NicoleV

About NicoleV

is a Fashion & Lifestyle writer for College Lifestyles. She is currently studying journalism at Rider University and loves dolphins, red velvet anything and spending time with her friends and family

Meet Nicole Veenstra, an Entertainment Editor/Features Writing Intern from Rider University

Name: Nicole Veenstra

College Lifestyles ™ Intern Position: Entertainment Editor/Features Writing Intern

Hometown: North Haledon, NJ

School: Rider University

Year in studies: Senior (Oh goodness, that’s scary to type)

Major(s)/minor(s)/concentration(s): Journalism major/American Studies minor

Organizational involvement: The Rider News, Lambda Pi Eta

I am excited for second semester because: It’s my last semester in college!

My favorite thing about the Spring is: the warm weather and my birthday :)

My dream Spring break is: taking a trip with my friends to somewhere where it’s warm

I wish I could study abroad: in France or the Netherlands! I love the French language and food, but I’m dutch and would love to know more about my culture so I can’t decide.

My number one DIY craft for this semester is: painting my moccasins

My fashion and accessory favorites for this Spring are: dresses, anything mint or teal

My dream job is: an editorial position at Glamour or Food Network Magazine

My favorite food is: pasta primavera or chicken fajitas

My favorite movies/T.V. shows are: The Perks of Being a Wallflower, 127 Hours/Dexter, Workaholics, How I Met Your Mother, Modern Family

My favorite book series is: Harry Potter

My celebrity dream date is: I honestly don’t know . . . maybe I should spend more time thinking about this O:)

I get my inspiration from: music, experiences, people I know

My secret get-away during the semester is: going to Princeton with my friends. It’s 15 minutes from my school and my favorite place ever.

My friends would describe me as: “creative, straight-forward and hilarious” …I made sure to ask!

Three things I want to accomplish before the Summer: find a job, make the most of my last semester of college

My favorite College Lifestyles ™ article was: the best and worst of Panera Bread

My definition of a classy co-ed is: Someone who is confident in themselves and willing to help others. A classy co-ed is encouraging, goal-oriented and willing to try new things.

Why I am excited to be a College Lifestyles ™ Intern: This is my third semester at CL and I’m extremely excited to transition from a writer to an editor!


2013 Beauty Trend: Metallic Nail Polish

Buying and applying nail polish is one of the biggest perks of being a girl. Whether it’s by going to a salon or painting them yourself, having manicured nails can turn your mood around and help you feel clean and put together when you’re busy running errands. Metallic shades are ideal choices for any season and outfit, especially during the current holiday season! So, next time you’re shopping buy yourself an early present and discover the wonderful world of metallic nail polish.

Since it’s winter, how about trying a darker metallic shade? Purples and dark blues are the perfect way to shine while sticking to the cool weather trends. To transition from winter to spring, simply buy a lighter shade of purple or blue, like Essie’s “Nothing Else Metals” or “Blue Rhapsody.”

The holidays are a great excuse to pick up a few new nail colors. Channel the various decorations that pop up around the neighborhood and choose colors like green, red, blue and silver to compliment your favorite holiday outfit.

With New Years Eve right around the corner, help complete your look with a perfect nail shade. If you’d like a color that matches anything, look into buying a chic, metallic gold or silver polish.


Healthy and Realistic New Years Resolutions

Whether you can believe it or not, December is here! While most of the month is used cramming for final exams or finding the best deals for holiday gifts, New Years Eve plans will likely begin to creep into our minds as well. But what about those New Years resolutions that people seem to make every year, only to forget about a month (or less) later?

No need to fear, though — this year can be different! Instead of creating crazy resolutions that are nearly impossible to stick to (“I’ll lose 30 pounds” … “I won’t eat dessert for a year”), how about a personal promise that’s easier to achieve?

With CL’s help and a little soul-searching of your own, you can create a successful and suitable resolution that can easily last through 2013 and beyond!

“My New Years resolution is going to be to try enjoying life more and not being stressed out.” — Samantha Schafer, 24, Saint Louis University

“My resolution is to do more volunteer work.” — Kristen Tomkowid, 19, Ithaca College

“My resolution is to be more open and accepting of what the future holds.” — Kristyn Anguiano, 21, Loyola Marymount University

“I really want to eat gluten free foods and try different workouts such as Zumba and spinning.” — Amber Ferguson, 20, University of Maryland

“Read more books!” — Shelly Marie Redmond, EIC of College Lifestyles

“Drink more water.” — Alli Heitzenrater, 22, Penn State Behrend alum

“Make the CL internship even more fabulous.” — Debra Schreiber, 22, Duquesne University alum


DIY: Thanksgiving Place Cards

It’s hard to argue about what Thanksgiving’s main focus is since the words “thanks” and “giving” make up the holiday’s name. However, Thanksgiving also lends an artistic output for co-eds to show off their imagination, whether it’s through creative things to give thanks for, creative additions to the Thanksgiving Day cuisine or creative decorations.

Although sometimes overlooked, holiday decorations make the place look more inviting, festive and comfortable! Help guests avoid the free-for-all seating arrangement that can result in awkward moments with one of these two quick and easy DIY Thanksgiving place card ideas:

Index cards with artistic writing:

Add a finishing touch to the Thanksgiving table by writing each guest’s name in an artistic way, such as calligraphy, bubble letters or script. Get into the holiday spirit by switching out the index cards for construction paper in fall colors, such as brown, orange and red. This is an easy way to guide each guest to his or her seat while making the table even more aesthetically pleasing.

5-minute place cards from Life in Wonderland:

Wow your guests with beautiful pilgrim hat place cards that require little effort and minimal supplies.

What you need:

  1. Black and white cardstock paper
  2. Yellow ribbon (or construction paper)
  3. A pen
  4. Scissors
  5. A glue stick, if you’d like

Instructions:

  1. Fold the white paper in half to make a tent shape and cut two parallel slits vertically in the middle of one side with a long, horizontal line at the bottom
  2. Cut a small rectangle from the black paper and bend into a “U” shape and insert each end into the parallel slits in the white paper.
  3. Cut a circle from the black paper (it should fit the length of the horizontal line). Trim one side to create a straight line and insert the circle into the horizontal line on the white paper.
  4. Cut out a small square from your yellow ribbon/construction paper. Cut a smaller square in the middle of that to create a buckle for the hat. You can either rest the buckle where the hat meets the brim or glue it to ensure it won’t move.
  5. Cut a small semi-circle from the black paper and rest it on top the U-shaped paper to create the top of the hat.
  6. Write each guest’s name above the pilgrim hat.

If Thanksgiving snuck up on you, don’t fret! These easy-to-create Thanksgiving place cards will please guests without taking a significant amount of time out of your busy schedule.


Apartment Essentials: Thanksgiving Tools

As crazy as it may seem, Thanksgiving is less than a month away. With that wake up call comes a reminder to begin preparing both your stomach (for all the delicious food) and your home with essential tools for the Turkey Day feast.

By making sure you own these five essential Thanksgiving tools you can stay calm when the big day comes — unless your family is a bit unpredictable after their fair share of turkey and toasting, that is.

  1. A roasting pan: Sure, the grocery store where you bought your turkey may give you an aluminum pan to cook the meat in, but wouldn’t you rather keep the turkey juice in the pan instead of all over the oven?
  2. An all-inclusive digital timer: When one oven is cooking multiple family favorites, you’d hate to play favorites. Buy a timer that counts down for each dish separately and avoid the risk of burning or under cooking anything.
  3. A remote digital thermometer: Overcooked turkey is perhaps the number one fear on Thanksgiving (with undercooked turkey a close second), but with a remote digital thermometer you won’t have to worry. Simply insert the thermometer into your bird before placing it in the oven and wait for the timer to go off.
  4. A fat separator: Save the fat for the dark meat and drain the turkey juices in a fat separator. Gravy may very well be the most important (and underrated) part of Thanksgiving dinner, so impress your guests by using this simple tool.
  5. A sharp knife and/or turkey lifters: These tools are both necessary — there’s no doubt about that, but both may already have a home in your kitchen. In order to slice the perfect pieces, you’ll need a sharp knife, and in order to get the sizzling turkey onto your cutting board, you’ll need turkey lifters.

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, so check your kitchen to see which of these tools you already own, and which ones you still need to buy. That way you’ll have one more thing to be thankful for: a stress-free morning.


Intern Kitchen: Snacks for Midterms and Finals

One of the most dreaded parts of the semester is here once again: midterms. This
eight-letter word brings along cramming sessions in the library, late night study
sessions and the feeling of worry. However, the other sections of your life don’t
need to suffer as a result. In fact, paying close attention to what you’re eating (even
during a late night craving) can help prepare your mind and body, helping you show
midterm season who’s the boss!

If you’re looking for a snack that will hold you over for multiple study sessions while
satisfying your sweet tooth, why not make your own fruit salad? It’s a great choice
because not only does it please your craving for sweets, but it also fills you up and
keeps you energized because of the natural sugars. Simply cut up your favorite
fruits, toss them together in a bowl and enjoy.

Is fruit salad not enough of a sweet treat for you? Then try dark chocolate chips
with any flavor of Greek yogurt. Dark chocolate is better for you than other types
of chocolate because it increases blood flow to your brain and your mood — two
things you’d like to keep up while studying for a midterm.

The next brain-healthy snack is for those days when you’ve replaced your normal
eating schedule with some extra last minute cramming: an egg and avocado
sandwich. Although it may seem like an odd combination at first, the surprisingly
delicious taste isn’t the only thing this sandwich has going for it — it can also help
you retain pertinent information. Avocados increase blood flow and eggs increase
memory, two necessary components when striving for that A!

The next time you find yourself paying more attention to your rumbling stomach
then your notes, remember these delicious, healthy and simple recipes for midterm
snacking — and beyond. If you’re craving even more ideas, check out CL’s guide to
conquering midterm snacks the healthy way.


Intern Kitchen: Homemade Hot Apple Cider

Autumn is upon us and so are all the delicious flavors that come with the season.
From spice lattes to pumpkin pie, the crisp weather allows for more than just scarf
and boot wearing. One of the overall fall favorites is apple cider because of its
flexibility and ability to taste good whether it’s served cold or hot.

To spice up your next fall holiday party or to warm up during a cool autumn night,
try the easy and appetizing hot apple cider recipe from Elana’s Pantry, which makes
approximately 4-6 servings.

Ingredients:
1 quart of apple juice
2 cups of water
Cinnamon sticks (approximately 5, but you can use more or less depending on how
much of the flavor you want)
4 cloves
1 sliced orange with the skin still on

Directions:
1. Combine all the ingredients in a large pot and bring it to a boil
2. Reduce the heat and simmer the liquid for a minimum of 15 minutes
3. Serve and enjoy!

Need another beverage for the Halloween party you’re planning? Keep this recipe in
mind for times when you’re looking for a signature drink for guests to enjoy!


3 Ways With Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt has been greeted with arms wide open into the group of healthy food
alternatives since it broke into grocery stores across North America. People have
pulled the thick and creamy treat in all different flavorful directions, with the most
obvious being the basic yogurt parfait.

No exact ingredients are needed to create a yogurt parfait; instead, the concoction
is left up to the person making it. Pick your favorite Greek yogurt flavor and top
it with fruit, nuts, oats, chocolate, granola, whatever you desire — think of it as a
homemade version of a self-serve frozen yogurt store.

Another way to get your Greek yogurt fix for days when a simple parfait doesn’t
sound appetizing is through different dips and mixes, such as Serious Eats’ spinach
and artichoke dip. This party favorite is typically made up of a wide variety of
unhealthy ingredients, but by switching the heavy ingredients (cream cheese,
sour cream and mayonnaise) with Greek yogurt, you can say goodbye to the extra
calories without sacrificing the flavor.

Ingredients:
1/3 cup of olive oil
10 ounces of spinach, large stems removed
6 cloves of garlic, peeled and crushed
1 6 1/2 ounce jar of marinated artichokes, drained
1/2 cup of plain Greek yogurt
1 teaspoon of lemon juice

Directions:
1. Heat olive oil on the stove at medium/low heat, add spinach and a pinch
of salt, and stir until the spinach wilts. Cook until the leaves are limp and
feathery in texture
2. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, or until the spinach’s raw taste is
gone
3. Add the artichokes and heat them until they are soft
4. Put the mixture into a food processor
5. Add yogurt and lemon juice and pulse until the ingredients are combined
6. Add addition salt and/or lemon juice if needed

If you’re looking for a side dish that uses Greek yogurt in an a-typical way, try
Sprout and Pea’s creamy mashed cauliflower — a smart alternative to mashed
potatoes.

Ingredients:
1 head of cauliflower
6 oz plain Greek yogurt
2 tbsp butter
3 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves of garlic chopped
½ small shallot chopped
1 chopped scallion for garnish
Salt, pepper and any other seasonings you’d like

Directions:
1. Bright water to boil
2. Add cauliflower and let it cook for about eight minutes or until it’s soft
3. Drain the cauliflower
4. In a food processor, combine the cauliflower, Greek yogurt, butter, garlic and
shallots, and blend until it’s creamy
5. Add salt, pepper and other seasonings and blend again
6. Transfer to a bowl and mix the Parmesan cheese and scallions
7. Enjoy!

So, next time you’re in the grocery store and you spot the various types of Greek
yogurt, choose your favorites and get creative! If the best part about Greek yogurt
isn’t its health benefits, then it’s the fact that you can use it to create a wide variety
of dishes for any meal.


Intern Kitchen: Trail Mix

Quick and on-the-go-friendly are two adjectives that immediately attract busy co-
eds when describing food. And, when you add “healthy” into the mix, well, you’ve
got yourself some sort of holy food trinity.

Trail mix is a filling snack that can live up to the high standards these three
adjectives set. Although it sometimes gets a bad reputation because of unhealthy
additives that companies add into trail mix, its base is a mix of fruit and nuts — two
body-friendly food groups.

Creating your own trail mix is easy, fun and completely personal. Don’t like certain
fruits? Exclude them from the mix. Allergic to nuts? Replace them with something
else, like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

To create your own trail mix, you can include:

  • Nuts (such as peanuts, almonds, walnuts, pecans, cashews, etc. — make sure
  • they are natural, not salted)
  • Raisins
  • Unsweetened dried fruit
  • Seeds (such as sunflower, pumpkin)
  • Dark chocolate chips
  • Yogurt chips
  • Unsalted pretzels
  • Oats (buy rolled oats and bake them in the oven)

Add approximately the same amount of each ingredient, mix and enjoy! Make a large
amount and save it for the days when you don’t have a second to think about food.

Trail mix raises your energy levels without weighing you down — a perfect snack
for your next hike, road trip or as a guilt free ice cream topping during a night with
friends!


Intern Kitchen: Kale Chips

After a long and stressful day, dunking your hand into a bag of chips can sound especially enticing. However, the greasy, dissatisfying feeling that comes after eating one (or two, or three) too many may not sound as appetizing. But no need to fear — you can still enjoy something as delicious as chips without feeling oily and overfull once you’ve taken your final bite with this intern kitchen recipe for kale chips! Create these and learn to kiss the grocery store’s junk food aisle goodbye.

Ingredients:

  1. 1 bunch of kale
  2. 1 tablespoon olive oil
  3. Seasoned salt
  4. Grated parmesan cheese (optional)

How to make them:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit
  2. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper
  3. Cut the kale off its stems and break into bite sized pieces (visualize a potato chip when breaking it apart)
  4. Wash and dry kale thoroughly
  5. Lay on the cookie sheet
  6. Drizzle olive oil and sprinkle salt
  7. Add Parmesan cheese if you’d like
  8. Cook for approximately 10-15 minutes, or until edges are slightly browned

So, the next time you find yourself craving a bag of chips, grab a fresh bunch of kale and cut away the calories without forfeiting the flavor!


DIY: Tie-Dye Cupcakes

When something is described as “tie-dyed,” it usually involves a wrangled t-shirt dipped in various colors. Sure, tie-dying shirts is fun, but what about tie-dying cupcakes?

No, no, that doesn’t mean go dunk your vanilla cupcake in different paint colors. Instead, use CL’s simple tips to create colorful cupcake combinations for your next party (or for She’s The First‘s second Tie-Dye Cupcake Bake-Off from Nov. 12-18!)

You will need:
1. Vanilla cake mix (I used Betty Crocker, but you can use whichever brand excites your taste buds the most)
2. Any additional ingredients your box of cake mix asks for
3. 1 can of Vanilla frosting
4. A minimum of two jell-o flavors

Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit
2. Combine vanilla cake mix with any additional ingredients the recipe calls for
3. Split the cake mix into as many bowls as you have jell-o flavors (for instance, I had two flavors so I split the mix in half)
4. Open the jell-o packet and pour approximately 1/3-1/2 of the packet into the cake mix
5. Mix together until every bowl is the color of the jell-o
6. Split each cupcake evenly between the colors you have
7. Bake for however long your cake mix says (mine were baked through in 17 minutes)
8. Let cool
9. Frost with vanilla frosting (or any other flavor you’d like)
10. Enjoy!

These cupcakes are easy to make and only require one extra, easy-to-remember step. So, next time you are asked to make baked goods for an event, show up with tie-dyed cupcakes and wow your family and friends with their delicious — but not overwhelming — flavor.

For more delicious cupcake recipes, check out CL’s cupcake board on Pinterest!


Group Interview: Why is Volunteering so Important?

With the steep competition to get a job nowadays, people are always looking for ways to build their resumes. Through various extracurricular activities and volunteer opportunities, many try and get a competitive edge on the other applicants with a bulked up resume. After talking to a few CL interns, though, it is obvious that volunteering is so much more than that. By helping others, whether it is for a charity close to your heart or one that is conveniently located near your school, you can help yourself, as well. After all, feeling accomplished at the end of a long day of helping others never hurt anyone.

If you’re looking for more reasons why volunteering is beneficial, read what the girls of CL had to say:

“I love to volunteer. I don’t do it as a “resume builder,” I highly enjoy helping others. I believe that you can change a life by doing something so little. Every little bit counts.”
— Samantha Schafer, Social Media intern, 24, Saint Louis University

“I absolutely love the feeling of giving back. When you can see the results of what you are doing, like a little girl who’s excited to be learning fractions at school simply because she can now afford an education, it is really the best feeling in the world.”
— Rachel Crocetti, Health and Lifestyles writer, 19, Hofstra University

“As human beings, we all have an obligation to show compassion and help those in need. You never know when you might be on the receiving end. It all goes back to that Golden Rule we learned in Kindergarten: Treat others as you would have them treat you.”
— Mallory Hatten, Editor, 21, University of Southern Mississippi

“I think volunteering is important for many different reasons, but most importantly it’s a great way to give back and help others. The feeling I get after volunteering is incredible, and I love being a part of something bigger than myself. It’s important for people our age to disconnect from our own bubble for a while and help others.”
— Sarah Albert, Writer, 20, University of Maryland

“Volunteerism is great because it brings you back down to earth. We all get caught up in our own lives but doing something valuable for a group of children, let’s say, can be the spiritual lift we can all use. If you’re feeling bogged down by stress, pressure and anxiety, step outside yourself and let making someone else’s day shine a positive light on your own!”
— Tiana Blue, Editor, 19, Penn State

“Volunteering is the first step of networking. Start making a brand for yourself now.”
— Charlene Alexander, Social Media/PR intern, University of South Florida, 21

And if you’re still looking for creative ways to volunteer check out what CL’s editor in chief had to say:

“Volunteering is important at any age, anytime and in any capacity. Since food is my background, I lean towards any volunteerism dealing with food. Remember, if you can’t make an event – you can always ask ‘What can I do?’ Perhaps you can make posters, hang flyers before the event, and even assist with cleanup. As I am getting older and have a child, I look at other methods of volunteering to represent the life cycle. How can I include her in giving back to others? This Christmas, I will let her pick an ‘angel’ off the tree to get presents. While she won’t quite understand it yet, I look at it as a nice tradition to start for her, as well teach her how to give to others as she grows up. While sometimes we think it is time while we [are] on this planet to volunteer, we can always leave something to others. My most recent was signing up to be an organ donor. It may not be considered ‘volunteering’ but I know I can continue to give when I am not here.”
— Shelly Redmond, Editor in Chief of College Lifestyles


DIY: Red Velvet Cupcakes

Cupcakes are all-the-rage lately, with a new cupcake-themed store or television show popping up almost as fast as you can say “yes, please!” These little bites of sweetness have grown in popularity for good reason, though. They’re conveniently sized, can come in a variety of flavors and make great fundraising goodies . . . just ask a She’s the First representative!

She’s the First is a non-profit organization created in 2009 to help girls with their educations when they are the first from their family to graduate. CL is lucky enough to partner with them and enjoy cupcakes in the process during their National Tie-Dye Cupcake Bake-Off. During this particular bake-off, students from every state host bake sales from Nov. 12-18 with a goal of raising $50,000 to go towards girls’ education scholarships in 8 developing nations, according to CL’s media partnership sheet.

In honor of She’s the First’s cupcake bake-off, CL would like to share with you all a cupcake that is sweet, savory and not too tough on the waistline (Greek yogurt is a crucial ingredient): red velvet cheesecake cupcakes.

Whip these up and impress your family and friends with how tasty these are, even without icing. I tried them out on my family and they were gobbled up in no time.

Ingredients
For the cake…

  • 1 box Duncan Hines Moist Deluxe Red Velvet Cake Mix (or any other brand you can find!)
  • 6 oz container of plain or vanilla Greek yogurt
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup water

For the cheesecake…

  • 1 block of 8 oz reduced fat cream cheese
  • 1/4 cup of plain or vanilla (2 oz) Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup light sour cream
  • 2 large egg whites
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 tbsp flour
  • 1 tsp vanilla

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees
  2. Prepare your cupcake tins with 24 liners; set aside
  3. In a large mixing bowl: beat the cake ingredients until the ingredients are combined; set aside
  4. In a medium mixing bowl: beat the cheesecake ingredients until all the ingredients are combined
  5. Add the red velvet cupcake mixture to the cupcake liners until they’re approximately 1/2 full
  6. Add a scoop of the cheesecake mixture to each cupcake
  7. Swirl with a fork to combine slightly
  8. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set
  9. Let them cool and refrigerate them for at least 1 hour
  10. Enjoy!



DIY: Stenciled Canvases

Moving back to school or into a new apartment can be exciting and intimidating at the same time. The chance to make a new place feel like home allows a mover to get creative with thoughts of how to transform plain walls into a sketchbook their personality can take control of, no matter how wild or crazy it may be. However, that same creative streak makes the plain wall feel as if it’s staring back at you, challenging you to go through with your plans and cover it up.

Luckily pinterest is mecca for do-it-yourself projects, affectionately known as DIY. The majority of DIY projects are simple, not to mention easy on your bank account.

So, if your blank wall is staring back at you, begging you to add a little color into its life, why not try creating a stenciled canvas? Put the right side of your brain to work and end up with a one-of-a-kind piece of art created by your own hands.

What you’ll need:

  • A canvas — check out Michaels for different shapes and sizes
  • 1 pencil
  • A stencil (it can be any shape or style you’d like)
  • Paint (again, it can be whatever color you’d like)
  • A paint brush — the size of your canvas and stencil will determine how big your brush should be. For instance, if you have a small 8.5×11 canvas, use a smaller brush

Directions:

  1. Cut out your stencil
  2. Place the stencil on your canvas and trace it with a pencil (you can paint your canvas beforehand if you’d to change its color, just make sure the paint is completely dry before you start tracing)
  3. Repeat your tracing until the canvas is filled to your liking
  4. Get creative! Paint inside the stencil for one and outside for another
  5. Impress your friends with your newest piece of wall art

For more fun and creative DIY projects, be sure to check out CL’s budget-friendly ideas!



Chic Style: Autumn Scarves

Knowing how to properly layer clothing and accessories has always helped ease the transition of warm to cold weather for classy co-eds. Scarves are one of the most reliable layering companions because of their versatility and ability to keep you warm or cool depending on the temperature.

Although the impending weather can be intimidating, brave the cold this year with CL’s guide to chic autumn scarves.

Infinity scarves, also known as circle scarves, can make a statement while keeping you warm. American apparel carries infinity scarves in a wide range of colors, offering everything from florescent green to basic black. In addition to picking a color, have fun deciding how to wear your new scarf with American Apparel’s styling sheet.

For those nights with a little breeze, wearing a silk scarf (like these from Etsy) can completely transform an outfit without sacrificing the comfort of staying cool.

Not sure which colors to lean towards when deciding on the perfect autumn scarf to buy? Play it safe and choose one of fall’s favorite colors: any shade of orange, red and brown. Is the fashionista inside of you is looking for a more fashion-forward color? Satisfy her with a scarf in burgundy, aqua or ivory (yes, even after Labor Day)!

In the end, scarves can spruce up any outfit, whether it is worn during the day or at night. Add character to a black dress or structured blazer with a patterned scarf, or make a bold statement with a brightly-colored scarf.

Need more help staying fashionable while dealing with the weather transition? Be sure to check out CL’s 5 favorites!


Best and Worst of Panera Bread

Courtesy of http://www.egisgroup.com

Known for its freshly baked bread and innovative takes on basic cuisine — sandwiches, salads and soups, to be exact — Panera Bread has a reputation for being both delicious and nutritious. However, even they have a few less-than-impressive items on the menu that should be swapped for a healthier alternative.

So the next time you find yourself craving a savory sandwich, salad or soup from Panera Bread, make sure you are armed with the knowledge of what to enjoy and what to avoid.

WORST:

Courtesy of http://media.thestar.topscms.com

 

 

Italian Combo on Ciabatta, Full
980 calories, 41 g fat (15 g saturated fat, 1g trans fat), 2620 mg sodium, 95 g carbohydrates, 5 g fiber, 6 g sugar, 58 g protein

 

 

 

 

 

Courtesy of http://www.tasteasyougo.com

 

 

 

Mac and Cheese, Full
980 calories, 61 g fat (26 g saturated fat, 1g trans fat), 2470 mg sodium, 75 g carbohydrates, 3 g fiber, 14 g sugar, 33 g protein

 

 

 

 

 

Courtesy of http://ww.askville.amazon.com

 

 

 

New England Clam Chowder
630 calories, 54 g fat (35 g saturated fat, 1.5g trans fat), 890 mg sodium, 27 g carbohydrates, 3 g fiber, 2 g sugar, 8 g protein

 

 

 

 

 

Courtesy of http://ww.yelp.com

 

 

Steak & Blue Cheese Chopped, Full
790 calories, 54g fat (16g saturated fat, 1g trans fat), 1280 mg sodium, 35 g carbohydrates, 4 g fiber, 9 g sugar, 39 g protein

 

 

 

 

 

Courtesy of http://www.meemoskitchen.blogspot.com

 

 

 

Frozen Caramel Drink, 16 fl oz
600 calories, 22 g fat (15 g saturated fat, 0.5 trans fat), 190 mg sodium, 97 g carbohydrates, 0 g fiber, 82 g sugar, 5 g protein

 

 

 

 

 

Courtesy of http://www.imgfave.com

 

 

 

Frozen Mocha Drink, 16 fl oz
570 calories, 20 g fat (14 g saturated fat, 0.5 trans fat), 140 mg sodium, 94 g carbohydrates, 2 g fiber, 78 g sugar, 6 g protein

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BEST:

Courtesy of http://www.randommealoftheday.blogspot.com

 

 

Strawberry Poppyseed & Chicken Salad, Full
340 calories, 13 g fat (1.5 g saturated fat), 330 mg sodium, 34 g carbohydrates, 6 g fiber, 22 g sugar, 29g protein

 

 

 

 

 

Courtesy of http://www.onefitfoodie.com

 

 

 

Low-fat Garden Vegetable with Pesto
150 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 930 mg sodium, 26 g carbohydrates, 12 g fiber, 6 g sugar, 5g protein

 

 

 

 

 

Courtesy of http://www.nosh.com

 

 

 

Smoked Turkey Breast Sandwich on Country, Full
420 calories, 3g fat (0.5g saturated fat), 1650 mg sodium, 66 g carbohydrates, 3g fiber, 3g sugar, 33g protein

 

 

 

 

 

Courtesy of http://www.biggestmenu.com

 

 

 

 

Tuna Salad on Honey Wheat, Full
510 calories, 16 g fat (4 g saturated fat), 1150 mg sodium, 63 g carbohydrates, 5 g fiber, 12 g sugar, 29g protein

 

 

 

 

 

Courtesy of http://www.yelp.com and http://www.goodhealthway.com

 

 

 

 

Brewed Tea (black or acai), 20 fl oz/32 fl oz
0 calories, 0g fat, 0 mg sodium, 0 g carbohydrates, 0 g fiber, 0g sugar, 0g protein

 

 

 

 

 

 

Courtesy of http://www.forkly.com

 

 

 

Vanilla Latte with Sugar Free Vanilla Syrup, 16 fl oz
100 calories, 0g fat, 105 mg sodium, 14 g carbohydrates, 0 g fiber, 12 g sugar, 9g protein

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Curious about other fast food best and worsts? Check out CL’s guide to Dunkin Donuts and Starbucks!

Courtesy of http://www.longislandpress.com

Nicole Veenstra is a senior at Rider University. Follow her on Twitter @nicoleveenstra. To stay tuned to more articles for classy co-eds be sure to follow College Lifestyles on FacebookPinterest, and Twitter.

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Get to Know Nicole Veenstra: CL’s Fashion/Lifestyle Writer from Rider University

Becoming one with a dolphin on Santa Monica Pier (I’m obsessed with those beautiful creatures, in case it wasn’t obvious already)

Name: Nicole Veenstra

Position: Fashion/Lifestyles writer

College/University: Rider University

Year in studies: About to begin my senior year of college . . . crazy!

Major/minor: Journalism major/American studies minor

Organizational involvement: The Rider News, Lambda Pi Eta

I show my school spirit by: Getting up for Rider’s 6 am basketball game last season . . . it started ESPN’s College GameDay for men’s basketball this past year!

My favorite thing about Fall is: the colors and the weather (it lets me wear my leggings again)

For Halloween I will be: Not sure yet. Hopefully something creative, though. Good costumes make Halloween so much better.

Neon pants – yay or nay? Eh…I probably wouldn’t wear them because I don’t think I could pull off neon jeans, but if someone likes ‘em…go for it!

Twitter or Facebook? I like both! follow me on Twitter: @nicoleveenstra

Hanging out in Griffith Park on our California vacation two weeks ago :)

I love Pinterest because: It gives me fantastic ideas for recipes and DIY projects. Follow my pins: asdfnicole

My favorite color is: Yellow (but I can’t deny my love for green. It has so many beautiful shades. Have you ever laid your eyes on Crayola’s jungle green? It’s perfect…)

My go-to accessory is: Nail polish. I’m obsessed.

My favorite store is: H&M

My favorite food is: The pasta primavera my mom makes. I really don’t know what’s better than pasta and vegetables. YUM.

My favorite movies/TV shows are: My favorite movie is 127 Hours, though I love Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (…and anything by Alfred Hitchcock). My favorite shows are How I Met Your Mother, Modern Family, Dexter, Mad Men and Workaholics. Thank goodness for TV on DVD because I could never keep up with these without the help of those commercial-free CDs.

My favorite book is: The Perks of Being a Wallflower, On the Road, Brave New World, Harry Potter

My favorite magazine is: Glamour, Food Network Magazine :)

My pet is: A dog, Coconut. He’s a maltese/poodle mix and has enough sass for 10 grown humans . . . I love it.

My favorite quote is, because:The world fascinates me” — Andy Warhol. This quote is so simple and straight to the point. Plus, I’ve loved Andy Warhol for years for his individuality, non-apologetic attitude and ability to think outside of the box.

My family takes up the whole first row in Tower of Terror

My role models are, because: My parents. They’ve sacrificed plenty to send my four siblings (3 of the 4 are triplet boys!) and me to Christian schools from kindergarten through 12th grade, which, in my opinion, is the epitome of selflessness.

I spend my weekends…: With my friends, shopping, watching movies . . . anything to take advantage of the days off from school

I take a break from studying by…: Hanging with my friends or taking a nap

I de-stress by…: Doing something fun! I love anything that can make me laugh.

My secret talent is: Turning anything into a song. Unfortunately it’s not a secret for my friends and family. (I definitely do not have the gift of singing…)

My friends describe me as: “creative, straight-forward and hilarious” …I asked!

My favorite College Lifestyles article is: Any of the recipes or DIY projects :)

Why I am excited to be an intern for College Lifestyles: It’s a great opportunity to write weekly for such a fun company! I was a writer over the summer, as well, and loved having the ability to write about things I’m interested in.

My definition of a classy co-ed: Someone who is confident in themselves and willing to help others. A classy co-ed is encouraging, goal-oriented and willing to try new things.

Nicole Veenstra is a senior at Rider University. Follow her on Twitter @nicoleveenstra. To stay tuned to more articles for classy co-eds be sure to follow College Lifestyles on FacebookPinterest, and Twitter.


DIY: Color Block Moccasins

Courtesy of honestlywtf.com

The color-blocking craze is no secret in the fashion world. Soon after sweeping the population off its neutral-shoed feet, this hue-heavy trend began filling stores and blogs with color-based clothing and accessories.

Courtesy of vylette.buciorweb.com

I’ll be the first to admit the brightly colored trend won me over me without much effort, but for those of you who are a bit more cynical, CL presents to you DIY color block moccasins.

By introducing your wardrobe to the trend via shoes, it makes the process easier to accept and gives you the ability to choose whatever color you’d like — settle on a darker color, such as purple or green, and try a brighter color, such as mint or coral, your next time around.

This tutorial is easy to follow and requires just three items to create these one-of-a-kind shoes, so find a time when you have a few hours to spare and try it out!

Courtesy of pose.com

What you need:

  1. Moccasins in any color
  2. Fabric Paint (such as Tulip Soft Fabric Paint or Jacquard Textile paint)
  3. At least one flat paintbrush with a small to medium brush (you can have one small and one medium for maximum coverage)

Directions:

  1. Tuck the fringe into the insole of your shoe. To do this you’ll have to untie the bow that most moccasins have, so pull each string out, paying careful attention to how it was assembled.
  2. Either go ahead and paint the entire front of your moccasins with your brush or, if you have multiple brushes, paint the inside edge of your moccasin with a small brush and fill in the rest with a wider one.
  3. Let your shoes dry for a minimum of two hours to ensure they are ready. Reassemble the fringe and show off your revamped shoes!

    Courtesy of honestlywtf.com

Nicole Veenstra is a Fashion & Lifestyle writer for College Lifestyles. She is currently studying journalism at Rider University and loves dolphins, red velvet anything and spending time with her friends and family.


Easy Options for Breakfast When You’re Busy

With summer winding down, personal responsibility is about to be in overdrive between work and school, resulting in less time to make sure everything’s in order. Unfortunately, one of the easiest things to forget is breakfast, despite it being the most important meal of the day. Breakfast is essential for weight loss and it helps start a person’s metabolism every morning, which is why the meal is necessary no matter how little time the hustle and bustle of your morning leaves for it. To help think of quick and delicious breakfast options that anyone can recreate, I’ve asked a few classy co-eds about the creative ways they break the fast, no matter how full their plate is the rest of the day.

Homemade parfaits are a popular option for breakfast on the go. Photo courtesy of www.suzyeaton.com.

“I usually make a quick protein shake with protein powder and water, then take a big handful or packet of nuts! I get protein and healthy fats, which is perfect for satiety.” — Carrie McMahon, 18, University of Southern California

“I’m a huge fan of parfaits. I just throw some yogurt, fruit, and granola in a cup and take it on-the-go with me.” — Rachel Osman, 20, Indiana University

Photo courtesy of adirondackbaker.blogspot.com

“I keep a box of granola bars in my car so if I’m running late I can just grab one while I’m driving.” — Victoria Baldonado, 21, University of New Mexico

“I mix everything in a ‘solo’ cup – yogurt + crunchy cereal – I think of it as parfait on the go!” — Shelly Marie Redmond, Editor in Chief of College Lifestyles

Luna bar and a banana! Luna’s are the best protein meal bars. They’re packed with protein and fiber and they actually keep me full.” — Raquel Santos, 21, Rutgers University

“I’m not big on breakfast, so when I’m in a rush I’ll throw a slice [or two] of bread in the toaster for a minute, throw some butter on it and eat it on my way out the door.” — Kristin Lopez, 21, Rider University

“[I'll eat] the 100 calorie Arnold bread whole wheat rounds toasted with a little chunky peanut butter on it.” — Allison Cohen, 20, University of Connecticut

Photo courtesy of www.restaurantwidow.com

“I love Nature Valley in the morning.” — Debra Schreiber, 22, Duquesne University

“I’m interning in Germany, so I’ll usually  grab a croissant or a baguette from the millions of bakeries on my way to work. It’s cheap and extremely delicious.” — Jill Templeton, 21, Rider University

“I grab a yogurt with my bottle of Aloe Vera juice and water, made the night before.” — Charlene Alexander, 21, University of South Florida

“Normally I grab a instant breakfast packet and a fruit of some sort because it’s full of vitamins and fills you up till lunch.” — Jessica Lenox, 21, Rider University

 

Nicole Veenstra is a Fashion & Lifestyle writer for College Lifestyles. She is currently studying journalism at Rider University and loves dolphins, red velvet anything and spending time with her friends and family.


Lauren Conrad Creates New Eco-Friendly Line, XO(eco)

Lauren Conrad proves age is only a number when it comes to success. At just 26 years old, the former television star can already check “become an established author” and “create a successful fashion line” off her bucket list, and with her newest accessory line, she can check off “produce an eco-friendly line,” as well.

The XO(eco) collection is the product of a collaboration between Conrad and BlueAvocado, featuring merchandise constructed with Repreve, or fibers made from recycled materials, such as post-consumer water bottles.

Courtesy of www.plasticstoday.com

The line is currently available on Amazon and split into three categories: lunch, beauty and travel & shopping. Designed to create pieces that are both cute and eco-friendly, each accessory is available with either black-and-cream stripes or a mint-and-pink bird print.

Conrad hopes potential buyers will draw inspiration from this 16-item collection and make eco-friendly changes to their lifestyles. To help kick start this, the XO(eco) line promises to make a 1 percent donation of all profits to various organizations “focusing on ocean clean-up and recovery efforts,” according to Amazon.

Though tearing yourself from the XO(eco) line on Amazon may prove to be difficult, be sure to take a moment and check out CL’s exclusive interview with Lauren Conrad herself!

 

Nicole Veenstra is a Fashion & Lifestyle writer for College Lifestyles. She is currently studying journalism at Rider University and loves dolphins, red velvet anything and spending time with her friends and family.


Fabulous Fashion: Target and Neiman Marcus Join Forces

Over the years, various dynamite duos have crept their way into our hearts, leaving an impression that is unlikely to ever go away (think peanut butter and jelly, Batman and Robin and salt and pepper). But will Target and Neiman Marcus be the next pair to grab our attention?

 

Courtesy of www.glamour.com

This unlikely duo has recently made headlines with news of them joining forces come December for some holiday joy. Target, a discount retailer, and Neiman Marcus, a luxury retail department store, recruited 24 different American designers to create men’s, women’s, children’s and home products, all available on Dec. 1.

With a price range from $7.99 to $499.99, with a majority of the items retailing around $60, every piece will be available in both Target and Neiman Marcus,  as well as each store’s website. The two companies will celebrate this historical partnership with a $1 million donation to the Council of Fashion Designers of America.

Shoppers who are addicted to designer labels but don’t have the wallet to back it up have been blessed with plenty of high-end designer collaborations with discount stores in the past, such as Vera Wang for Khol’s, Versace for H&M and Jason Wu for Target. However, such an extensive list of premiere designers has never been made available to the general public . . . until now.

Designers will include sought-after names* such as Marc Jacobs, Diane von Furstenberg and Oscar de la Renta, so mark your calendars and make a conscious decision to celebrate the holidays a tad bit earlier this year with this unprecedented event!

Courtesy of http://www.nitrolicious.com

*Full list of designers: Alice + Olivia, Altuzarra, Band of Outsiders, Brian Atwood, Carolina Herrera, Derek Lam, Diane von Furstenberg, Eddie Borgo, Jason Wu, Judith Leiber, Lela Rose, Marchesa, Marc Jacobs, Oscar de la Renta, Philip Crangi, Prabal Gurung, Proenza Schouler, Rag & Bone, Robert Rodriguez, Rodarte, Skaist-Taylor, Thom Browne, Tory Burch, Tracy Reese

Nicole Veenstra is a Fashion & Lifestyle writer for College Lifestyles. She is currently studying journalism at Rider University and loves dolphins, red velvet anything and spending time with her friends and family.


How To Wear a Crop Top and Keep it Classy

Fashion is all about taking risks, which is why a classy crop top can be the perfect addition to your seasonal styles. This diverse fashion piece can be integrated into anyone’s look, as long as the knowledge of how to wear it comes with the purchase. Fortunately, crop tops come in plenty of colors, shapes and lengths, so next time you are looking for a fun way to spruce up your wardrobe, remember these helpful tips and show off your confidence with a chic crop top.

  1. Courtesy of chicwish.com

    At College Lifestyles, keeping it classy is the number one requirement and should be applied to all aspects of life,including fashion. Crop tops can easily go from classy to trashy, so keeping in mind what length is appropriate for what setting can go a long way.

  2. Layering is always on trend, and combining a crop top with a camisole, dress or blazer can transform the top from day to evening or summer to winter in the blink of an eye.
  3. Being comfortable in your own skin is necessary when it comes to pulling off a fashion forward look, but even those who are lacking a bit of confidence can still feel great in a crop top. The tops are so easy to pair with a person’s confidence level because they come in short and long lengths, and can be skin tight or relaxed and loose. Pick a style that you feel comfortable in and will be appropriate for where you’re going in order to show off your striking new look with the grace and poise of a classy co-ed.
  4. Tone down the rest of your look in order to keep the focus on your crop top, rather than trying a million different trends in one outfit. Pair your top with matching jewelry, high-waisted pants or a structured blazer to create a fashion forward look.
  5. Check out how other people are wearing their cropped tops. Although personal style is extremely important, doing your research before buying a new stylish piece can help you stay away from those fashion blunders that should be avoided at all costs.

Courtesy of collegefashion.net

Keeping these helpful tips in mind will take away the stress of trying out a new look, replacing it with the confidence you need to create an effortless personal style!

For a creative way to wear a crop top, as well as other cute summer styles, check out Rachel’s pastel-themed intern closet.

Nicole Veenstra is a Fashion & Lifestyle writer for College Lifestyles. She is currently studying journalism at Rider University and loves dolphins, red velvet anything and spending time with her friends and family.


Go Greek: How to Substitute Greek Yogurt into Your Diet

As CL’s article in February predicted, Greek yogurt has become one of the hottest foods on the market — and for good reason. With its creamy consistency, this protein-packed food is both healthy and versatile, allowing Greek yogurt to be a part of anyone’s diet, whether they prefer sweet or savory foods.

 

Courtesy of twentytweets.wordpress.com

For those who enjoy Greek yogurt au naturale, create a parfait by pairing your favorite flavor with healthy toppings, such as fresh or frozen fruit and granola.

Do you find yourself craving something sweet, but not wanting to add empty calories to your diet through excess butter and other fatty foods?

Converting old recipes into newer, healthier options is now easy with Chobani’s list of correct exchanges, which is as follows:

Courtesy of ceburrowsculinarycorner.blogspot.com

1 cup butter = ¼ cup Greek yogurt and ½ cup butter

1 cup oil = ¾ cup Greek yogurt

1 cup sour cream = 1 cup Greek yogurt

1 cup mayonnaise = 1 cup Greek yogurt

1 cup cream cheese = 1 cup Greek yogurt

1 cup buttermilk = 2/3 cup Greek yogurt and 1/3 cup milk or buttermilk

 

 

 

Courtesy of realsimple.com

Perhaps the most shocking piece of information about Greek yogurt is that it can be used in savory dishes and dips, not just sweet snacks. At your next party, introduce your friends and family to the snack by substituting mayonnaise for yogurt with Real Simple’s spinach-pesto dip:

  • 1 cup plain low-fat Greek yogurt
  • ½ 10-ounce package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
  • 1/4  cup  pesto
  • kosher salt and black pepper
  • cut-up vegetables, for serving (optional)

Directions:

  1. In a small bowl, mix together the yogurt, spinach, pesto, and ¼ teaspoon each salt and pepper.
  2. Serve with cut-up vegetables, crackers, pretzels . . . anything you’d like.
  3. Enjoy!

 

So next time you find yourself craving something unhealthy, substitute Greek yogurt for the less-healthy ingredients and enjoy your favorite treats without the usual side of guilt.

Nicole Veenstra is a Fashion & Lifestyle writer for College Lifestyles. She is currently studying journalism at Rider University and loves dolphins, red velvet anything and spending time with her friends and family.


Fun 4th of July Recipes

July is already here, and with the start of the calendar’s seventh month comes America’s birthday celebration on the 4th. With the holiday comes parties and entertainment galore, but with so many people to please, choosing the perfect dessert can be difficult.

Fortunately, CL has come up with three mouthwatering recipes that will not only compliment your 4th of July barbeque, but also any other fabulous gathering throughout the year because of their versatility.

Cheesecake Stuffed Strawberries

I made this recipe from Iowa Girl Eats for my family and they were gone in less than five minutes! If you are looking for a low-ingredient, creative dessert to bring to a party, be sure to try out these scrumptious stuffed strawberries.

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs. strawberries
  • 8 oz. 1/3 less fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 full sheets graham crackers, crushed

Directions:

  1. Cut the tops off the strawberries and, using a paring knife, hollow out the insides.
  2. Combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar and vanilla together in a bowl and transfer to a piping or Ziploc bag. Snip the corner off the bag and pipe filling into the strawberries, allowing the filling to come a little over the top of the berry.
  3. Pour the crushed graham crackers into a shallow dish or bowl. Dip the exposed top of the cheesecake stuffed strawberry into the crumbs.
  4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Fresh Berry Trifles

Courtesy of RecipeGirl.com

With strawberries, blueberries and a star made from pound cake, these berry trifles are sure to please. Want to recreate this treat throughout the year? Mix in seasonal fruit or find seasonal items to help create your own version of this delectable dessert.

Ingredients:

  • One 12 oz. lemon pound cake
  • Cool whip (or Greek yogurt)
  • 1 ½ cups blueberries
  • 1 ½ cups finely diced strawberries
  • 10 8 oz. plastic (see-thru) cups

Directions:

  1. Cut the pound cake into 10 slices. Use a small star cookie cutter to cut out 10 stars from the center of each slice. Chop the remnants of each slice into small pieces. Set aside.
  2. To assemble the trifles: Set all of the plastic cups on a tray. Sprinkle a few cubes of pound cake into each cup. Top with a small spoonful of cool whip and/or Green yogurt and a spoonful of both blueberries and strawberries. Layer again- more pound cake, more cool whip/Greek yogurt and more berries, and then place a star-shaped piece of pound cake on top.

Lemon Cheesecake Yogurt Cups

Greek yogurt has quickly gone from invisible to impossible to ignore in the health food world. With its popularity comes an assortment of new healthy recipes, such as these healthy cheesecake yogurt cups. Dress up the cups with colorful fruit or toppings to associate them with any themed party.

Ingredients:

  • 12 reduced fat vanilla wafers
  • 8 oz 1/3 less fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla
  • 6 oz fat-free vanilla Greek yogurt (I used Chobani)
  • 2 large egg whites
  • 4 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 24 blackberries
  • 24 raspberries

Directions:

  1. Heat oven to 350°.
  2. Line cupcake tin with liners. Place a vanilla wafer at the bottom of each liner.
  3. Gently beat cream cheese, sugar and vanilla until smooth using an electric mixer. Gradually beat in fat free yogurt, egg whites, lemon juice, lemon zest and flour (do not overbeat). Pour into cupcake liners filling halfway.
  4. Bake 25 minutes or until center is almost set. Cool to room temperature. Chill a few hours in the refrigerator.

Bring any of these recipes to a get-together and you will surely impress the guests! Need to bring a drink, as well? Check out CL’s favorite themed beverages. Searching for the perfect outfit to accompany your themed desserts? Here are CL’s tips on fashionable ways to dress for July 4th festivities.

Nicole Veenstra is a Fashion & Lifestyle writer for College Lifestyles. She is currently studying journalism at Rider University and loves dolphins, red velvet anything and spending time with her friends and family.


Mix it Up: How to Fashionably Combine Patterned Pieces

Mixing patterns can be difficult and intimidating if you don’t know how to execute the look. And with such a thin line between looking classy and like you got dressed in the dark, it is understandable why some completely avoid the trend. Luckily, mixing patterns is not as hard as it looks when the help of these valuable tips:

 

Courtesy of what-do-i-wear.tumblr.com and nymag.com

  1. Keep in mind both the patterns and the colors
    When mixing it up, one of the most important things is color. Different patterns in the same color family tend to look a lot more natural than deeply contrasting colors.
  2. Look at certain patterns as if they were solids

    Courtesy of mensaaa.tumblr.com

    Houndstooth skinny stripes and small polka dots all give the impression of being solid colors when seen from afar. If you have recently begun dabbling in the style, team up one of these subtle patterns with a more flamboyant one.

  3. Treat black and white as what they are . . . neutrals
    Black and white are easy to mix with any color, which is helpful when trying to keep a look classy. A great example of this is mixing black and white stripes with a floral pattern. When paired together, the combination of stripes and flowers allows you to look both tasteful and stylish.
  4. Space out the patterns if you’re feeling apprehensive
    One of the unique things about accessories is how much they can transform an outfit. If you are nervous about your ability to successfully mix patterns, how about trying out the trend with a patterned scarf, bracelet or purse? That way, you can try out different arrangements without getting too intense.
  5. Don’t overdo it
    Mixing patterns is interesting enough without overdoing it. To keep it simple, always remember to keep your patterns from competing, avoid being too matchy-matchy and steer clear of using too many different looks in one outfit.
At the end of the day, looking like you tried too hard is the number one fashion faux pas, but no need to worry. Remembering these tips can help you create an effortless style without ever having to leave the house.

Looking for shoes to pair with your new, patterned look? Check out CL’s guide to perfect summer shoes.

Nicole Veenstra is a Fashion & Lifestyle writer for College Lifestyles. She is currently studying journalism at Rider University and loves dolphins, red velvet anything and spending time with her friends and family.