About GillianR

Gillian Reid is an alumni of Cape Breton University and Eastern College. Follow her at @gillian_reid. To stay tuned to more articles for classy co-eds be sure to follow College Lifestyles on Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter.

Chic Style: 5 Ways with Red

Posted on November 27, 2012 by GillianR

Christmas is just around the corner, and with it comes festive occasions with friends, family and co-workers. CL wants you to look your absolute best for anything this holiday seasons. Try some of these styles when deciding what to wear.

Red Shoes:

Red shoes are a great way to add some holiday charm to your outfit. Remember to keep things simple when pairing red shoes. A black solid dress would really allow your shoes to pop!

Red Blazer:

Blazers are more popular than ever this season. A bold statement piece really allows for your personality to shine through. A red blazer looks fabulous with black dress pants or a solid dark pair of jeans.

Red Dress:

Since it’s the holiday season, don’t be afraid to wear the color red. Dresses are a great way to feel feminine and put-together for any event. With so many varieties of styles, you’ll be sure to find one that suits your taste.

Red Purse:

Add just a hint of color to your wardrobe by accentuating your outfit with a red purse. You can easily add a red evening bag to your outfit to add some festive spirit to your look.

Red Lipstick:

There isn’t a better time to wear red lipstick. It’s a great way to add a pop of color to any look. Not a fan of bold lips? Try a more subtle shade of red in a lip gloss or a lip stain.

The holidays are meant to be enjoyed with the ones you love. When wearing the color red, keep things simple and add hints of this vibrant color when choosing what to wear. Remember to have fun and keep things festive when dressing for the season.

Chic Style: Matching Colored Tights to Outfits

Posted on November 20, 2012 by GillianR

With winter on its way and the warmth of the summer breeze far from reality, it can sometimes be difficult to imagine your wardrobe to be anything but dark colors. Don’t be afraid. CL has a solution that will brighten your day–colored tights!

Colored tights are a brilliant way to add excitement to a rather dull outfit. They can be fun, but you definitely want to keep things simple. Stick to neutrals and muted hues to avoid your outfit looking like a hot mess.

Bright blue, red and orange tights make your outfit come to life. Remember to keep your outfit monochromatic and basic so the burst of color doesn’t compete with the rest of your wardrobe. Try wearing all gray, black or navy and let the pop of color add attention to your style.

Wearing color can be a lot of fun! It is a great way to allow your personality to shine through. Remember to keep things simple and have some fun creating a fashionable statement. Adding subtle color to your outfit will help beat the colder weather by thinking of all the glorious colors of spring.

Chic Style: Keeping Winter Boots Fashionable Yet Effective

Posted on October 30, 2012 by GillianR

We all want our feet to look cute even when snow covers the ground. Stylish and warm boots are a necessity for cold wintry weather. But you don’t need to sacrifice fashion for safety. Follow these CL tips and you’ll look winter chic in no time.

Riding Boots:

The winter isn’t complete without a pair of riding boots. It is an absolute classic for the season, especially practical and comfortable when tracking through the snow. Look for a waterproof pair with grip to avoid slipping.

Wedged Boots:

A wedged high boot is a great alternative to a heel. It’s comfortable and looks great with any outfit. Look for a pair that is insulated and has lots of traction. This will keep your feet warm and help beat the winter chill.

Hiking Boots:

Cold, snowy days and winter sports call for boots with extra insulation. Hiking boots are a great way to get out there and be active. They are comfortable and with the vast variety of styles, there is sure to be one that fits your needs.

Comfortable shoes should be in every woman’s closet during the winter season. With so many different types of winter boots, you don’t need to sacrifice fashion, warmth and comfort. CL knows keeping your feet warm during the cooler months is important. Try some of these looks – your feet will thank you for it!

Chic Style: Taking your Maxi Dress Into Fall

Posted on October 23, 2012 by GillianR

Transitioning summer clothing into fall is a great way to get the most out of your wardrobe. Maxi dresses can easily be transformed from summer chic to fall gorgeous by adding different accessories and clothing. CL wants you to feel beautiful and confident in whatever you do. These looks will have you looking fabulous in no time.

Scarf:

A scarf is a great way to add dimension to your look. There are many ways you can wear a scarf. Try wrapping the scarf around multiple times and draping it loosely around your neck.

Jacket:

A stylish jacket instantly makes you look fabulous and keeps you warm. Try wearing a leather or a jean jacket with your maxi dress to create a low key look.

Boots:

Skip the gladiator sandals in the fall – both cowboy boots and ankle boots look amazing paired with a maxi dress. Your shoes can be either heeled or flat, whichever you prefer.

Belt:

Use belts to cinch in the waist of a maxi dress. It immediately draws attention to the smallest part of your body. Try using a belt over a cardigan for extra warmth.

Sweater:

Nothing looks more laid back than pairing a loose sweater with a maxi dress. It’s effortless and so comfortable. Look for a sweater that is off the shoulder and is cropped.

Layering items of clothing and accessories allows a maxi dress to be transitioned into fall. Try using some or all of these pieces when creating your look. Remember to have fun, and don’t be afraid to experiment!

Top 5 Hair Trends

Posted on October 15, 2012 by GillianR

When it comes to hair, some would say anything goes. This season has a lot of loose waves, layered bobs and unique braids. Hair is meant to be fun and CL wants you to enjoy the latest hair trends. Here are some attainable looks that will have you looking chic in no time.

Framing Highlights:
Face-framing highlights are back and are more popular than ever. Don’t worry about your highlights looking perfectly even. This season is all about natural sun-kissed hair, not the over-processed bleached look.

Soft Waves:
Wherever you go you will see lovely ladies sporting soft waves/curls. This look works best with medium to long hair. Soft brushed out waves look feminine and so gorgeous. They can easily take you from day to night.

The Layered Bob:
Gone are the days of the blunt bob. Today, it’s all about soft layers that really complement your features. A soft bob with lots of movement instantly makes your look feminine.

Bun:
This look can be so chic or can be understated when worn loosely. It instantly adds attention to your face and makes for a carefree sophisticated look. The ballerina bun is great for a night out on the town, special occasions, or work.

Braids:
This look is so whimsical and fun. It puts a twist on any basic style and adds some spice to your look. Any sort of braid works for this look. It’s all about your personal preference. Try new styles and find out which one you enjoy most. You can easily incorporate braids into any style. Just have fun with it.

Hair can be so much fun and can easily let you reinvent yourself CL wants you to feel confident, beautiful and chic in any situation. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. You may just fall in love with your new look.

Top 10: Flattering Makeup Looks

Posted on October 9, 2012 by GillianR

For most of us, wearing makeup is a way we express our personal style. Over the years, the way we wear makeup has evolved. There is no longer a need to plaster your face with heavy caked on makeup. Current makeup trends are all about a fresh face and highlighting your natural beauty.

Fresh/Natural Face:
Cleanse your skin and apply a light moisturizer, like the popular product BB cream. BB cream is a tinted moisturizer that evens out your skin tone and gives you a healthy glow. This product provides just enough coverage without making your skin heavy and overdone.

Lipstick/Lip gloss:

Lipstick/lip gloss can either make or break you. Look for a lipstick that is two shades darker than your natural lip color. Want a trendier look? Treat your lips to deep plums, orange and vibrant reds. If you want to have a strong lip, don’t try to compete with a strong eye. Pick one and rock it!

Blush/Bronzer:
The right blush can make your face come alive and add a natural flush to your face. Lightly sweep the blush upwards onto the apples of your cheeks. This will provide a natural look, not the dreaded chiselled one.

Eye-liner:
The days of raccoon eyes are coming to an end. Instead of lining your entire eye, line the upper lids of the eye with small brush strokes, slowly moving the applicator slightly upwards and outwards. This will create the popular cat-eye look. A great way to achieve this look is by using liquid eye-liner or an eye pencil.

Mascara:

Black and deep brown mascara are always popular but colored mascara is a major fall trend. Look for blue, violet and hunter green. This will allow your eyes to really pop.

Eye shadow:

Eye shadow can really enhance your eyes and make them come to life. For daytime use, try using a natural matted color and for a more dramatic evening look create a smoky eye. Browns and soft blacks look great. Just remember to blend!

Nail Polish:

From matte, shellac, high gloss and acrylic, nail polish really allows you to be creative. The bolder the better!

You don’t need to wear a lot of makeup to feel attractive. CL wants you to feel confident, intelligent and beautiful in whatever you do. Having a fresh face and a great attitude will leave a lasting impression with whomever you meet and will allow your personality to shine through.

Chic Style: The Perfect Red Lip for Everyone

Posted on October 8, 2012 by GillianR

Ever walk by someone who is wearing red lipstick and think to yourself, “Wow, that looks awesome. I wish I could wear lipstick like that?” Well, follow these helpful guidelines and you can! Red lips are all the rage this season. Some classy ladies are afraid to attempt this vibrant look. But pick the right color and you’ll have your lips looking chic in no time.

When searching for red lipstick, pay attention to your skin tone. if you have a more pinkish complexion, look for a color in a plum tone to complement it. If your skin is more of a yellowish tone, look for lipstick in warmer reds that have a brown base.

It is always helpful to line your lips before applying red lipstick. This is because colors with red pigments tend to bleed. It is best to use a lip liner that is the shade of your natural lip color or one that is clear. No one wants their lipstick on the other side of their face by the end of the day. This isn’t a very attractive look.

Wearing red lipstick is a lot of fun and it says you’re confident in yourself and not afraid to let your personality shine through. The best way to find out what color works for you is to experiment. Who knows? Red lipstick may become your new go-to color!

Chic Style: Dress Pants with Boots

Posted on October 2, 2012 by GillianR

Dressy or casual, heeled or flat, boots are one of the most versatile items you can have in your closet. Wearing pants with boots is an all time fall favorite. This season is all about pairing colorful pants, prints and boots together. CL has this seasons trends covered in keeping you looking stylish and confident.

Tall Boots:

Nothing says fall has arrived than seeing pants paired with a fabulous tall boots. Pants in colors of deep reds, vibrant blues and warm rich yellows look amazing this season with boots. Tucking certain pants into tall boots can create the dreaded “balloon” effect. Ways to avoid this is by not tucking baggy or pleated pants into tall boots and opting for a more fitted pair of pants.

Ankle Boots:

Flat or heeled, ankle boots are a great choice to wear with dress pants or any pair of pants for that matter. The trend for this season is pairing colored, graphic, printed skinny jeans with a great pair of boots. Not a fan of the “skinny” pant look? Have no fear, ankle boots look great with various kinds of pants. Great ankle boots to pair with pants is the classic black and various shades of brown. Want a look that is more adventurous? Look for an ankle boot in a bold color. This will instantly give your outfit that “wow” factor.

Riding Boots:

Riding boots are a not only practical and comfortable. They are also incredibly stylish. One of the biggest trends this season is the all time favorite riding boot. This style of boots pair best with fitted pants and can be worn day or night. Boots in colors of brown or black are best because they can be worn with different outfits making them more versatile.

Autumn is a great time to wear fabulous styles and try new fashionable trends. This season is all about pairing colorful pants with trendy boots. CL wants you to feel confident, stylish and chic. Step out into style knowing you’re prepared for whatever fall has to offer.

What to Wear: Fall Weddings

Posted on September 11, 2012 by GillianR

Fall weddings are meant to be fun and colorful. It is a time to enjoy and share in the excitement of matrimony. But it can sometimes be tough to figure out what to wear. Let CL help you out with our guide on gorgeous fall wedding outfits.

This season is all about deep berry colors, rich blues and various tones of gray. Use these colors as a reference when deciding what to wear to an autumn wedding. Also, keep in mind the overall theme of the wedding and never forget to allow your style personality to shine through.

Lace is the go-to item this season. Love lace but don’t know how to wear it? Try going for items such as a blazer, dress, skirt or shirt. Don’t forget you can always go for items that have lace embellishments. Lace goes well with weddings because it’s feminine and romantic.

Dresses are always a great choice. Dresses should allow you to feel feminine and classy. When looking for a dress, look for one that has movement. The kind of dress that makes you want to get up and dance the night away.

Skirts are always a great option for a wedding. You can easily pair a skirt with a feminine shirt. When looking for a skirt, be sure to have fun. Look for skirts that have either a bold print or one that is soft and has movement.

To show off your individuality, accessories are a great way to do so. This season is all about bold brightly colored necklaces, gold and statement jewelry pieces. Just remember not to over-accessorize. Accessories are supposed to enhance your outfit, not make it look cheap.

Any girl enjoys a great pair of shoes. It completes any outfit and a really great pair of shoes can easily update a basic dress and allow it to have that wow factor. If you’re planning on wearing a bold pair of shoes, be sure to keep this in mind when deciding what to wear. It is always a great idea to keep a pair of flats tucked away in your purse. A night of dancing and being on your feet can be hard on your soles. You don’t want to be the one sitting down because your feet hurt.

Keep outfits fresh, stylish and modern by pairing any outfit with the latest trends. Fall weddings are meant to be enjoyable and CL will have you looking stylish for any autumn wedding.

Gillian Reid is an alumni of Cape Breton University and Eastern College. Follow her at @gillian_reid. To stay tuned to more articles for classy co-eds be sure to follow College Lifestyles on Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter.

5 Must-Have Interview Pieces

Posted on September 4, 2012 by GillianR

You prepared, spent countless hours doing research and now you finally landed an interview that could lead to a job. You want to make a lasting impression to your future employer. Get these CL-approved items in your wardrobe and be more confident at any interview

Black Blazer

A basic black blazer is an absolute staple in one’s closet. Add a pair of pants or skirt to form a professional look. Be sure to look for a blazer that has structure and is well constructed.

Dress (Little Black Dress)

Ideally, your interview dress will be black and fitted. The dress should fall to the knee or just slightly higher to stay classic and feminine. During your interview, you can easily pair it with a blazer or a basic cardigan.

Pants (Black/Grey)

Look for a pair of dress pants that flatters your body type. Dress pants should sit just about your hips and be fitted, not tight. Avoid pants that have pockets as they can give the illusion of being bulky.

Skirt (Pencil Skirt)

Look for a skirt that is fitted and either black or grey. The skirt should fall just above the knee. Be sure to avoid skirts that are too tight or too short. They can give the wrong impression. You’re not going out on the town, you’re being interviewed.

Shirt (Blouse)

Look for a shirt that has structure and is neutral in color. A fitted blouse is your best bet in looking professional. Be sure to buy a shirt that fits properly. If there are gaps between the buttons and it feels tight, go up a size.

Making the transition from student life to finding a potential job is somewhat nerve wracking. That being said, it can also be an exciting time in your life. Add these key items to your wardrobe to always be prepared for any interview. Looking confident, classy and put-together is step in the right direction that will make a lasting impression with future employers for the right reasons.

Gillian Reid is an alumni of Cape Breton Universityand Eastern College. Follow her at @gillian_reid. To stay tuned to more articles for classy co-eds be sure to follow College Lifestyles on Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter.

Meet Gillian Reid, Fashion/Beauty Writer

Posted on August 16, 2012 by GillianR

Name: Gillian Reid

Position: Fashion/Beauty Writer

College/University: Eastern College and Cape Breton University Alum.

Year in studies: Complete

Organizational involvement: Canadian Public Relations Society Nova Scotia, Political Science Society, Save The Children Society, and Centre For International Studies.

Major/minor: Advanced Diploma in Public Relations, Bachelor of Arts Political Science/Communications, Public Administration Certificate in Law & Policy.

I show my school spirit by: Going to events and being part of various societies.

For Halloween I will be: Queen of Hearts.

My favorite thing about Fall is: Being able to wear my favorite brown boots.

Neon pants – yay or nay? Nay.

Twitter or Facebook? @gillian_reid

I love Pinterest because: I love being organized. It’s a way to save your favorite items and be inspired to create different outfits. Follow me, gilliebean24

My favorite color is: Blue.

My go-to accessory is: A watch.

My favorite store is: H&M.

My favorite food is: Nachos.

My favorite movies/TV shows are: Pretty Woman & Love Actually /Law and Order.

My favorite book is: Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen.

My favorite magazine is: Vogue.

My pet is: Sadly I don’t have one. My dream dog is a Siberian Husky.

My favorite quote is, because: “Nature gives you the face you have at twenty; it is up to you to merit the face you have at fifty.”- Coco Chanel. I love this quote because only you have to live with the choices you make in life and you need to be able to take ownership for that.

My role model is, because: My mom. It’s the hardest job there is and there isn’t enough appreciation for this meaningful title.

I spend my weekends…: Being with friends, family, going to movies, and restaurants.

I take a break from studying by…: Having a cup of tea.

I de-stress by…: Lighting a candle, pouring a glass of wine, and reading.

My secret talent is: My epic dance moves. I should have been born during the disco era.

My friends describe me as: Outgoing, classy, and determined.

My favorite College Lifestyles article is: Where The Fountain of Youth Has Been Hiding – The Beauty Benefits of Pomegranates.

Why I am excited to be an intern for College Lifestyles: I’m excited to be an intern for College Lifestyles because I’ll be able to work on my craft, gain experience, and be able to work with amazing women from all different backgrounds.

My definition of a classy co-ed: Someone who is confident, comfortable in their own skin, and takes pride in whatever they do.