Breakthroughs and everyday innovations from the year.
HEADLINES ON January 12, 2012
Full News Archive
- Headline: Dollar Store Apartment Makeover Challenge. Impact: The dollar store phenomenon led to an increase in DIY home improvement shows, which ultimately resulted in a global obsession with Pinterest. Who knew that a $1 plastic flamingo could lead to a billion-dollar crafting industry?. Fact: Did you know that dollar store finds often lead to questionable life choices, like buying a full set of glow-in-the-dark garden gnomes? Because why not?.
- Headline: The Rise of Male Fashion Bloggers. Impact: The rise of macho male bloggers paved the way for the eventual emergence of influencer culture, which now dictates everything from fashion to avocado toast prices. Thanks, guys, for making 'bro' the new 'chic'.. Fact: Fun fact: The term 'metrosexual' was originally coined to describe men who cared about their appearance. Now, it just describes men who care about their appearance... and their 12-step skincare routines..
- Headline: Taxidermy Tales from American Stuffers. Impact: The fascination with taxidermy on reality TV made it so that now, even your pet hamster could be immortalized. This led to an increased demand for bizarre pet memorials, as humans are now more attached to their pets than to actual people.. Fact: Did you know that taxidermy can also be a form of art? Because nothing says 'I love you' like a freeze-dried version of your beloved pet sitting on the mantle, staring into your soul..
- Headline: What You Can Get for $1 or Less. Impact: The $1 or less trend sparked an entire generation of bargain hunters, eventually leading to the rise of extreme couponing. Who knew that saving a buck could become an Olympic sport?. Fact: Fun fact: If you ever find yourself at a dollar store, be prepared to spend at least $20. It’s the law of retail physics—you can never leave with just one item..
- Headline: If You’re Mad for ‘Downton,’ Publishers Have Reading List. Impact: The Downton Abbey craze led to a renewed interest in British aristocracy, which in turn caused a surge in tea consumption and an alarming number of people suddenly believing they could pull off a monocle.. Fact: Did you know that 'Downton Abbey' has inspired more people to take up knitting than any other show? Apparently, if you can't afford a castle, you can at least knit yourself a cozy shawl while pretending to be a lady of leisure..