Stylish Sites for the Classy Co-Ed

With these nifty websites, using a computer can be fun, helpful, and even “in vogue.”

For Finding the Look That Is Just Right:
Looklet.com
Looklet provides its users with an online model and the dream closet to dress her.  In a few clicks, a classy co-ed can test drive a multitude of styles, from haute couture to hot pants, from ladylike to Lady Gaga.  Ever wonder how to wear a trend?  I have consulted this site to help me assemble leggings ensembles that look chic and not sloppy.  This is a great way to try on different looks without taking all the time involved with shopping around.  Maybe you will use this website to pick out a first-day-of-classes outfit!

For Decorating and Fashion That Is One-of-a-Kind:
Etsy.com
You walk into your first class and you realize that three other girls are carrying the same handbag.  How can a student avoid this situation and stand out from the crowd?  Etsy provides individual artists and craftspeople with a venue for selling their unique wares online.  Not just limited to clothing, here you can also find some housewares to spruce up a bland, beige dorm room.  For the sorority girls out there, you even can find items with your mascots on them.  What a fun way to show sisterly spirit!

For Learning Something New:
Howcast.com
This features not only text guides but also fun videos that teach site visitors how to do just about anything.  They range from seriously informative to knee-slappingly hilarious.  Learn how to knit, how to write an amazing essay, and how to ace a job interview, all on one website.  Users can post their own how-to articles and videos to share their knowledge with the world.  Instead of sifting through page after page on google, you can eliminate the hassle when looking for information on writing a resume, baking a cake, or helping a friend.

For the Much-Needed Study Break:
Orisinal.com
Are you looking for a fun alternative to the over-played solitaire on the computer?  Look no further than Orisinal.  Computer games seem aimed at a male audience, but the simple concepts and adorable graphics used in these online games make classy co-eds want to play, too.  Even the background music is enjoyable; some of these are set to beautiful instrumental pieces.  Try checking out these artful games the next time you need a quick study break.

For Great Articles for a Classy Co-ed:
Collegelifestyles.org
But you already knew that!

Meredith is an intern at College Lifestyles.  She is a Business Operations major at Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business.  She is always ready to solve any technology crisis or fashion emergency.

This Co-Ed’s Spring Must-Haves

It’s midterms–so allow yourself a few minutes (or, ok, an hour or so) to glance through some of the new season’s offerings (and maybe start making a wish list of your own). After all, the first day of spring is March 21!

Mini-floral twist-neck dress: I would love to wear this to class, out to dinner with the boyfriend or with a blazer to my internship.

Boyfriend Blazer: And look here! This would go perfect with that dress. Now we can all have LC’s effortless fashion–plus this is on sale!

White Canvas Classics: These come in dozens of colors, and for every pair that’s bought, TOMS donates a pair to someone in need. Philanthropy is always in style.

Pale Yellow Tiger Lily Flower Post Earrings: I’m generally obsessed with anything I find on Etsy, but these are especially cute and spring-y.

Crinkle flower T-strap sandals: I love a good red shoe–really makes an outfit pop (and makes me smile, too).

Metallic Twist Elastic Headband: Love all the cute headbands. My friend Dorothy is a fan of the flower hair accessories too. Check out Liz’s take on hair accessories or let Katy teach you how to make your own.

Bright scarf: Alas, these are out of my price range, but maybe someone will feel the need to buy me a gift–or I can find it cheaper on eBay!

Also, be sure to check out Kaitlyn’s Oscar-worthy fashion tips!

Stephanie Hardiman is an intern with College Lifestyles (TM). She is a senior journalism major at Washington and Lee University and a proud sister of Pi Beta Phi. She’s excited the snow has finally melted and warmer weather is on the way!

Go Green without Spending too much Green!

“Whoever said orange was the new pink was seriously disturbed.” *Elle Woods, “Legally Blonde”

I hate to break it to you Elle, but there is a new “pink” in town… it’s green!

Now, now don’t get look so shocked, you can keep your pink outfits because I am talking about green as in “go green and save our planet” green.  Contrary to popular belief, going green doesn’t have to be pricey.  Here are a few simple ways to go green without spending too much of your coveted green paper.

1.       Reusable bags. These usually only cost around $1 a piece and can be used for way more than groceries.  I got this pretty green one from Old Navy (they aren’t boring solids anymore!).

My friends and I all brought these bags on a trip to New York City to put our China Town purchases in.  Bring them to the mall when you go on a shopping spree instead of using all of the stores plastic bags!  I also like to use them for packing–they are sturdy and hold a lot.  Some of them are even cute enough to use as a purse. 

2.       Jewelry made from recycled material. I was at an art fair and found a really cute bracelet made from old Victorian Rose spoons!

A lot of places are starting to use recycled material for their jewelry.  For example, Target has a wide variety of earrings made from recycled metal and Etsy is full of all kinds of homemade items.  Check it out; it is a really awesome website.

3.       Reuse ribbons and tissue paper. You know how when you go shopping a lot of stores will put tissue paper in your bag and tie a ribbon on the handles?  Don’t just throw these items away!  The ribbons can be used for scrapbooking, memory boards and numerous other craft projects.  The tissue paper can be used in gift bags as well as scrapbooking and even packing!  The possibilities for these things are endless-let your creativity flow!

What are some of your favorite ways to “go green”?  Either shoot us an e-mail at intern@collegelifestyles.org or let us know in the comments section (or both!)!

Kaitlyn Kline is an intern at College Lifestyles^TM and a graduate from Edinboro University of PA.  She is also an Alpha Sigma Tau alum.  She loves her recycled jewelry and scrapbooking!