New Year, New You : Be Bold With Color

Yes She’s Back! CL Intern Amber Ferguson Returns

 Name: Amber Ferguson

 School: Prince George’s Community College  

 Major: English

 Year in studies: Sophomore

 I have been with College Lifestyles since: May 2011!

 Organizational Involvement: PGCC The Owl Student Newspaper, Enrollment Service’s Student Ambassador, Women Inspiring Supportive Excellence (W.I.S.E.)

 Pets: A wonderful kitty named Sasha

 My friends say I am: Social, caring, ambitious, and productive.

 Astrological sign: Cancer

 My personal style is: Comfortable yet chic. I like to try trends but also keep it classic.

 Favorite clothing stores: Forever 21, Macy’s, Urban Outfitters, New York & Company.

 Favorite movie: “Pretty Woman”

 Favorite book/author: The Everygirl’s Guide to Life by Maria Menounos

 Favorite quote: “Young people aren’t ignorant, they’re not unintelligent, and they’re not uninterested— they’re just uninspired.” – Tabitha Soren, MTV political correspondent

 My screensaver is: Sasha aka my feline sister

 On my IPod you will find: “Wannabe”- Spice Girls

 Must have beauty product: hand lotion, makeup primer, Amazonian mascara

 I have a slight obsession with: Reality TV, I love it all!

I dislike: people who do too much for attention, really slow drivers/walkers, and when my nails don’t have color on them.

Last movie I watched: “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo”

 Last book I read: Sula by Toni Morrison

My definition of a classy co-ed: A girl who is the epitome of a young ambitious role model. She is her own person and never shows off to be accepted by others. She is stylish, outgoing, studious, and honest.

Why I am excited about being an intern with College Lifestyles: College Lifestyles is my #1 stop for updates on the best winter essentials, how to manage my time during midterms and finals, new workout routines to fit around my busy schedule, and to get the best interviews from amazing people. CL represents everything positive in my life and I am so happy to be back for a third semester!

 

 

Amber Ferguson is a fashion/health intern at College Lifestyles (TM). She is a sophomore at Prince George’s Community College studying English. She’s obsessed with reality TV & loves traveling. Follow her on Twitter @Ms_AmberDawn.

 

New Year’s Eve Fashion: Date with a Loved One

New Year’s is the one holiday where the words glitz and glamor come to mind.  New Year’s Eve parties are filled with people wearing sequins and glitter surrounded by sparklers at midnight.  With the end of the year fast approaching, it is a time where people are ready to start a new and start the new year off right, and what better way is there to do that than to spend the last few hours of 2011 with your family or that special someone.  Thousands of couples are out on New Year’s Eve either gearing up for a fabulous party or a romantic dinner.  Here are a few fashion tips perfect for any outing with the one you love.

1. Lovely in Lace

 

This romantic look is perfect for a picturesque dinner. Pair this outfit with simple pearls and soft waves to complete the effect.

2. Bright and Sexy

This sexy, yet classy dress is sure to turn a few heads with its bright neon color.  These patterned shoes bring an element of fun to the outfit by providing an unexpected complement to the loud yellow color.  Add a chunky necklace to complete the look.

3. Cute and Casual

Sometimes the best date is a cozy night in. This knit dress is comfortable and cute, and the booties keep the look fashionable and add an element of ruggedness.  Throw your hair into a messy bun or a side braid and enjoy your quiet night.

4. New Year’s Eve Sparkler

This sequined dress will make you light up any room. It’s perfect for a New Year’s Eve party with your loved one, and the leatherette wedges will make dancing the night away easier.  Pair this outfit with brilliant silver jewelry and sleek, straight hair.

5. Sweet Ballerina

The flowy material of this dress screams romance. It’s light blue color calls for softness in all the pieces to this outfit.  The glittery, silver flats are perfect for the ballerina look.  Keep your jewelry simple, and do your hair in romantic curls to complete the look.

 

Monica Maldonado is a journalism and fashion merchandising student at the University of North Texas, and a member of Phi Kappa Phi.  When she’s not running around campus trying to find her next story, you can find her attached to her laptop, feeding her addiction to pop culture and fashion.

 

Holiday Style: Christmas Dinner Fashion

There are only nine more days until Christmas, and it’s the time for festive holiday gatherings.  Whether you spend the evening with your family, your friends, or with someone special, there is just something about Christmas that inspires the best fashion.  Here are five dresses perfect for the holidays.  From comfortable to chic, don’t be afraid to let your fashion sense shine during the most wonderful time of the year.

1. Cute and Blue

 

2. Classic Drape

 

3. Lady in Red

4. Winter Wonderland

5. Comfy Casual

 

 

Monica Maldonado is a journalism and fashion merchandising student at the University of North Texas, and a member of Phi Kappa Phi.  When she’s not running around campus trying to find her next story, you can find her attached to her laptop, feeding her addiction to pop culture and fashion.

Stay Comfortable in the Cold: Cozy Winter Outfits

The cold weather is here to stay, and there is nothing we would rather do more than stay curled up in bed to avoid the frigid temperatures.  However, there are always things for us to do like go grocery shopping or run errands.  Also, with the holiday break coming up it’s the time of year where we lounge around the house, or our friend’s house, gathered around the TV watching our favorite holiday movies.  You don’t want to get all dressed up for these laid back activities, and you certainly don’t want to put it any effort into your outfit.  Here are five outfits sure to keep you warm and comfortable.

1. Aeropostale

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2. Victoria’s Secret Pink

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3. Forever 21

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4. Old Navy

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5. Target

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Monica Maldonado is a journalism and fashion merchandising student at the University of North Texas, and a member of Phi Kappa Phi.  When she’s not running around campus trying to find her next story, you can find her attached to her laptop, feeding her addiction to pop culture and fashion.

Celebrity Fashion Inspiration: The Women of New Year’s Eve

The holiday season is here and countless parties and gatherings are fast approaching.  With so many places to go, it may become overwhelming to figure out what to wear each night and look fabulous.  You can never go wrong with anything that sparkles, glitter and sequins for instance, or anything in jewel tones, and lace is a romantic fabric always in style.  The ladies of New Year’s Eve looked absolutely dazzling at the Los Angeles premiere of the star-studded film, and they hit many fashion-dos.  So, if you’re looking for inspiration on how to make a splash at your next holiday party, look no further.

1. The Bigger the Better

Abigail Breslin looked lovely in this Marchesa dress.  The crinoline under the dress is clearly visible and adds volume to the drapey layers.  The inspired look is perfect for a holiday party, and the sheer fabric detailed with horizontal stripes above the tulle will have you twirling on the dance floor.

2. Romantic Lace

Katherine Heigl stepped out in this lovely lace Dolce and Gabbana number, and played up the romantic fabric with soft curls.  The inspired look has the sexiness of a strapless, body hugging dress with the sweetness only lace can add.  All you have to do is add glistening pumps, and you’ll be good to go.

3. Sparkling Blue

Hilary Swank glistened on the red carpet with this embellished Elie Saab piece.  The inspired look offers a strapless sequined bodice with the softness of chiffon.  The navy blue color is the perfect jewel tone for winter.  Put this on and you’ll be sure to shine when you walk through the door.

4. Classy LBD

Sofia Vergara looked beautiful in this LBD by Zac Posen.  The inspired look includes the bustier detail of Posen’s dress on the bodice with the added flair of a scalloped lace panel down the center of the dress.  You can go bold by sporting red lips and red pumps, or you can keep it subtle with simple pearls on a romantic night out.

5. Sleek in Purple

Michelle Pfeiffer looked gorgeous in this deep purple dress by Dolce and Gabbana.  The inspired look combines the lovely purple jewel tone and the snug fit of Pfeiffer’s ensemble, with the added bonus of being a more tailored piece which is perfect for your office holiday party.

6. Nude Pleats

Lea Michele looked absolutely radiant in this Valentino gown.  The inspired look includes the subtle nude color of Valentino’s dress and multiple pleats adding drapability to the dress.  Pair this piece with a long, chunky necklace to add color and dance the night away.

Monica Maldonado is a journalism and fashion merchandising student at the University of North Texas, and a member of Phi Kappa Phi.  When she’s not running around campus trying to find her next story, you can find her attached to her laptop, feeding her addiction to pop culture and fashion.

 

Fair Isle Style

Every holiday season tacky Christmas sweater parties occur, and usually if people aren’t busting out sweaters with 3D reindeer they gravitate towards a sweater with the fair isle design.  It was a design no one below the age of 40 should be wearing.  However, this season fair isle is very much in style, and not as a piece to add to an intentionally embarrassing outfit.  The print is perfect to get you into the holiday spirit. Fair isle incorporates snowflake designs knitted with various winter colors.  Here are a few items, ranging from head wear to foot wear, which rock the fair isle pattern, and the best part is they’re all under $30!

 

 

 

 

Monica Maldonado is a journalism and fashion merchandising student at the University of North Texas, and a member of Phi Kappa Phi.  When she’s not running around campus trying to find her next story, you can find her attached to her laptop, feeding her addiction to pop culture and fashion.  

 

 

 

 

Ask The Intern: What’s In My Closet?

My style has definitely changed.  As I was looking in my closet, and picking out my favorite pieces, I began thinking about how my closet looked when I was eight, or 13, or even 17.  As I have gotten older I’ve realized what I like and what I don’t, and what works for me and what doesn’t.

The professional section of my wardrobe has expanded now that I’m a senior, and my shoe collection has grown out of different colored tennis shoes to a variety of styles.  At 21-years-old, my closet consists of the following: florals, sundresses, cardigans, comfortable jeans, blazers, graphic tees, and hats.  I like all my pieces to have a level of comfort because as every college student knows or comes to know: comfort is key.

So, even though I have (and wear) the converse I got when I was 14-years-old, not much of my teenage self is present in my closet today.  Take a look in your closet and think about how your style has evolved throughout the years.  Here are a few of my favorite pieces in my wardrobe.

Dresses:

I gravitate towards dresses with a fun print or a retro vibe.

Professional:

For interviews I like to stick with sleek pieces in dark colors, but which also have stylish elements.

Tops:

I have drawers filled with t-shirts.  My favorite pieces to wear to school are my graphic tees paired with comfortable jeans.

Bottoms:

I love floral skirts and bright colored bottoms, but I also need my skinny jeans.

Cold Weather Items:

Cold weather means layers, and my cardigans and sweater dresses get a lot of use.

Shoes:

I live in my flats and alternate regularly between my black and brown pairs.  I actually have a black and brown pair of these heels and riding boots.  The brown ankle boots are my favorite shoes for dresses and skirts.

Accessories:

I have all kinds of accessories in my closet.  I love big, chunky necklaces, bright scarves, and the fall is the best season to break out my bolero hat.

 

Monica Maldonado is a journalism and fashion merchandising student at the University of North Texas, and a member of Phi Kappa Phi.  When she’s not running around campus trying to find her next story, you can find her attached to her laptop, feeding her addiction to pop culture and fashion.

A Week of Style: Layering Edition

Fall is here and the time is perfect for layering.  It’s cool enough to allow you to layer without getting hot, but not cold enough where all the perfectly thought out pieces in your outfit have to be covered up by a bulky winter coat.  Layering allows you to look through your closet and start pairing complementary items together.  It also allows you to create outfits you never thought would look good, but end up fabulous with the right amount of prints and texture.  Breathe new life into your wardrobe, go for comfortable, chic or both, and remember to always have fun with fashion.

Monday- Cool Prep

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Layer a comfy v-neck sweater on top of a crisp oxford shirt, and complete the preppy look with a varsity jacket.  You can pair these pieces with skinny jeans and boots, or if you want to go full on prep then pair it with oxford shoes and a brown leather bag.  This look is the right amount of comfort and style.

Tuesday- Flannel and Stripes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For this look, wear a flannel jacket on top of your favorite graphic tee.  Layer a scarf over the jacket to tie together the patterns and to add an extra element of warmth.  Flannel is very big this season, and mixing patterns is always in style, so this outfit is sure to be a hit.

Wednesday- Playing with length

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This outfit combines different sleeve lengths to make one eclectic look.  Start by layering a brightly colored, short sleeve cardigan over a long sleeve stripped sweater.  Place a faux fur vest over the cardigan to add an unexpected element to the outfit, and revel in the creation.  This look is the perfect example of pieces which don’t seem to fit together, but result in a stylish ensemble.

Thursday- Hoodies and Belts

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Who says a hoodie can’t be a dress? This outfit allows ladies to dip into the men’s section at department stores.  Grab yourself an over-sized hoodie that’s long enough to make a dress.  Wear a long sleeve blouse underneath, and hike up the sleeves of the hoodie a bit to show off the complementary colors.  To add shape to the outfit, tighten the waist area with a decorative brown belt.  Complete the ensemble by wearing matching high knee socks and riding boots.

Friday- Utility Jackets and Chambray

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By the end of the week comfort is calling to you.  Dress it down on Friday with a loose chambray blouse under an olive green utility jacket.  Wrap a thick, black scarf around your neck to keep you warm, throw your hair up into a messy bun and take on the day.  You’ll look cute, and the outfit is as relaxed as your mood.

 

Monica Maldonado is a journalism and fashion merchandising student at the University of North Texas, and a member of Phi Kappa Phi.  When she’s not running around campus trying to find her next story, you can find her attached to her laptop, feeding her addiction to pop culture and fashion.

Look Vintage for Less: Hipster-esk the CL Way

The hipster phenomena has tapped into the marketplace of fashion, and made it so that it’s hip to be a “hipster.” What’s a hipster? It means that you are trendy, and cutting edge – so you may be thinking how do I dress like one? Most who dress like hipsters had already had a vintage – 70′s chic style – who sip on strong coffee and read novels from used book stores with their thick rimmed glasses – OK that was over the top, but you get where I’m going with this.

“You can’t make yourself be a hipster, you just are one,” some say – well CL readers if you like the fashion I say go with it.  Here are 10 ways to look trendy, vintage, and hipster-esk for less.

Click to purchase items!

1. Shrug Sweaters

2. Crop Top

3. Sweet heart tank top, with the tank tucked in paired with a belt. 

4. Thick Rimmed Glasses 

5. High-Waisted Shorts

6. Tees of Old Bands

7. Bright Colored Pants

8. Armhole Tanktop paired with a Bandeau

9. Slip on shoes

10. Tights

 

There you have it CL readers, a few ways to vamp up your style and make yourself more hipster-esk!

Lindsay Dressen is an intern at College Lifestyles (TM), and is a junior magazine journalism major at Drake University minoring in sociology. She is a movie buff that loves to be with her friends and family, and enjoys working out, ethnic food and indie music!

 

 

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