Four ways to bring Mardi Gras to your sorority!

As a college student in Louisiana, I live for Mardi Gras! Mardi Gras is a celebration beginning on or after Epiphany and ends on the day before Ash Wednesday. Fat Tuesday, which is the last day before lent begins, is the final day for Catholics to treat their selves to the coveted object or obsession they are about to give up for lent. Typically, Fat Tuesday is the day everyone associates as Mardi Gras, due to the extensive celebrating that occurs that day. This year Mardi Gras falls on Feb. 21! If you cannot make it to New Orleans to join in the festivities, why not bring Mardi Gras to your sorority? Here are four ways to bring Mardi Gras to your sorority.

 

Masks- No Mardi Gras celebration is complete without masks. During Mardi Gras an individual’s mask represents their personality. All you and your sisters need is a plain mask, glitter, sequins, and anything else needed to show off everyone’s individualism! To guarantee your sorority has the best masks around, spice it up and have a contest for the best mask!

 

Beads- Beads are the must-have accessory for Mardi Gras. Throughout Mardi Gras people wear a variety of colorful beads to display their festive side. Traditionally beads are treasured during Mardi Gras, as they are usually the result of winning a contest or souvenirs of the parades they attended. Get your sisters in the spirit of Mardi Gras by having a game night where you give beads as prizes for the winners. Remember the more beads the better!

 

King Cake- No celebration would be complete without dessert. King Cake is a cake that is filled with cream cheese, cinnamon, praline, strawberry, blueberry or other common fillings and twisted in the shape of an oval. It is typically topped with icing and sugar in the colors of Mardi Gras (purple, green and gold).  When eating this be sure to look out for a tiny plastic baby that has been embedded in the cake. As tradition has it if you find the baby in your slice you must buy the next king cake! Ingredients PASTRY: 1 cup milk 1/4 cup butter 2 (.25 ounce) packages active dry yeast 2/3 cup warm water (110 degrees F/45 degrees C) 1/2 cup white sugar 2 eggs 1 1/2 teaspoons salt 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg 5 1/2 cups all-purpose flour FILLING: 1 cup packed brown sugar 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon 2/3 cup chopped pecans 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 cup raisins 1/2 cup melted butter FROSTING: 1 cup confectioners’ sugar 1 tablespoon water

Directions Scald milk, remove from heat and stir in 1/4 cup of butter. Allow mixture to cool to room temperature. In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in the warm water with 1 tablespoon of the white sugar. Let stand until creamy, about 10 minutes. When yeast mixture is bubbling, add the cooled milk mixture. Whisk in the eggs. Stir in the remaining white sugar, salt and nutmeg. Beat the flour into the milk/egg mixture 1 cup at a time. When the dough has pulled together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 8 to 10 minutes. Lightly oil a large bowl, place the dough in the bowl and turn to coat with oil. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place until doubled in volume, about 2 hours. When risen, punch down and divide dough in half. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Grease 2 cookie sheets or line with parchment paper. To Make Filling: Combine the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, chopped pecans, 1/2 cup flour and 1/2 cup raisins. Pour 1/2 cup melted butter over the cinnamon mixture and mix until crumbly. Roll dough halves out into large rectangles (approximately 10×16 inches or so). Sprinkle the filling evenly over the dough and roll up each half tightly like a jelly roll, beginning at the wide side. Bring the ends of each roll together to form 2 oval shaped rings. Place each ring on a prepared cookie sheet. With scissors make cuts 1/3 of the way through the rings at 1 inch intervals. Let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 45 minutes. Bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes. Push the doll into the bottom of the cake. Frost while warm with the confectioners’ sugar blended with 1 to 2 tablespoons of water. Courtesy of allrecipes.com

 

Parade- To get the full affect of Mardi Gras, you must have a parade. Mardi Gras parades consist of large and vibrant floats filled with candy and of course lots of beads! Unlike most parades, Mardi Gras parades are often hosted by Krewes, or private clubs, preparing for Mardi Gras season all year. Be sure to give your float a name, theme and dress up in costume!

 

You and your sisters are destined to enjoy Mardi Gras this February with these simple easy-to-do steps to bringing Mardi Gras to your sorority. So, as we say in Louisiana “laissez les bons temps roule” or “let the good times roll!”

 

Sherelle Black is a junior at Louisiana Tech University majoring in journalism with a minor in marketing. She is president of her chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and likes to dance and hang with her sorority sisters in her spare time.

Score Your Own Touchdown This Superbowl…With Style

Every girl has the dream at least once in her life to date the super-cute football player (if you were in high school or a fan of the NFL). With Superbowl around the corner, I found stylish outfits for you to look like the ultimate fan and feel unstoppable enough to score a touchdown yourself!

We all know this game will end one of two ways, the Giants will win, or the Patriots will win, but as far as style goes I’ll call it a tiebreaker. Both outfits are equally cute and sporty, so just sit back, grab some snacks, and get ready to cheer!

The first look I created was for the New York Giants. I was inspired for this by the classic, football-loving fashionista who loves to be comfortable and cozy when watching a game. I love 80’s style and was instantly inspired when I found this Giants off-the-shoulder burnout sweatshirt. Junkfood Clothing makes the stylish vintage sweatshirt (famous for the “Little Miss…” shirts) and it sells on Amazon for $39.00. Pair with a burnt orange tank from generalpants.com to complete the look.  The steal of the outfit is the ‘I’m a great catch’ underwear from Victoria’s Secret for $3.99! It is a cute touch showing spirit from head-to-toe. I am also I huge fan of ripped jeans; it goes along the relaxed look. My favorite brand has to be Joe’s Jeans. The denim is super-soft; it’s almost like wearing your favorite sweats. I purchased mine from Sack’s Fifth Avenue for just under $100. Lastly, what outfit would be complete without accessories? I found these adorable slippers with the NY Giants logo and colors for $30 from nflshop.com.  The baseball hat, $22 from Amazon, adds a flare to the outfit. Last but not least the tote! Wouldn’t you be the coolest girl at the Superbowl party carrying all the snacks and goodies for on Sunday? You can purchase the bag for $25 from the nflshop.com.

Now to be 100% fair, there is another team fighting for the title, the New England Patriots! My favorite football item of all time would be the sequin football shirt. I personally own a Pittsburgh Steelers sequin shirt, and you can purchase it for any team from Victoria’s secret for about $50. Match it with a white long sleeve thermal, I found this one for $14, and this puffed Patriots’ vest both from Victoria’s Secret. One of my favorite trends this year is the trend of colored denim, particularly red. Show off you’re Patriots’ spirit with red jeans like these J Brand ones I found for $69 from barneys.com! To finish off the look, how perfect are these New Balance shoes in the New England’s navy and scarlet red? Go ahead and tell your friends the “N” stands for New England!

I can assure you whatever look you decide to sport, you won’t be disappointed, and who knows, you might score the football cutie you always wanted. That’s a touchdown if you ask me!

Alex Lomicka is a freshman at Kent State University. She loves fashion and football. She has and always will be a Pittsburgh Steelers girl, but this  Superbowl she will be cheering for the NY Giants.This is her first semester interning for College Lifestyles TM!

Day 4: What Would Your Candy Hearts Say?

Be Mine?  Sweet heart?  BFF?

What if you could personalize your ‘Candy Hearts?’  What ‘love’ saying would you personalize?

 

HOW TO: Host a Super Bowl Party

Are you ready for some football?  Whether you’re watching this year’s Super Bowl because you love football or you love staring at Tom Brady, a good party requires three things: food, drinks and friends.

If you’re anything like me, everything is last minute. With only one day until the Superbowl, this guide will prepare anyone like myself looking to celebrate this Sunday. From what to wear to what to serve, I’ve prepared a step-by-step guide to throwing your college friends a last minute Super Bowl party.

 

Football fashion:

Keep it casual and comfy. No one needs to look fabulous while screaming at a TV and hanging out in your living room. Thanks to Polyvore, here are two classy outfit ideas for game day:

Team theme:

If  you plan to decorate for your party, keep to the theme of the two teams playing. This year the  match-up is between the New York Giants and the New England Patriots. Since their colors are similar (this should be fun while watching) decorating is easy. Anything red, white or blue will suffice and satisfy all fans at your gathering. Who knew Fourth of July decorations would come in handy five months early?

Finger food:

Don’t get caught whipping up something in the kitchen and miss out on what could be another scandalous half-time show. Small finger foods are perfect for an evening of football. Start out with a  homemade hummus dip served with crackers or pita chips. More filling meals are double cheese chili  or these simple sliders. Football jersey cut out cookies  are a trademark at my family Superbowl parties. They’re easy to do and go with the football theme.

Themed spirits:

Although standard beer may be the trademark drink for the Super Bowl, other options include The Big Blue in honor of the Giants or Patriots Punch for New England fans. Be sure to also have a selection of drinks for those under 21.

When it comes time for kick-off, be sure to provide plenty of places to sit for your guests. This is the one day where being in the way of the TV is highly unacceptable. Choosing to set up a couple TVs may also be a key play at your party.

The Super Bowl only happens one day a year. With that said- kick back, relax and enjoy the game.

 

Jessica Fecteau is a  senior fashion, etiquette and apartment/dorm life writer and is a sophomore at Central Michigan University. Jessica loves fashion magazines, listening to indie/folk music and traveling to big cities.

Cute Items Under $20 To Brighten Up A Winter Day

The Christmas lights have been taken down. The New Year has been here for a month already, and soon, the Valentine’s Day decorations will disappear from stores. We are coming upon that dreaded time in every college student’s life – when we are sick of winter, but spring remains far away. Still, while the skies may be gray, your mood doesn’t have to be. Brighten up your day with these cute, cheap items under $20.

1) Bright nail polish. Nail polish is a great way to pick up your mood, since it’s cheap, lasts forever, and is available at any drugstore. Think outside the box – try a bright yellow or a metallic polish. Or combine them both with Tangerine Glitz from Pop Beauty, $10 on their website and at drugstores.

2) Cute socks. You may be wearing the same boots in the snow everday, but you can still have some fun underneath. We’re great fans of Sock It To Me, a small business that sells creative socks. Try their Ninja knee socks, $9 on their website.

3) Wild underwear. Even if nobody sees your underwear, knowing you look super-hot underneath your outfit will keep you feeling sexy and confident all day. Try this leopard-print bra from Forever 21, $7.80.

4) Dramatic makeup. Dramatic makeup at a party is expected, but in class, it’s refreshing. Keep the look classy and not tacky by only playing up one feature and doing your makeup in the right lighting. Try red lipstick or a swipe of electric blue eyeliner.

5) Anything from Fred Flare. I discovered Fred Flare when I was 14, and have been drooling ever since. The online store sells clothes, accessories, and apartment decor that is adorable AND useful. Even if you don’t buy anything, just browsing through all the cuteness is sure to lift your mood. We’re big fans of this iPod Hoodie, on sale for just $4.99.

Have you bought anything lately to escape the winter blues? Let us know in the comments!

Sasha Graffagna is a NYU junior studying Journalism and Comparative Literature. Currently, she is an exchange student at La Universidad del Sagrado Corazón in San Juan, Puerto Rico. You can read about her experience at http://thegoddesscomplex.wordpress.com/

Day 3: What Are Great Sentimental or DIY Valentines Day Gifts?

While roses and chocolate are traditional V-Day gifts, DIY gifts made from the heart will always be cherished by the receiver.

We ask……

What is a sentimental DIY gift you have recievied and/or

What are DIY gift ideas you have?

Personally, I love the idea of a picture book or hand written ‘love’ notes placed in several locations around the house.  A note saying ‘I Love You’ on the coffee maker and ‘Have a Great Day’ on the bathroom mirror will not only make my sweetheart smile but also approach the day with a great attitude!

“G.G.”: A Toast to 100 Episodes with a Royal Roast

*SPOILER ALERT*

We have watched our precious preppy Upper East-siders transform into budding brides and lavished lads, so it would only make sense for the 100th episode to highlight their growth.

Growth for the characters, however, hasn’t revealed growth for the show, and Gossip Girl gurus have been patiently awaiting a record-making comeback. With Blair’s wedding on deck, “G.G.” had a royal opportunity to redeem itself for its second-rate scheming. Lucky for die-hard fans like myself, this week’s episode played out as if it were 2007, complete with shocking twists and revolting revelations.

For this week’s recap, I thoroughly thought out techniques to summarize all of the emotions that swept over me during an hour of nail biting and edging to the end of your seat. How could I describe the sense of relief as Serena rushed to Chuck to reveal the highly dramatic reason for Blair’s change of heart (the pathetic pact Blair had made with her acquaintance upstairs)? How could I describe the excitement of the royal roast as Gossip Girl’s Blair Blast interrupted the ceremonial bliss? How could I describe the sense of utter contempt as Louis and Blair said “I do” and cut their hideous wedding cake together? How could I describe the shocking pangs of excitement as Louis finally added something meaningful to the plot? How could I explain the sadness I felt as Dan pulled up the getaway car for the royal runaway? And lastly, how could I explain the confusion as Gossip Girl’s identity was revealed so suddenly, without warning?

I realized why not let our favorite socialites do the talking. Here are some of this week’s most memorable quotes!

Gossip Girl: ”Once upon a time, Princess B was a virgin queen and her king was named Archibald. Who would have thought that in just five short years she would turn that headband into a tiara for real?”

Celebrating the present goes hand-in-hand with taking a look back at the past. You can’t be thankful for today if you don’t look at the journey you took to get here, which is why this line was fabulously fresh yet totally in line with Gossip Girl tradition. Witty and memorable, Gossip Girl reminds viewers that Queen B of Constance Billard School is now the soon to be Princess B of Monaco. Her king Archibald is a nice lead into Nate’s storyline for the episode, which was reflecting on his pathetic love life over the past few years. Too bad his new love interest is still in the inner circle of Upper East side drama (the real Charlie Rhodes)—they just can’t seem to get away can they?

 

Chuck Bass: ”I can’t allow you to destroy Blair’s wedding. You think because I love her, I want her all to myself, but I’m not that man anymore. I just want her to be happy, and if marrying Louis will do that for her, that’s what’s going to happen.”

Here’s a toast to “I’m Chuck Bass.” He had a few good years as the guy you love to hate, but I think I love him more as the guy you love to love. After pouring his heart out to B, professing that the one person who loves him is standing right next to him (for the millionth time), we finally get to see the changed Chuck Bass. Yes. I miss the devious, scheming Chuck, but there is something maturely manly about Manhattan’s most not-so-eligible bachelor. His selflessness reveals a true love that makes him that more attractive. Though if there were any time for Chuck to be selfish, this would be the time. GG fans can’t just chuck Chuck, and Blair can’t either.

 

Georgina Sparks: “Bless us, Father. I have a feeling we’re about to sin.”

Making the top of any list in the Upper East Side is a big deal, and for Georgina Sparks, taking the number one slot on Manhattan’s Elite Enemy list is exactly where she wants to be. Little did we know, Georgina’s competition for the number one enemy is none other than herself—Gossip Girl! The episode had to end with a bang, and with a bang it did. The revelation that Georgina is Gossip Girl is a little hard to believe. But that’s another conversation. Georgina utters these sweetly devilish words as she’s dressed in Father Carvallia’s cassock, or better yet the “divine intervention costume.” The elevator doors close, and the suspense lingers. Although Georgina isn’t my favorite character, her return definitely stirs the plot pot up. And with Jesus on her side (apparently, he owes her one) I really had no good guesses for what would happen next. The last thing I expected was Georgina to be typing the latest GG post. My guess? The writers are trying to throw us off, and Georgina is just really good at being really bad (a hacker perhaps). Guess we won’t be saying au revoir to Georgina for a while.

 

Serena: “I know that it scares you, and I know that it’s a risk. But don’t enter into a false life just because you’re afraid to face your real one.”

After the odd opening musical number with Serena starring as Marilyn Monroe and Blair filling in the shoes of Audrey Hepburn, I didn’t know what to think. I’ve analyzed television shows enough to know there was a little bit of foreshadowing, but in what way? Was Serena truly looking out for BFF Blair? After years of stupid decisions and failed relationships, Serena finally learns that you can’t lie to anyone about the way you truly feel. Whether it scares you or not, you have to be true to yourself. The heart-felt scene between the long-time lovebirds reveals a sense of maturity S rarely is known for. She is the friend that every girl needs, the friend that tells it like it is. “But maybe the pact is just an excuse to protect yourself from the messiness and uncertainty of a life with the man you really love.” Of course, Blair’s precious pact is more important than any advice from the people who care about her. She follows through with the over-the-top wedding, which includes hats on the guest list, and in turn, has to learn the hard way. As for the aforementioned foreshadowing, Serena’s musical dream includes a scene where she grabs Dan the one person she “keeps coming back to” but Dan rejects her for Blair. Nice touch GG writers. Once again, Serena puts herself out there and loses in the battlefield of love to none other than her best friend Queen B, er shall I say, Princess B. Oh, the irony.

Louis: “From now on, there is nothing between us but a contract. Our marriage is all for show. And you’re going to put on the best damn show anyone ever has. You’ll smile for cameras; stand by my side and wave like, like you don’t have a care in the world. And when we are alone, we’ll be like strangers to one another. And that will stay this way until I say its over.”

Eek. Seriously, this scene makes me shiver. Every bone in my body tensed up as Louis danced with his pretty princess, but whispered words of a mad man. A powerful mad man. Although I hate everything about Louis, including his terrible acting skills, I must say if this was the episode for him to actually evoke emotions from GG watchers, he succeeded. By far the best twist of the night for me. It was totally out of character for Louis, but very well scripted and perfectly executed. At least Blair had it in her to call her savior for help–too bad it still isn’t Chuck. You lucky, lucky Dair fans.

There is so much to look forward to for next week’s episode. Has Georgina been Gossip Girl all along? If you ask actress Michelle Trachtenberg, she’ll tell you she has no idea.

“I knew the 100th episode would end with a bang, but definitely didn’t expect that!” Michelle told US Weekly. She also said that it was probably a really big surprise for her cast mates since “big secret” scripts are only given out to the people involved in the scenes.

Are Dair fans in for a treat, while Chair fans have to angrily throw their towels in? How is Serena going to react to Blair’s Back-Up Plan having to do with Dan?  Here’s a sneak peak into the drama. See you next week!

Xoxo Sunny

Sana Ashraf is a fashion writer and fashion show intern and is a junior at the University of Michigan. Sana loves reading fashion magazines, shopping sprees, city lights, color coordinated closets, and all four seasons.

CL’s Guide to Getting Involved in Your Sorority

Winter Recruitment season has officially come to a close!  Congratulations to all sorority ladies who completed another successful year of recruiting fabulous pledge babies!  And to all new members: welcome to Greek life!  The next 3-½ years of your life will be the most fabulous yet!  If you’re anything like me, recruitment wiped you out.  I’ve spent the past week attempting to catch up on sleep and homework.  But even though we’re all busy balancing classes, friends, and other activities, we need to remember to be active sorority co-eds!  Follow CL’s Guide to Getting Involved in Your Sorority for tips on embracing sorority life!

Take the Time!

The first step to getting involved with your sorority is to make the time to do so!  Break out your planners, calendars, and phones to make sure you have a little bit of time each week carved out for sorority events.  I personally recommend setting aside the same block of time each week for Greek events to stay consistent!

Show Initiative!

The months following recruitment are perfect for trying new things in your sorority!  For previously active members like me, use these months to get to know your new sisters!  Take the initiative to invite a new member out for coffee or even on a sister date to go shopping off campus.  New members, be confident!  You were given a bid for a reason and your sisters want to know you.  Offer to meet them for lunch or dinner and organize an event for your pledge class to get settled in your sorority!

Take the Plunge!

The final step to getting involved with your sorority is to take the plunge and run for executive board or other elected positions!  After getting to know your new sisters, the best way to immerse yourself in your sorority is to become a leader in your chapter.  By taking on these roles not only will you gain experience but you will also find a new appreciation for your sisterhood!

 

 

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 Kitchen Must-Have’s

Kitchen items tend to be pretty similar across the board. You’ve got your stove and fridge, eating utensils, and of course the food, but there are certain products and appliances that every college co-ed should have in their apartment. In my apartment, I have a list of five small kitchen items that I could not live without. Here they are, enjoy!

1. George Foreman Grill – These are great for getting that fresh-grilled taste on a winter night. You can buy them in a variety of sizes which make them great for college students. Meals come together quickly with this grill as it takes no longer than a couple minutes to warm up, not to mention cooking times are cut in half because the food is cooked on both sides at once. I love cooking chicken, steak, and pork chops on my miniature, pink George Foreman Grill, but you can use it to cook quesadillas, grilled cheese, or even kabobs. The possibilities are endless!
   
2. Cutting Board – The importance of cutting board is something I learned quickly after I moved into my first apartment. From cutting fresh vegetables and fruits to cutting up meat or potatoes, cutting boards keep your counters protected as well as keeping your food protected from potential contamination.
3. Good Quality Knives – These go along with the cutting board, but both are equally important. Knives can be super expensive, but if you buy smart you can find knives that will last a long time making the extra cash worth it. Don’t just buy one knife though; buy a variety and a knife block to store them. Here’s a list of the essentials knives you will most likely use in the kitchen: bread, boning, chef’s, carving, fork, meat cleaver, steak, and paring knife.
   
4. Coffee Maker – Okay, so this one most likely wouldn’t be on my personal list, but I know my apartment would not be the same without it. Although my body is caffeine intolerant, over percent of college students drink coffee daily. Even if you don’t drink coffee, chances are your roommates or guests will, which makes the coffee maker a great gesture in my mind. Also, you can use it to heat up water for you hot cocoa as will often do.
5. Blender/Food Processor – I’m sure saying to yourself “these are two different things”. Yes, that is correct, but you can easily find blender, food processing combos. This makes your life easier because you combine two appliances into one shaving space and time. With this multi-functioning appliance you can create your favorite margarita or daiquiri recipe or chop up some vegetables  for your supper without pulling out a new appliance.
   

Of course, everyone has different levels of cooking skills and different taste preferences. You may find that some of these items would be totally useless in your kitchen, but it’s always good to think about what is important to you to have in your kitchen. Having a list like this will make all the apartment moves during college much easier.

Want to know what didn’t make my list? Here are some of my runner-ups:

• corkscrew
• pizza cutter
• spice rack
• dish rack
• dry ingredient canisters
• electric can opener.

 

Kelsey Schirm is a junior at Iowa State University pursuing a double major in Journalism & Mass Communication and Art & Design. She loves exercising, cooking, and being outdoors.

Day 2: What is Your Favorite Flower?

Red Roses are the staple for a Valentine’s Day Bouquet, but it this your flower of choice?  Tell us….

What is your favorite flower?

Next Page »