Image Credit: freedigitalphotos.net

The shortest, most enjoyable season of the year always seems to bring a fling. Summer flings come with plethora of unique stories to be told by couples. There are so many different settings, and even more crazy endings. The key to having a great summer fling is to always keep it classy.

Summer flings can be so much fun because the new romance is so fresh in the summertime. A fling can be created while working at a summer job, or one may cross paths with a cutie at a local gym or mall. Let’s get even more fun with it and say a love pot gets stirred while on vacation with friends or family. No matter what the story is, a juicy summer fling is always fun.

According to Sabria Wilkerson, a cheerleader at Delaware State University, her summer fling took place when a previous flame sparked back up. “Last summer I was at an event in my community and I ran across my ex-boyfriend. I hadn’t seen him since I was a sophomore in high school, and now I was preparing to go to college. He was cuter than ever and I just couldn’t ignore him. After that day we spent every day together that summer. Everything was great until it was time for us to go to school. He went to school in South Carolina and I go to school in Delaware. Despite the distance, we made it work. We are still together now.”

Sometimes summer flings become something more, and blossoms into a serious relationship. On the other hand, sometimes summer flings are just that; a fling. It’s difficult when a summer of fun and romance is just for the moment in one person’s eyes, but the other person begins to pursue future endeavors to make the fling last.

Image credit: freedigitalphotos.net

Jessica Shepard, a recent graduate of Delaware State University had situation just like that. “I met this guy who was so cute and so much fun to hang out with. He was the type of guy who actually listened to females. We would stay up on the phone all night talking about everything. It seemed like we knew each other forever. I would go visit him at work, and vice versa. We’d go out to lunch, to the beach, or just a park. I began to picture myself actually being serious with him. Unfortunately, he didn’t. I knew at first it wasn’t serious, but I thought as time went on we felt the same thing. At the end of the summer he started playing games  , so I got the hint and lost contact ever since.”

Although, summer flings can end with someone being disappointed, it can also end perfectly. When embarking on the summer fling journey, one must always remain wise in the situation. Whenever a summer fling arrives, one must remember it’s a fling. Of course everyone wants to allow their heart to guide them, but the brain must not be forgotten. It’s okay to spend the summer focusing on one particular person, and at the end of the summer ways are parted and nothing remain except the memories. The great thing about that is both parties will be happy.

Photo credit: freedigitalphotos.net

Nicole Ford, a freshman at Delaware State University commented, “People, especially us girls, must be smart if you’re in a summer fling. It can be tons of fun with a happy ending, or it can end disastrous with a broken heart. If you can’t handle the huge possibility of parting ways at the end of the summer with someone you like, then I suggest you don’t get caught up in a fling.”

Summer flings can be fun, sad, or messy, but it’s up to the individual on how they handle the cards they’re dealt with. Whether the summer fling ends in an ongoing romance, broken heart, or just lasting memories, everyone must remember that they’re fabulous at the end of the day.

Image courtesy of gotrinidadandtobago.com

Trinidad, the largest island in the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, is located off the north eastern coast of Venezuela. Its history gives the island a vibrant culture and its scenery sets a gorgeous backdrop to any trip. The island’s unique characteristics make it a perfect fit for CL’s travel spotlight.

Image courtesy of gotrinidadandtobago.com

Climate: Located in the southernmost portion of the Caribbean, Trinidad has a tropical climate with average temperatures around 80 degrees Fahrenheit. From June to December, Trinidad’s wet season, expect frequent afternoon showers, but for the most part the days are full of sunshine.

History: The island was originally inhabited by Carib and Arawak people, but the arrival of Christopher Columbus marked the beginning of a series of European occupations. From the late 15^th century onward, Trinidad and Tobago received settlers from Spain, France and England, as well as indentured servants from Africa, India and China. England, who had seized Trinidad from Spain in 1797, relinquished control in 1962, paving the way for Trinidad and Tobago to become a republic in 1976.

Transportation: Trinidad offers a variety of transportation services to complement your trip. Taxis and public buses are available in almost all locations, although note that if taking a public bus you should purchase your ticket at a bus terminal prior to boarding. In order to travel from Trinidad to Tobago, you can either take a two and a half hour leisurely ferry ride for about $12, or a 20 minute flight that will set you back $24 each way. Expect delays, higher fares and traffic congestion during Carnival.

Image courtesy of gotrinidadandtobago.com

Where to stay: There are plenty of hotel chains to choose from if visiting one of the major cities such as Port of Spain. Trinidad Hilton and Conference Center, Courtyard by Marriot and Hyatt Regency are just a few of the options available. For the more adventurous, try a stylish inn like ML’s Gingerbread House, Ber-Dina’s Place or Waterville Estate. Smaller inns such as these offer more personality and often times a better connection to the culture. Prices range from $20/night to over $200/night and vary by season, so be sure to do your research and book in advance.

Things to do: Trinidad boasts a pristine environment and offers visitors many ways to experience the island’s unique ecosystem. Adventure-seekers can hike the Northern Mountain Range, kayak the Godineau River or explore the Cumaca Caves. For those seeking less adrenaline and more tranquility, visit one of Trinidad’s many beaches or spend the day shopping. The Northwest Peninsula is an easy beach to access if you are staying in Port of Spain, but if you crave seclusion, hop on a boat and experience the unspoiled beaches of Chacachacare or Scotland Bay. As for shopping, Trinidad’s streets bustle with vendors selling handmade crafts, souvenirs and local produce, and the major cities often have several malls to choose from. Note that the exchange rate is about six Trinidad and Tobago dollars to one U.S. dollar and you can exchange your money at a bank, although U.S. currency is accepted at most places on the island.

Where to eat: Trinidad’s culinary flare stems from its history. Over the centuries, Chinese, Middle Eastern, English, French and Spanish people have added to the island’s palate, creating a distinctive mix of flavors. Gourmet restaurants are becoming popular in the cities, but if you want to taste genuine Trinidadian cuisine I suggest going off the beaten path. Try Salsa Kitchen Tapas Restaurant or King’s Bay Café when visiting Tobago to taste some of the best-rated cuisine in the country. In my experience, if you want to taste authentic food, hit the streets and find a food vendor with a long line of locals trailing from behind. Use common sense when it comes to determining food safety, but if a lot of locals are buying, chances are it is delicious and safe.

Nightlife: Trinidad and Tobago has a vibrant nightlife offering a variety of bars, pubs and clubs to choose from. D’Lime is a small bar in Tobago if you are looking to mingle with locals, or if you want to bask in the rhythm of steel drums try Sunday School which has live music every Sunday.

Trinidad is not the typical destination one thinks of when deciding on a Caribbean vacation, but that’s what makes the island a great place to visit. The nation’s unique history and culture make it a must-see for any traveler, so the next time you are thinking of booking a vacation, try something new and visit Trinidad.

Image courtesy of gotrinidadandtobago.com

For more from CL, check out the following:

City Spotlight: Cancun

Summer Vacation? Follow these Fabulous Airplane Etiquette Tips!

Best Books for the Beach

Photo Credit: Krysta Loftis Photos

Missing your sorority sisters this summer? Leaving school does not mean you have to leave your sisters behind too. CL asked some fabulous co-eds how they rep their sisterhood over the summer.

“Have fun with texting – instead of ‘regular’ text – send each other pictures – if you see your sorority symbol, mascot, etc.” – Shelly Marie Redmond, CL Editor in Chief

Technology has made it easier than ever to connect with sisters over the summer. Applications such as Skype and Snapchat make it possible to connect face-to-face while in different locations.

Photo Credit: freedigitalphotos.net

“The fact of the matter is that our sisterhood is so strong that even with distance I know I can call anyone really when I need them. Thankfully we live in an age with social media and so much technology that even being hours away we are only a click, call, text, Snapchat or tweet apart.” Natalie Gordinier, Central Michigan University, Alpha Sigma Alpha

For those sisters who are not too far away from you, summer sister dates offer a great chance to spend quality time together away from the school setting. Pack a picnic, plan a weekend getaway, or meet for dinner one weekend for some good sisterly fun.

“I Snapchat a lot of my sisters who are far away, but some of us still get together. I plan on doing a beach day with my little soon!” –Caitlin Sawyer, Hofstra University, Phi Sigma Sigma

And what would a sister date be without a bright pair of sorority letters? Rep your sisterhood by proudly rocking those letters over the summer.

“I wear my sorority shirts all the time! Also, I Snapchat my sisters and we usually plan a dinner date or a weekend to all get together.” –Skylar Starbuck, New Mexico State University, Zeta Tau Alpha

Photo Credit: Taylor Stewart Photos

As much as we all love escaping school for the summer, it can really bring sisters together and offer you a great chance to rep your sisterhood. Events on or around campus can be a great opportunity for you and your sisters to rep how awesome you all are. These events are also a great chance for you to get together mid-summer with your sisters.

“There are events like freshman orientations at school throughout the summer when we are all required to be in the same place, so we will usually plan to all have dinner together on those weekends.” –Andy Hitt, Georgia College and State University, Phi Mu

Being separated from your sisters over the summer can be difficult, but it can help strengthen your sisterhood and gives you a chance to proudly represent your sorority. Staying in touch with sisters over the summer is super important, so find which ways work best for your sorority and enjoy the sunshine while it last.

Photo Credit: Taylor Stewart Photos

Want more sisterhood advice? Check out these articles:

Sisterhood: Keeping the Bond Strong

Sisterhood: Big/Little Bonding Activities

CL’s Guide: Becoming an Involved New Member

]]> http://collegelifestyles.org/2013/05/how-to-rep-your-sisterhood-over-the-summer/feed/ 0 http://collegelifestyles.org/2013/05/style-by-the-city-trinidad/ http://collegelifestyles.org/2013/05/style-by-the-city-trinidad/#comments Fri, 24 May 2013 16:00:59 +0000 Emily http://collegelifestyles.org/?p=70553 Read More]]>

Image courtesy of gotrinidadandtobago.com

The Caribbean island of Trinidad is often referred to as a “rainbow island” because of its extremely diverse culture. Whether you are lucky enough to travel to this beautiful tropical island or not, it will provide any classy co-ed with summer style inspiration.

Carnival Collective

Festivals are a huge part of Trinidad’s culture, and one of the biggest is Carnival. During this festival, there are many parades where men and women dress in elaborate and colorful costumes, dancing to calypso music. Typically, these costumes are made of feathers to represent the island’s wildlife.

To mimic this look into everyday use, pair bright patterned high-waisted shorts with a solid tank or bralette to get through the heat of summer. And remember when feathers were a thing a few summers ago? They still are: add a feathered sandal that will be comfy enough to walk around in if attending a festival or summer concert. Sunglasses are a must, and tortoise shell patterns are so in right now. Finally, add a bright blue clutch to match the bright blue sky Trinidad is known for.

Beach Bum

Headed to the beach this summer? Tropical islands have long been inspiration for bathing suits of all shapes and styles. Trinidad is full of beaches and colorful wildlife, and the color red is just about everywhere in its forests – from birds to flowers. If you’re more inspired by the forests, go for a ruffle red bikini top with floral bottoms. More inspired by the Trinidad flag? Go for a black and red bikini set. To bring some of the ocean blue into a beach wardrobe, add blue fringed sandals. And black sunglasses and a straw sun hat are always great ways to look stylish and provide protection from the sun’s strong rays.

Dinnertime Chic

Everybody loves to go out to dinner in the summer, and classy co-eds love to look chic. The popular dishes of Trinidad are inspired by its diverse culture and include pelau (rice, veggies and meat), doubles (an Indian dish), roti and callaloo. While dining on some pelau, go for a long, breezy yellow maxi dress. Trinidad’s food is colorful, so pair the dress with a vibrant statement necklace and wedges for an evening walk out on the town. Envelope clutches are the new It bag, so go for a red one to complement the yellow. Don’t forget a beautiful red lip to last through dinner and dessert, and a light cardigan for those breezy summer nights.

Whether you are headed to a tropical island like Trinidad for vacation or not, the beautiful, diverse island is a great source of fashion inspiration. Its vibrant wildlife, unique culture and blue sky can provide enough inspiration to last you through the summer!

Looking for fashion inspiration from other cities? Check out these College Lifestyles™ articles:

Style by the City: Cancun

Style by the City: Miami

Fashion Influence from Trinidad: DIY Head Wraps and Dresses

Image courtesy of gotrinidadandtobago.com

As college students, we like easy, quick yet still tasty meals, which is why leftovers are great. Leftovers don’t have to be greasy, oily, fattening dishes left over because restaurant portions are typically double the size, it could be a healthy dinner you make with friends and have the perfect amount left for next day’s lunch. What’s easier than turning last night’s dinner into a salad or a heating it up in the microwave for an already made delicious lunch?

Salmon Cakes (thefoodnetwork.com)

4 servings, total time: 27 minutes

These cakes (loaded in omega 3 fatty acids and protein) are a perfect addition to some rice, quinoa or a salad for dinner and are also great as a mini meal for lunch the next day. Not only are they delicious, but also salmon does wonders for cognition and the brain. As college students, I’m sure we could all use assistance in that area. For more brain enhancing foods check out Top Six Foods for Brain Power.

Ingredients:

• Vegetable or canola oil, for frying
• 3 (6-ounce) portions cooked salmon or 3 (6-ounce cans salmon, drained well)
• 1 ½ cups cracker meal
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 tsp Old Bay seasoning blend
• ½ red bell pepper, seeded and finely chopped
• 20 blades fresh chives, snipped or chopped
• 2 to 3 tsp fresh dill, a handful finely chopped
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper sauce
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• Salad greens
• Coarse salt
• Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
• ½ cup mayonnaise or reduced fat mayonnaise
• ½ cup chili sauce
• 2 tbsp dill pickle relish

Directions:

1. Heat a large, heavy skillet with one inch of frying oil over moderate heat.
2. Flake the cooked salmon with a fork. Add cracker meal to the bowl and work through the fish with your hands. Add the eggs, seasoning, pepper, chives, dill, pepper sauce, and the zest of one lemon to the bowl. Combine the ingredients well with your hands. If the mixture is a little wet, add a bit more cracker meal. Form 3-inch patties of salmon cakes one inch thick. You should yield eight to 10 cakes. Enjoy dinner with friends, each of you can have two or three and you’ll have leftovers for tomorrow’s lunch. To turn your cakes into a salmon cake  salad, follow these next steps:
3. Fry cakes until golden in a single layer three or four minutes on each side. Drain on paper towel-lined plate.
4. Toss salad greens with coarse salt and the juice of the lemon you zested. Drizzle the greens with a little extra virgin olive oil and re-toss the salad to coat.
5. Combine mayonnaise, chili sauce and relish in a small dish. To serve, place salmon cakes on a bed of baby greens, two cakes per person and top with chili mayonnaise sauce.

French Toast (Allrecipes.com)

Breakfast for dinner is a favorite meal for many, myself included. You could make a batch big enough for dinner with some leftover for tomorrow’s lunch too. Add your favorite toppings to this fabulous French toast such as berries and bananas for your dinner portion and a sprinkle of maple syrup for your lunch batch to change it up.

Makes 2 servings, total time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 eggs
• 1-1/2 cups skim milk
• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 pinch salt
• 4 slices bread

Directions:

1. Beat together egg, milk, cinnamon, vanilla and salt.
2. Heat a lightly oiled skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Soak bread slices in egg mixture for 20 second on each side or until thoroughly coated. Cook bread until both sides are lightly browned and crisp. Serve hot.

For more breakfast for dinner options, check out Pancakes 101.

Spaghetti with Turkey Meatballs (ivillage.com)

6 servings

Who doesn’t love a typical Italian spaghetti and meatballs dinner? This particular dish is meant to be served in a spicy tomato sauce so for those who like a little sizzle in their food, this one’s for you. Not a fan of spice? Swap it out for a regular tomato sauce; it’ll be just as tasty.

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped (about 11/2 cups)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (about 4 teaspoons)
• 3 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 28-ounce can crushed fire roasted tomatoes, with their juices
• 1 tsp finely minced canned chipotle chile in adobo sauce, or more to taste
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 spring fresh rosemary
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• ¼ cup torn fresh basil
• 1 pound lean ground turkey meat
• 1 slice whole wheat bread, crusts removed and pulsed into crumbs in a food processor
• ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan
• ½ cup finely grated carrot
• ½ cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 teaspoons)
• 2 tbsp minced fresh flat-leaf parsley
• 2 tbsp minced fresh thyme
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• ½ tsp salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 16-ounce box whole wheat spaghetti
• 1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• Minced fresh flat-leaf parsley for garnish

Directions:

1. To make the sauce, in a 4-quart saucepan heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring a few times, until translucent, about three minutes. Then add the garlic and cook for one minute. Add the tomato paste, tomatoes, chipotle, oregano, and rosemary, bring to a low boil, reduce the heat to low, and cook until the liquid has evaporated slightly, about 15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
2. While the sauce is cooking, make the meatballs. Preheat the broiler. Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray. Combine the ingredients for the meatballs in a large bowl. Form into 2 ½ inch balls and place on a baking sheet. Broil until browned and almost entirely cooked through, about 10 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, remove the rosemary sprig from the sauce and stir in the basil. Add the meatballs to the sauce, cover, and cook until the sauce has slightly thickened and the meatballs have absorbed some of the sauce, about another 10 minutes.
4. While the meatballs are cooking, cook the spaghetti according to the package directions. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Add the sauce and meatballs, toss together, and heat through over medium heat. Divide evenly among six pasta bowls, sprinkle with Parmesan garnish with parsley and serve.

Turn this dinner into a protein-rich meatball sandwich for lunch.

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F°. Cover a large cookie sheet with aluminum foil. Divide the meatballs among the baguette pieces and sprinkle the meatballs with mozzarella. Top with the remaining bread then bake for 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted. Serve immediately.

5 Ways with Pasta gives you even more ways to enjoy your leftover noodles.

Planning meals is important in maintaining a healthy and balanced diet. These are just some CL food ideas that are simple to make and give you two tasty meals.

Sundresses and sandals.  Sun-kissed skin.  Fresh fruit salads.  Sweet iced tea.  Walks on the shore.  Reading our favorite books.  Yes, summer has officially arrived!  

For many of us, we long for a few days at the beach walking barefoot (with a perfect brightly colored manicure) squishing the sand between our toes breaking only for a lunch showcasing the local catch of the day.  We continue into the evening by browsing the local shopping markets discovering great finds and closing out our night listen to local musicians and entertainment.  Sounds like a great dream?   Where does does dream exist?  The island of Aruba offers the foodie, the adventurer, the shopper, and the ‘beach relaxer’ a great ‘girls trip’ without anyone feeling as if they were the fifth wheel.

Whether choosing Aruba travel as a ‘girls trip’ or a ‘family trip,’ our College Lifestyles staff discussed the draw of Aruba and planning a vacation.

‘Personally, I would soak up the beaches in Aruba.  I would go to the beach daily with my daughter – walk, swim, and honestly, lay back and soak up with sun.  For lunch, I would enjoy a Caribbean catch of Mahi-Mahi.  During the evening hours, I would take advantage of the shopping.  I love purchasing local jewelry when traveling, and I would love to add an ‘Aruba local’ jewelry to my collection.  ’ ~Shelly, Editor-in-Chief

‘When choosing vacations, I look for a deal!’  ~Kaylee, Social Media Team

‘I’ve never been to Aruba but the nice weather would definitely draw me in. I love being surrounded by the ocean and the culture of an island lifestyle.’ ~Rachel, Editor

‘Price always matters to me! I’m always bargain hunting.’ ~Kelsey, Writer

When reviewing the ‘Best of Aruba,’ we could not help but be impressed with the culinary offerings.  Think visiting the beach you only can select from the local catches?  We learned the following dishes are readily available on the island:  

• Classical delicacies:  Frog legs, duck, venison, foie gras
• Caribbean catches:  Mahi-Mahi
• Cultural finds:  Argentinean churrasco, Middle Eastern shoarma, Japanese sushi, Spanish tapas, Indian curries, Caribbean jerk ribs, Maine lobster

What would be your reason to travel to Aruba?

Image courtesy of facebook.com/colinfarrell

Name: Colin Farrell

Birthday: May 31, 1976 (36 years old)

Fun Fact: Farrell’s father was a football player, and when Farrell was young, he aspired to be a football player just like his dad.

Current Projects: Farrell’s most recent project is coming to theaters today. His latest movie, Epic, is a 3-D animated film about a girl who discovers a secret world within nature. While there, she goes through a classic good vs. evil dilemma in which she must fight with a band of warriors to save the natural world from those who wish to destroy it. Farrell is the voice of General Ronin and plays alongside many other talented celebrities such as Amanda Seyfried, Josh Hutcherson, Beyoncé Knowles and Pitbull. If you can’t make it to the theater to watch this awesome new flick, be sure to read CL’s review about it this Sunday.

Image courtesy of facebook.com/colinfarrell

Community Outreach and Charities: Farrell is very protective of his Irish heritage.

“Being Irish is very much who I am … I take it everywhere with me,” he says on his official website. This is why he is so persistent in helping the charities of Ireland in any way he can. He is an ambassador for The Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (ISPCC), whose vision is to “create an Ireland where all children are heard and valued.”

Why is Colin a gentleman? Although Farrell is one of the most sought-after actors in Hollywood by movie producers of all genres, he is still able to remain “real,” as reported by “Entertainment Weekly.” And while he is very committed to his work as we can see through his roles on film, he is also very committed to his family. He loves his sisters and his parents dearly and always treats them with respect. He is also the father of two with his wife, Amelia Warner, and is putting that first in his life, even before acting.

“Family is my priority,” he says to Jessica Wedemeyer, “Wonderwall” writer. This is why Farrell is so classy and alluring. He is a well-rounded man who works hard and cares about his loved ones, making time for them regardless of how busy his schedule is. That is something to be admired.

Image courtesy of facebook.com/colinfarrell

Photo Credit: Maggie Popick’s photos from Polyvore

Picture the sun shining, you’re lying in a grassy field with all of your friends and all you hear is laughter. Yes, that’s a real life painting of summer, or you can call it the happiest time of the year. Summer is the time of year to show off your warm-weather wardrobe. Memorial Day kicks off the summer fun and what better way to enjoy the sunshine than enjoying a picnic with your friends? Whether you’re making a meal from scratch or you bought all of your food from the grocery store, it’s important to always stay comfortable and stylish while at a picnic.

The perfect A-line dress silhouette with a complimentary tote -for the food, but also for the style- is a great ensemble that will have your friends begging for the names of the clothing stores you shop at. The stylish and unique patterns on dresses and their different lengths give you so many outfits. A simple pair of sandals completes the look without taking any magic away from the dress. And when planning a picnic, a tote is the go-to bag.

Photo Credit: Maggie Popick’s photos from Polyvore

Another fun look for a picnic meal is a flowy skirt. One of my favorite new trends is an upgrade from the normal skirt. It’s a mix between a skirt and overall shorts. With this fresh new skirt-overall style, you can add colorful and patterned tops or keep it simple with a plain colored t-shirt. Again, I can’t get over my obsession with pairing any picnic outfit with a tote.

Photo Credit: Maggie Popick’s photos from Polyvore

Accessories always complete the outfit. There are so many kinds of sunglasses to match any ensemble. To add some fun to your outfit, throw on a pair of colorful sunglasses or some heart shaped shades. This adds an even girlier touch to your dress or skirt. A sassy pair of cat-eyed sunglasses makes your confidence shine. Or for a more retro themed ensemble, put on a pair of round sunglasses. And I can never forget my go-to pair of aviators.

Now that your eyes are covered with stylish shades, it’s time to add some hair accessories. I love throwing on a large hat, sometimes to cover my bad hair day or to add great color to my outfit. It’s always fun to put on a hat and shades and feel like a celebrity for a day. For a simple touch of fun you can put on a flower headband and you’ll look fabulous. I hope everyone enjoys his or her Memorial Day picnic!

To read more fashion articles like this one, check out:

How to Wear Mixed Materials

Maxi Dresses Three Ways

Your Perfect Summer Dress

Photo Credit: Maggie Popick’s photos from Polyvore

 Photo Credit: FreeDigitalPhotos.net

 Everyone has their “go-to-gal”; it is the friend they depend on when times are difficult, the friend who supports them in their endeavors and the friend who knows how to let the good times roll. This person is the friend you just love to love. But sometimes, she’s just the girl you love to hate.CL decoded the five types of friends everyone loves to hate – do any of these sound familiar to you?

 “Elena Gilbert”

She is far from average, but is the definition of the  girl-next-door. She has a unique mystic and vulnerability about her, which makes the boys go crazy over her.  Elena Gilbert sometimes lets the things around her cloud her better judgment and her friends always come to her rescue. She has a very big heart and goes to great lengths to protect her friends and family. Elena sometimes can’t help that she is put in unfortunate situations but those closest to her always tend to suffer the consequences.

“Spencer Hastings”

Spenser is the intelligent and savvy co-ed you love to hate. She is usually the first person to figure out a plan or solve a problem when it comes to helping out her friends.  Her determination to be the best and beat out her competition sometimes gets her in trouble -this stems from growing up in her older sisters shadow and always trying to get the approval of her parents.  If she doesn’t let her emotions get the best of her, she can achieve greatness with her smarts to get into the top Ivy League colleges.

Photo Credit: FreeDigitalPhotos.net

 “Alison ‘Ali’ DiLaurentis”

Ali is the co-ed who is better to have as a friend than a foe. If you’re on her good side, she can be the best friend you’ve ever had, your confidant and even your role model. She is great at keeping secrets, but little do you know, she uses them for her own personal gain when necessary. If you get on her bad side, you will quiver at the sight of her, and she will haunt you when she’s not around. Alison is always confident and has a unique way of finding out all your secrets, although, you will never know hers.

Photo Credit: FreeDigitalPhotos.net

 “Regina George”

She is the most popular girl in school who everyone tries to imitate, but she can never be duplicated. She is the “queen bee” of high school.  Regina is a sophisticated fashionista, and appears to be so sweet on the outside. But everything about this girl is spicy. If you do not stand with her clique, then your social life will be tarnished. Ms. George will go to great lengths to ruin you – she’ll even do it with a smile.

“Elle Woods”

Elle Woods loves everything pink, girly and chic. She is always up-to-date with the latest beauty trends , and loves to have a good time with the girls. At times, she is not the sharpest tool in the shed, and is a sap for romance. Therefore, others around her tend to take advantage of her kindness. But her happy and optimistic approach on life outweigh others negativity, and she usually overcomes her obstacles. Elle Woods sometimes breaks all the rules but still epitomizes a sassy co-ed.

Whether these friends come in your life for a reason, season or a lifetime, they will never be unforgettable. The friends you love to hate always stand up for what they believe in, and never apologize for it. They should never be underestimated because they usually overcome all odds. It’s always best to stay on their  good sides, too. Remember, the friends you love to hate always know how to keep it classy.

Photo Credit: FreeDigitalPhotos.net

photo courtesy: posterize/freedigitalphotos.net

Have you ever wondered how people in commercials and advertisements have such radiant, smooth summer skin? You can get beautiful skin too…in just a few steps. CL talked to Esthetician Jeanne Muis about summer skin care and ways to help improve your complexion.

College Lifestyles: What are some secrets to smooth summer skin?

Jeanne Muis: Smooth skin always starts from hydrating the body, so you should drink a lot of water. Soft drinks and juices are loaded with sugar and can make you break out. Good skin care and healthy lifestyle choices can delay the aging process and help prevent future skin problems. 

CL: What SPF sunscreen should be used and how many times a day should you apply it?

JM: Use a good sunscreen when you’re in the sun. Apply generous amounts of broad spectrum sunscreen at least 20 minutes before going outdoors, and reapply about every two hours throughout the day, especially after swimming or sweating.

CL: What is the best face wash to use?

JM: The best face cleanser should be one that is appropriate for your skin condition. If you have dry skin, you will want to use a milky cleanser. For more oily skin, you can use a gel cleanser. For those with acne, you should use a cleanser with salicylic acid, which clears pimples and prevents future breakouts.

photo courtesy: photoexplorer/freedigitalphotos.net

CL: Does makeup affect smooth skin?

JM: Before applying makeup you want to make sure your skin is clean. Wash your face two times a day, especially at night to get off all residue of makeup. This is the most important skin care step since the body repairs itself when we are sleeping and it can’t rejuvenate itself if it’s all plugged up with sweat, makeup and dirt from the day.

CL: What type of makeup do you recommend?

JM: Makeup should not contain any lanolin or mineral oils, so check your labels. Do not buy cheap makeup products for your face; you may break out more and clog your pores. I recommend professional skin care and makeup products. You don’t have to spend a bundle.  

CL: How do you treat sunburns?

JM: Use Aloe Vera gel to calm down the redness and burn. You can take an ibuprofen to take the edge off for pain. Skin cancer is at its all time high, thousands of new cases every year with an increased cancer risk among young people. Use a higher SPF sun block to help protect your face, neck and hands from excess sun exposure.

photo courtesy: David Castillo Dominici/freedigitalphotos.net

CL: What are some personal home remedies that you use to obtain smooth skin?

JM: Drink a lot of water because it flushes out toxins in the skin.  Eat a lot of fruit and veggies. Don’t take long hot showers, it dries the skin out. Don’t use soap; use a shower gel with a low pH. Moisturize soon after you get out of the shower; it will help you keep hydrated. Use an overall good moisturizer for your skin.

There are many ways to help improve your skin this summer by creating a wonderful diet and exercise routine. Check out these articles on food recipes and skin treatment.

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photo courtesy: artemisphoto/freedigitalphotos.net