Monday, August 30, 2010

What to Wear During Rush Week

The start of the school year also symbolizes the start to sorority recruitment. On campuses all over the nation, sororities are opening their doors to new members with lots of sisterly-bonding activities and mixers. For those of you who are interested in going Greek, here's a quick and easy sorority Rush Guide, and best of luck in getting into the house of your choice!

First, "rush" is a brief period - typically only a week and also known as "formal recruitment" - where potential sorority members ("rushees") visit various houses and get to know the members of each house. At some schools, rushees are required to visit every single house and attend all rush events while at other schools, rushees can choose whichever house(s) they are interested in and attend their events.

The first few days of rush are very casual. After signing up, you will be placed in a "rush group" with a few other rushees. You guys will visit the various houses - most of which will be holding casual parties with food and drinks (non-alcoholic). These are great opportunities to meet new sisters and get a sense of which sorority seems like a good fit for you.

As rush goes on, events get more and more formal. Expect cocktail parties, mixers with fraternities, and one-on-one interviews with active members of the houses. Don't fret though, these aren't like job interviews that you have to do a bunch of prepping for. They'll just consist of questions like "What are your interests?", "What are you studying?", etc. Also, these later rush events are oftentimes invite-only, so it's important to impress at the casual, early rush events so you can secure an invitation to the exclusive events later on.

Finally, rush ends with "bid day" where sororities give out "bids" - or invitations of membership - to girls that they would like in their house. Receiving a bid from a sorority is much like receiving a job offer - you've impressed your employer (in this case the sorority house) and now all the power is in your hands. You can decide which sorority you want to join if you receive multiple bids or you can decide not to join one at all if you realize that Greek life isn't right for you.

While the most important thing is to be yourself while rushing - don't be pressured into doing anything you're uncomfortable with or try to change yourself into what you think the sorority is looking for just to receive a bid - you will also be judged a lot based on your appearance and clothing. After all, put a couple of hundred girls together and you're bound to receive lots of up-and-down outfit glances and hear whispers of "Ugh look at that fake Chanel. So tacky" and screams of "Oh my gosh I love your dress."

Below are some outfit examples and tips on what to wear during the four days that you will typically spend with each sorority.



Day One


rush - day 1



As I mentioned earlier, the beginning of rush is generally very casual - unless you go to school at universities (particularly ones in the southern states) where Greek life has a huge presence on campus. Since you will be visiting different sorority houses, prepare to do plenty of walking. Therefore you want to dress comfortably - in particular, wear comfortable shoes that have been broken in. You want to focus on meeting the sisters in each house, not on how much that blister on your toe hurts.

Since the weather is still pretty balmy in much of the country during rush week, shorts and sandals are the way to go for the first day of rush. But rather than denim cutoffs, opt for a more fashionable look with white shorts (white is okay even if it's after labor day!). Then throw on a draped tee in a neutral color for a look that's sexy yet not too revealing.

As for shoes, you can't go wrong with a pair of simple sandals. These turquoise ones looks great with the white shorts and gray top. Gladiator sandals would also make a great choice here. I wouldn't recommend flip flops as they may come across as being too casual and leather flats are a bit too formal for day one.

As for accessories, simplicity is key. On this day, you will be shaking lots of hands, so try to stray away from big cocktail rings and dangly bracelets. This exquisite little shell pendant by Betsey Johnson makes the whole outfit pop and is a great conversation piece. You want to stand out from the crowd and be remembered, so along with having a great personality, this unique eye-catching piece might just help you with that.

The studded turquoise clutch plays on the color combination of the sandals and pendant. Finally, put on a pair of small, shiny earrings. Having something that glitters in the light will make you stand out more, but make sure it's small in order to not look tacky and over-the-top.


Day Two


rush - day 2



Day two of rush is a more formal affair although it's still not time to break out a cocktail dress. This day will typically involve some casual sit-down chats at various sorority houses.

Again, you want to look stylish and pretty yet not like you're trying too hard. I think a feminine top and dark, skinny jeans are the way to go. This day is a great time to wear flats since it's a little too early to wear heels yet also too formal for sandals.

I know some people advise against bringing handbags or clutches to rush events as you will be going from place to place and such things can become inconvenient. However, I think a girl's got to have a place to hold her chapstick, phone, and compact, so I've included a clutch in each of the outfits. Look for a clutch with a chain or wristlet - it makes them so much easier to carry.

Since you could end up sitting around in air conditioned houses for quite a while, wear a cardigan if you get cold easily. An icy, frigid hand is not fun to shake. However, if you're someone who gets nervous and sweats easily, then don't wear a cardigan as it can be a hassle to carry around.

As for accessories, headbands are the way to go. They're girly, polished, and chic. Since the top and cardigan here are already very feminine, I looked for metal detailing in the headband rather than floral ones which are very popular in the market today. Wear simple studs or no earrings at all since there's already lots of details going on in this look. Finally, since the arms are busy with the lace cardigan sleeves, I opted for a cocktail ring instead of bracelets. Just make sure to wear the ring on the hand not used for shaking hands.


Day Three



rush - day 3



Now comes the two "fancy" days of rushing. On day three, girls at each house will most likely all be wearing dresses, so you should too! But don't go all-out just yet - rush is not over and since the events get more formal as the days go on, save your fancy dresses for last.

The key for those last few days of rush week is to get that dressed-up look without being too fancy. Sundresses are a little too casual yet cocktail dresses are too formal. So I would recommend fitted or draped jersey dresses, colorful silk frocks, or a pretty floral-print piece. This chiffon-and-jersey mix dress from ASOS is just perfect: the black dress looks elegant and the floral accents makes the piece more lively and unique. Also, be careful about wearing an all-black dress as that can also look too formal. Sorority life is about sisterhood and having fun, so go for some bright colors.

As for shoes, it's also about hitting that perfect balance between formal and casual. I wouldn't recommend dressy pumps but I think clogs are just perfect. These buttery camel-hued ones from Steve Madden are comfortable to walk in and will make your legs look mile-long. Plus, clogs are super trendy this fall, so you should definitely pick up a pair. Other options that work well are wooden wedges, booties, or brown leather boots.

When it comes to accessorizing, keep things simple as usual. These silver hooped-leaf earrings lend a sophisticated touch to the youthful outfit and the white studded clutch is a great investment piece as it can go with pretty much any outfit.

Day Four



Day four of rush week is typically Pref Night, a very formal occasion where rushees are invited to learn the ritual aspects of sorority life. It involves ritualistic ceremonies and is usually your last chance to secure a bid before bid day. Therefore it's all the more important to dress to impress!

This is definitely the time to break out that cute little cocktail dress. Remember, cocktail dress, not gowns or prom dresses. While many girls show up in black cocktail dresses, I strongly encourage you readers to think outside of the box. Go for something jewel-toned or pastel, think emerald, amethyst, sapphire, or gold. Not only are these dresses super fun to wear, they'll also make you stand out from the rest of the rushees.

This two-toned silk-finish mini dress from Lipsy is absolutely gorgeous. It's sexy, chic, and not overly revealing. Play on the pastel color palette by pairing the dress with nude-pink pumps and amethyst feather earrings for the ephemeral feel of an angel. Make a bold statement with a dark feather-studded clutch and sky-blue nail polish.

Sunday, August 29, 2010

Deals and Steals: $10 Pucci and Smashbox Sephora Finds



Every Wednesday, Sephora releases new specials and puts new items in their "Sale" section. While some week's specials aren't that great, I am a huge fan of what's on sale this week.

Pucci Vivara Rollerball - $10 (Originally $25)



I've never heard of this particular Pucci perfume before so I stopped by my local Sephora to check it out. I was shocked by how much I liked it - it's a fresh, floral scent but it's incredibly crisp, not overly floraly like Juicy Couture's fragrances or Princess by Vera Wang. Plus, it's a good-sized 0.3 oz, bigger than most of Sephora's rollerballs.

Plus, this perfume is normally super expensive - $94 for a 2.7 oz bottle, so get this while you can! I stocked up on four - one for me, my mom, and two to give as gifts.

Smashbox O-Glass - $10( Originally $22)





The O-Gloss has long been a lip-favorite. Infused with tons of antioxidants and Goji-Berry C Complex, this gloss goes on clear and then transforms into your customized shade of pink. On me, it gives a gorgeous berry bed. Plus, it's very moisturizing.

Do not use chapstick or other lip products prior to applying. This way, the gloss gets closest to your lip and the color is more vibrant.




Plus, get a free sample of Ole Henriksen's Truth Revealed Super Creme and Truth Is In the Eyes Peel Concentrate (a $35 value) with any order! Just enter code "TRUTHSERUM" at checkout.

Saturday, August 28, 2010

Back-To-School-Series: What to Wear During Orientation Week

College is an exciting experience. It's about being on your own and trying new things. And when it comes to new things, sometimes we're at a loss as to what to do. When I began my freshmen year, I found myself wondering how to start a checking account, how to pick an insurance policy, etc.

With so much to learn and experience, it can all feel a little overwhelming. You might even be wondering, "What should I wear to my adviser meeting?" "How should I dress for my first frat party?"

Well, stress no more. Here is a comprehensive guide for what to wear for all the events that you'll encounter during your first week of college.

Move-In Day
Move In Day

From elementary school to high school, we all worried about what to wear on that August or September day when school starts. You want your crush to see that you look even hotter with a bronzed tan; you want your frenemy to see that you're with the new tangerine Kate Spade tote and cream Marc Jacobs flat.

In college, dressing to impress is even more essential. We all know that first impressions are important, and when it comes to college, you'll always be seeing people you've never met before, so you're constantly making first impressions.

First impressions begin on move-in day. These are qualities that make a successful first-day outfit:

Comfort - You'll be lugging suitcases up multiple stairs, so no mini skirts or high heels.

Chic - You want to come off immediately as someone who knows how to dress, so no frumpy tees or people will always think of you as someone who doesn't care about her own appearance.

Memorable - Your first day outfit should make you stand out from the crowd. Whether it be a an adorable bright tangerine handbag or just a unique combination of vintage pieces, you want people to notice you on your first day. It will go a long way in making friends during the rest of the year. Oh, and don't bust out the monogrammed designer bag - even if it is an authentic Louis Vuitton. You want to come off as stylish, not as a spoiled little princess.


First Night Out

First Night Out

Unless you've already shimmied your way up the social ladder and befriended upperclassmen and have apartment party invites lined up, chances are your first party will be a frat party. Frats love holding parties during freshmen move-in so they can prey on freshmen girls make you feel welcomed.

For your first party, make sure not to overdress. Frat parties are usually pretty casual, so don't break out the silk top or that cocktail dress. Most frats are also pretty gross and there's going to be drinks spilling all over the place, so avoid white and anything that you would cry over if you got spilled on. Since frat parties get really crowded and hot, you best bets are a feminine top and denim shorts, a casual dress, or a flirty skirt and tank.


Adviser Meeting


Advisor Meeting


College may be fun and all, but the core of college is the education that you will get. At most schools, you will be assigned an adviser who will guide you through the next four years of your academic life. Building a good relationship with your adviser is absolutely essential. Your adviser is the one who will be advising you what classes to take, making sure you meet the graduation requirements, informing you about internships and work opportunities, and writing you letters of recommendation.

While there's no reason to don on a pencil skirt and suit, you should still look professional when meeting with your adviser (and any professor in general). No shoes too high, skirt too short, or shirt too low. Also, show up to your appointment ten minutes early. Being late will not make a good impression.

And if your appointment is before noon, try not to go out the night before. You absolutely should not show up to your appointment hungover. No matter how studious you may be in real life, you adviser will immediately dismiss you as someone who doesn't care at all about school.


Going Downtown
Going Downtown

At many small colleges, each dorm holds group trips as a bonding experience. Usually these trips will take you to a nice restaurant or to the bustling downtown if you're in a big city.

These trips are a great way for you to meet more people and familiarize yourself with the surrounding area. It's important to wear comfortable shoes as you will probably be doing quite a bit of walking, but if you're going to the posh areas of town, you should also get slightly dressed up. Since move-in day, this is the best opportunity to showcase your style, so break out that billowy new dress you've been saving for fall and those adorable leather flats!


First Day of Class
First Day of Class

It's important to look your best on your first day of class because you never know which hottie might be in the same class as you. You want to look cute yet school-appropriate at the same time.

A stylish yet roomy messenger bag is a must. Backpacks tend to tangle up your hair if you wear your hair down. You can't go wrong with a mid-length skirt, preppy blouse, and flats. Hello miss smart and gorgeous.

Putting in tons of effort to look good for class everyday can get quite exhausting. But the good news is, after about two weeks, people stop switching/transferring classes, so you'll be with the same people. Even though I'm not advising you to do this, I must say it's okay to "slack" (aka just throw on something quick and skip the makeup) if you're going to a class where there are no cute guys (or girls who appreciate fashion).

Wednesday, August 18, 2010

Back To School Series: Dorm Essentials and Decoration

It's back to school season again, and while that usually means stocking up on school supplies and begging your parents for a new wardrobe, college life requires shopping for a whole new category: dorm supplies.

Below are some dorm essentials that will make your room much more fabulous. After all, a stylish college girl needs a stylish place to call home.

When it comes to things like curtains and wall decal, make sure to discuss things with your roommate first. You don't want to show up with pink curtains and rugs and find out that your roommate hates that color.



Bedding


bedding essentials

When it comes to dorm shopping, I'd say the most important thing is your bedding. After all, in a tiny 10x11 dorm shared by two people, there's not much space for much else besides beds and desks.

Most colleges require Twin XL sized bedding, which are actually quite easy to find, especially during back-to-school season. There's no reason to settle for a drab gray set. Plenty of places like Target and PBTeen offer a wide variety of bedding sets. Whether your style is preppy, girly, sporty, or simple, there's sure to be something that fits your liking.

When it comes to bedding, terminology sometimes can get a bit confusing. So here is a quick breakdown:

Flat Sheet - As the name suggests, this is just a plain sheet. The good thing about using a flat sheet instead of a fitted sheet (see below) is that a Twin flat sheet would also work on a Twin XL bed, thus increasing your options. Also used as a layer of separation between you and the comforter to keep the comforter clean.

Fitted Sheet - A sheet with four corners that wrap around the mattress. If you bed is a Twin XL, you must get a twin XL fitted sheet as a Twin fitted sheet would not work. Advantage of them is that a fitted sheet stays in place much better, making it much easier to make your bed.

Comforter - This is the typical "blanket" that you would see on a bed. It's basically a case filled with some type of feather.

Duvet - Technically the same as a comforter, although many people refer to duvets as duvet covers, which is a case over your comforter (much like a pillowcase) that keeps your comforter clean.

Pillow Case - As the name implies, a protective case for your pillows.

Sham - A decorative pillow case.

Mattress Pad - A plain, thin padding that goes over your mattress, making it feel softer to sleep on.

When it comes to selecting a bedding, I would strongly suggest you to stray away from white and black. Both colors stain very easily - white from juices, black from drools (I know, gross) and deodorant. Pick out something colorful like lavender, lemon, pink, or green. Bright colors can brighten your mood and make those gray winter days much less dreary.

Also, invest in a duvet cover to protect your comforter. Trust me, your bed will get dirty. In college, you'll most likely eat in bed, study in bed, friends will come over and sit on your bed, etc. Comforters require dry cleaning, so get a cover for it, which is much easier to wash.

Lastly, get some fluffy decorative pillows. Not only will they be heavenly to sleep on and make your bed look pretty, they'll also come in handy for pillow fights with the girls.

Wall Art


wall decor

Dorm walls are quite...boring. Since you're not allowed to paint it in your favorite shade, at least put up some wall decor to brighten it up. Below are some ideas:

Small Mirrors - Small, decorative mirrors are great for adding a personal touch to your walls. Since you can't use pins and poke holes in the walls to hang things up, invest in some removable wall tape. Mirrors can make your room appear bigger and are great for makeup and hair touch-ups.

Photos - Go to your local Walgreens and print out your favorite pictures of you and your friends and family. Tape them up near your bed or your desk when you get to college. They'll remind you of the great memories you've had these past several of years when you start missing home.

Hooks - There are tons of decorative hooks that can be attached to your walls using removable wall tape. Not only will they look pretty, they are also very functional for hanging up bags and cardigans.

Posters - This is the stereotypical college decor. Hang up a poster of something that you love or inspires you - whether it's Mozart, a beautiful scenery, or Taylor Lautner's abs.

Wall Decal - Sticky wall decal comes in a wide variety. Decorate your walls with ledger lines that come with customizable music notes or a tree with birds that you can place anywhere to your liking.

Lighting


lighting essentials

Lighting fixtures are essential for decorating your dorm. Not only will you need a good desk lamp for studying at night, you should also get some colorful lighting to spice up the space at night.

I personally love the pink iHome lamp from JR.com, which doubles as a lamp, pencil organizer, and iPod player.

For mood lighting, go with colored string lights that you can hang on the walls or a traditional lava lamp. Colored lamp shades also create great lighting, a mini strobe light is perfect for parties, and there are colored light bulbs out there that can make your room glow in a plethora of shades.



Decorative Rugs


rugs

Some dorms lack carpeting, so some cushiony throw rugs are essential. After all, who wants to step on cold, hard linoleum during the winter?

Pick out something in a bright or dark color - anything but cream or white - since you're floor will most likely get very dirty. Also, rugs can get kind of expensive. Don't invest in a pricey one as drinks and food will get spilled on it. Get something cheap and invest in a high quality one after you get your own apartment.

Bathroom


Bathroom Essentials

This section only applies if you have your own private bathroom (which is such a blessing to have!). You'll definitely want a shower caddy to carry all your shampoo, face wash, and body wash because you're shower is going to be very small, so you can't leave bottles in there. A shower caddy/basket is even more essential if you're sharing a public bathroom since you'll have to carry all your stuff through the halls.

Other bathroom accessories include rugs (which will keep your floors nice and dry), pretty shower curtains to spice up the place, and toothbrush holders (I love these animal ones from Urban Outfitters - they come in a variety of fun shapes like panda and elephant and have suction cups that stick to mirrors and other surfaces!). Also, I find it important to have a brush holder to keep all my makeup brushes clean and organized.

Finally, get a covered trashcan. You can't go wrong with something like the adorable strawberry trash can above. It'll keep dirty tampon applicators out of sight.

Window Treatment

College dorms generally come equipped with standard blinds. These plain, cream colored shades can be quite dull. And of course, being the fashionable college chick that you are, you're room should be anything but drab! Get some frilly curtains in a warm color - pink, tangerine, yellow, or violet. Blinds are easily removable and you can hang up the curtains. When the light shines in, your room will look instantly lovelier.

Just be sure to keep the original blinds and replace them back at the end of the school year. Otherwise you'll be charged a hefty fine for "damaging dorm property", even if it's totally remodeling for the better.

Organizers

Finally, because dorm rooms are so tiny, it's important to utilize every inch of space. Below are some clever space-saving tools that can quadruple your wardrobe and keep things organized.

Cascading Hangers - I absolutely cannot live without these. These hangers come in a wide variety - for pants, skirts, tops, etc. They seriously quadruple the size of your teeny dorm closet.

Bed Risers - These are great for increasing the height of your bed, allowing you to store stuff underneath. At some colleges, the beds themselves can be raised super high, allowing you to fit your desk and chairs underneath, leaving a much bigger open space.

Over-the-Door Organizers - Over the door organizers are hung over your closet door, allowing you to store shoes, jewelry, etc.

Hooks - Hooks can be great space savers. I hang my towels, scarves, belts, and handbags on hooks that stick to the wall.

Finally, most dorms offer a storage room in the basement. So if you have extra out-of-season stuff you don't need, ask your Resident Head if you can use the storage space.


Back To School Series: Social DO's and DON'Ts

DO: Be nice to everyone right from the beginning.

The first day of college is absolutely essential in determining your social life for the rest of the year. Be open and friendly right when you arrive at your dorm to get things started on the right foot. Even if you are tired or grouchy, don't show it. Otherwise you might forever be seen as the bad-tempered girl who thinks she's all that.

DO: Establish ground rules with your roommate.

Obviously, don't do this immediately after you two meet (or you will come off as a a bossy tight-ass), but on day 2 or 3, after the initial, "Oh my gosh we're gonna be such great roommates!", set some ground rules with her.

You two need to establish rules about bring boys over, coming in late in the middle of the night, playing music, etc to avoid conflicts as the school year goes on. Also, set a cleaning schedule so your dorm doesn't become a total pigsty.

DO: Go out on your first nights.

Frats pretty much always throw parties on freshmen move-in day and they're generally free, so take advantage of that. It'll be a lot of curious and inexperienced freshmen - many who are drinking for the first time - so there will be lots of making out and throwing up.

If drinking and partying isn't your scene, check out some school sponsored events. Most schools offer concerts or shows on the first few nights. Some clubs may also host info sessions and social gatherings.

Whatever the case, just make sure that you go out there and socialize during those first couple of days. Don't sit in your room while people are running around and laughing in the halls. Plus, there's nothing worse than realizing that everybody in your dorm seems to have become BFFs overnight while you still don't even know anyone's name.

DON'T: Bring up sensitive topics in conversation.

This includes everything from race to gay marriage to the use of stem cell technology. Don't run the risk of offending someone on your first few days. Since college is a mixpot of people from all kinds of background, something that you discuss with friends back home might make someone at your college very uncomfortable.

DON'T: Use swear words.

This is something that applies for everyday life - a classy girl should never swear. However, we all have our bad habits. If you have a dirty mouth, be sure to watch yourself during those first few days of college. Some people might find swearing very offensive.

Plus, you don't want to come across as having bad manners or a bad upbringing. There are few things worse that a beautiful, well-dressed girl with a sailor's mouth.

DON'T: Be "That Girl" at the party.

The girl that's in stripper heels, layers or eyeliner, and a butt-bracing, low-cut dress. The girl who is dirty dancing on the table flashing everyone with her hot pink underwear. The girl taking shots, shots, shots, shots and then making out with the juiced-up frat guy. The girl who ends up throwing up everywhere.

Yeah, don't be that girl. Drink responsibly and if you don't know your limits, slowly find that limit. For a 120 lb girl, try to have no more than one drink per hour (one drink = 1.5 oz hard liquor or a can of beer). Oftentimes, it takes an hour or two for the alcohol to hit you. Don't get the reputation of the "easy" girl or the one who can't handle her liquor.

Saturday, August 14, 2010

Back To School Series: Clothing Essentials

College essentials

The summer before my freshmen year, I was so stressed by the dilemma of how to get my two-closets-and-six-drawers of clothes and over forty pairs of shoes to fit in my tiny dorm closet. I bought every space-saving tool I could find - from cascading hangers (which I love with my dear live) to air-sucking vacuum bags to over-the-door-shoe-and-jewelry-hangers.

My parents drove me up to my school, so transporting everything wasn't a problem. However, for those of you who are going to college by plane, it's not practical to move your entire wardrobe. But, by the end of my freshmen year, I found that a lot of the stuff I brought I never even wore anyway.

Here is a list of must-haves clothing/shoes for every college girl. Of course, you should be bringing more than these staples, but hypothetically, if you were only allowed one duffel bag of clothes, this is what you should bring.
Casual Tunic Top  

Tunic tops are a godsend; I don't think I would have made it through final exams, late-to-class days, and hungover weekends without them.
When to wear:

1. You're about to take your two-hour economics midterm and you've can barely remember the difference between comparative and absolute advantage. The last thing you need right now is to be bothered by the annoying feeling of your jeans tugging into your hips. Throw on a tunic top and you're good to go. Being completely comfortable when taking an exam will allow you to focus and give your best performance.

2. You just rolled out of bed. It's 8:50. You have a small-group discussion at 9:00. Yikes! Don't worry about finding jeans and a matching top; just throw on a tunic top and belt it for a quick and effortlessly chic look. Now grab your books and get your butt to discussion!

3. Waaaayy too many tequila shots and rounds of beer pong last night. You just woke up and downed two huge glasses of water. Great, now you feel hungover and bloated. But you've gotta get out of bed. There's homework to be done and you're craving an omelet and some greasy pizza. But it's hot in your room and the last thing you want is to put on sweatpants, not to mention jeans. Again, tunic top to the rescue! It'll take you to the dining hall and back to your room to catch up on some unfinished homework.

4. You sleep in your bra and undies. It's 3 a.m. Some annoying person is banging on the door. Ugh. You could greet them in your underwear, or wrap your sheets around yourself Roman-style. But your best bet, throw on a tunic top and then go yell at whoever's knocking. Just hope it's not a cute guy, because you're not wearing makeup and your hair is a mess.


Cocktail Dress 

In college, there are parties all the time (unless you're going to military school). While a lot of parties are themed (e.g. "Wild Wild West", "CEOs and Office Hos"), quite a few of them require fancy attire.

When to Wear

1. Cocktail Night - In a sexy cocktail dress, all those college boys will be fighting to buy you drinks!

2. Rushing a Sorority - For those of you who are planning on going Greek, a fancy cocktail dress is a must. Tons of sorority events require formal attire.

3. Dinner at a Fancy Restaurant - Many housing systems organize house dinners at local restaurants. Especially if you're going to school in a big city like NYC or Chicago, there are a lot of upscale restaurants where you will look out of place in casual attire. Plus, this will come in handy if a guy asks you out to dinner somewhere posh.


Dark Solid Leggings 

An absolute must, especially if you're going anywhere where the temp dips below 50 degrees. I'm a total jeans girl and even I wear leggings all the time over the winter!

When to Wear

Leggings can seriously be worn pretty much anywhere, anytime, and any occasion. The one exception is LEGGINGS ARE NOT PANTS! Check out this post on what to wear with leggings.


Knee-high Boots 

Many people are wary about knee high boots. They think they'll come off as being really trashy or that knee-highs are uncomfortable and hard to walk in. If you are one of those people who believe that, get those assumptions out of your head right now! Knee highs are completely amazing and versatile. I own a flat grey leather pair which I wear to class, dining hall, etc., a pair of skin-tight camel-colored suede wedge ones for when I want to look slightly more dressed up or for country-themed parties, a pair of dark-brown snakeskin platform ones which works for pretty much any party, and a pair of skin-tight black suede ones for cocktail events (I would wear that pair more often because I love it, but they hurt my feet).

When to Wear

Like leggings, knee-length boots are very versatile. Different heel length, color, and material work for different occasions. A flat grey leather pair is perfect for class and walking around (with or without tights, or with skinny jeans tucked in) while a dark platform snakeskin pair is great for going out.
Word of warning: Stray from skinny stiletto heels and super pointy tipped ones as those tend to come off very S&M-ish. Opt for chunky heels with a round of square toe.

Linen/Cotton Square Scarf 

If I were only allowed one accessory for the rest of my life, I would take a scarf. Scarves are magical: they can make a simple white tank look incredible or make an inappropriate low-cut top class-friendly. And a light, square linen scarf (preferably in a neutral colors and a patterned print) that can be worn folded into a triangle is by far the most versatile.

When to Wear

1. You have an appointment with your professor in 30 minutes but you're sporting a major hickey. You're worried your professor is totally going to judge you (which he or she probably will). Rather than tossing on a bulky turtleneck sweater (which hardly ever looks good on anyone), wrap the scarf around your neck and you're good to go!

2. You slept on your hair wet last night and now it's all over the place. Fold your scarf into a strip and use it like a headband, or fold it into a triangle and wear it bandanna-style.

3. You open up your eyes and find yourself in a frat boy's room. Shit. And you've got class in ten minutes! You run to the dirty frat bathroom, stare at yourself in the mirror, and realize oh my that top is way too low for class. So you sprint back to your room, grab a scarf, drape it triangle-style and tie it in the back, and make it safely to class.

4. Winter sucks and the chilling wind is absolutely penetrating. The neck is a very sensitive area. Cover up with a scarf and you'll feel like it's ten degrees warmer.


Rubber Flip Flops 
This probably goes without saying since almost every single girl wears them. But flip flops are so essential in college, especially if you don't have a private bathroom. Dorm bathrooms are not pretty. People throw up in the showers, some even pee in there, and you never know who may have athletes foot. Always shower with a pair of flip flops on! I recommend a pair of Havaianas slims - they're sturdy, comfy, and the slim straps are very stylish.


Belted Pea Coat (Cold Weather Only)

Pea coats are worn by about 85% of the girls on my campus. While I'm not at all a wear-what-everybody-else-wears kind of girl, I do love pea coats, especially a slightly longer one that hits mid-thigh. A good pea coat will not only keep you warm during the cold winter, but it is also very stylish (unlike a lot of down jackets, puffers, and North Face). Plus, a pea coat is one of those classics that never goes out of style, so invest in a designer piece rather than the latest from Forever21.

When to Wear
1. With Jeans.

2. With tights.

3. With boots. Kind of embarrassed to admit it, but I've done the whole boots and just a jacket look many times. Sometimes I'm a little too tipsy to think straight, sometimes I'm just lazy. In either case, my adorable and chic thigh-length belted pea coat has come through for me so many times.


Uggs(Cold Weather Only)

Or similar style boots. I know Uggs are the stereotypical snobby sorority footwear, but in the winter, they're a lifesaver. Not only are they extremely warm and comfortable, I think they actually do look kind of cute.

When to Wear

1. With leggings and a tunic with a pea coat over your top.

2. With skinny jeans tucked in and a puffer vest.

3. With shorts when you're just running to your friend's room three minutes away or if the dinning hall is right outside your dorm. In most other cases, shorts-and-Uggs is a combo that is frowned upon.

Word of Advice: No Uggs when it's warm out! It's just tacky.

Friday, August 13, 2010

Outfits Under $100: ASOS

ASOS - which stands for "As Seen On Screen" - is one of my favorite online stores. This online Europe-based store carries everything from Alexander McQueen to Betsey Johnson to their very own reasonably priced line.

The clothing selection is incredible (think Forever21, but much more organized), there's always tons of stuff on sale, and they provide videos of models wearing each piece of clothing, allowing shoppers to see exactly how a piece looks and flows.

Plus, they've recently started offering free shipping and returns to the U.S., so now is the perfect time to check out this brand!

Below are some example looks, all for under $100!


Subtle Seduction

Subtle Seduction

Yeah, I Know Van Gogh

Work of Van Gogh

Second Data? Of Course!

Second Date? Of course!

Saturday, August 7, 2010

Outfits Under $100: Abercrombie

Alright, you're probably like, "Seriously . . . Abercrombie?" Okay, I admit that the company has its flaws -- oversexualized models, overly branded name, lawsuits for being racist -- but honestly, at the end of the day, I love some of my A&F pieces.

As long as you look past the tight-fitting tees with "ABERCROMBIE & FITCH" or "Blondes Really DO Have More Fun" printed in bold across the chest, they actually have some cute stuff.

For one thing, I absolutely adore their shorts. I'm not sure why, but their shorts fit me better than anything, designer brands included. I pretty much live in them over the summer. I can always find a pair of denims cutoffs that are the perfect length, wash, and make my butt look good. And with just a little moose logo and a faded label on the back, the branding's not overwhelming.

Plus, I think their shorts are super comfy, and they always hold up really well summer after summer (and can oftentimes be found on sale for under $30). I'm also a huge fan of their sundresses; they're super flirty and cute. Oh, and I love their tank tops.

Recently, A&F has started going for more of a high-fashion look, think more NYC than Cali. They've released several lines of dark-washed skinny jeans and sequined blazers (I have a sequined cardi that's my go-to piece for going out) as opposed to their typical light-wash ripped flare denims.

Nevertheless, Abercrombie's overall look is still very casual and beachy, which are perfect for summer. Below are three outfits for those beautiful summer days created from Abercrombie* pieces, and best of all, all three outfits cost less than $100!

*Note some pieces are from Abercrombie Kids rather than Abercrombie and Fitch. An x-large in Abercrombie Kids is roughly equivalent to an x-small or small in A&F.


Day in the Park


abercrombie set 1


Total Cost: $68


Beach Babe


abercrombie set 2

Total Cost:$64


Hittin' Up Rodeo Drive

abercrombie set 3


Total Cost: $85

DIY: Too Faced "Walk of Shame" Kit


DIY Too Faced "Walk of Shame"

In college, the Walk of Shame is oftentimes unavoidable. Therefore Too Faced's infamous "Walk of Shame" kit - which has garnered praise for its great colors as well as attacks for its controversial name - is a well-known kit amongst college girls. (The company recently changed the name to "Sweet Escapes") It has also inspired imitation sets like this one from walkofshamekit.com, which includes everything from an extra dress to a call/don't call notecard.

While I think the whole "walk of shame" kit is a great idea and all, I don't exactly agree that Too Faced's set contains all the essentials. I see that the blush, mints, and lipstick would come in handy after an all-night rendezvous, but toothbrush and primer? Who's got time to brush their teeth and worry about how big their pores are the next morning? The key is to get out of there ASAP while looking as put-together as possible.

Here, I've created my own do-it-yourself "walk of shame" kit, perfect after a night spent at your boyfriend's (or booty call's), the morning after a sleepover with the girls, or even after pulling an all-nighter at the library. Here are the essentials:

Compact with Mattifying Powder - You're skin is bound to look a little shiny no matter how much powder you applied the previous night. Dust on some matte powder for that clean, fresh-faced look. It will also alleviate any redness and conceal blemishes.

Eyedropper - Eyes tend to get red and swollen if you didn't catch much sleep the night before (and especially if you drank alcohol all night or if you were studying into the wee hours of the morning). One of two drops will clear redness and refresh your tired eyes.

Brightening Pencil - After the eyedrops, line the inner and bottom rims of your eyes with a brightening pencil (or gold/cream/white eyeliner). This will create a fresh and adorable doe-eyed look, no one would ever guess you were out late the night before.

Mint Gum - While Too Faced's kit had floss, mints, and a toothbrush, I think it's much easier to just bring a 5-piece pack of gum. Just pop a piece into your mouth and leave the brushing and flossing for when you get back to your dorm.

Mini Perfume - No fashionable girl should ever be reaking of cigarettes and alcohol. Always carry a mini version of your favorite perfume (or even more convenient, a sample of it) so you will smell fresh whereever you go.

Cheek Stain - I don't know about you guys, but I often look like death after getting little to no sleep. A bit of cheek stain livens up my face and makes my complexion look so much better. Opt for a stain rather than a blush - blush requires a brush, which is slower to use and is one extra thing to carry.

Lip Plumper - I first considered putting a lip balm into the set, but then I decided some color would be good the next morning. I love this one from Fusion Beauty because it makes my lips look plump and juicy no matter how dry and cracked it may be. And it smells great and is not too sticky.

Clutch - Finally, you'll of course need a clutch to hold everything together. Opt for one thats cute (so you can take it out to a party), has a wristlet (so you don't lose it), and is as small as possible (for convenience).



What do you think of this DIY version? What would you have in your kit?

Stila Warehouse Sale: Up to 75% Off!



Prices are slashed on tons of Stila cosmetics, including the beloved Barbie Loves Stila smudge pots!



$9.00



$8.00

Thursday, August 5, 2010

Asian Fashion and Style: An Overview

asian fashion and style

Whenever I go to China, I'm always impressed by the way young people dress there. Unlike in America, where you can always find girls in ripped jeans and baggy tees, Chinese women pay careful attention to their clothing. In the summer, most women and teenage girls either wear dresses or chic denim shorts and a dressy blouse. And, they all wear some form of heels, whether it be espadrilles or kitten heels.

After each trip, I get really inspired by Asian fashion and start incorporating them into my own outfits. In particular, I'm a huge fan of Taiwanese and Korean fashion, both of which I find slightly more Americanized than Chinese fashion.

Nevertheless, the overall look of Asian fashion emphasizes cuteness and youth over in-your-face sexiness. Even though hemlines are short (in fact, many are even shorter than they are in the U.S. since Asian people are usually very petite), most pieces are still not trashy or overtly sexy. It's partly due to the fabric and cut of Asian clothing, many of which are very romantic and flowy. Chiffon, silk, and jersey are often used and bright colors like pink, lime, and lemon are embraced, all of which add a more youthful feel.

Shopping Tips:
  • Even though designer boutiques from Louis Vuitton to Bottega Veneta can be found in many Asian cities, I would advise against buying European/American brands in Asia. The same item sells for at least 10% more there than in the U.S. due to high tariffs on imports of luxury goods.
  • The best places to visit are the little boutiques that line the streets of every corner. These privately owned boutiques offer a dazzling array of merchandise, from accessories to apparel to handbags. Seriously, the variety of clothing and accessories in Asia will make your eyes water (I recently learned that they have bras with beautifully ornate straps that can double as bracelets or headbands!).
  • Plus, these little boutiques are incredibly inexpensive. You can haggle any day dress down to around 200 yuan ($30). Most shop owners can speak simple English and if they can't, they can negotiate with you by typing their offering price on the calculators that they all carry.
  • In addition, there are tons of designer-inspired/straight-up designer copies of pieces, like Chanel-inspired tweed blazers, Louboutin's signature red-soled pumps, and Louis Vuitton speedys. I'm not a fan of showing off fake logos, but a designer-inspired piece never hurt anyone.
Tips and Warning:
  • Tops and dresses usually run in a one-size-fits-all category. This is great if you're a size xs-m, not so great if you're sizes larger than that.
  • There are tons of adorable bras for cup sizes AAA-B, but better endowed girls might have some trouble finding bras that fit.
    • Most Asians have very small feet, so it's hard to find shoes larger than a size 7 - equivalent to Asian/European size 37 (this always makes me so sad since there are so many adorable shoes but I'm a size 8).
    • Carefully check the quality of an item before purchasing and look for any defects. Small boutiques - and even some big department stores - do not allow returns.
    • Most items in small boutiques are not priced outright, so you have to ask the owner how much it is. Unfortunately, they usually jack prices up for foreigners, so it's best to shop with a native that you know.
    If not, here's my quick and easy guide to bargaining:
        Step 1. Find something you like and ask to try it on

        Step 2. Once you're wearing it, don't look too pleased even if you absolutely adore it.

        Step 3. Change back to your old clothes and go outside of the fitting room. At this point, the shop owner will be pushing you to buy it. This step is key: ask how much it is, and then inspect the piece and look dissatisfied. Point out any defects (no matter how minor) or if it's too short/long/tight/loose/not the ideal color. Then offer a price that is about 50 yuan ($7) less than what you are actually willing to pay for it.

        Step 4. At this point, the shopowner will probably disagree and offer a new price higher than yours but lower than the original starting price. Now offer a price about 30 yuan ($5) less than what you would pay.

        Step 5 (a). If the owner agrees, you're in luck! Congrats on your new purchase!

        Step 5 (b). If the owner disagrees, you can either settle for his/her price if you absolutely must have the item, or you can perform the greatest trick of all time: walk away. Nine out of ten times, they'll call you back and sell it to you at the price you offered.

        Here are two great websites for Asian fashion: the first is U.S. oriented and the second is like a Chinese Ebay (don't worry if you can't understand the language, just type in something like "Chanel blazer" in the search bar and see what you get!)

        Yesstyle
        Taobao

        Have you ever shopped in Asia or ordered from Asian websites? Let me know of your experiences!

        Wednesday, August 4, 2010

        Runway Under $100: Milly's Fall 2010 Ready-to-Wear Collection

        Milly Fall/Winter 2010

        One of my favorite runway shows of this fall was Milly's ready-to-wear collection. Designer Michelle Smith - known for her classic silhouettes and feminine pieces - did not disappoint with her new line. Milly's fall 2010 RTW featured preppy crisp-cut blazers, blouse-and-miniskirt combos, and what I was most impressed by - patterned tights.

        I've never personally mastered the tights-with-heels look, but Smith managed to do it so well. Even in out-of-the-ordinary fluorescent blue tights or splattered polka-dot print ones, the models still managed to look so classic.

        Here is my guide for recreating some of Milly's signature fall looks - all with pieces under $100!

        Look #1: Asymmetrical Dress & Tights

        milly look 3


        As much as I love these polka-dot tights, I don't think they're all that wearable unless you're railthin, 5'8 or above, and have very fair skin. Nevertheless, the overall look can still be very wearable. Pair a slim-fitting black asymmetrical dress with a pair of sheer black tights - black ones are much more flattering than patterned tights.

        I opted for a pair of more dramatic heels than the ones in Milly's collection because the dress is more subdued (I could not for the life of me find a black and gold-printed dress like this Milly piece!). So I chose gold nail polish instead.

        Finish off the look with a stylish black beret, a base piece featured in many of Milly's looks for this season. Straighten your hair or wear it in a sleek side ponytail for a sophisticated Parisian look.


        Look #2: Preppy Perfection
        milly look 2

        This is probably my favorite look from Milly's fall collection - it's so classic yet fashion forward at the same time. Plus, it's so wearable and perfect for fall. White tights is another one of those things that look good on really slender people, but hell, I'm willing to lose weight just for the sake of pulling off this look!

        To recreate this outfit, start with a simple cream blouse in silk or chiffon. And the key word here is simple: nothing frilly, low-cut, or oversized (since it needs to be tucked into a skirt). Next, add a navy tweed mini-skirt and tuck the blouse underneath. Now, a good tweed mini can be hard to find. Look for a piece that's not too fuzzy, rides at the waist, hits slightly above mid-thigh, and is not too grandmother-ish (I know, that's a lot of requirements, but a good tweed skirt is an investment piece). Check out your local vintage store if you're having trouble finding one.

        Next up is a classic, crisp blazer. A navy one with simple white lining works wonderfully with this look, whether collar or collarless. But if it does have a collar, make sure that it's angular and not rounded. Rounded collars would not create the same chic effect as collarless/square collared ones. Now comes the shoes, which could be anything from black strappy sandals to dark flats.

        Finally, the right accessories are what makes this look. A pair of blue leather gloves add an eye-catching pop of color to the toned-down outfit and will keep your hands toasty in the late autumn, as will a chic beret. As in the previous outfit, style your hair in a sleek ponytail or straighten it.


        Look #3: Blouse and Mini
        milly look 1

        This look again has the polka dot tights, and they're even harder to pull off than the patterned tights in Look #1 since these are primarily white. Nevertheless, I adore this look. The flimsy blouse looks so soft and the look is perfect for the workplace.

        The base to this outfit is a flutter-sleeve cream blouse in a flowly fabric and a black, high-waisted mini. Follow up with either a black belt or as in the example outfit, the tie-bottom blouse can create the illusion of a belt. Follow up with printed tights - the ASOS ones in the center are more whimsical while the MetroPark USA ones on the left are more work-appropriate.

        Since the whole outfit is pretty subdued, play it up with a pair of sky-high black pumps and a fun, chic headband.

        What to you think of Milly's Fall RTW collection? Would you try any of these looks?

        Tuesday, August 3, 2010

        Madonna's "Material Girl" Collection Debuts at Macy's

        Madonna's Material Girl Collection for Macy's

        I was really excited for Madonna's "Material Girl" collection, which debuted today. But when I saw the collection, I was a little disappointed.

        All the clothing pieces and accessories in the line seemed so...done. As in, been there done that. A couple of key trends in this line that we've all already seen:

        Floral Skirts - They've been in since 2008

        Lace Dresses - Been there, done that

        Faux Leather Jackets/Fur Vests - Again, so two seasons ago. Plus, the faux fur vest isn't even cute.

        Jeggings/Tights - Every single store has tons of them

        The one good thing that I do have to say about this line is that it's very affordable. Prices range from $5 for bandeau bras to $78 for a faux leather jacket. Maybe it's partly because of the low price range that's making me prejudiced against this line, but it just seems a little too Forever21 to me.

        Plus, I'm actually kind of disappointed with Madonna picking Taylor Momsen to represent her line. Yes, I'm jealous of how skinny she is, but seriously, that girl is not someone young girls should be looking up to. Plus, what's with all those "Who's that girl" ads? Everyone knew it was obviously Momsen.

        Anyways, that's just my two cents. I won't be rushing to Macy's anytime soon to check out this line. I think I much prefer designer collabrations - like Alice & Olivia for Payless or Jodi Arnold for The Limited - over celebrity collaborations.

        Day to Night: Tunic Top

        As any college girl knows, it can get quite hectic maintaining a school/career life along with a social life. There's barely enough hours in the day to work that internships, finish your school work, sleep, and go out with friends, so the last thing you should have to fret about is what to wear.

        I will be starting a series called Day to Night, in which I will feature an item - whether it be clothing, accessories, or makeup - that can easily be transformed from a day in the office to a night out at the clubs. In this article, the main topic is The Jersey Tunic.

        I am a huge fan of tunics because they have the three essential qualities that I look for in a piece of clothing: style, versatility, and comfort. They look chic but effortless, they can be worn in the summer as dresses and in the winter with leggings, and come on, they're so much more comfortable than those skinny jeans. And jersey is a great material because it can be worn during day or night and doesn't tend to crease after a long day like cotton or silk.


        Day to Night w/ Tunic

        I bought this black jersey tunic from Bluefly a while ago and it has definitely served me well. I wore it to my internship last week with a pair of leggings and flats (my workplace is very casual, though this is something you could wear to work, unless you job requires business instead of business-casual).

        Come 5 p.m., I get a text from a good friend from high school asking me to the mall. This outfit took me straight from the office to my shopping trip. After a couple of hours, we were headed to a good old house party. I didn't really have much time to change, so I ditched the leggings (it's been 90 degrees lately where I live), threw on my new Steve Madden Tobbi pumps (which I love so much that I will do a review soon), switched into some fun earrings, belted my tunic, and traded my bag for a cute clutch.

        Easy breezy. After a five minute pit stop at my house, we were ready to go out for the night.

        Pretty much any tunic can be paired with leggings, flats, a messenger bag for the day and pumps, a waist-cinching belt, and a clutch for a stylish going-out look. Just make sure that the tunic is either in a dark wash or slightly thicker material so it isn't see-through when you're going out sans-leggings.
        Blog Directory