DANCING WAS ALWAYS MY DREAM, BUT MY DREAM CHANGED—AND THAT’S OK. As we grow up, we have new experiences. So it’s not a total shocker that, as your interests change, your dreams will, too. Maybe when you were little, you thought you’d be a doctor. But a few years later, you can’t stop sketching and all of a sudden it hits you that being an artist is what you’re meant to do. What I realized when I finally left dancing for singing? You don’t have to be true to who you were to stay true to who you are.

HOW DO YOU FIND YOUR PATH? Not everybody knows exactly what they want to do with their lives from moment one. For most of us, it takes a little time—and some experimentation—to figure it out (hello, see above!). So don’t sweat it if you don’t have a super clear idea yet, but when you’re ready to figure it out, here’s what to keep in mind…

Try lots of different things. You know that friend who is always trying to drag you to the animal shelter to volunteer with her, even though you’ve never even had so much as a pet goldfish? Next time she asks you to help her pamper some pups, say yes. Why? There are a thousand different things you can do in life, and most people only ever get the chance to try a few, so be open to all the experiences that come your way. Chances are you’ll have fun trying something totally new—and with any luck, you just might find something you never knew you loved.

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g n i d n i F

Don’t let doubt get you down. You’ve always been curious about acting, but too scared to even try out for your school’s fall musical? Face your fears and go for it, even if it’s hard. There’s probably a reason you just can’t get it out of your mind.

Reach for the stars. Maybe someone once told you that baking amazing cakes is just something to do for fun—even though you think you could sell your delicious creations for big bucks. Don’t let other people put limitations on your ideas. Nothing is impossible unless you tell yourself it is, so pour your heart into whatever you love—it could end up being more than a hobby.

Don’t sweat it. Dreams can sneak up on you, so don’t worry too much about nailing down what yours is.

Focus on having fun and, just like I did, you might find yourself with a dream you never even realized you had.

h t a p r u o y

DO

what makes you happy, not what you are used to

Chasing a dream is supposed to be hard work, but it’s not supposed to be a chore. When dancing just wasn’t cutting it anymore, I gave myself permission to pursue singing instead. Worried about all that time you spent chasing a previous passion? It’s not wasted. You were doing what you loved, and you should keep doing what you love, even if it’s different now from what it was before.

Bottom line? Your dreams are for you, not anyone else.

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ES AIM ET RS BE D

Having a dream is easy, but making that dream a reality? It can seem pretty hard.

Everyone always asks me how R5 made it big.

I know lofty goals can seem unreachable, but whether your ambition is to be a singer or a surgeon, when you break it down, there are really only a few things you have to doâ&#x20AC;Ś

y s a t n a From f y t i l a e r o t FOCUS ON IT ALL THE TIME

FIND A ROLE MODEL

Just because you’re doing something you love doesn’t mean it’s not hard work. My brothers, Ellington and I are constantly writing new songs (and rewriting old ones), rehearsing our music and doing everything we can for our R5 family.

It takes a lot of time (and sweat) to get where you want to be. Whether you have five minutes or five hours, make sure you find a few moments each day to work toward your goals— when you put in the effort, it will start to add up.

DON’T GET AHEAD OF YOURSELF There’s absolutely nothing wrong with planning for the future, but what’s most important is staying in the present. To get to the end of the road, you have to walk one step at a time—and the steps in the middle are just as important as the ones at the beginning and the end. Take pictures or journal about the work you’re doing. It’ll help keep you focused on now, and you’ll love being able to look back on how far you’ve come.

People think a mentor has to be just like you, but a step ahead. Really, though, a mentor can be anyone.

What you do need in a mentor? These few things…

My mom and dad are amazing. I look to them for advice and help and guidance every chance I get. They’ve taught me so much, and they always keep me going, even when it’s hard or I’m not sure what to do next. Find someone who inspires you, whether it’s for the words they live by or the milestones they’ve reached. It’ll help you keep sight of your own goals. It can be your family, a friend or even someone you’ve never met before, as long as they remind you to be your best self.

STAY POSITIVE My dad always told me that positivity is a choice.

You have to choose to remain optimistic and focused on your goals, because once you lose faith that you can do it…then you can’t. If you make good choices, though, and you commit to believing in yourself, that positivity will come back around—I promise. What once seemed impossible will become possible when you tell yourself this: I. Can. Do. It.

pick your MENTOR

Major inspo in here!

1. Ambition (to inspire your own) 2. Empathy (to understand your setbacks) 3. Good work ethic (to keep you on your path) 4. Intelligence (to know what advice you need) 5. Faith in you (to remind you of your own) RYDEL 61

S S E N FIT When it comes to living well, I’m all about balance. Sure, I love to bake cookies and chow down on In-N-Out burgers, but I also set aside time every day to get active. After all, if I want to keep up with the guys— either on the beach volleyball court or onstage—I have to be fit, both mentally and physically. Whether it’s eating healthy food, cranking it up in a class or treating myself to some much-needed R&R, I’ve found a bunch of different ways to stay at the top of my game. Here’s how...

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e Live your best lif One big lesson I’ve learned: Taking care of yourself is priority #1. It’s easy to get busy and let it slide, but a few small changes can leave you happier, healthier and ready to rock—every single day.

Balance it out My rule? Sleep eight hours, work eight hours and play eight hours every day. You don’t have to measure your minutes or schedule every second, of course, but it’s key to divide up your time between working and taking it easy.

Good choices…and A LOT of water There’s just no way around it: You have to eat a healthy diet, with tons of fruits and veggies plus lean protein.

What to wash it down with? I know this is boring, too, but…good old H20. I drink it all day and keep a huge glass by my bed.

Sleep well Getting major shut-eye is essential for, oh, just about everything.

Sleep keeps you healthy, smart and sane.

To make sure you get a full night’s rest, set your alarm exactly 8.5 hours from when you go to bed—that way, you have 30 minutes to fall asleep and eight blissful hours to spend in dreamland.

Be proud of yourself Made an awesome meal? Woke up early to get a quick run in? Own it. Part of building up confidence is being proud of yourself for doing amazing things. The more you show yourself some appreciation for trying new things and being kind to your body, the more likely you are to turn those good behaviors into habits. Start small, and give yourself some credit!

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FITNESS

t e g o t s y a w y s a E e r e h w y an

] Grab a bench at the beach and do two sets of 10 tricep dips. Bikini optional! ] Watching TV? Challenge yourself to plank for a full commercial each break. ] Do sumo squats while brushing your teethâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;aim for three sets of 15. ] Ask your mom to park at the other side of the lot and *always* take the stairs.

Get those steps in, girl. ] Instead of just head-bobbing to your fave song, get up and dance it out for three minutes.

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active

Get in the best e shape of your lif These four tips offer major motivation to live a fabulously fit life.

Make a plan

MY DAILY ROUTINE No day in my crazy life is ever the same—but my typical schedule looks a lot like this...

7am

Wake up and stretch it out (see my moves on p. 69)

8am

Head to ballet barre class with my BFF/fitness bud Lori

10am

Stop by the juice bar for a healthy sip and snack

11am

Errands, chores, laundry… sigh (but necessary!)

2pm

Eat a quick lunch before piano practice

Working out on your own is hard to do, especially at home. That’s why I love setting aside time for a sweat session, whether by penciling in my morning cardio or signing up for a daily class (check out my faves in the box below!).

Phone a friend If it wasn’t for Lori, I’m pretty sure I’d never make it to my morning workouts. The best part? Bringing a bud along makes getting fit way more fun AND works as a fail-safe way to stay accountable.

Do what you love I hate running…so I don’t run. It sounds simple, but you’re a million times more likely to give up on a workout if you’re doing something you can’t stand.

Solve workout woes by finding something you really enjoy and sticking to it (or shaking things up to keep your routine fresh).

Live active Working out doesn’t have to take place in a gym.

Fun, everyday activities like walking, surfing and hiking totally count for cardio, even if you’re not 100 percent exerting yourself.

4pm

Meet the boys for an R5 recording session

6pm

Cook dinner (mmm, salmon), hang around the house and pop in a movie

9pm

Wind down with a shower, some stretching and a little essential oil action

Group classes are my fave way to get fit. Wake up your workout with these picks...

Lights out. Good night!

ZUMBA. Baila the day away with Latin danceinspired cardio.

SOULCYCLE. Dim lights and loud music set this cycling class apart. Sweat a ton, and get inspired.

BALLET BARRE. Basic ballet + strength training = amazing workout.

HIP-HOP. Perfect your pop-and-lock while toning your body all over.

11pm

CLASS ACT KICKBOXING. Get ringready with this intense calorie-burner.

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FITNESS

y l t n a t s n i o t s y 4 wa

W

s s e r t s e d

hether you're dealing with touring and TV appearances or French homework and friend drama, it's important to take the time to relax and focus on yourself.

Putting effort into relaxing might seem counterintuitive, but I promise—it's so worth it. Ready to get into your zen zone? Here are my favorite ways to chill...

PUT THE KETTLE ON. If you're overwhelmed, one of the best things to do is make yourself a cup of tea. Taking a minute to just sit back and sip can help you calm down and get focused in no time. Bonus tip: Avoid caffeine and go for soothing flavors like spearmint and chamomile to unwind.

TAKE A BATH. Seriously, what is more relaxing than a soak in the tub? Even though I can't stay in for very long (15 minutes max—I get way too hot), I love sliding into warm water at the end of a long day. Add some Epsom salt to the water, light some candles, put on a little music and ahh.

CATCH A FLICK. Sometimes, all you need is to cuddle up on the couch and watch a good movie or your favorite show. I’m all about feel-good Disney faves (like Frozen and Tangled) that can make me laugh, but if a campy horror film helps you forget about whatever’s stressing you out, it’s all good.

STRETCH IT OUT. Stretching and yoga are the perfect way to unwind both your body and your mind. Amazingly, it’ll energize you in the morning and help you chill at night. Check out my full routine on the next page, then grab your mat and give it a try!

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THE ESSENTIALS

Why I love oils I'm obsessed with essential oils.

Since my grandmother passed down her huge guide to all things oil, I've been using them to relax, relieve pain and help me focus.

Check out some of my favorites, then do some research to see what works best for you…

LAVENDER. Perfect for helping you to calm down and fall asleep.

Mix 5 to 10 drops into a small spray bottle of water and mist over pillows and blankets for a decadent DIY linen spray.

PEPPERMINT. Gives you a serious energy boost. Dab 1 to 3 drops onto your neck and temples to help you concentrate or soothe a headache.

CINNAMON. Spicy goodness.

Add 2 to 3 drops into your fave unscented face lotion and rub on the front of your neck for sore throat relief.

OIL BLENDS. Mixing oils is an awesome way to get a bunch of benefits at once. My go-to is Valor, which combines rosewood, spruce, frankincense, blue tansy and almond oils and helps with joint pain and relaxation.

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1

5

4

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t e r c e s e t u n My 10-mi g n i z a m a g n i l for fee Ever since I started dancing as a little kid, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been into stretching. Just 10 minutes in the a.m. will make your whole day incredible.

the floor, fingers pointing outward. Bend your left elbow and turn to the right, placing the back of your arm against your right knee. Inhale as you sit tall. Breathe out as you twist, pressing your arm into your leg and looking over your right shoulder.

Hold for five breaths then slowly return to the center. Switch sides.

1. STANDING SIDE STRETCH. Stand with your feet together and your arms straight overhead. Inhale as you reach up. Breathe out as you bend your upper body to the left, arching your right arm over your head and crossing your left over your lower body. Take five slow breaths. Slowly return to the center. Repeat on the other side.

3. DOWN DOG. Start on your hands and knees in cat pose: Round your back, lower your head, lift your belly and look at your thighs. Now go on your toes and press up to form an upside-down V. Squeeze your shoulder blades together and reach your heels toward the floor. Breathe.

2. SEATED TWIST. Sit on the floor. Bend your right knee and step your right foot over your left leg. Put your right hand on

4. COBRA. Lie on your stomach with your hands under your shoulders and fingers pointing forward. Keep your neck long.

Exhale and lift your chest and torso upward. Press your hips into the ground.

Hold for 15 seconds, breathing evenly, then slowly lower back to the floor.

5. BOW AND ARROW. Stand with your feet together and your arms by your sides and stare straight ahead. Grab your right ankle with your right hand, then lean your left arm and body forward as you raise your right leg. Hold for 15 seconds and then switch sides.

6. CHILD'S POSE. Start in a kneeling position. Drop your butt toward your heels and stretch the rest of your body down and forward. Rest your arms in a relaxed position along the floor, rest your stomach on top of your thighs and rest your forehead on the mat. Hold for 30 seconds.

RYDEL 69

Y T R A P TIME If you’ve ever glanced at my Instagram feed, this is no shocker: I love parties. Since I’m on the road so often, it’s really important for me to bring my whole crew together for an amazing occasion. And the secret to my chic celebrations? It’s all about choosing a theme— which will make your big bash both majorly memorable and easy to plan. Read on for my best hostessing hints—plus, get party planning guides for three fabulous fêtes…

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INVITE ETIQUETTE Make sure to send out invitations at least two weeks before your party—the more notice, the better!

the event deets in ig? and handwriting ind sh l sfu es cc su y an l. Break out the he key to cursive for a fancy fee st fir e Th ! se ur co ’em snail mail.

The guests, of black book and send tle lit le op pe ny step? Decide how ma you’re E-VITE you want to invite. If shes , for examPERFECT FOR: Big ba planning a tea party kes it a it ep ke perless Post, which ma to Try a free site like Pa ple, you might want au d be tiful) t is perfect for completely custom (an ou n ok sig co de a t to bu sy e, ea at im and it little more int ut your crew’s emails for the fun e inp t tim jus it, , en lim a Th t s. se ite e inv a crowd. Once you’v entire guest list. out digitally to your ssive should match mi em ur th s Yo ! nd ns se tio ita inv part: the the keep track of RSVPs! —and make sense for The best part? Easily the tone of your party s… ese are my three go-to number of guests. Th GROUP TEXT r with t-minute get-togethe PERFECT FOR: A las all of your besties FORMAL INVITATION lled text and and theme parties irs fa af e at im Int ur buds in an emoji-fi : R yo FO up d un Ro PERFECT to ily girl talk. invites by gluing a do ht full of giggling and nig a r fo y ad re t ge Make your own classy colors in your party’s theme a piece of cardstock

T

PARTY

How to be e t a m i t l u e h t hostess The hostess with the mostess is always…

Prepared. Planning a perfect party takes time, so make sure you stay on top of things. To-do lists are your BFF! Bonus tip: Enlist a co-host to help you handle bigger bashes.

Thoughtful. Check in on your guests to make sure everyone feels welcome and comfortable, and know when to step in with a funny story or party game to keep the good times rolling.

Generous. Prepare plenty of sips and snacks for your guests. And if you’re making crafts or playing games, be sure that everyone can be involved at once.

Fun! You want to have a great time at your party, so help all of your guests do the same by creating a super festive atmosphere.

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Party probs (and how to fix them!)

PROB #1: NO ONE KNOWS EACH OTHER Bringing a bunch of new people together? Great.

Awkward silence because no one knows what to say?

Not so great. When your guests arrive, introduce them to other people with whom they have something in common. Got two buds with a mutual love of cheesy musicals? Get them talking Grease and they’ll hit it off in no time.

PROB #2: IT’S HOUR TWO… NOW WHAT? It’s easy to bond over amazing appetizers and homemade Italian soda, but things can slow down a bit after the food is finished.

Plan ahead with several fun activities, then pay attention to the flow of convos. When things start to get quiet, gather everyone up for the next big thing, whether it’s crafting or charades. Let the games begin!

PROB #3: MAJOR DISASTER! OK, maybe not disaster… but the scones are burnt, your playlist won’t load and it’s raining all over your croquet game. Try not to freak out—if your guests see you upset, they’ll get uncomfortable. Keep your cool and move on to the backup plan, even if you’re coming up with it on the spot. Who says pizza and truth-or-dare aren’t perf for a garden party?

Rydel’s ROYAL TEA PARTY Tea parties are my absolute favorite. Pinkies out!

the menu Mini cucumber and egg salad sandwiches (cut into four pieces with the crusts removed) A favorite soup

Set the scene • • • • •

Lace tablecloth Accent doilies Fresh roses in vases Scented candles Cute place cards

SO MUCH FUN! Call all of your guests “Lady (Name).” It’s silly and sweet, but you’ll feel like a queen!

Homemade scones with clotted cream and jelly

playlist

Loose tea with a strainer (English Breakfast is my fave)

Classical (cue up Beethoven and Bach on Pandora or Spotify)

awesome activity Lori’s Awesome Egg Salad (serves 8)

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

I gave everyone a tea-time etiquette lesson at my first tea party—and it became a tradition!

Learning something new is also a great way to bond with your guests.

6 large eggs • 1/4 cup mayonnaise • 1 tablespoon mustard • Salt and pepper WHAT TO DO 1. Place eggs in a pot and add water.

2. Boil water, then remove pot from heat and allow to sit for 15 minutes.

3. Remove eggs from hot water and put them in a bowl filled with ice until they’ve cooled.

4. Peel eggs, then dice them.

5. Mix mayo and mustard, then add eggs.

Tea Party etiquette Sugar goes into the teacup first.

Never touch the side of your cup with your spoon!

Don’t pour your own tea.

Allow the hostess or a friend to pour it for you.

6. Add salt and pepper to taste.

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PARTY

Rydel’s

CLASSIC FAMILY COOKOUT Throw one for Memorial Day, 4th of July or just because

the menu Deviled eggs • Mac and cheese Potato salad • BBQ chicken Fresh fruit • Arnold Palmer (iced tea mixed with lemonade) All-American cake

Set the scene • • • • •

Red-and-white checked tablecloths Classic white paper plates Twinkly lights Lanterns Fresh flowers in Mason jars

playlist Rydel’s All-American Cake (serves 8)

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

All-American rock (try throwback classics like Bruce Springsteen and John Mellencamp, then mix it up with new faves like Walk the Moon and OAR)

Boxed cake mix • Vegetable oil • Eggs • Cool Whip • Strawberries and blueberries

awesome activity

WHAT TO DO

Traditional lawn games like tag, Capture the Flag and badminton—plus some friendly competition—will keep everyone laughing all day.

1. Prepare your fave boxed cake (I like vanilla) using mix, oil and eggs.

2. Bake the cake, then let it sit for two hours.

3. “Ice” the cake with Cool Whip.

4. Arrange strawberries and blueberries into the stars and stripes of the flag. Enjoy!

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SO MUCH FUN!

without Can’t have a cookout up a notch hot dogs? Kick yours into the dog by carefully cutting through or (don’t go all the way tle slivers to the ends). Insert lit my fave) of cheese (Velveeta’s bacon. then wrap the dog in n the It’s done cooking whe bacon is crisp!

Rydel’s GLOBAL GIRLS NIGHT Expand horizons with a Moroccan-themed dinner party

the menu Moroccan chicken salad Olive oil and garlic couscous Cucumber and tomato salad Orange slices with honey and cinnamon Moroccan mint tea

Rydel’s Moroccan Chicken Salad (serves 8)

WHAT YOU’LL NEED 1 cup butternut squash, diced • 2 (8 ounce) cans beets, diced • 1⁄2 cup dried cranberries • 2 hardboiled eggs, diced • 2 avocados, diced • 4 carrots, diced • 2 red bell peppers, diced • 1⁄2 cup dates or 1⁄2 cup dried apricots, chopped • 2 heads romaine lettuce, sliced • 1⁄2 cup Girard’s champagne dressing • 1⁄2 cup roasted almonds • 6 boneless chicken breasts • 2 teaspoons ground coriander • 2 teaspoons cinnamon • 2 teaspoons olive oil

Set the scene • • • •

Tons of pillows and poufs on the ground Gold accents (bonus points if you can find a lamp!)

Jewel-toned tablecloths Fabric draping

playlist Research traditional Moroccan folk music to keep it authentic.

awesome activity Learn how to belly dance! It’s a super gorgeous form of dance (and an awesome workout), so just have fun with it. Turn up the music and follow along with one of the many YouTube tutorials you can find online. You’ve got this!

WHAT TO DO To make the spiced chicken, combine the coriander and cinnamon with olive oil to create a paste. Spread on chicken breasts, then grill until fully cooked. Let chicken cool and slice. While chicken is cooking, roast diced squash in a 400-degree oven for about 10 minutes. Toss all other ingredients together with the champagne dressing to taste. Top with sliced chicken and almonds. Add salt and pepper until it’s perfect.

SO MUCH FUN! Ask your guests to wear boho print a dresses or tunics for dash of totally authentic fashion.

RYDEL 75

r u o y e Mak K C O R m o o r When you’re living out of a bus (no fancy hotels for this fam!), everything needs to have its proper place.

Luckily for me, I’m a neat freak—so organizing my room isn’t a chore, it’s just fun. I’ve decorated, redecorated and redone my pad so many times, I’m pretty much an expert by now—but it didn’t always come so naturally. I’ve picked up a lot of tips and tricks along the way, and now I’m sharing them so you can style your own space in a snap.

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K

ROOM

y p p a h My s t e r c e s space Believe it or not, the very first step to decorating your room is to (sigh) find spots for all your stuff. Unless you’re really good at paring down all your clutter to just the essentials, the fun things you like having around tend to take up tons of room. Here are a few things I’ve done to utilize every inch of space in smart new ways...

I LOFT MY BED First of all, sleeping on a lofted bed is a pretty good way to feel like a princess, which is the perfect place to start. It’s also a great secret for gaining storage space. If you put risers under your bed (pick ’em up at Walmart), all of a sudden you’ve scored valuable extra inches to slide a few storage bins underneath.

Whether you’re stashing out-of-season sweaters, special occasion shoes or just old scrapbooks, the space under your bed is perfect for cutting clutter. What’s under my bed? My crafting supplies and some extra cards I’ve made. They’re out of the way, but still easy to find when I need them. Don’t want to stare at containers, no matter how cute they are? Me either. Buy a long bed skirt—it hides all and no one will ever even guess your clever stashing secret.

I’M A BIG FAN OF SHOE SHELVES At the end of the day, all I want to do is kick off my flips into a pile. But if you aren’t careful, by the weekend you’ll have a shoe mountain—and never be able to find that perfect pair of pumps when you need them. At home, I have a whole set of shelves just 78 RYDEL

for my shoes so I can keep track of what I have (and confession: I love opening my closet and seeing all my fave pairs on display). If you don’t have built-ins, this is still easy to accomplish: There are all kinds of hanging shelves or floor racks you can use. You can even snag an old bookcase from a garage sale (paint it a poppy color for extra pretty points).

DIVIDERS KEEP MY DRAWERS TIDY Sure, you can just stuff your clothes in drawers (out of sight, out of mind, right?), but throwing in a few dividers makes it way easier to grab an outfit on the run. You can buy actual dividers, use old shoeboxes if they fit or just cut up some heavy cardboard to separate your stuff. Now when I look into my sock drawer, it’s easy to find what I want—whether it’s cute lacy stockings, workout footies, patterned tights or warm woolies. I also love to use pretty pink storage bins for extras like undies, bras and slips. Clear bins are great for organizing things like sunnies—I keep my fun, cheap ones piled on one side and the good ones in their cases on the other.

MY CLOTHES ARE SITUATION-SORTED The best way to keep your stuff neat, though? Come up with a system for your closet. I know some girls like to organize by fanciness, but I like to order my clothes by style and item. All my jeans are on one shelf, but the dark washes are in one stack while the ripped black jeans get their own place. I hang my shirts from cold weather to warm, starting with my heavier flannels and going all the way to tanks.

I also color coordinate when I can. It helps keep everything tidy—and comes in handy when I’m putting an outfit together. Want a fleecy flannel to go over that cami? Good thing they’re all together (and in rainbow order!) for the perfect pairing.

GET OUT THE DOOR IN 10 SECONDS

? Grab some My best wardrobe tip over-the-door Command hooks or an where you can hanger for your closet r the next day. hang up your outfit fo ed it out, you’ll If you’ve already pick go as soon as you basically be ready to if you can stash a get up. Extra points ve your get-up steamer close by to gi d blast away any a quick once-over an ho has wrinkles (plus, um, w time to iron?).

ROOM When you’re ready to kick back and chill after a long day, it’s nice to walk into your room and know it’s just for y-o-u. Here’s how to tap into your own style and vibe to personalize your room to perfection…

COLOR YOUR ROOM YOUR WAY When I was younger and living in Colorado, my room was pinky-girly and bright, just like me. But now that I’m working and on the road all the time, I’ve switched to a blue and brown color scheme, which feels way more chill and super relaxing to me.

FIND YOUR PERFECT LIGHTING I’m a big fan of lamps (overhead lighting= way harsh). Plus, when you use lamps, you also get to pick a great lampshade, which adds to the vibe. The finishing touch? Fairy lights. No matter what your style or the rest of your room’s décor, hanging up some string lights is always the right move. Not only do they look sweet, they add just the right touch of girly glow.

PUT UP PICTURES Don’t just slap them on the walls, though—get crafty with a photo garland. Use mini clothespins to hang your pictures from twine or ribbon that’s been secured with clear pushpins. It’ll look adorable and you can swap out pics whenever you want.

Starting to get embarrassed by that fourth-grade photo of you and your bud dressed as PB&J for Halloween?

Just unpin it and put up last year’s sleepover shot instead.

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A R O C E D

S U O E AG

Creating your home away from home

I CAN’T LEAVE HOME WITHOUT…

My baby blanket from my Mamoo. My grammy (aka Mamoo) made me a special blanket when I was little, and I bring it every time I hit the road. Not only is it soft and warm, it reminds me of my family and cuddling up on my bed.

My essential oils. You know when you walk into your room and it just smells like you? I can bring that scent with me through my essential oils. I spray them when I’m feeling homesick. They also help me relax, sleep, wake up, feel better, you name it. There’s an essential oil for everything (go to page 68 for details).

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ROOM

Whether it’s r u o y g in r e t t u decl r u o y g in iv g , e c spa r o o d e r a m o o r w e n a g in p p a sl n o t in a p f o r laye o n ’s e r e h t , l l a the w t e g o t y a w g n wro g in h s e r f e R . e iv creat e b n a c e c a p s r you l a n io t c n u f , g freein . n u f in a l p t and jus RYDEL 85

A R C T GE rite o v a f s ’ y l Del

Between dancing, singing, playing piano and writing music with my band, I’ve always been a creative person. Even more, though, I’ve always been a crafty person. I love being able to take an object that’s seemingly simple and turn it into something that’s totally me (and, yes, totally glam). Plus, crafting projects are a fun way to pass the time, either on your own or with a bud. And best of all? Crafts make great, from-the-heart gifts.

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Y T F A DIYs

Avant card These adorable homemade cards are super cute and customizable. Use them for birthdays, congratulations, get-well wishes or just because.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED Card stock • Scrapbook paper • Stamps • Scissors • Embellishments (rhinestones, ribbons, glitter…whatever you want) • Glue, double-sided tape or sticky paper WHAT TO DO ➊ Before decorating, write a message inside the card. Get colorful with pencils, or use a marker or paint (let it dry before you move on). ➋ Decorate the rest of the inside of the card with fun doodles, cutouts, ribbons or stickers. Pick a theme or just craft a design you know your bud will love. You’ll want to keep it relatively flat so that the card can still close. If you use glue, make sure it dries completely so you don’t glue the card shut by accident. ➌ Now that you’re done with the inside, go wild on the front cover. You can get a little crazier with rhinestones, buttons or whatever else you can think of. Try texture, too: Cut out scraps of fabric (like lace) for a pretty pattern. ➍ If you’re delivering it by hand, you’re done!

But if you’re sending it by mail, grab an envelope and decorate it to match. Just make sure you keep it pretty flat so it can go through the post office’s sorting machines. Don’t forget to figure in the extra weight when it comes to postage, too.

CRAFTS

e s a c n i t s Ju

e I made this on for my cousin e Rosebud, henc ! rs we flo e th all

Whether you embrace your inner punk princess or go girly, a custom case fabs up any phone.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED: A plain phone case (find one on Amazon) • A powerful adhesive or glue (E6000 is my fave) • Rhinestones • Mod Podge • Whatever other charms you want, found at a craft store WHAT TO DO ➊ Squeeze a small amount of glue onto your case. Note: Don’t cover more than an inch at a time, or your glue will dry too quickly. ➋ Place the rhinestones or charms onto the glue one by one. ➌ When you’re finished, reinforce the charms by painting Mod Podge over the whole back of the case—don’t worry, it dries clear. ➍ Let it set completely and admire your fabulous new phone.

TIP!

To keep my crafts s put nice and clean, I alway tic as a blob of glue on a pl ick plate and use a toothp e th to ue gl to apply the put en th , charm or rhinestone , it on the piece. Voila no glue mess!

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A lot on e t a l p r u o y

p u e l d n u B Homemade blankets are my signature gift—they’re fun to make and the perfect way to show someone you care. Fabric stores have tons of options, so pick a bold print or polka dots for your bestie. Who knows? You might even find a Frozen-themed fleece for your little cousin (or for yourself—no judgment here!).

When I got my first car, I couldn’t resist adding a little glitz to my ride with a custom license plate. Show off your own sparkly style with this oh-so-easy DIY. Don’t have a car yet?

Sweeten your sister’s 16th by making one for her instead (fun for aunts, brothers and grandparents, too). And P.S.—they’re technically for your car, but it’s cute to use these frames for collages on your bedroom wall.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED Four yards of soft fabric like cuddle fleece (if you want each side to be different, get 2 yards of each) • 2 packets of satin blanket binding (I use Wrights-Single Fold Satin Blanket Binding) • 1 pack of ball head straight pins • Sewing machine WHAT TO DO ➊ Line the fabric with your satin, folding it over the edges evenly.

Check out the heart stitch!

➋ Hold in place with straight pins. ➌ Once blanket is pinned, sew around the edges with your machine. My special touch? I use the heart stitch setting on my machine to sew it up with love. Aww…. ➍ Pull out all the pins and get cuddly! Or, roll it up and tie with a big bow for the perfect present.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED A license plate frame (find one at a mass retailer like Walmart or Target) • A powerful adhesive or glue (good ol’ E6000) • Rhinestones • Whatever other charms you want (like my little Hello Kitty) WHAT TO DO ➊ Squeeze a small amount of glue onto your frame. Note: Don’t cover more than an inch at a

time or your glue will dry too quickly. ➋ Place the rhinestones onto the glue one by one. ➌ Work your way around the frame, placing larger charms wherever you want. Be sure to reinforce them with extra glue. ➍ Let it dry, and ta-da!

You’ve got yourself a totally pretty plate.

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L E V A TR Performing around the globe comes with some major perks: Not only do I get to hang out with my brothers and my boyfriend, but I also get to meet so many awesome people from tons of different places who are just as passionate about music as I am.

So whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re ready to hop a flight to a faraway land or just get touristy in your own town, check out all the travel tips Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve gathered along the way.

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By plane, train, bus or car, traveling the world is awesome.

The actual getting there part?

Sometimes it needs a little help.

Here’s how to survive the ride…

Dress for success Take it from me— you don’t want to wear tight jeans or an itchy dress on the road, no matter how adorable you look. Go for a cute and casual combo of patterned leggings and an oversized tee. Stash a cardi and scarf in your bag for when plane temps plunge.

Get cozy I can’t go anywhere without my fave blanket and a pillow (gotta sneak some shut-eye!). Bonus tip: Neck pillows are basically the most amazing invention ever, especially if you’re crammed in between two of your sibs.

Grab a book There’s no better time to get in some reading than on the road.

Whether you’re 30,000 feet up or you have 300 miles to go, pack that novel you’ve been meaning to get to since last year. Fast reader? Lighten your load and stock up on Kindle downloads for the trip so you don’t get stuck scrounging the airport kiosks for a quick fix.

Bring a deck of cards This one might just be the most important! A long flight is perfect for catching up on your fave shows on your tablet, but during that three-hour-long layover, you won’t want to burn through your batteries (why don’t airports have more chargers, just why?). A game of cards is a great way to pass time with your family. No one else wants to play? That’s why they call it solitaire, sister.

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TRAVEL

e t a m i t l u The packing I can’t go

anywhere

ve without my fa blanket

Keep it healthy!

unhealthy snacks It’s easy to fill up on u’re on a long trip, yo en and fast food wh you bites can leave but all those bad-forahead by filling you feeling blah. Think th nutritious wi g ba a stay-cool lunch hummus, fruit and treats like trail mix, of H20. veggies, plus plenty

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vacay guide

m o d e r o b r u o y t Bus

Don’t go anywhere without my eight essentials…

1. A BATHING SUIT. Even if you’re not headed to the beach, you never know—there might be an indoor pool, lake or hot tub to check out.

2. COMFY KICKS. The best way to explore any new place is to walk around, and you don’t want to be stranded in stilettos or nursing blisters from those adorable (but not broken in) new flats.

3. CHARGERS. Unless you’re going off the grid, it’s a good idea to check and double check that you’ve got everything you need to keep your phone or laptop running. (Besides, you always need to be ready to snap the perfect Insta!)

4. SUNSCREEN. Seriously, just slather it on, even if it doesn’t look sunny.

Stuck on a longggg drive with the fam to your vacay destination? Pass time with these fun games.

Road trip bingo Fill bingo boards with fun sights like “World’s Largest ____” or “5+ motorcycles.” First to get five in a row wins!

Name that tune Keep hitting seek until you find a random radio station. Let the song play until someone guesses it correctly, then hit seek again.

License plate game This one’s a total classic. If you’re traveling in the U.S., keep track of all the state plates you see. Bonus points when you spot Hawaii!

The PERFECT playlist Your trip’s soundtrack really sets the mood, so pick your songs carefully. Want to keep everyone happy?

Make a playlist ahead of time with plenty of input.

For some ideas, check out what Ellington and I jammed to on our journey up the California coast.

5. A SNUGGLY HOODIE. No matter how warm it is during the day, it’s bound to get a little chilly at night.

Plus, restaurants and movie theaters can really overdo it with the AC. 6. A PRETTY DRESS. It doesn’t matter where you’re headed—you’re probably going to want to look nice at least one night. After all, it’s vacation…you deserve to celebrate your break!

7. A POLAROID CAMERA. Make instant memories of all the craziest moments on your journey with Polaroids.

Plus, they make the best collages.

8. A SELFIE STICK. Sure, they’re a little cheesy, but selfie sticks are perfect for shots featuring the whole gang. Bonus: No one is stuck behind the camera, so you’ll never have to switch out again.

Simon “Graceland” by Paul e Moon “Portugal” by Walk th e Kooks “Around Town” by Th

by OK Go “Turn Up The Radio” Bob Marley “Three Little Birds” by f Raff

by Hurray for the Rif “Small Town Heroes” ” by Creedence “Down on the Corner Clearwater Revival ” by Ray Charles “Georgia on My Mind chestra ” by Electric Light Or “Don’t Bring Me Down ic Zeros arpe and the Magnet “Home” by Edward Sh

TRAVEL

When it comes down to it, traveling is all about attitude. After all, it doesn’t matter if you’re in the most beautiful place in the world if you’re not able to appreciate it. Keep your sojourn stress-free by following a few simple guidelines…

t i f o t s o m e Make th

M

y travel philosophy? Go with the flow.

Planning a terrific trip is awesome, but try not to obsess over the itinerary.

Missing a train or skipping that fifth museum is not the end of the world—in fact, little slipups often lead to the best stories.

I love Instagram as much as (OK, maybe more than) the next girl, but I try to go easy on social media when traveling. Posting a few pics is fine, of course, but checking in or updating your status at every stop will distract you from all the IRL awesomeness that is right in front of you.

Traveling means spending a LOT of time with your family, which also means that your dad’s map obsession or your little sister’s slow walking can get really irritating. But even if you’re ready to just be there already or have super sore feet, mind your manners. You’re in a cool new place, so try to take a deep breath and appreciate it.

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If you’re in Paris, you’re going to want to visit the Arc de Triomphe. But why not branch out and, well, do as the Parisians do? Tourist attractions are great, but local spots can be the coolest places to check out. Be bold and ask for recommendations from the fashionista sitting next to you in the café.

Bonus tip: Just because you’re traveling as a group doesn’t mean you all have to do the same things. If you’re really into art, check out a museum with Mom while your dad and sibs catch a soccer match. Win-win!

Sweet souvenirs A cool way to commemorate all the places you’ve been?

Start a collection of something totally unique (I score teacups!). Pick one up everywhere you visit.

d l r o w e h Where in t ? o g u o y d l shou I’ve been to so many amazing places, it’s hard to pick favorites—but I do have a top four. Which one should you visit first? Take this quiz and find out.

1. It’s Saturday—yay! Where can you be found?

A. Buried in the latest John Green love story.

B. On a hike with your bestie at the park.

C. Outlet shopping with your mom for a new pair of dark skinnies.

D. Taking a day trip to the city for dinner and a concert.

2. Your friend invites you over for movie night. What flick do you pick?

A. Any rom-com. You’re a sucker for a happy ending.

B. A crazy-cool spy movie. Just call you “Jane Bond.”

C. An oldie-but-goodie black-and-white film. They’re not called “classics” for nothing.

D. An edgy new foreign film that just won an Oscar. You don’t mind the subtitles.

3. What’s your go-to school outfit?

A. A dress with lots of awesome accessories.

B. A cool graphic tee, leather jacket and leggings.

C. A floral skater skirt with cute flats.

D. Whatever’s trendy at the moment.

4. You finally got the nerve to ask your crush out.

What’s the plan?

A. A walk on the beach or a picnic in the park.

B. Something active but fun, like a bike ride.

C. Dinner and a movie. Can’t go wrong!

D. Reservations at the new Ethiopian place.

5. What’s your favorite food?

A. Chocolate covered strawberries. Mmmmm.

B. Thai. You live for spicy snacks!

C. Chicken Caesar salad. So tasty.

D. It’s constantly changing. You love trying new things.

MOSTLY As: Paris, France—The Romantic

Paris is perfect for a sweetheart like you.

Tour the Louvre, stop by the Eiffel Tower and strike a Rydel pose (that’s where it started!), then go get some amazing croissants and café au lait at a non-touristy café. Parfait!

MOSTLY Bs: Copenhagen, Denmark— The Adventurer

Not only is Copenhagen one of my fave cities EVER, but its off-the-beaten-path vibe is perfect for chicks who think a bit differently.

A Segway tour is a totally unique way to see the whole city and learn about its history.

MOSTLY Cs: London, England—The Classic

A posh babe like you needs to see London.

Take a week to explore Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and, of course, have afternoon tea.

Bonus tip: England has the best ice cream in the whole world! Go for the honey graham.

MOSTLY Ds: Tokyo, Japan—The Urbanite

Ultramodern Tokyo is the ultimate cool-girl destination. From amazing natural scenery to the neon signs lighting up the streets, the city is the perfect mix of tradition and tech.

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WIN a rockstar trip to come see me in concert!

Enter at girlslife.com/ RydelRYL

Editor: Karen Bokram Cover and interior design director: Chun Kim Contributors: Katie Abbondanza, Chelsea Duff, Kelsey Haywood, Kimberly Uslin Copy editors: Jossie Carbonare, Brian Michael Lawrence, Katie Peterson, Lindsey Silken, Chris Zang (Copy Chief) Covers and pages 3, 6, 10, 11, 16, 17, 19, 21, 23 (bottom), 29, 49, 64-65, 69, 76-77 and 84-85 photographed by Sean Scheidt with hair and makeup by Torsten Witte for The Only Agency.

Pages 2, 4-5, 9 (laydowns), 14, 16, 26 (steps), 79, 82-83, 87-89 and 94 (teacups) photographed by Sean Scheidt.

Page 25 photographed by Julian and Felix Mack.

Pages 56-57, 60 and 63 photographed by Will von Bolton.

Getty Images: Page 8 Cindy Ord (right), 9 Michael Ochs Archives (Debbie Harry), 22 Tibrina Hobson (right), 23 Frazer Harrison (top) Copyright © 2015 Red Engine, LLC, Baltimore, MD and Red Rocks Entertainment, Inc, Northridge, CA. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means—electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, digital, social or any other form—except for brief quotations in printed reviews, without the prior permission of the publisher.

Created in association with Red Engine, LLC.

Rydel ★ WRINIPATOROMCEKESTTAMRE! T

by R5’s

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#BTS STYLE SECRETS ] MAJOR OUTFIT INSPO ] PRETTY MAKEUP IDEAS ] HOT HAIR HOW-TO’S

Rydel Lynch

BACK TO SCHOOL! How to have your best. year. ever.

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Make him your BF

e f i L r u o Y k c Ro LSE!) E G IN H T Y R E V E D N (A N U F RIENDS, F , S S E N IT F , N IO H S A F O T EVERY GIRL’S GUIDE

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