CL’s Guide to First Day of Internship Looks!

Summer vacation is almost here coeds!  After a semester filled with hard work, summer is time to catch up with friends and take a much-needed break.  But summer isn’t all about taking time off.  Summer provides the perfect opportunity to complete an internship!  Being an intern can be stressful from managing a tough workload to interacting with coworkers.  But CL is here to help!  Making a good first impression is crucial for summer interns.  It has the potential to set the bar for how you are perceived for the rest of the summer.  And one way to make sure you come off as confident and capable is to dress to impress!  Just follow CL’s Guide to First Day of Internship Looks!

Dresses

It’s always better to be overdressed than underdressed.  Even if you aren’t sure about the dress code at your new office, you can’t go wrong by wearing a dress on your first day.  If you want to draw attention with a splash of color try a lighter tone like this yellow dress from J. Crew.  To stick to classic hues try this color-blocked style from Banana Republic.

Tops

If you don’t feel comfortable wearing a dress, a skirt and top combo is another great way to dress for your first day.  The most important thing is to make sure your top is an appropriate cut for an office setting and professional enough.  For a summer blouse try a style like this Lilly Pulitzer button up.  In case the air conditioning is on high, bring a classic cardigan like this one from J. Crew in your purse.

Skirts

If you wear a skirt on your first day, the most important tip is to be sure the length is appropriate.  Aim for a style that hits anywhere from the middle of your thigh down to your knee.  For a classic fit, try a pencil skirt like this style from Banana Republic.  For a more modern look, check out this scalloped style from J. Crew.

Shoes

The first day of work can be hard to gage.  As a new employee, you can’t be sure about the office set up or your responsibilities.  You might be sitting at a desk all day or you could be walking all over town running errands.  To be safe, start the day wearing a sensible heel like this classic style from Aldo.  Bring a pair of flats in your purse like these from Tory Burch in case you need to change.

 

Cassidy McAloon is pursuing a Bachelor in Arts Degree in Broadcast Journalism at Marquette University.  She is a fashion, sorority life, and apartment life writer at College Lifestyles.  

 

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CL’s Guide to Senior Sendoff!

I know the saying is “time flies when you’re having fun,” but lately I’m finding myself altering it to “time flies when you’re having fun in a sorority.”  This weekend I’ll be attending my third senior sendoff for the Alpha Chi Omega chapter at Marquette University.  Even though I’m not a senior yet, it’s starting to hit me my time as an active member in my chapter is coming to a close!  But no matter what year you are in your chapter, senior sendoff is a time to celebrate.  From recalling favorite memories to willing special tokens, senior sendoff gives seniors one last chance to pass on advice to their younger sisters.  Whether you’re a new member going to sendoff for the first time or a soon to be graduating senior, CL has you covered!  Just follow CL’s Guide to senior sendoff!

Attire

Your outfit for senior sendoff should mirror the event: classy.  Now that the weather is warmer, sendoff is the perfect chance to show off your new sundress or favorite summer look.  Try working in trends like these Steve Madden patterned wedges or color-blocked dress from Forever 21!

For Younger Members

Sendoff is a fun event for the whole chapter, but remember this night is all about the seniors!  Make the night one to remember by giving your seniors letters or even putting together a photo album to show them how much you appreciate them!

For Seniors 

Seniors, this is your night!  After 4 years of dedication to your chapter, it’s time to remember and share your favorite stories and memories!  If you’re willing items to younger girls, make sure to have items labeled and organized before arriving at sendoff.  At sendoff, sit with your pledge class of other seniors so you can share the night together.  But above all, enjoy it!  Make sure you get to fully appreciate your last night out with your sisters as an active!

 

 

 

Cassidy McAloon is pursuing a Bachelor in Arts Degree in Broadcast Journalism at Marquette University.  She is a fashion, sorority life, and apartment life writer at College Lifestyles.

 

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CL’s Summer Shoe Preview!

The seasons are changing coeds!  As the weather gets warmer and summer break gets closer, stores are beginning to display their summer collections.  You already know this summer is bringing bright colors and bold patterns.  But make sure you don’t get caught up in the clothes and forget about your most important accessory- shoes!  Follow CL’s guide to the top 3 summer shoe styles!

The Sandal

Summer is all about the sandal.  This season, try to incorporate a pop of color into your shoe like this Steve Madden style.  Sandals are also perfect for showing off the trendy tribal look like these from Minnetonka.

The Wedge

Wedges are the ideal summer heels.  But be careful not to get stuck with the traditional wedge style.  Try to branch out with bold styles like this Aldo floral wedge or Steve Madden t-strap wedge to change up your look and make your shoes pop!

The Modern Flat

This summer, flats are so more than the classic ballerina look.  The modern flat is all about incorporating clothing trends into a shoe.  This Aldo take on the Oxford style is the perfect way to integrate bright colors into your outfit and this Sperry Topsider boat shoe is a great way to use the color-blocking trend!

 

Cassidy McAloon is pursuing a Bachelor in Arts Degree in Broadcast Journalism at Marquette University.  She is a fashion, sorority life, and apartment life writer at College Lifestyles.

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Top 5 Sundresses Under $50

All coeds know there’s one summer staple that never goes out of style: sundresses.  From casual lunch dates to fun nights out on the town, sundresses are perfect for all occasions.  This summer promises bright colors and fun patterns, making the sundress more stylish than ever.  But staying in fashion doesn’t mean you have to break your bank!  Check out CL’s top 5 sundresses of the summer, all for under $50!

The Traditional

There’s truth to the saying, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!”  The floral sundress is a classically feminine addition to any wardrobe.  This dress from H&M features an empire waist that looks flattering on all figures!

The Classic White

What goes better with a summer tan than a little white dress?  This Forever 21 take on the classic white sundress features a traditional eyelet pattern.  The classic white sundress goes perfectly with trendy wedges or stylish sandals!

The Modern Take

It’s time to take the sundress to the next level!  Modcloth offers a variety of modern sundresses for under $50 like this colorful, open-backed piece.  It’s the perfect way to wear a sundress and stay up to date at the same time!

The Trendy

If there’s anything better than 1 trend, it’s 2!  This Nordstrom piece combines the sundress with one of the summer’s trendiest looks: color blocking.  The diagonal pattern adds to the unique look!

The Bold

This summer is all about being bold with color and patterns, and this sundress from Forever 21 is both!  The bright hues and modern pattern make this sundress a must-have for the upcoming season!

 

 

Cassidy McAloon is pursuing a Bachelor in Arts Degree in Broadcast Journalism at Marquette University.  She is a fashion, sorority life, and apartment life writer at College Lifestyles.

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CL’s Guide to Wearing Summer’s Biggest Trends

Spring has sprung, coeds!  The time has finally come to push our coats and heavy sweaters to the back of the closet to make room for the colorful and decorative trends this summer promises to bring.  But from bright hues to busy patterns, the top looks of the summer can be a little tricky to work into any wardrobe.  I chatted with 3 stylish students at Marquette University each with their own fashion sense to see how they were working the top 3 trends of this upcoming summer into their wardrobe.  Check out their answers for tips on how to rock the latest trends!

Tangerine

Anna: I would wear a tangerine top with black skinny jeans for going out at night.  To be more casual, I’d wear tangerine with black leggings and my fringe boots.  I like to pair a bright color top with black because it goes with the color-blocking look.

Madeleine:I really like the tangerine/coral/dreamsicle color palate for spring.  I keep seeing it everywhere. If I were wearing it on top, I would probably choose a loose, billowy blouse and pair it with dark cuffed jeans and cute sandals.  I would also find a pair of tangerine jeans and pair it with a lacy cream blouse.

Kirsten: Tangerine is the perfect color for spring and summer, especially with a new tan!  It’s fresh and takes people out of the dark colors and mood of winter and springs them into, well, spring!  It’s fun and flirty, perfect for both day and nighttime looks.  Dress a tangerine top down with some jeans or jean shorts for a great day look.  Dress it up with a black going out skirt or some dark-wash jeans and that’s one hot springtime outfit! 

Nautical Stripes

Anna: If I wore stripes I could imagine wearing a navy and red nautical shirt or 3/4 sleeve top with white shorts in the summer.

Madeleine: I’m usually hesitant to wear horizontal stripes for fear of looking wider than I am, but I feel like this could be done pretty easily with either a 50s-style flowy skirt paired with a solid-color tank top or as a shirt with a solid-color sweater, dark jeans, and loafers.

Kirsten: I love nautical patterns however I think sometimes they are overdone in the spring.  I like to keep it fresh and not fall back on old patterns.  Nautical stripes are a staple this time of year but don’t overdo it!  Try a bold, bright color or fun print.

Bold Patterns

Anna:I like wearing bold patterned tops with neutral bottoms and shoes like black leggings and black boots. I want the pattern to be the center of attention.

Madeleine:I’m not usually a bold pattern kind of girl, but I feel like I would wear the pattern on top with a plain bottom so as to not be overwhelmed. I’m thinking a cute, kind of loose, patterned tank tucked into a tight skirt.

Kirsten: I’m a short gal but if I’m careful and only have one part of my outfit as a bold pattern, then I’m all for it.  Bold patterns are perfect for springtime.  They are attention grabbing and come in all sorts of spring colors.

 

 

Cassidy McAloon is pursuing a Bachelor in Arts Degree in Broadcast Journalism at Marquette University.  She is a fashion, sorority life, and apartment life writer at College Lifestyles.

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CL’s Top 10 Big/Little Initiation Gifts!

It’s almost here!  After making it through recruitment and finding the perfect little, it’s finally time for spring initiation!  As a big myself, I know how much fun it can be to shop for your little as you see her become an initiated member of your chapter.  I also know how hard it is to find classy presents on a coed budget.  But don’t let shopping for your little stress you out!  Follow CL’s Top 10 Big/Little initiation gift list for help!

1. Paddle

Paddles are a traditional gift given to a little by her big.  To set your paddle apart check out the custom design Lilly Pulitzer-esque from The Painted Prep Etsy Store.

2. Letters

New initiates want to show off their letters!  Get creative and make your little adorable letters to hang like these from Etsy.

3. Lavalier

What girl doesn’t love jewelry?  Lavaliers are a special gift to give your little on initiation.  They last a lifetime and are a great reminder of the bond sisters share.

4. Picture Frame

You know that perfect moment when you knew you and your little were meant to be?  Take a picture from that event and put it in a lettered picture frame to show your little how much you cherish the memory!

5. Matching Set

Show some big/little love!  Surprise your little on initiation with something that matches you.  My entire sorority family has these matching pink v-necks!

6 & 7. Sweatshirt & T-Shirt

Help your little wear your letters on campus!  Custom design a sweatshirt and t-shirt for her using her favorite colors and designs.  Companies like Greek Creations have a lot of fabrics and designs to pick from!

8. Lettered Bag

Lettered totes are perfect for carrying books to classes.  I personally love the sorority collection of bags by Vineyard Vines!

9. Accessories

Your little can never have too many sets of letters.  Pick out some fun accessories in her style like these neon sunglasses to give to her for initiation!

10. Sweet Treat

To top everything off, treat your little to her favorite dessert or snack!  Buy her favorite candy or bake her favorite recipe to tie your package all together.

 

 

Cassidy McAloon is pursuing a Bachelor in Arts Degree in Broadcast Journalism at Marquette University.  She is a fashion, sorority life, and apartment life writer at College Lifestyles.

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3 City Spring Break Staples

It’s almost here coeds!  The ultimate collegiate holiday is just around the corner- spring break!  Even though break seems out of reach now through a cloud of midterms, papers, and exams, vacation will be here before you know it.  If your next few weeks are hectic and leave you little time to pack for your big city get away, don’t panic!  CL has 3 spring break staples for city vacations!

Versatile Shoes

Deciding on shoes to bring on vacation can be the hardest part of packing.  They take up room in your suitcase, weigh the most, and need to match a variety of outfits.  For spring break in the city, make sure you have comfy shoes!  Spring break trips to the city typically require a lot of walking, and you want to make sure you can keep up with your group.  These Sperry Topsider and Aldo flats are the perfect way to be sensible yet stylish and they can be dressed up or down!

Classic Cardigans

City weather has a tendency to fluctuate.  From high temperatures in the day to a chilly breeze at night, you need to have a lot of options in your suitcase.  Classy and chic cardigans like these are great additions to any city spring break wardrobe.  They’re lightweight and easy to carry around in a purse.  Try working in bold colored sweaters like these from J. Crew and H&M into your look to make your outfit pop!

City Glam

Spring break in the city is meant to be glamorous!  From trendy neighborhoods to the vibrant nightlife, cities are the perfect places to be daring when it comes to fashion.  I personally love the sequin trend hitting the runways right now!  Incorporate fun and fearless pieces like these from Forever 21 and H&M to stand out!

 

 

Cassidy McAloon is pursuing a Bachelor in Arts Degree in Broadcast Journalism at Marquette University.  She is a fashion, sorority life, and apartment life writer at College Lifestyles.

3 Steps to a Spring Apartment

Spring is in the air!  In a few short weeks midterms will be behind us and spring will officially be underway.  In order to get ready for the new season, it’s time for some redecorating!  While apartment living can get expensive, CL has 3 simple rules for spring renovations on a coed budget!

Spring Cleaning

Before any spring decorations can be added to your apartment, first you need to clean what’s already there!  Organizing your apartment will open up space for a fresh start.  I personally suggest starting with the messiest part of your apartment so the process gets easier as you keep cleaning.  Try using tools like these closet and desk organizers to make the process easier!

Add Color

Color isn’t just a trend popping up on the runways this season.  Spring is the perfect time to brighten up your apartment!  The décor color trends this year are yellow with gray and neutral with an accent color like red or blue.  Try working in colorful accessories too like throw pillows or rugs to transition your apartment into the new season.  Just be careful when mixing too many colors.  I try to stick with one main color scheme to stay consistent. 

Finishing Touches

After your apartment is clean and colorful, it’s time to add the finishing touches to complete your spring makeover!  This step is all about adding your favorite things to tie your apartment theme together.  Try working in accents like these collage picture frames or vases perfect for flowers or floating candles!

 

 

Cassidy McAloon is pursuing a Bachelor in Arts Degree in Broadcast Journalism at Marquette University.  She is a fashion, sorority life, and apartment life writer at College Lifestyles.

5 Ways to Dress Up a Drab Winter Wardrobe

 

We’ve all been there- it’s halfway through winter and all we want to do is throw away our coats and break out our fresh spring wardrobe.  But hold on co-eds!  Before the spring season officially begins, CL is giving you 5 stylish ways to dress up a drab winter wardrobe!

Fun Accessories

Who says winter accessories need to be boring?  With the right hat, scarf, or pair of gloves you can stay warm in style!  Complete your outfit by matching it with a vibrant or patterned scarf like this animal print one from J. Crew!

A Pop of Color

It’s easy to get stuck with dull black, grey, and brown colors in the winter months.  I’m definitely guilty of this fashion faux pas!  This winter I’ve been adding color to every outfit and it makes all the difference!  Remind yourself of spring and summer with colored denim or bright shoes that pop!

Trendy Coats

Don’t let your coat take away from your overall look!  Instead, make your coat an essential part of your outfit.  Modern trench coats like this Hobbs chocolate colored one Kate Middleton wore for Valentine’s Day (that sold out in hours!) and sassy pea coats go with any style!

Bold Tights

When it comes to tights, don’t be afraid to be funky!  Patterned and colorful tights are the perfect way to make any outfit exciting.  Just make sure the tights don’t clash with your ensemble.  I love pairing them with a plain dress to make them the center point of my look!

Think Spring!

When all else fails, it’s never too early to bring a little bit of spring to your wardrobe!  Start working in spring trends like nautical stripes and color blocking to stay trendy and ahead of the curve!

 

 

Cassidy McAloon is pursuing a Bachelor in Arts Degree in Broadcast Journalism at Marquette University.  She is a fashion, sorority life, and apartment life writer at College Lifestyles.

Trendsetters on Marquette University’s Campus

Congratulations Marquette coeds!  From early Monday morning classes to late Friday night meals, your style selections have been classy and chic.  Marquette’s campus is traditionally filled with preppy, modern, and sophisticated looks, so when I spotted something different I had to dig deeper.  This CL reader isn’t afraid to be unique and bold in her fashion and designing choices.  She stands out as one of the many trendsetters popping up all over campus and was nice enough to chat with me about her style!  Meet the new Marquette style icon- Sally Nadeau!

Me: How do you make your style stick out on Marquette’s campus?

Sally: I put my own twist on the typical Marquette preppy look.  I’d call my style “funky classic.”  I buy a lot of basic pieces in classic colors and mix it up with funky and unique pieces and accessories.

Me: What are your favorite places to shop in Milwaukee?

Sally: I absolutely love the Third Ward.  There’s this great Asian themed store that sells all sorts of furniture and knickknacks.  It’s a great place to look for inexpensive gifts, and it’s attached to a tea house.  I also love Hot Pop in the Third Ward.  The store’s a mix between a clothing shop and a modern art gallery.  They have a lot of great standout pieces for any outfit.  And of course I love the Urban Outfitters in Milwaukee.  They have the best sale section of any Urban Outfitters I’ve ever been in!

Me: Do you have any college apartment decorating tips?

Sally: I got lucky.  I was able to get old furniture from my family to get going.  Then I just started adding my favorite things and everything blossomed from there!  As for tips, I’d say the key is versatility.  Be able to move things around and make sure that everything has more than 1 purpose.  And don’t be afraid to make it you!  Once you’re out of the Marquette dorms enjoy the space and the freedom to decorate!

Me: Any suggestions on places you think Marquette students need to get to before they graduate or leave Milwaukee?

Sally: Make sure you get to Brady Street.  There are tons of ethnic restaurants, bakeries, and coffee shops.  I personally recommend Rochambo.  Also try to go to every single Alterra, not just the one on the lakefront.  And for a unique work out, check out Core Essence Yoga on Brady Street!

Have you spotted or are you a Marquette trendsetter?  Tweet a picture to @collegelifestyl or post it to our Facebook page, College Lifestyles TM!

 

 

Cassidy McAloon is pursuing a Bachelor in Arts Degree in Broadcast Journalism at Marquette University.  She is a fashion, sorority life, and apartment life writer at College Lifestyles.

 

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