Celebrity Style & Look for Less – Carrie Underwood

If you don’t know by now, Carrie Underwood, winner of the fourth season of the hit show American Idol, is a great role model to many young girls and adults. Not only does she sing the popular pop-songs such as “Before He Cheats”,  she also pairs her fresh vocals with a fabulous fashion sense that is both classic and fun.

Thanks to AZJeans, here is a fun and comfy look for all college students inspired by Carrie Underwood. This would be a great outfit if you’re running late in the morning to your early class, running late errands, finishing a project in your campus computer lab, or even studying in the library for your final exams! Carrie’s look is all about comfort, so college students take note. 

Begin with a lightweight 100% cotton t-shirt, a colorful fleece zip-up or pull-over hoodie, and colorful fleece or cotton sweatpants.

Get this exact look all from AZJeans for under $61.00!

Purchase online now and get free shipping with any order over $50.00:

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   $14.50

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Cute and Cheap Ways to Accessorize your Fall Wardrobe

With the start of a brand new academic year and this seasons trendiest Fall fashions, there is no question that your Fall wardrobe won’t look as hot and cute as this seasons (expensive) fashion runway collections. If you’re trying to save money like every other college student in the world, do not fear! – There are tons of cute and cheap ways to accessorize your Fall wardrobe. 

Let’s begin with the best stores, including online shops, to find these accessories.

1. Target – I personally love Target. Not only is Target clean and organized, they have some great basic accessories. Check out their bag department as well; they usually have a great variety of colors and sizes.
2. Claires – Hey! It’s not just a place for pre-teens. You would be surprised by some of the cute head bands and earrings they have.
3. Nordstrom – Even though Nordstrom is on the higher side, they have great accessories in their B.P (Brass Plum) juniors department. Also, check out their sale items online, and if you are lucky enough to have a Nordstrom Rack, that place can be a gold-mine for extra sales. 
4. Forever 21 – Very cute accessories that definitely will not break the bank! 
5. Delias – Check their clearance aisle online and in-store for some cute bold accessories for a steal. 

So, what accessories should you wear to update your Fall wardrobe? Or, what items could you wear to make your dull outfit look brand new? From bold tights to classic earrings, these tips will show you how easy it is to spiff up your wardrobe.  *Click on each picture for more information*

1) Metallic tote or handbag

 

2) Bangle bracelets

3) Jewel earrings

4) Colored Headbands

5) Tights

 

 

6) Belts

7) Printed scarves

 

 

Makeup Bag:Back To School with Stila

-STILA: Chocolate Palette Set-

Stila recently came out with their limited edition Chocolate Palette Set, which is retailed at $40 plus tax on their website. The set contains the following: 3 eye shadows including a highlight, lid, and crease colors, 1 blush, 1 full size Lip Glaze, and 1 full size Major Lash Mascara.  This is a great neutral cosmetic palette for back to school, as anyone with light to dark skin tones will be able to make their skin glowing and flawless without looking overly made-up. The palette is also small enough to pop in your makeup bag, school bag, or purse if you’re constantly on the go.

Check it out, you won’t be disappointed.

Back To School: College Clothing Essentials

What clothing should I bring to my dorm? Should I take my whole wardrobe to campus? These questions, among many others for the fashion forward girl, are questions that may seem daunting, annoying, or perhaps fun for the super organized college aged girl, but nonetheless need answering! First things first though: a lesson on what clothing not to bring to campus and other various lessons interjected in the article.

-WHAT NOT TO BRING ON CAMPUS!-

After being in college for a full two years (two years left to go!), I have learned through both personal experiences as well as through friends messes, a few lessons on what not to bring on campus. I remember it was like yesterday; it was a hot day out during the last week in August and I was moving into the dorms at McDaniel College as a Freshman. I was so excited to move-in, meet tons of new friends, and of course, unpack all my belongs, clean and redecorate my room! With help from my parents, I unboxed 4 boxes of clothing along with numerous pairs of shoes and accessories. After putting away my sweaters, t-shirts, skirts, pants, jeans, and tops in the dorm’s closet and dresser, I realized I was in trouble. The first sign came after unpacking all my clothing, as the closet and four drawer dresser was filled to the brim. The second sign came after the first month of living on campus; while it was still only the end of September at this time, the weather was still quite warm and the dorms were humid as hell. By this stage in my college life, I had only worn my new pajamas for bed, and only half of my summer wardrobe. While it was nice thought to wear my dressy summer sandals with my summer skirts and cute tops, I was never able to wear them. I was too busy grabbing breakfast, going to class, and the library, and walking around campus all day to wear any of that stuff. The same sign came when Feburary hit; Winter break just ended and school was back in session for Spring. Even though it was snowing and the dead of Winter had set-in, I had brought way too many pants, sweaters, and outer wear.

Therefore, one should listen to this piece of advice to avoid heartache, frustration, and any other word you’d like to say: Bring only what you think you will need! Before you go clothes shopping for school, actually think about what you will need. In fact, make a list of what items you already have, versus items you still need. This way, you won’t overbuy and you’ll keep to your budget. Moreover, do not pack all of your wardrobe! If able to, I highly suggest only packing for each semester. Since there is a Winter break, usually occurring in early December when it is not yet that cold outside, only pack clothes for the Fall semester. After Fall, pack up your Fall clothes to bring back home, and repack for the Spring semester when you’ll need more warmer clothes, and only a few light spring items. In addition, do not pack anymore than 1 pair of high-heeled shoes (there really is no need), 4 pairs of flip flops, 1 pair of Winter boots, or 3 pairs of ballet flats. In fact, one pair of your flip flops should be dedicated to shower shoes. Should you bring skirts, blouses, or other dressy items? Well, that depends. Definitely do not bring any fancy or expensive skirts or dresses in case they get ruined, stained, or stolen. It is from my experience that no one on campus really needs any fancy or professional wear unless you plan on attending career fairs or go to a job interview during the school year. If that is the case, then only bring 1 pair of of dressy pants, 1 black skirt, 1 pair of polished high heels, and 1 nice blouse. 

 

-ESSENTIALS FOR CAMPUS-

Now onto what you should bring to campus: the bare essentials for all college students.

1) PJ’s: At least one nice Pajama set. I love cotton PJ pants and my new college t-shirt. It’s nice enough to wear down the hall, bathroom, or be in the common area or friends dorm without looking to sloughy and messy, yet comfortable like everyone should be at 9 PM!

2) Sweatshirts: No more than 2 please. These can be used for crappy weather days, days when its extra cold outside, or when you don’t particularly feel good. Sweatshirts are big and bulky, so they definitely take up a good amount of space in your closet or dresser. Besides, who wants to be in sweatshirts all the time- they do not look professional or even close to looking nice. I suggest purchasing two nice sweatshirts from your college bookstore. Mind as well show your school spirit when wearing them!

3) One Professional Outfit: You’ll need this especially in your Junior and Senior years when you’re looking for internships, part-time jobs, or full time jobs after gradating. Bring no more than: 1 blouse, 1 dressy slacks, 1 black skirt, and 1 pair high-heels. You’ll be wearing this to go to job interviews on/off campus, as well as career fairs on/off campus. 

4) Flip-flops: Please, no more than 4 pairs! One pair needs to be for the shower and the rest you can wear all summer and spring long. And while they can be comfy and cute, they aren’t practical to walk around campus with all day long: your foots natural arch will start to lower, your foot muscles will lose strength, and they do not give enough foot support. Also, how annoying is it that people wear these shoes when its the dead of winter? Not every attractive or eye-catching to say the least. 

5) Tennis Shoes: 1 pair needed for your physical education requirement, and any other sports teams you might be joining during the year. 

6) Jeans: A true staple in college student’s wardrobe, thus bring all sorts of denim washes and styles, but cap it off to 8 pairs. One for everyday of the week if you live in jeans, and an extra pair if one is in the wash or you spill something on another. Having a backup is key!

7) Skirt: A nice skirt is essential to have, especially if you’re going to a friend’s dinner party, or are invited to your professors house with your classmates for an activity. You cannot be going in flip flops and jeans thats for sure! You need to make a good impression, as with the professional wear.

8 ) Various cotton shirts and camis: Don’t pack too many or you’ll either lose clothes or won’t wear them. Cami’s are a great, quick, and cute way to laying under V-neck or scoop neck skirts/sweaters. Long-sleeve and short sleeve shirts are also needed in a variety of colors.

9) Sweaters: Sweaters a great way to look pulled together in the quickest amount of time. Depending on how you wear them, i.e: with a polo or colored blouse underneath, sweaters make you feel warm, cozy, and pulled together. They are also great because they go with so many outfits! Pair them with jeans, khakis, skirts (with or without leggings), or even bermuda shorts. In addition, if you love cardigans like I do, don’t forget to bring a basic black cardigan – black goes with anything and can make your overall look great. 

10) Boots: Only 1 pair of winter boots. I love me my Uggs. 

11) High-Heels: Only 1 pair needed. See comment on professional wear.

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Picks

This past Friday, July 17, was the first official day of the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. As I entered the store at 1 PM, I was shocked to see how many people were browsing and picking up their pre-orders; forget about parking in the same parking lot as Nordstrom too, as it was filled to capacity! Walking into Nordstrom is one of my favorite parts of shopping there. For one, the sales people make you feel welcome and they are so friendly. Secondly, I love love love their customer service. I’ve never had a problem with returning or exchanging an item. While my love for Nordstrom is grand, I must admit, I was disappointed with the selection of items on sale this year. It actually seems that they are cutting back on the amount of sale items; the economy could be to blame. Nevertheless, they have some nice items that I would recommend any college-aged student or young professional to browse.

Here are my top picks:

1) North Face Denali Jacket: Sale Price: $122.90

*Available in: White, Grey, Blue, and Black

 

2) Kristin Blake Melton Peacoat: Sale Price: $149.90

Available in Camel, Black, and Red

 

3) SPANX High Falutin Footless Pantyhose: Sale Price: $21.00

Available in Nude and Black

 

4) Classiques Entier Broken Mini Stripe, A-Line Skirt: Sale Price $98.90

Available in Grey only

 

5) Fever Button Front Sweater Jacket: Sale Price: $49.90

Available in: Orange, Green, and Black

 

5) Caslon Raw Edge Tee: Sale Price: $17.90

Available in Rose, White, Blue, Expresso, Green, and Black

Green Bikinis & Look For Less

-SWIM WEAR-

It is officially summer and if you’re looking for a green bikini like Audrina from The Hills.. look no further!

Here are my top suggestions: (Click on image to view details)

1) Target Brand $15 per piece.      

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2) Victoria Secret $15 top; $14 bottoms

 

 

-REESE WITHERSPOON-

Not only do I believe Reese Witherspoon is a great actress, but how cute is she!? Time and time again she proves to be a great inspiration (in all facets of life) but she especially proves to be a great fashion role model to women of all ages. 

The look that Reese is sporting around town is a great look for many occasions, such as shopping or hanging out with your friends, grabbing a coffee in the morning, or jumping from class to class on campus!

Check out these suggestions: (Click on the image for details)

Gap.com $10 Sale Price  Tank Top                                                  

 Gap.com $30 Sale Price Ballet Flats

                              

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Old Navy: $20 Sale Price  Jeans                                      

Old Navy: $24.50 Cardigan Sweater

 

                  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Back Acne & Razors

-Back Acne-

If you suffer from Back Acne, like I used to a few years ago, then I suggest to stop purchasing all those acne products that claim will help your Back Acne, or even regular over the counter acne medications. Instead, go to your local grocery store or drugstore and purchase Dial Antibacterial Moisturizing Body Wash. It refreshes and cleans your skin without residue like other body washes tend to do. Moreover, since it’s antibacterial, it washes away all the dirt and cleans out your pores without the harsh acne medication chemicals. An added bonus: Dial Antibacterial Moisturizing Body Washsmells great and leave a light scent on your skin after you dry off. Furthermore, why spend $6-$7 on Neutrogena’s Body Clear Wash when you can spend $4-5 on Dial’s Body Wash? 

Other Tips:  Wear cotton clothes; they allow your skin to breathe. Also, don’t use a washcloth, use a loofa instead as it won’t trap bacteria.

 

-RAZORS-

Schick Intuition Plus Shaving Kit VS. Gillette Venus Breeze Razor

 

I recently purchased Schick Intuition Plus Shaver in hopes that my legs and underarms would be smooth, soft, and moisturized. After all, that is what Schick’s “new” razor is all about, that and convience since the razor blade is surrounded by a thick soap bar. After using this razor for a week, my thoughts are up in the air. While the soap bar surrounding the razor looks moisturizing and creamy.. it actually dried out my normal skin causing me to apply body lotion to my legs almost every night. The soap bar does lather nicely after you run it under water, but what use it it when causes dry skin? Another thing I immediately hated about this razor is how big and bulky it is, thus causing it to easily slip out of one’s hands. If you want to check out other reviews on this product, look at the reviews on MUA.

 My favorite 2-in-1 razor is by far Gillette’s Venus Breeze razor. Compared to Schick’s razor it is physically very light and small, and fits in my hand with ease. Moreover, the soap is actually inside the razor blade, whereas Schick’s razor is surrounded by the soap bar. After running Venus’ razor under water, the soap gel strips act as if you have just immersed your legs in shaving gel. Moreover, the actual razor blades give the closest shave I have yet to experience with a razor. When finished, my legs and underarms are soft, smooth, and moisturized. If you want to check out other reviews on this product, look at the reviews on MUA.

Summer Internship Clothes

This past Spring semester ‘08 through this summer, I scored an awesome internship with America Online. After the interview and accepting the offer, I have to admit, the first thing that went through my mind was the burning question, “What am I going to wear to my new job!?”. To be honest, I had no clue and went to the mall every spare second I had to get some ideas and of course, get some new clothes for the corporate environment. 

There are lots of different internship positions, and since mine had to do with the technology department, my new manager actually told me to “just wear t-shirts and jeans” because there is no dress code and “we want our employees to be comfortable when working”. Well… as fun and comfy as jeans and t-shirts sound, I was not thrilled with his answer for one reason: I knew I would be meeting tons of different people and first impressions matter the most. I did not want to meet a potential manager, co-worker, or network friend wearing just t-shirts and jeans! 

After walking around the building where I would be interning for the next 7 months, I got some ideas on how to dress. Since this is the summer however, these tips/pictures will be geared towards what to wear to a Summer internship.

 

1) You cannot go wrong with colorful Bermuda shorts. I picked up a Khaki and Blue Bermuda short at Nordstrom a few weeks ago. The material is super soft and they are very comfortable to wear. If you are running around the office or lifting items, then shorts are the way to go!

2) Cute solid cotton short-sleeve shirts. Finding solid cotton shirts are easy because they are basic essentials! You can find these types of shirts at Target, Wal-Mart, The Limited, Kohls, Macys, The Gap, and Old Navy. The great thing about solid shirts is that you can add your own accessories, such as earrings and necklaces, to make the shirt look interesting. Moreover, adding a cute cropped jacket can also add interest to your outfit. 

3) Sun-Dresses are a must! For an easy go-to outfit, slip on a cute sun-dress with some interesting sandals and head out the door in no time! I like this one from American Eagle.     

 

4) Cardigan Sweaters to keep the chill away. Even though it may be Summer, inside my office building the AC is always on full blast. Thus, having a nice cardigan sweater is a must so one does not freeze. Target and The Gap always has nice cardigans on-sale, so check out what they have. 

5) No-More Flip-Flops! Flip Flops are great for the beach and when you’re with your friends, but they aren’t so great when you’re in an professional working environment. Instead, opt for cute ballet flats or gladiator sandals. I recently purchased these Steve Madden flats and are a staple in my summer internship wardrobe. 

6) Low-Mid Heels. Repeat: No Stilettos. Heels are a great option if you have more of a “professional” internship, such as working at a magazine or financial company. Slingback heels are also fun choice for a Summer internship or professional Summer job. Remember this rule of thumb when checking out heels: If you cannot walk properly in the heels, they are too high for you; one should be able to walk normally in heels without tripping or walking slower than usual. Check these out from Macy’s.

Stila Cherry Crush & Urban Decay Primer Potion

-STILA: Cherry Crush-

I recently purchased Stila’s Cherry Crush lip and cheek stain at Sephora for $24 + tax. I knew I was going to love it as soon as I saw it in the store. Not only is this a 2-in-1 product (a stain for lips and cheeks) but it’s also fun to play with! ; the color comes out just like the Stila Lipglazes do: you click the bottom of the pen and the color comes out of the soft bristle brush on-top. I have fairly fair skin, so the color on me is a soft pink, but becomes a bit darker in shade as I layer the product on my lips and cheeks. Moreover, the product stays on for at least a full 8 hour day. There is no shine, shimmer, or greasiness to this product, which is great if you have oily skin like I do. The only bad thing about Stila’s Cherry Crush however, is that it dries very fast on the cheeks, so be sure to have moisturized skin and quick fingers to spread the product. 

Check out this YouTube Video on how to apply the product

 

-URBAN DECAY: Primer Potion-

After rave reviews for Urban Decay Primer Potion, I finally headed to my local Sephora in Maryland. Excitedly I hopped into Sephora, grabbed the Primer Potion in its pretty purple packaging, and headed to checkout. The next morning while I was picking out my makeup for the day, I could not wait to try this primer. The packaging, as shown in the picture, is great. There is no mess, as the cap screws on, and no horrid smell when opening the bottle. The primer is very creamy and after swiping my lids (once each), I patted on the primer and it dried quickly in just a few short seconds. One of the great things about this primer is that unlike other primers, it is the flesh colored, thus it looks like my eyes are awake and not tired! 

Now the ultimate test: I put on my eye-shadow and eyeliner, and left for my long 10 hour day. After coming home from my internship and running errands afterwards, my eye-shadow was perfect; there was no creasing or smudging. However, my eyeliner was still smudged. I’m not sure if that eye-liner just does not agree with my oily eyelids, or if the primer couldn’t help it stay in place. For right now at least, this primer gets 4 out of 5 stars. To check out other reviews, read MUA’s reviews.

Back To School with Vera Bradley

*** First, I’m quite sorry for the lack of updates in the last 2 weeks! Things have been crazy at my internship this summer, and my Saturday Summer class is almost over. But, I’m back for now!

Vera Bradley

has now posted some awesome items for the best season, in my opinion, for back to school. If you check out their website, items are categorized by price limit, which if you are like me and money conscious, this is a great tool. Vera Bradley’s back to school items include but are not limited to, messenger bags, tote bags, lunch bags, and ID cases. Check it out!