Falsies 101

After watching numerous vlogs on Youtube, I was inspired to start wearing false lashes. I think it really adds to your makeup look– and nowadays they look so natural that you can’t even tell that they aren’t ‘yours’!  Now that I’ve started using them, I’m totally obsessed! So if you’re thinking about wearing some, here are some basic tips:

Pick a color, any color!  Falsies come in many colors, shapes and sizes. There are extravagant ones and natural ones, and there are long ones and short ones. I would recommend starting out with the natural ones so you can wear them during the day. If you want them to look as possible, I would get natural ones, and cut them to the shape of your upper eye lid.

Eye Up Keep Make sure you read up on the basic upkeep once you have falsies in. From experience, you do have to be careful when you wash your face, and depending on your technique when you put them on, they may not last more than 2 days. If you want a long-term lash extensions, I would suggest a visit to your cosmetologist. Individual eye lash extensions tend to last longer.

Falsies are great for everyday wear and special occasions. There so many different types of lashes out there, and many different techniques in putting them on. Make sure you choose a type of lash and technique that’s right for you!

Photo via wendymag.com

 

Goodwill Hunting: How To Shop At Second-Hand Stores

Skillfully scouring through heaps of belts, piles of heels, and shelves of knickknacks from decades past is as easy as it sounds. It may appear intimidating–platforms from the 70s tend to do that to people–but see the racks of endless treasures as items in a vast and vibrant playing field. Looking to channel Brigitte Bardot á la the 1960s or in need of a funky costume? Head to a local shop full of hand-me-downs needing revival and keep these tips in mind.

Let the Clothes Speak

Go shopping with less of a plan. Wait and see what the store has to offer! If your eyes are set on finding a sheer, ruffled top, you might miss the vintage medallion that would work perfectly with those studded heels you recently bought! And don’t let shiny paillettes on a nearby cocktail dress blindside you–walk toward the sparkle. Let magic happen. Or, at least be open to letting magic happen–you won’t be disappointed.

Embrace the History

Get completely wrapped up in what makes a beaten-up fringe boot or a metal charm bracelet what it is. Consider these questions: Who brought this here? Where did this come from? Who wore it first? Think through your prospective purchase and the object will become that much cooler. Your next vintage-buy could’ve came straight from an “Old Hollywood” stars’ dressing room!

Look Ridiculous

Every era brings along trends which should never resurface again. As tragic as these said fashion-embarrassments are, delve into the entire experience by traveling back in time and trying on something crazy. Take pictures with your girlfriends at your discretion (remember, once photos go viral, good luck convincing your friend to take it down).

There’s Beauty in Imperfection

Embrace a missing rhinestone or two from a belt or a scuff mark on a leather jacket. It adds personality and age to a classic piece. Besides, anything can be altered and updated once it’s in your hands. If you can’t bare the scratch on the brim of your vintage Ray Ban’s, see if an eyeglass store can clean it up or fit you for a new frame. Problem solved!

Tiana Blue is a Senior Writer for College Lifestyles™. This fourth semester sophomore at Penn State is a print journalism major with a penchant for food, stilettos, and the city that never sleeps.

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Look For Less: Lauren Conrad

Hi ladies, this past weekend was one of the best music festivals ever, Coachella! Although I sadly wasn’t in attendance some our favorite celebrities were. Not only was this a great weekend for music, it was a great weekend for celebrity street style. One of my favorite looks this weekend was Lauren Conrad. After a few hours of digging, I’ve finally found LC’s Coachella 2012 look and was also able to put together some looks for less.

 

LOVE IT: Francesca’s Fancy Flops

With warm temperatures approaching, it is time to pack away our sweaters and tights and bring out our sundresses and flip flops!  Personally, I LOVE sundresses and shorts, but don’t love ‘beachy’ flip flops worn with these items.  I will however, wear Fancy Flops!

Enter Francesca’s Fancy Flops!  This amazing company offers various ‘fancy flops,’ not flip flops, for us classy co-eds, our moms, and the little ones in our life.  From flowers to ‘bling,’ Francesca’s Fancy Flops, can be worn on casual occasions, weddings, and brunches.  What we love most about Francesca’s Fancy Flops is their partnership with various philanthropies, including breast and ovarian cancer organizations, by donate proceeds with the purchase of a Fancy Flop.

Included in MTV Movie Award goodie bags and worn by the fabulous Alexis Bellino of the Real Housewives of Orange County, you can imagine how I felt like a supermodel when I received my very own pair of Fancy Flops for my photo shoot!  I am honored to be the Editor in the category of fabulousness who wear Fancy Flops!

Fancy Flops fit perfect into my Editor and Mom wardrobe of sundresses, maxi dresses, skirts, and rompers (I own very few pairs of jeans).  I’m only 5’1,’ so I LOVED the kitten heel on the flops and being ‘girly girl,’ I loved the bling decor.  The bling on the Fancy Flop matches all my sundresses and spring/summer wardrobe AND will match all my summer pedis!

Francesca’s Fancy Flops are a great addition to any classy co-eds wardrobe AND our mom’s wardrobe!  With Mother’s Day quickly approaching,  Fancy Flops make a great present for any mom!  Check out these other lovely selections.

(All photos courtesy of Francesca’s Fancy Flops)

(All Photos courtesy of Francesca’s Fancy Flops)

 

Shop additional selections for you AND Mom here.

Shop ‘Go Pink’ selection here.

 

Disclosure:  We’d like to thank Francesca’s Fancy Flops for providing a pair of Fancy Flops for our photo shoot and review!

The 5 Best Shorts for Summer 2012

By:  Katie O’Brien

Undoubtedly, one of the best parts of the summer is breaking out the much-anticipated warm weather clothing. After spending the excruciatingly cold months (especially as a student in Michigan!) covered in huge sweaters and puffy coats, it is finally time to wear dresses, skirts, and, my personal favorite, shorts. Shorts are arguably the most versatile article of summer clothing. Paired with the correct top and accessories, one pair of shorts can function as both casual and dressy. Admittedly, however, it is difficult to find a good pair of shorts for a reasonable price. To help classy co-eds find the perfect pair of shorts that fit into a college student’s budget, CL has searched for the perfect options. Below are five inexpensive, but extremely stylish, pairs of shorts.

 

1.  These KNT by Kova & T Leather Varsity shorts are sold at Urban Outiffers. Admittedly, leather shorts do sound complicated. However, the deep red leather is not too over the top—they can be worn to class or dressed up for going out. These shorts, definitely a must have, are only $39.99!

http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=21364096

2. These Ecote Silky Printed Shorts can also be found on Urban Outfitters. The pattern is perfectly understated and the colors in the shorts make them easy to pair with many different colored tops. They are only $29.99!

http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/category.jsp?id=SALE_W&categories=catalog01_sale_sale_w_sale_w_bottoms

3. These Pieced Lace Shorts can be found at Free People. The delicate lace makes them extremely girly and unique. Paired with a black tank top or a jean jacket, these shorts are perfect for a summer night out. And, perhaps best of all, they are on sale for only $49.95!

http://www.freepeople.com/sale-sale-bottoms/pieced-lace-skort/

4. Their name describes them perfectly. These Season Staple Shorts from anthrpologie are a must have. They can be worn all throughout the summer and even the fall. They are simple enough to go with almost anything and are only $58. 

http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/product/clothes-pants/23876253.jsp

5. We have saved the best for last. These 4” chino shorts come in all different bright colors and can be dressed up or dressed down. They are definitely a summer staple and are just $45. http://www.jcrew.com/womens_category/shorts.jsp

 

 

Keep the Spring Break Feeling all Semester Long!

If you’re headed off for spring break this week, don’t be disappointed when you come back to finish the semester off! You can still enjoy the rest of the school year even while you’re hitting the books.

Put up photos. No, not on Facebook. Get prints of some of your best photos and put them into frames, especially beach pictures if you have to go back to a cold place.

Incorporate spring themes into your wardrobe. Check out Shanae’s Colorful Jeans article and Morgan’s NY Fashion Week Looks for Less.

 

 

Eat fruit. There’s no better way to keep a beachy feeling than biting into an orange or strawberry!

Exercise. Take some time to go to the gym or go for a walk – working out will leave you feeling less stressed.

Get a mani-pedi. Try the colors suggested by CL Intern Sasha.

Stay in touch with friends from home. Make plans to see each other over Easter break, and keep one another updated on your lives while you’re at school. This is also a great time to start planning a spring brunch.

Start planning your summer vacation. Check out a few locations and cruise lines. It will keep your vacation appetite at bay.

Buy a new book. There’s nothing better than reading at the beach, but a dorm room will have to suffice for now. Try some of these CL readers’ recommendations you may have missed last semester and the CL Book Club reading “The Violets of March.”

Take a nap. After a long week of vacation time, your sleep schedule is probably a little bit off, especially if you were in a different time some. So, get your Z’s!

But don’t slack off! Keep up with your work – SUMMER IS ALMOST HERE!

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Spring Fashion Trends: $50 and Under

With Spring Break in just a few weeks, it’s about time to get a new spring wardrobe.  There are ways to look classy and fashionable without maxing out your debit card.

Check out these up-and-coming fashion trends and affordable pieces.  Everything is $50 dollars or lower, so you won’t break the bank and still can have some cash flow left over.

1. Color Blocking- Color blocking is when you take two or more blocks of solid color and match them together.  It can be done with individual articles of clothing in an outfit or on one piece, like a shirt or dress.  Successful color blocking is really simple.  A color wheel will be your best friend for color blocking.  The most effective ways to color block are using colors that fall directly next to each other on the wheel, like yellow-green and yellow, but that isn’t limiting.  Bold colors go well together too;  Also, you can substitute primary or secondary colors (use pink instead of red) and still follow the color wheel suggestion.

Xhilaration Juniors Sweetheart Skater Dress, $19.99 at Target

 

Nordstrom Opaque Control Top Tights, $11.00 at Nordstrom

 

1. Orange and Tangerine Hues- These bright, summery hues are great to look simple but bold.

Coral Denim Skinny Jeans, $29.99 at Charlotte Russe

AE Embroidered Cutout Tank, $24.50 and American Eagle

1. Metallics-A great go-to trend for all outfits.  What’s great about metallics is how well they pair with solid colors and add texture to any outfit.

Genna DeRossi Metallic Purse, $17.50 at Sears.com

 

H&M Gold Dress, $40.00 at hm.com

Women’s Music Glitter Flip Flop (Airwalk), $9.99, Payless Shoesource

 

1. Floral Patterns- Floral patterns add a sense of innocence and class to any outfit, while also showcasing a sense of soft femininity.  When it comes to floral patterns, there are all sorts of sizes and colors.  When it comes to picking the size of flowers on your piece, pick a size you are comfortable with. If you prefer bolder prints, larger flowers may be more flattering for you. Height is also important.  Smaller prints look better on shorter gals while bolder prints are more fitting to someone with a few more inches.

XOXO® Juniors’ Kimono Floral One-Shoulder Top, $17.99, Bon Ton

Floral Halter Woven Dress, $24.75, Aeropostale

Vera Bradley Mini Hipster in Camellia, $45.00, verabradley.com

1. Whites- The innocent reputation of white is making a scene this spring.  White clothes and accessories bring cleanliness to any outfit. In addition, they are great to mix with other hot trends, like color blocking or floral patterns.

Daytrip Woven Stretch Belt, $24.95, Buckle.com

Blouse, $9.95, H&M

Jody Cardigan, $47.50, Abercrombie & Fitch

Bluebird Beach Shorts, $24.15, Hollisterco.com

Crop Roll Cuff Jacket, $32.50, Wet Seal

1. Polka Dots- Polka Dots is a classic pattern that is coming back for a visit.  While polka dots can be seen as being juvenile, these pieces will make you see polka dots as a mature, stylish pattern.

Puff-Sleeve Polka Dot Top, $19.99, Charlotte Russe

Merona Women’s Essential Cardigan Sweater, $22.99, Target

 

Alli Heitzenrater is a writing and PR intern for CL.  She is a senior Creative Writing Major at Penn State Erie, the Behrend College.  Alli loves cupcakes, Reality TV, and shopping.  

Klassy Kardashian Style For Less: Steal Kim’s Look

Have you ever watched Keep Up With Kardashians? Chances are unless you haven’t turned on a television in years, you have. Kim Kardashian is a starlet known for scandal, beauty, a crazy family, and her STYLE. Recently, she has taken her fashion love to the next level. She has released a clothing line exclusively with Sears alongside her sisters, creatively titled the Kardashian Kollection. If you have wanted to steal Kim’s expensive designer wardrobe, I’m going to show you how. The best part is, both outfits fit within a classy college co-ed’s budget.

The first look is an everyday look with Kim strutting around town. This look will turn heads in any place. It could work for school, lunch with the girls, or a trip to the mall. Kim rocks a striped white and red shirt, an army green skirt, nude heels, and a designer bag. This look had cost Kim’s hundreds, not counting the bag worth thousands! First, the shirt, I found striped top from yesstyle.com for a steal of $22! It is what seems to be an exact replica of Kim’s! Next is the army green skirt. It’s on sale at yesstyle.com for only $24! The one that is featured even has extra flare with button details down the sides. Kim’s doesn’t have this detail, but it is important when getting inspired from a look to make it your own. Lastly, what Kardashian look would be complete without some killer heels and a fabulous bag? When looking for shoes my go-to place is always DSW, and like always they didn’t disappoint. Kim’s strappy heels easily cost hundreds, but these from DSW are a much less budget-breaking $50. Without doubt the hardest to match was the bag. After some research I found a good match from piperlime.gap.com

  My second look is an evening look. Kim loves to go out and have a good time, and often she sports a figure-flattering bodycon dress. It has become her signature. I found this photo of Kim taken very recently in a white-jeweled bodycon dress. It was taken after she had gotten her new ‘do, as she is now framing her beautiful face with blunt bangs. Kim’s dress is Gucci, and while all girl would kill for a designer dress, that dress in particular cost more than most people’s entire wardrobe!  I found a very similar party dress from nastygal.com with metal accents for $48! I am a fan of the replica dress because the mesh and the sweetheart neckline and mesh on top make it more age-appropriate and edgy.  Also in Kim’s look she pairs the dress with closed-toe glitter heels. I found similar stilettos at heels.com for $50. The final pieces to the look are the set of bangles and hoop earrings. Ever since I was ten years old my non-stop-shop for accessories for accessories for Claire’s and that hasn’t changed. I found the bracelets for $13, close to the price of this fashionista’s cup of coffee. Joking. But all kidding aside, they are an amazing deal. The earrings I found at American Apparel, a company for both the famous and everyday fabulous co-eds alike.

I hope these looks inspire you to try something new and not be afraid to copy your favorite stars. It’s not as hard to “keep up with the Kardashians” as you may have thought.

For more info on these looks go to http://alexlovesyou92.polyvore.com/

Alex Lomicka is a freshman at Kent State University. She is striving to receive a dual degree in Magazine Journalism and Fashion Merchandising. She loves music fashion , and reality TV…including Keeping Up With The Kardashians! This is her first semester interning for College Lifestyles TM! 

How to Get the PLL Look for Less!

The fashion world is abuzz with talk of the four main characters on Pretty Little Liars (ABC Family). The outfits the girls wear on the show are outrageously expensive, but luckily, similar items can be found on your favorite websites!

 

Spencer:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Black and White Look

Black Cutout Chiffon Dress, $22.90

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=dress_casual&ProductID=2083315561&VariantID=

Knit Ballet Tights, $6.50

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=acc_legwear_tights&ProductID=2015035877&VariantID=

Laceup Leatherette Boots, $40.80

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=shoes_boots&ProductID=2000038835&VariantID=

Black Crossbody Purse, $32.80

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=acc_handbags_shoulder&ProductID=1008585221&VariantID=

Wool-Blend Epaulet Coat, $26.46

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=outerwear_coats_parkas&ProductID=2000029511&VariantID=

 

 

 

 

 

Emily:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Unique Casual Look

Classic Straight Leg Jeans, $26.90

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=btms_jeans&ProductID=2074200382&VariantID=

Basic Hi-Lo Stripe Tee, $12.99

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/index.jsp?productId=12214826&cp=4078198.11025267

Vans Authentic Low Tops, $50

http://www.amrag.com/shopping/search/schid-61757468656e7469632076616e73/item10146890.aspx

Paisley Layered Necklace, $5.80

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=acc_necklace&ProductID=1086806103&VariantID=

Coil Trimmed Hoops, $3.80

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=acc_earrings&ProductID=1000030240&VariantID=

 

 

 

 

 

Aria:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Boho Chic Look

Abstract Scarf Dress, $22.80

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=dress&ProductID=2008586177&VariantID=

Ruffle Waist Jacket, $27.80

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=outerwear&ProductID=2015036794&VariantID=

Ali NY Agate Slice Necklace, $60

http://www.maxandchloe.com/Ali-NY-Agate-Slice-Necklace?PID=2687457

Convertible Satchel Bag, $26.50

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/index.jsp?

productId=12006543&cp=4241184.4240804.11899782.2774185

Jessica Simpson Cornelia Booties, $77.40

http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/jessica-simpson-shoes-cornelia-booties?ID=625383&CategoryID=25122&LinkType=#

 

 

 

 

Hanna:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Trendy-Quirky Look

Feather and Chain Top, $17.80

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=top_blouse_shirts&ProductID=2005758048&VariantID=#

Stretch Skinny Pants, $24.80

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=btms&ProductID=2008585996&VariantID=

Large Leatherette Handbag, $26.80

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=acc_handbags_shoulder&ProductID=1087533113&VariantID=

Cutout Suedette Wedge Sandals, $26.80

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=shoes_highheels&ProductID=2005756540&VariantID=#

Filigree Rhinestone Earrings, $5.80

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=acc_earrings&ProductID=1002928738&VariantID=

 

 

 

 

Morgan DeBoest is an intern for College Lifestyles (TM), and is a freshman Magazine Journalism major at Drake University. She is a proud sister of Kappa Kappa Gamma and loves her friends, family, a good book, and traveling.