Mother Knows Best: 10 Tips of Advice
February 6, 2012 by JessicaF
Filed under Central Michigan University, CL ExCLusives!, CL on your Campus, Dating and Relationships, Etiquette, Lifestyle, Relationships, The Dish
College years are filled with success, failure, change, heartbreak and ultimately growing up. But one thing that doesn’t need to change is calling your mom for help. At age 19, I still call my mom asking every question from ‘how long do I cook this for?’ to ‘what should I do with my life?’. No matter how bad of a day you may have, a phone call to mom has a 99 percent success rate of making you feel better. Sometimes it takes that little bit of advice and guidance to put things back in perspective. Since I found listening to my mother’s advice to be so helpful, I gathered some motherly advice from fellow CL interns’ mothers and grandmothers.
From love advice to life advice, see what these wise women have to share.
“Go slow. Have same interests in your future. Overlook the small stuff, don’t check on each other all the time, give space and communicate.”- My mother, Donna, 47
“You have the people who are in college because they’re serious about it and then you have the guys whose parents are paying their way through it. Stay away from those guys! They’re the playboys that pursue girls and then they dump them and they just keep going, going and going. Be very careful who you chummy with.”- My grandmother,Lorraine, 75
“Live with no regret. Let people you trust guide you but make your own decisions.”- CL Intern Meaghan O’Connor’s mother, Faith,46
“Set you standards high, surround yourself with people who also have high standards- people you know you can count on to be your friend and support you. Always be strong and courageous.”- Meghan’s grandmother, Audrey,75
“Always, always let him call you first.” - Shelly Marie Redmond, 33
“Make sure you both know each others favorite color, favorite candy, favorite music, favorite food. Know the little things. Leave notes for one another. Knowing the little things can make meaningful notes you can leave for one another when studying for an exam, or in your suitcase when going on a trip. Have the candy on their pillow. The note in hidden in a wallet. The song programmed on their computer. The food waiting for them if passing (or failing – gulp) a test. The test of love is not big gifts or money – its the little notes and ‘favorite things’ on a Tuesday evening or Thursday morning.” - Shelly Marie Redmond, 33
“No matter what people may say, don’t let it bring you down. Be yourself, and let your actions speak for yourself. Life will always be easier if you live it being true to yourself!“- CL Intern Sana’s mother, Naushi, 49
“All is well. Even when you may feel down, just remember that all is well and that the universe has a funny way of working itself out. Be happy and healthy. If it makes you smile, then it is worth while.”- CL Intern Kwegyirba Croffie’s mother, Ekua, 47
“Don’t be afraid to shoot for the moon. Even if you don’t quite make it, you’ll land among the stars.” And “my business model is always under promise and over deliver.”- CL Intern Alex Esposito’s mother, Kimberly, 48
“Don’t be afraid to take chances and try new things. Don’t limit your experiences because you think you might not succeed. The experience is sometimes more valuable than just being successful at something.” -CL Intern Rachel Osman’s mother, Judy, 60
What is the best advice you’ve received from your mother or grandmother? Let us know below!
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.
How to Celebrate Long-Distance Love
January 30, 2012 by EmilyL
Filed under CL ExCLusives!, Dating and Relationships, Etiquette, Relationships, SUNY Oswego, What We Love
It’s Valentine’s Day, and since it falls on a Tuesday this year, if you don’t go to the same college as your significant other, chances are you won’t be able to be together on the big day. I’m in the same boat, and being five hours away from my man definitely is not going to stop me from celebrating. Here are five ideas to keeping Valentine’s Day extra special for you and your significant other, even when you are miles apart.
- Set a video chat date for Tuesday night. If you have class, work, or another engagement, it doesn’t have to be right on V-Day. Don’t be afraid to be cheesy. Dress up, settle in front of your computer screen and tell your man how much you miss and love him over video chat. It’s of course not the same, but it is a way to connect with your other half when you’re not there. Especially if you don’t get to video chat much, this will be extra special. (Suggestion: download Skype, it’s easy!)
- Use snail-mail. Everyone likes getting mail, especially when it’s love letters. Spend some time and write a letter telling him why you love him, how special he is to you, or the little things you miss the most about him. Make sure you send it early enough for him to get it by Valentine’s Day. You can either keep it a secret and surprise him with the card, or tell him to write one too, and that you both have to read it ON the big day.
Surprise him. Now, I know this isn’t possible for most. My other half is in New York City, while I’m in Upstate NY, and I have classes during the week. However, I am planning a trip for the weekend after, that way we will celebrate later. If you can afford it, make that your gift. Road trip to see your man, show up with a bow on your head, and bam: Happy Valentine’s Day to him!- Simple is okay. Don’t be stressed with expensive gifts. He knows you’re a college student, and can’t afford to buy him an iPhone. The simple things mean more to most men, just like women. Like stated above, sending a card or video chatting is cute, and not too overwhelming for the man either.
- Have fun with it. Let your man know you don’t need the cliché flowers and chocolates. Have fun with your gifts. This way, you can get each other silly gifts and save money. If you do decide to go visit, make dinner together. It saves money and keeps you cozy!
Got tips? Leave them below! If you need more advice, send us an email at intern@collegelifestyles.org!
Emily Longeretta is an editorial and social media intern for College Lifestyles (TM). When she’s not video chatting with her NYC boyfriend, she is working four internships and going to school full time, graduating in May.
Five Reasons Being Single is Fabulous
January 30, 2012 by JessicaF
Filed under Central Michigan University, CL ExCLusives!, CL on your Campus, Dating and Relationships, Etiquette, Lifestyle, Relationships, The Dish, What We Love
With Valentine’s Day quickly creeping up on us, it’s hard to walk through a store without feeling a little bit of loneliness if your status is single. Suddenly boxed chocolates, flowers and everything red becomes unattractive for a month. But being happy doesn’t mean having a significant other to give you those things. After meeting loser after loser (losers with secret girlfriends, losers with commitment issues, losers who are immature), I decided to stop looking for happiness in someone else and start finding it within myself. Being single in college can undoubtedly be one of the best statuses because you can figure out what you want without the baggage of someone else’s influence.
If you’re feeling a bit grim knowing this year Feb. 14 will be spent alone, here’s why being “lonely” isn’t all that bad:
1. Friends come first
The friends I have made in the past six months while being single are ones I can always count on. I guarantee
if I was in a relationship, these friends wouldn’t be ones I now consider family. Being single gives me the time to make them a first priority.
2. Endless possibilities
Internship in New York? Last minute vacation with a friend? No problem when you’re the only person you have to worry about.
3. Independence is attractive
Who run the world? Girls! Beyonce says it all when it comes to independent women being confident and appealing. I’m not talking about being appealing to guys but exhibiting an independent confidence is attractive in all walks of life especially when applying for jobs.
You have to love yourself first before you can love someone else. Being single forces you to be comfortable being alone. Through spending time with just yourself, you learn your real needs, wants, and desires without someone else influencing your decisions.
5. Expressing yourself in your own way
When I had a boyfriend, there were numerous times he would go, ‘You’re wearing that?’ Some guys just don’t understand women’s fashion! From wedges to leggings, go ahead and wear what you want to make yourself happy without worrying about someone else’s opinion.
Next time your friend is being all cute with her boyfriend, don’t get jealous. Be happy with the relationship you have with the most important person in your life: you!
If you’re feeling confident enough to move on from being single and are looking for a significant other, read Meaghan’s guide on When to Make the First Move.
Confession: I Date My Study Partner
January 27, 2012 by MorganD
Filed under Ask the Intern, CL ExCLusives!, CL on your Campus, College Tips, Dating and Relationships, Drake University, Relationships, The Dish, What We Love
The hardest part about college is finding the balance between academics, a social life, and sleep. Luckily for you, Classy CL reader, it IS possible to be in a relationship and still get good grades! After a full day of class and studying, what could be better than watching a movie or cooking dinner with that cute guy in your Bio study group?
When you are studying, stake out the perfect cozy corner and find a table you can share. Make sure you both have enough space for whatever you are working on. Bring study snacks, coffee, and water. If you have a long day of studying planned, schedule breaks where you can grab lunch or just walk around and get some air. Bring headphones so you can block out people and other distractions in the room with you, and make eye contact when you are taking a break from looking at your work.
Have plans for after the study sesh. These plans can involve anything from a slice of pizza to catching up some Netflix. Start a new show like Dexter or Mad Men. It is important when you are trying to balance studying and dating to have relaxing options for your evening activities. If you plan to have a wild night on the town, studying suddenly won’t seem so important.
It’s SO possible to have a successful study session while looking forward to a great night. Having fun activities planned makes it easier to be productive.
Morgan DeBoest is an intern for College Lifestyles (TM), and is a freshman Magazine Journalism major at Drake University. She is a proud sister and the Education Chair of Kappa Kappa Gamma and loves her friends, family, a good book, and traveling.
Relationship Advice: Five Reasons You Should Dump Him
December 21, 2011 by JessicaF
Filed under Central Michigan University, CL ExCLusives!, CL on your Campus, Dating and Relationships, Etiquette, Lifestyle, Relationships, The Dish, What We Love
Girls learn a lot while growing up: never cut your own bangs, crying will always get you out of a ticket and eating that last piece of chocolate mid-diet is always worth it. And we’re all going to grow up, fall in love and live happily ever after, right? Well, maybe. But it’s definitely not as easy as Cinderella makes it look by just losing a glass slipper.
College days are made for us to learn who’s mister right and who’s just a flat-out jerk. Your fairy tale ending may come true one day, but until then don’t be surprised if you run into a few too many prince UN-charmings.
The movie ‘He’s Just Not That Into You’ is a prime example of what BS should not be taken from any man.
Hopeless romantic Gigi puts it perfectly, “Sometimes we’re so focused on finding our happy ending, we don’t learn how to read the signs.”
And the signs that a guy is just not that into you are most likely the same signs he should be dumped. You may not be able to control his actions, but you can control your own. If you find yourself nodding “yes” to the five signs below, it’s time to dump him before you end up dumping yourself right into heartbreak.
1) He hides your relationship
If he’s unwilling to show you off to his friends or family and hides the fact that your dating to mutual friends, it’s time to talk. Your relationship doesn’t always have to be defined by a Facebook status update, but it shouldn’t be a big deal that a friend sees you holding hands.
2) He’s unwilling to compromise
If a guy is not willing to bend a little to make you happy, you shouldn’t be doing cartwheels for him either. All Beth wants in ‘He’s Just Not That Into You’ is a ring from her boyfriend of seven years who doesn’t see the point. After breaking up with him, Ben realized if that’s what it takes to keep her, he needed to compromise. In the end, his proposal was cute enough to make me cry, but learn from Beth and wait for the guy who will sacrifice.
3) He doesn’t share his emotions
Sure, you can talk about funny YouTube videos and bond over a love for ice cream, but if he can’t open up when you start talking about serious matters, he’s probably not that serious about you. Sharing emotional stories or dreams and goals is key to any relationship and shows they care enough to let you in on their emotions.
Guys are simple. They don’t think nearly as thorough as girls do. So if he’s acting questionable, confusing or obsessing over details, don’t brush it off as nothing. Make it easier on yourself- if he’s not calling you, you’re definitely not on his mind.
5) He has the personality of a five-year-old
I am not going to be an elementary school teacher for a reason. So why should I date a boy who acts like a kindegartner? If he overreacts, doesn’t act appropriately in public and mentally tires you out after five minutes, it’s time to say goodbye. No matter how many birthdays go by, he will never change.
If you’re still unsure if cutting ties is the right decision, I’ll leave you with this quote and I’m sure your mind will be rest assured:
“Cut your losses and don’t waste your time. Why stay in some weird dating limbo when you can move on to what will surely be better territory? Don’t want to hear it? Fine. Here’s the answer you’re looking for, “Hang in there, baby. He’s not the loser everybody’s telling you he is. If you wait and keep your mouth shut and call at exactly the right time and anticipate his moods and have no expectations about communication or your own sexual needs, you can have him!” But please don’t be surprised if he dumps you or continues to drag you through a completely unsatisfying relationship.”
Planning on dumping him now? (in a classy way of course) Then, also read up on these tips for how to deal with a breakup!
Jessica Fecteau is a senior fashion, etiquette and apartment/dorm life writing intern and is a sophomore at Central Michigan University. Jessica loves fashion magazines, traveling to big cities and watching movies with her roommates.
Ask a CL Intern: When to Make the First Move
December 13, 2011 by MeaghanO
Filed under Ask the Intern, Ask the Intern, Ask the Intern, Ask the Intern, CL ExCLusives!, CL on your Campus, College Tips, Dating and Relationships, Etiquette, Lifestyle, Relationships, The Dish, The Intern Dish, University of Michigan
DO make the first move if he’s giving you repeated (sometimes obvious) hints, but can’t seem to step up. Let’s face it—boys are almost always just as terrified as you are. The one thing my guy friends tell me is that if a guy likes you, he’ll do something to let you know. Depending on how shy he is it could be either very obvious or very subtle. Keeps your eyes open for clues!
DON’T make the first move if he’s refusing to put in any effort. It’s not worth pursuing if he hasn’t done anything to make you feel special. If he hasn’t reached out in any way or you couldn’t see him reciprocating, there’s probably someone better waiting that will do anything to see you smile.
DO make the first move if you finally want to move beyond friendship. He’s probably nervous to test his limits with your relationship. If you’re curious and think that there could be something more, step up and take the next step!
DON’T make the first move if you’re really nervous around him. A relationship should make you comfortable and excited. If you’re not enthusiastic about relationship potential, taking the next step might be more trouble that it’s worth.
DO make the first move if you’re genuinely interested in commitment. Sometimes boys are scared that you’re not ready for the girlfriend label (or they’re scared of the label themselves). Reaching out may convince him that you’re in it for the long haul and that you are serious about developing the relationship.
DON’T make the first move if he’s dated one of your good friends. Dating comes with a lot of extra baggage. If you value your friendships and don’t want to jeopardize the relationships you already have, you may want to be cautious in moving full speed ahead. Consider letting the relationship run its natural course.
DO make the first move if you have a great, low-maintenance date idea in mind. If you’re ready to suggest a casual and fun activity, turn a friendly hang out into something a little more. Ice skating, sledding, window-shopping at the mall, and matinee movies are all no-pressure options great for the winter months.
DON’T make the first move if you’re terrified of being let down. Most of us get extremely nervous around the people we’re interested in, but if you can’t bear the thought of rejection, think about waiting until he steps up and takes the risk. In this case, patience may be better than stepping way beyond your comfort zone.
DO make the first move if he’s all you can think about. Is all the constant wonder and possibility driving you crazy? It may be time to ease your persistent thoughts and pursue the ‘what if.’ If you feel an obvious connection and you think he may just be too shy, show off your confident persona and take charge.
DON’T make the first move if he’s been called the infamous player. He has the nickname for a reason… and it’s usually not a good thing if you’re looking for something serious. Putting yourself on the line when you are already a bit skeptical is a huge risk—and it may not be worth the likely heartbreak.
Meaghan O’Connor is a Writer/Social Media intern at College Lifestyles (TM) and is a Communications/International Relations major at the University of Michigan. She is a proud member of Alpha Chi Omega Sorority and is known for her big heart and big dreams.
3 Classy Tips For Interracial Couples
December 7, 2011 by TianaB
Filed under CL Daily, CL ExCLusives!, CL on your Campus, College Tips, Dating and Relationships, Lifestyle, Motivational Monday, Penn State, Relationships, The Dish, Thoughtful Thursday, What We Love
Loving someone is hard enough without having your relationship examined under the magnifying glass of society. Although we live in the 21st century, prejudice barriers can hinder so many relationships from reaching their fullest potential, with one of these said barriers being of a racial matter. No classy lady wants to be told whom she should love! If you find yourself falling for someone of an opposite race than yourself, keep these three tips in mind when you’re finding it difficult to face inevitable challenges head on.
Be Brave – Your friends and even family may find it difficult to accept your relationship for their own personal reasons. However, allowing the opinions of others to seep into your relationship is the last thing you should do. Just remember that the ones who love you most will always support you, no matter how “socially unacceptable” your decisions may be. You’ve already taken a huge step by deciding to be in an interracial relationship, so why turn back now?
Be Aware of the Risk – Any relationship involves a certain amount of risk-taking, but being in an interracial relationship brings about a slew of other kinds of risks, including hate speech coming your way, and, under extreme circumstances, receiving physical attacks from strangers or people you know. It’ll be tough initially, but try to ignore anyone’s eye rolls and negative comments. Or, you can respond with something neutral, such as “we love each other, and that’s all that matters.” If you two find yourselves in harm’s way and you aren’t near to home, leave quickly for help at a friends house or head to a public area and go along with the general population.
Fight For Each Other – If you value one another enough, staying together despite the pressure you may receive to call it quits is a no-brainer. When it seems that no one accepts the choice that you’ve made, remind yourselves of why you got into the relationship in the first place. Being in an interracial relationship becomes a lot harder when you have a group of people telling you that it’s wrong, but don’t give up the fight–love can conquer all!
Tiana Blue is an intern for College Lifestyles™ and is a print journalism major at Penn State. This sophomore is an avid blogger that loves to write, draw, roam the streets of Manhattan, and channel her inner chef by watching Food Network re-runs.
10 Reasons Guys are Great
November 6, 2011 by JessicaF
Filed under Central Michigan University, CL ExCLusives!, CL on your Campus, Dating and Relationships, Relationships, The Dish
With all of the dating drama, break-ups and boy bashing, it is time to say something nice about the men in our lives. Sure, they may not understand what we’re saying half the time when it comes to fashion or celebrities, but they are still troopers through it.
After going through a bad break-up, dating a guy is the last thing on my mind. But probably 80 percent of my friends are boys. Therefore- they’re not all that bad! Especially when the drama girls deal with can get a little overwhelming. It’s always nice to know that I can forget about it and talk about gaming and food for a few hours with my guy friends.
Here are the top ten reasons why guys aren’t all that bad:
1.) They kill all of the hairy, big and usually speedy spiders crawling around your house.
2.) They eat a ton. Which allows for a lot of practice rounds for a new recipe without feeling wasteful.
3.) They lift all of the heavy items your girly arms can’t handle.
4.) They can fart and burp on command. Gross, but impressive.
5.) They give the best advice without being overly emotional.
6.) They don’t care if Justin Bieber may or may not be a father to a random girl’s baby.
7.) They give amazing bear hugs.
8.) They don’t take themselves too seriously.
9.) They snap you out of going on and on about how your roommate is being dramatic.
10.) And one word: abs.
If you recently have gone through a bad break-up or are caught in a web of drama with your girlfriends, turn to one of your best guy friends. You will probably end up laughing or eating, and feeling a whole lot better than before.

A Balancing Act: A Girl’s Guide to Balancing School, Internships, and Relationships
November 1, 2011 by EmilyL
Filed under Careers, CL ExCLusives!, Etiquette, Lifestyle, Relationships, SUNY Oswego
Working three internships, one job as a waitress, and taking online classes, balancing each of these with a new relationship is definitely not easy. From a stressed college senior who is doing just that, here are some tips on how I found the perfect balance!
Monday nights I work at a sport’s bar until about midnight. Tuesday, I wake up at 8am to start the three days I spend at my internship at Elle Magazine– about nine to ten hours a day. By Friday, I’m ready to sleep until my 7pm shift at the bar, at which I’m there until 2, 3, or sometimes 4 in the morning. Saturday, I work the 3pm to midnight shift, and then finally I’m off on Sunday– my one day to myself.
Besides my job, I write for CL, and I intern for an entertainment site, in which I have strict deadlines and must write three articles a week. Since I am in NYC for the semester, I am taking an online course, and doing work for my internship via email with my advisor.
As you can see, my time is pretty full. Somehow though, I managed to snag myself a new guy in my life, and definitely struggled with how to balance it all. Whether you are working, interning, falling in love, or all of the above, here are some tips on how to stay focused, and not get overwhelmed.
- Make a schedule for yourself: I’m not saying you need to color code and set alarms (unless that’s what works for you!), but just simply writing a schedule for what’s due what days, makes life a little easier. Also, schedule dates for your new man ahead of time- even if it’s just meeting up before you head to work.
- Know your priorities: Really think about what matters, and what you need to get done before anything else and set goals. This way, you’ll finish your project before you go out to dinner with the guy.
- Set aside “you” time: As busy as I am, I am sure to set aside time to do things other than my schoolwork for “me” time. Whether it’s meeting a girlfriend for dinner, or spending an hour on a guilty pleasure (reality TV for me!), it allows you to refocus and relax, so you don’t get overwhelmed.
- Keep in touch with your family: Since your away at school, it’s easy to lose touch with people back home.
So don’t let it happen. Even something as simple as sending a “miss you” text to your sister or calling your parents before you head to bed to say “goodnight,” it helps. Also, you can always vent to family. Which leads me to my next point. - Ask for help and vent: Don’t hold it in if you are getting stressed and need help. Whether you need help with school and need to go to an adviser, or need someone to talk to, set time to do so.
- Remember you’re in college: You need time to have fun! Go on cheap dates, whether it’s staying in and watching movies or splitting a chai, spending time with your new significant other will release stress, keep you happy, and keep your relationship strong.
- Do the little things: Everyone has their own little things they do. Some of mine? Send him an “I miss you” text, stop to see him at his job on the way home from mine, or invite him out for a drink at my bar while I’m finishing my shift. Also, if your guy works/goes to school full time like mine, schedule a day off you guys could both have–we have yet to have one, but in two weeks he finally got a Sunday off! Trust me, it’s the little things that keep things exciting!
Emily Longeretta is a Lifestyle Intern for College Lifestyles (TM). In her free time (which she lacks) she likes to watch reruns of old shows online, and get pedicures!
CL Interview: The Lingerie Addict
November 1, 2011 by SashaG
Filed under Beauty, Body Image, Career Tips, Careers, CL ExCLusives!, CL on your Campus, College Tips, Fashion, Fashion, Fashion Interviews, Internship Tips, New York University, Relationships, The Dish, The Intern Dish, What We Love
The Lingerie Addict started out as one woman’s humble journey into the world of lingerie. Today, it is the top-visited lingerie blog on the web. Check out our interview with Founder and Lead Editor Treacle on all things lingerie and independent blogging.
CL: How did you get started on The Lingerie Addict?
Treacle: I started blogging (first as Stockings Addict, then as The Lingerie Addict) because I was dating someone and wanted to buy some lingerie to enjoy with them, but I had no idea where to start. I searched for product reviews or suggestions about how to buy lingerie, but I couldn’t very much information on the subject. So I just started writing reviews of things I was buying and mini-blogs of pieces I wanted to buy, and things just took off naturally from there.
CL: Did you expect it to be the success it was today? How have you been dealing with that success?
Treacle: I had no idea my blog would ever be as successful as it is today. I never started blogging with the intention of becoming popular. I started because I was getting all this cool new stuff I wanted to talk about. The fact that it’s become a success is really just an added bonus.
In terms of dealing with the success, I don’t think anything has really changed. I started off blogging about things that interested me, and I still blog about what interests me. The only difference now is that I talk to way more people than I did when I first started!
CL: Do you have a day job? How do you balance your blogger and professional life?
Treacle: I had a day job until very recently as a crisis counselor. As of September 2011, I blog and consult full-time. When I was holding down a day job and blogging, I balanced the two by working like a maniac. Seriously…I would get up early in the morning before work to blog, blog during my breaks and lunches, and then come home after work and blog some more. Once I reached the point where there were no more hours to cram in before and after work, I realized it might be time for me to try blogging full-time.
CL: What advice would you have to a college student who wants to blog for a living?
Treacle: My advice would be to 1) choose a subject you’re completely and totally passionate about, 2) be consistent about updating your blog…choose a schedule and stick to it, and 3) interact and connect with other bloggers, whether that’s through cons, conferences, or guest blogging.
CL: What are some common misconceptions about lingerie?
Treacle: Some of the most common misconceptions I run into from my readers are that 1) you have to have a lot of money to buy beautiful lingerie, 2) lingerie only looks good if you’re thin, and 3) lingerie is for men to look at only.
You don’t need a lot of money for gorgeous lingerie; there are wonderful pieces available at every price point. Lingerie comes in all sizes to flatter all body types. And I firmly believe that lingerie is all about women first, and their partners second.
CL: What is the biggest mistake people make when buying/wearing/caring for lingerie?
Treacle: The biggest mistake people make when buying or caring for lingerie is 1) buying something that doesn’t fit them perfectly and 2) putting their bras in the tumble dryer.
If something doesn’t fit right in the store when you’re trying it on, it probably won’t fit right at home and then you’re stuck with lingerie you don’t love.
If you stick your lingerie in the dryer, you’ll wear out the elastic quicker and need to replace your lingerie much faster than if you hung it to air dry.
CL: What is the proper way to know how a bra fits? – from a CL reader
Treacle: There are a few key signs to know if your bra fits. The first is that the underwire in the cups needs to lie flat against your ribcage, not against the breast tissue on both sides. The second is that the bridge of the bra (that center piece connecting the cups) needs to lie flat against your sternum, not raised up off your body. The third is that your band (where most of the bra support comes from) needs to be straight across in the back, not riding up or digging in. And, of course, your straps should lie flat as well, without slipping off your shoulders or digging into the flesh.
CL: What basic/must-have items should be in a college student’s lingerie wardrobe?
Treacle: I think every college student needs at least 4 different kinds of bras: a t-shirt bra, a sports bra, a convertible bra, and a soft or wireless bra.
CL: What are some affordable places for college students to buy lingerie?
Treacle: I’m a huge fan of buying online because of the range of styles, sizes, and price points online boutiques offer. My faves are Figleaves.com, BareNecessites.com, ASOS.com, and HerRoom.com.
CL: What is the proper way to care for lingerie, and how often should one wash bras?
Treacle: The best way to care for your lingerie is to handwash with a specialty lingerie wash and then to hang your pieces up to dry. However, I know not every woman has the time to individually handwash her intimates, so if you’re a little pressed for time, putting your lingerie in a delicates bag and machine washing it on gentle is an acceptable substitute. You can also use baby shampoo if you don’t have a special lingerie wash. But you still shouldn’t put your intimates in the dryer!
CL: What is your favorite piece of lingerie, and why?
Treacle: I love vintage slips. They’re versatile, sensual, totally classy and very inexpensive.
CL: Is there anything that I haven’t asked that you think is important to contribute to this interview?
Treacle: If you’re new to lingerie, I recommend checking out this list of the most popular posts on my blog. It’s a great place to find lots of timeless advice to help you on your lingerie journey.
Want more? Check out TheLingerieAddict.com. You can also find the site on tumblr, Facebook, and Twitter.
Sasha Graffagna is a NYU junior studying Comparative Literature and Journalism. Currently abroad in Buenos Aires, she loves The Lingerie Addict and hopes you’ll enjoy it as much as she does.



















