To help you narrow it down, I’ve created a list of the top 5 polishes every college girl needs in her nail arsenal. Enjoy!

1. A Neutral

Nails at Zac Posen Spring/Summer 2012 (Image via Glamour.com)

Might as well get the least-fun one out of the way first. Yes, even though we’re in college and allowed to wear crazy colors on our fingertips, I think it’s absolutely essential to have a great neutral color in your stash.

Neutral colors can be tricky, though: Do you want a beige or pink-toned color? Are you going for mannequin hands or something further away from your skintone? My advice: head to wherever you buy your polish and try on a bunch of different neutrals until you find one you like! Think of a neutral polish like your nails’ answer to the perfect LBD – it’s always chic and will always, always look good.

My Picks:

OPI “Barefoot in Barcelona”

This varies so much by skin tone, but some of my favorites are OPI Barefoot in Barcelona ($7.45 at Amazon), OPI Dulce de Leche ($7.35 at Amazon), OPI Samoan Sand ($7.49 at Amazon), and Essie Mademoiselle ($5.85 at Amazon).

2. A Red

(Red half-moon nails on the Runway via ELLE)

Groundbreaking, I know. Maybe not the most original color, but a great red is definitely a color everyone should have in (his or) her arsenal. I mean, classics are classics for a reason, right? Luckily, as this is the most popular nail shade, there are a ton of options for you to choose from. As with neutrals, go to a drugstore or a salon and try a bunch on to figure out what you like!

My Picks:

OPI “Mrs. O’Leary’s BBQ”

My faves include OPI I’m Really Not a Waitress ($7.99 at Amazon), China Glaze Ruby Pumps ($5.50 at Amazon), and Essie Forever Young ($6.33 at Amazon). My personal favorite is a vampier (no, spell check, not vampire) red, OPI’s Mrs. O’Leary’s BBQ ($8.21 at Amazon).

3. A Color That Makes You Happy

(Skittles manicure via All Lacquered Up)

Sometimes even a Rachel McAdams movie can’t bring me out of a funk – and when that happens, I turn to trusty favorite polishes that I know will perk me up.

I’m partial to bright colors, but pick whatever floats your boat. Even if you work at a law firm or don’t usually wear varnish, you definitely need a polish in your collection that’ll get you feeling happy every time you look at your hands.

My Picks:

Essie “Cute as a Button”

I love OPI Monsooner or Later ($7.44 at Amazon), OPI Dating a Royal ($8.48 at Amazon), Essie Cute as a Button ($8.13 at Amazon), and Essie Watermelon ($6.78 at Amazon).

 4. An ‘Ugly’ Color

(Karen Walker Spring/Summer 2012 image via Beauty High)

As much as I love pretty pinks and reds, there isn’t anything quite as eye-catching as a non-traditional color on nails.

Now, just because the color is ugly doesn’t mean is has to be unflattering on your skin tone. OPI’s You Don’t Know Jacques is the color of mushrooms but looks great on all of my roommates – and we all have different skin tones! Do yourself a favor and pick up an uglier color – it adds the right amount of edginess to any outfit!

My Picks:

OPI “The It Color”

My favorite “ugly” shades include OPI Uh-Oh Roll Down the Window ($7.35 at Amazon), OPI You Don’t Know Jacques ($9.00 at Amazon), OPI The It Color ($8.31 at Amazon), and Essie Chinchilly ($6.25 at Amazon).

5. A Trendy Color

Essie’s Spring/Summer 2012 Collection

As much as I covet basically all of Dolce & Gabbana’s, Isabel Marant’s and Yves Saint Laurent’s Spring 2012 nail collections, I probably won’t be able to afford even the cheapest item from any of them. However, I probably will be able to purchase at least one trendy color next season.

A new polish runs me about $8, but drooling over Spring collections on Style.com? Priceless.

My Picks:

OPI & Nicki Minaj “Did It On ‘Em”

I’m obsessed with Essie Shine of the Times topcoat ($4.25 at Amazon) right now, and I can’t wait for OPI Did It On ‘Em (a Shrek-green from the Nicki Minaj collection), OPI Dutch ’Ya Just Love OPI? (a shimmery purple from the Holland Collection), and Essie Navigate Her (a pastel green from Essie’s Spring/Summer 2012 collection).

Your Thoughts?

What do you guys think? What are your absolute must-have shades? Do you own all of these? Tell me in the comments!

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Now that school has started back up, most of us are probably already feeling the detrimental effects of late nights (you know, at the library), early mornings and the seemingly never-ending cycle of assignments and exams. With so many different commitments, and stress levels at a permanent high, who really wants to spend all that time in the morning getting ready when you could be getting an extra fifteen minutes of sleep instead?!

Luckily, there are tons of time-saving beauty products and tips that will keep you looking fab and fresh-faced while still allowing you to hit that snooze button for the third time:

1. Concealer/Highlighter Pen

Splurge: Yves Saint Laurent Touche Eclat; Save:  Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Double Face Perfector

Didn’t get enough sleep? No worries; a few swipes of an eye brightening pink-based highlighter pen will make your eye bags a thing of the past.

Use it on your cheekbones, tip of your nose, around your lips and under eyebrows to really brighten your face. You can also use this as a cover up under your foundation. Since it’s small, you shouldn’t have any problem fitting it in your bag, easily allowing for touch ups throughout the day as needed.

2. Dry Shampoo:

Splurge: Oscar Blandi; Save: Batiste

For me, dry shampoo is one of those beauty items that really is an essential. Save a ton of time in the morning and opt out of washing your hair; instead, spray dry shampoo on your roots and tousle to get refreshed, cleaner-feeling hair in seconds. This is especially great if your hair is like mine – long, thick and dry – since washing/drying takes forever and constant washing and use of heat products will make your hair even drier. (Plus, I swear dry shampoo makes my second-day hair look even better than it does freshly washed.)

Check out this post on the best dry shampoos for a more in-depth look at dry shampoo and some of your different brand options. (If you happen to live near a store like TJ Maxx or Marshall’s, you might want to check their beauty section for some huge savings – the TJ Maxx in my hometown usually has a ton of Oscar Blandi in stock for 50% off!)

3.  White Eyeliner

Splurge: NARS Larger than Life Long-Wear Eyeliner; Save: E.L.F. Essential Eye Widener

Instantly awaken your tired eyes by using white eyeliner along the inner corners of your eyes. This will widen and brighten your eyes, making it look like you’re well-rested and alert, even if you really aren’t!

4. Brow Kit:

Splurge: Urban Decay Brow Box; Save: Revlon Brow Fantasy Pencil & Gel

Okay, so the first few times you attempt to do your brows, it probably won’t be a “time saver,” but it gets much easier and quicker – promise! Well-shaped brows will seriously transform your face and make you look more alert and put together – you might even find that structured brows eliminate the need for a lot of the eye makeup you’re used to wearing.

Even if you don’t want – or need – to spend any extra time filling in your brows with a powder or pencil, a gel or wax is still a super convenient product to have at your disposal, just in case your brows are being particularly unruly!

5. Tinted Moisturizer:

Splurge: Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20; Save: CoverGirl CG Smoothers SPF 15

Try switching your foundation for a tinted moisturizer with SPF: you’ll moisturize, even out your skin tone, protect yourself from sun damage and cover imperfections, all with one product! 

Tinted moisturizers are generally easier and faster to apply and blend than are most heavier foundations, and if you usually wear moisturizer and sunscreen under your foundation anyway, you’ll be able to skip some steps. (Alternatively, you can try pre-mixing a bit of your moisturizer with your liquid foundation to get a similar effect.) Tinted moisturizers look natural and feel like you aren’t wearing any makeup at all, so they’re perfect for days when you don’t want to walk around feeling like you’ve got a face full of product.

6. All-in-one Makeup

Splurge: NARS The Multiple; Save: E.L.F. Essentials All Over Color Stick

Applying blush, and lip product, and eye product can be a huge time waster. If you’re dead set on wearing it all, try investing in an all-in-one product that can be used many different ways and save yourself a little time. These sticks should be applied with your fingers and used over foundation as a blush, eyeshadow, eyeshadow base, highlighter/bronzer (depending on which color you choose) and even as a lip color.

7. Makeup Remover Towelettes

Splurge: MAC Wipes; Save: Pond’s Exfoliating Clean-Sweep Towelettes

You should never be going to bed with your makeup still on – but hey, we all know that some nights you’d rather just fall into bed and not have to bother with your normal face cleansing routine. Makeup remover towelettes are super easy to use and will save you tons of time and energy at the end of an especially long and stressful day. Some towelettes also act as exfoliators, which will cut out even more time from your beauty routine.

Anything to add?

What are your favorite time-saving beauty products and tips? Anything we missed? Any other suggestions as to how to fake looking totally refreshed and well-rested? We want to hear from you in the comments section!

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Below, I’ll lay out the makeup basics every college girl should have in her makeup bag. The following list is also great for those creating a “starter” set of makeup, which is perfect for beginners or those departing for their first year of college.

The list is split into four categories: Face, Eyes, Lips, and Tools.

Face:

Product Info: Primer, Foundations, Blush 1, Blush 2, Bronzer

1. Primer

A primer minimizes pores and creates a smooth base perfect for the rest of your makeup application. This is a step you can skip if your skin is naturally flawless, but if you have any imperfections, it’s a fabulous product that will make your skin look amazing.

2. Foundation

There are so many different kinds of foundation on the market that everyone can find something for their skin type and shade. If you don’t have a favorite foundation already, it’s easiest to start out with a line like True Match or Tru-Blend, because they have so many shades it will be a breeze to find your match. You can also check out MakeupAlley’s reviews – they have some fabulous recommendations.

If you have acne-prone skin, consider Neutrogena’s Skin Clearing line and for sensitive skin, check out bareMinerals foundation.

3. Blush or Bronzer

I consider blush to be a non-negotiable makeup item. A swipe of color on your cheeks is natural and creates a healthy glow. In the middle of finals, a quick swipe of blush will leave you looking awake instead of like you just spent all night in the library.

If your skin is naturally more tan, a bronzer may look more natural than blush. Also, if you’re naturally fair-skinned, like myself, applying bronzer during the warmer months gives you a sun-kissed look without the damages of tanning. It’s best to apply bronzer (with a large, fluffy brush) where the sun naturally hits your face – a curved “C” shape on each side of your face from your forehead to your cheek bone and just a dab on your nose.

Eyes:

Product Info: Eyeliner, Brow liner, Shadow, Mascara

4. Mascara

A black or dark brown mascara is essential for an everyday look. It’s the quickest way to make your eyes pop. We love L’Oreal Voluminous, but Maybelline Great Lash and CoverGirl LashBlast are other CF reader faves.

5. Eyeliner

Eyeliner can be applied in many ways to define your eyes. For an overview, check out our Eyeliner 101 tutorial. A classic black shade is a necessity for most skin tones; if you have fair skin, opt for a dark-brown. Also, light to medium skin tones should consider a dark navy, because the blue makes the whites of your eyes pop; therefore, making you look more awake. I suggest mechanical eyeliner pencils because they are self-sharpening, letting you skip a step.

6. Brow Pencil

Unless you’re blessed with dark, perfectly even eyebrows, you should seriously consider adding a brow pencil to your makeup collection. Brow liners can be used to define and fill-in sparse eyebrows if you accidentally over-pluck them. A defined eyebrow is necessary for anchoring a smokey-eye look and accentuates the natural features of your face.

7. Eyeshadow

For your basic makeup collection, it’s a good idea to have some natural tan, taupe and off-white eyeshadow shades. These shades are perfect for an everyday school, as well as work, look. Nearly all drugstore beauty brands manufacture eyeshadow sets with multiple shades in them. These are perfect for a makeup novice, because it takes all the guess work out of finding complementary shades to highlight and define your eyes.

Lips:

Product Info:Balm, Glosses, Stain

8. Lip Balm

As most of you probably know, a great balm does wonders for keeping your lips smooth and healthy, especially during those harsh winter months. Stock up on several lip balms so you can store them in your purse and backpack too, for easy reapplication. The eos balm featured above not only has an adorable shape, but is 100% natural and USDA-certified Organic, to boot.

9. Lip Gloss or Stain

Glosses are the clear winner over lipsticks for college students. They have a sheer, natural look and are so much easier to apply than a lipstick. A swipe of gloss is the perfect finishing touch for any look. For longer-lasting wear, you might opt instead for a lip stain which will last through all your classes without touch-ups.

Tools:

Product Info: Brushes, Tweezers, Q-tips

10. Brushes

It’s easiest and most cost-effective to stock up on brushes all at once by purchasing a brush set. Look for a set with a large powder brush, a slightly smaller brush for contouring and several brushes for shadow and liner application.

It’s a good idea to invest in some quality brushes, because as long as you clean them regularly, they will last you a long time. If you’re not convinced, try applying some shadow with a cheap quality brush then again with one of higher quality – you will see an obvious difference.

11. Tweezers

For all the obvious reasons. We love Tweezerman tweezers – in our experience, they really do work the best, and, okay, they also come in the prettiest colors and patterns.

12. Q-tips

These are great for smudging eyeliner and soaking in makeup remover for quick touch ups. Even better? They’re super inexpensive.

Now… Store it!

Now that you’ve got this starter set of makeup, you need a place to store it. For those living in a dorm or sharing an apartment, I recommend bags or Caboodles. They are perfect for traveling, too. Makeup bags are lined inside with an easy-to-clean fabric. Those with clear pockets are great for viewing all of your makeup without digging through the bag. Here are some bags and Caboodles to consider:

Product Info: pink cheetah print, tan cheetah print, little beauty bag, green & yellow caboodles, extra-large caboodle

If you have the space, whether in a vanity or your bathroom counter, it’s a good idea to devote a drawer or two to your makeup. Use some small jars or plastic boxes of the desk-organization variety to store your beauty swag.

• More Beauty Storage Ideas:
• Emily of Cupcakes and Cashmere shows how she organized her “cosmetic clutter” using some plastic dividers. Check it out here.
• Another blogger, Laura Thoughts created a unique and space saving “makeup magnet board.”

Your Thoughts?

Do you already have all of these makeup essentials? Are there any non-negotiable makeup products in your bag? Also, are there any basic makeup products you think should be added to this list? What are some superfluous makeup products that you just love? Leave a comment to let me know!

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Stricken says: “My best friend for many years has a friend with benefits he has been seeing for a little under a year now. He met her through a mutual friend and they drunkenly hooked up one night and continued the trend to this day. From the day I met this girl I have been crazy about her. Seeing her has been few and far between but when I do it makes my weak. She’s gorgeous, funny, amazing personality, basically the whole package. Today me, this girl, my friend and another mutual friend spent the day together and me and this girl and I really hit it off. She completely ignored my friend and spend the entire day flirting and joking with me. When we split off she called me and we spent about 3 hours talking on the phone. I’m completely convinced she feels the same way about me that I feel about her. Now my best friend was recently talking to me about seeing if he could actually date this girl or not and my advice on it. I am a loyal friend and don’t want to do anything that would jeopardize our friendship but I als can’t get this girl out of my head. Do I just forget about her because there is no way of making this transition? The only thing I can think of that would make this work is if I can get him to date someone else soon and then I could move in on this girl. Any other ideas?

So readers, what advice do you have for Stricken?

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If you’re a regular College Fashion reader, you probably caught part one of this series; Last week, we covered the top 5 handbag essentials for all of your daytime needs! Now, however, it’s time to talk about things we keep in our bags for our nights out.

Whether you’re going to a party on campus, a Greek function, or just hanging out with the girls for the evening, you’ll probably have  a bag of some sort nearby! Though there can definitely be overlap amongst the items we carry for day and night, nighttime bags are usually smaller than daytime ones, and therefore, fewer items can fit into them. That’s why it’s so important to pack wisely!

Again, not including the absolute essentials (cell phone, ID, cash/credit card, and keys) we’ve compiled our picks for the five things every college girl needs in her bag… for night!

1. Oil-absorbing sheets.

After a night of dancing, even the most perfect makeup can get runny, and formerly matte faces can appear ultra dewy. Though not a new phenomenon by any means, these ultra-compact sheets are a great way to freshen up and eliminate shine with a quick touch up!

If you’re going for a polished, matte look, check out sheets that come pre-powdered. Some people say that they’re noticeably better at soaking up oil, but if the color of the powder doesn’t match your skin tone, you can risk looking chalky. Just want some extra shine control? Go for the classic, powder-free Clean & Clear variety.

Hot Picks

Product Information: Shiseido Pureness Oil-Control Blotting Paper, Barneys. Bobbi Brown Blotting Papers, Barneys. Bare Escentuals Shine Control Sheets, Nordstrom. Paul & Joe Blotting Paper, Beautyhabit. Clean & Clear Instant Oil-Absorbing Sheets, Amazon.

2. Pain reliever.

As many of you commented on part one of this series, having a pain reliever of some sort on hand is a must!

It’s inevitable — sometime this semester, you’ll encounter headaches, cramps, or general discomfort, either personally or on behalf of one of your BFFs. And though you might be kind of annoyed that your Advil takes up space in your bag on days where you feel great, you’ll be thankful you have it when you’re not feeling so hot.

And now, with special travel-sized bottles and one-dose packets, there should be an option that fits in your most miniature of purses! A special note: always be aware of whether or not it’s safe to consume alcohol in combination with your pain reliever – some brands don’t mix with drinks!

Hot Picks

Product Information: Midol, Motrin, Tylenol and Advil, all Drugstore.com.

3. Camera.

Even though it takes up the most space of any of these items, a good night-out camera is always good to have on hand. After all, someone in the group has to take the photos for tomorrow’s Facebook album! As much as I love my BlackBerry, there’s just something about the appeal of camera-produced digital pictures that can’t be beat… probably about 7 megapixels! Ensure some high-quality mementos from your night out with by bringing your own purse-sized cam.

Hot Picks

Product Information: Zebra Skin Flip MinoHD Cam, Cafe Press. Cannon PowerShot S95, Amazon. Polaroid Turquoise Digital Camera, Target. Sony Cyber-Shot T99, SonyStyle.com. General Electric A735PL Digital Camera, Kmart.

4. Lip product.

Tons of readers commented that chapstick and lipgloss were amongst their every day staples and I couldn’t agree more! Lip product is one of those items that’s always with me, 24/7!

But which product to choose? There are so many great lip products that do double duty for winter, providing moisture and gorgeous shine all at once. Or, choose something special for your night out: we love products that are hyper-pigmented or contain some extra shimmer – this minimizes the need to reapply! The only downside with statement-making lipsticks? You may have to find a mirror (or carry one of your own!) to ensure perfect application. It’s a trade off!

Hot Picks

Product Information: Centrifuchsia Opaque Lipstick, Lime Crime. LUSH Honey Trap Lip Balm, Amazon. DuWop Twilight Lip Venom, Sephora. Kiss Me Very Emollient Lip Balm, Philosophy. Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Pure Shine Sheer Lipstick, Yes Style. Neutrogena Moisture Shine Lip Soother, Ulta. MAC Lip Conditioner SPF 15, Nordstrom. Clinique Black Honey Almost Lipstick, Sephora.

5. Band-aids.

Cute band-aids are a definite handbag must-have! Shoes giving you a blister? Got a hangnail? Unidentified drunken injury?! Whatever the issue, be prepared and stash a band-aid or two in your clutch for emergencies.

Ever-fashionable CF readers will be happy to know that manufacturers are now offering many, many options beyond basic beige and skin tone-colored bandages! Whether you choose neon, Hello Kitty, or Cynthia Rowley, there’s a cool way to protect your injury in style. See below for more of our faves!

Hot Picks

Product Information: Assorted “Wacky” Bandages, Fred Flare and Urban Outfitters.

Your thoughts?

What are your nighttime essentials?! Are there items you always include in your going out bag? Anything that stays regardless of the time of day? Have any tips on saving space? Leave a comment and let us know what you carry!

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Fleeting trends, a revolving door of new designers, and a constantly evolving pop culture can make the bustling world of fashion confusing and intimidating for anybody… especially a college girl on a budget! It can sometimes be difficult to decide which styles are worth investing in, and which will last only a season or two.

In response to the idea of “fast fashion”, there has been a recent resurgence in the popularity of American “heritage” brands: companies whose high-quality, well-crafted pieces have been proven to transcend decades. With their practical styling and versatility, the following five classic American products deserve a spot in your closet.

1. Frye Campus Boots

Frye, the oldest continuously operating shoe company in the United States, first introduced the Campus style in the 1960s, based on a century-old design. Jeans, skirts, casual dresses, and even leggings and tunic tops mesh well with these easy boots. Some traditional features of the originals included:

• Boxy toe
• Hand-crunched leather shaft
• Chunky, stacked leather heel
• Leather sole
• Stitch detail

Now, the company offers variations such as tumbled or pebbled leather shafts, different boot heights, shearling linings, rubber lug soles, and a more contemporary silhouette. In addition, the insoles are constructed from shock-absorbing memory cushion, making them as insanely comfortable as they are wearable.

Product Information: Frye Campus Horse Stitch Boots – Zappos, Frye Jane Horse Stitch Boots – Zappos, Frye Campus 14G Boots – Zappos.

2. Levi’s Denim Trucker Jacket

This classic jean jacket brings a vintage-cool vibe to any outfit (careful with double denim) and is the perfect weight for slightly chilly weather. Front and back seams give it a great fit, while welt pockets and button-through tabs pay tribute to the 1970s-era original.

Product Information: Levi’s Trucker Jacket – Levi’s.

3. Keds Champion Sneakers

Did you know that Keds’ “Champion” sneaker is only 5 years short of its 100th birthday? They’ve been spotted on everyone from Jennifer Grey in Dirty Dancing to Kristen Stewart in Twilight: New Moon. Though the old school all-white exterior gives an especially crisp and classic look, the Champion is available in tons of colors. You can also purchase leather Keds, or even design your own at their official site.

Product Information: Keds White Canvas Sneaker – Keds.

4. Coach Leather Handbag

While arguably costlier and more ubiquitous than many bags, with proper care, a Coach product will hold its value and be stylish for years to come. Founded in 1941, Coach is still going strong; the brand was recently named one of the best stocks of the decade. Pick a classic shape and color to ensure you get the maximum life out of your purchase.

Product Information: Alexandra Tote – Coach, Madison Sophia Satchel – Coach, Willis Bag – Coach.

5. Pendleton Wool Shirt

Popular among grunge rockers and Hollywood starlets alike, a plaid shirt gives off a laid-back feel, while a slouchy fit and quality fabric make the piece as comfortable as it looks. Since it’s doubtful this iconic style is going anywhere (it was made famous by a little band called the Pendletones in the 1960′s…you may know them as the Beach Boys), invest in a durable piece by nabbing a classic Pendleton shirt.

Pendleton Woolen Mills has been around since 1889, and the brand is renowned for its quality craftsmanship, utilizing its expert fabric for everything from Indian blankets to handbags. Some Pendleton collaborations include:

• Levi’s
• Nike
• Hurley
• Timberland
• Opening Ceremony

While most of Pendleton’s designs for women don’t feature their famous fabric, steal his style and rock the men’s “Board” shirt. It’s created from 100% pure virgin wool, and available in sizes as petite as XX-Small for a closer fit.

Product Information: Pendleton Board Shirt – Pendleton.

What do you think?

Have you ever purchased (or been handed down) any of these items? Do you know of any other classic American brands noted for quality? How would you incorporate one of these pieces into your wardrobe? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

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After all of the great feedback on 3 Simple Sewing Tricks Every Girl Should Know, I decided to put together a second installment focusing on that one chore that every college student dreads – laundry. Let’s face it, we all need to do laundry. But unlike at home, universities require coins or a card swipe, a time commitment of a couple of hours and having to avoid common mistakes without any parental wisdom.

Unfortunately we can’t send you all rolls of quarters to make laundry day easier, but we can give you tips and tricks to help avoid and fix all of those common laundry day mistakes. One of the best ways to preserve that hard-earned cash is to keep all of the clothing you own in the best shape possible. By avoiding color bleeds, shrinking and fading, your favorite clothes will last you years to come.

When Your Whites Turn Pink

We’ve all been there – somehow that one red sock found its way into a load of laundry with your favorite white t-shirts and tanks. There really is no way to describe the terrible feeling of opening the dryer and realizing that half of your wardrobe is now baby pink. Luckily, there is still some hope for those newly dyed t-shirts:

• First things first – find the culprit and get it out!
• Rewash all of your whites with a non-chlorine bleach or a cup of distilled vinegar, in addition to your regular detergent.
• Depending on how significant the bleeding was, you may need to repeat the wash a few times to get the color out.

I’ll be the first to admit that I’m the worst at separating my laundry – who wants to pay for two loads when you can fit everything in one? Not me, that’s for sure. But with this silly mindset, you’re risking ruining of a whole load of laundry! Isn’t it worth the extra two dollars to avoid that travesty?

Prevent Your Clothes from Pilling

Whether you knew it or not, “pilling” is the technical term for those little lint balls that pop up after you wash certain garments. It’s most common with polyester-based fabrics and comes from rubbing and abrasion from everyday wear and (obviously) doing laundry. But don’t fret – there are ways to prevent it!

• Wash any garment that may “pill” inside out.
• Opt for a gentle wash cycle – this will minimize agitation and also has a shorter wash time.
• Use liquid detergent rather than powdered.
• Avoid the dryer altogether if you can. If not, try to take the garments out of the dryer as soon as you can to minimize extra abrasion.

To late to prevent it? I know it’s sad to see your favorite new sweater with little bumps all over it, but there are a couple ways to get it looking new again.

• Try a battery-operated pill remover. (Need I say more?)
• You can also stretch the fabric taut over a hard surface and use small nail scissors to clip the fabric pills off of the fabric.
• A small razor blade can also be used, but be very careful not to cut into the fabric (or yourself!) by accident.

Un-Shrink a Shrunken Sweater

Photo Credit

Wool is notorious for shrinking in the wash. Whether it’s a sweater dress, a cardigan or a thick pair of tights, there’s nothing worse than seeing an item come out of the wash a few sizes smaller than it was when you put it in. Although some pieces may be beyond saving (especially if they have already been through the dryer), there are a few tricks to try before you throw that sweater in the trash (or give it to your little sister).

• Fill your sink or a large pan with cool water and add two tablespoons of baby shampoo. This concoction helps to loosen the fibers of the fabric and make it easier to stretch back to normal.
• Make sure your clothing is completely submerged in the mixture and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
• After a half hour, remove the item but don’t rinse it.
• Wrap the garment in a thick towel to absorb some of the moisture and then use a cork bulletin board to reshape it.
• Use push pins to stretch it back into shape by pinning it in place on the cork board.
• Leave the item in place to dry and check on it every couple of hours to make sure that it is reshaping correctly.

Unfortunately, sometimes even this home remedy won’t rectify your shrunken clothing. If this is the case, just learn from the mistake! In the future, take extra time to read and follow the wash directions of the tags on every wool item to ensure that everything will get washed successfully.

What do You Think?

Have you encountered any (or all) of these laundry pitfalls? Do you have any of your own “home remedies” for common mistakes? As fashion-loving students, we all want to take the best care possible of our clothing – I’d love to hear your own tips, tricks or common problems! Be sure to leave a comment.

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As you can imagine, studying abroad in America has given me a bit of culture shock. But it’s also been an eye-opening experience. Over the past few months, I’ve spent some time soaking up American fashion and observing how it differs from what we wear in England. And today, I want to share what I’ve learned with you.

Before I get started, I want to point a few things out. First, while I have done lots of research, most of the information is based on my own experiences. Second, most of the research I came across on this subject was very, very stereotypical and because of that, parts of this post may follow suit. Finally, keep in mind that I am studying abroad in a northern Minnesota city. While I love it here, I know it is not the fashion capital of the world. I know fashion differs from state to state, and I’m sure what I see here in Minnesota is a world away from what I’d see in New York.

So, to sum it up, I know there are many, many exceptions to these ideas, and this article is not meant to suggest that everyone in either country dresses the same way. I’m not trying to lump people into categories – my aim is simply to lay out the overarching style themes I have noticed while studying abroad here in the US.

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Emma Watson hit the nail on the head when she said, of British Style:

“It’s so funny because now that I’m in America, I’m more able to define it. Before I didn’t have an awareness of another style.”

This was precisely how I felt when coming to the US. I’d heard that our high street was famous around the world, but as I would shop there on an almost weekly basis, I had no idea that it was so special. I’d heard of fashion elsewhere was different and we were much more eclectic and unexpected in England. But I didn’t realize how different fashion would be until I got to the US.

British Style Basics

British fashion has always been acclaimed for its “fearlessness” and Brits are famed for their individual sense of style. We’re often described as having a “thrown-on” feel to what we wear. We mix prints, patterns and styles and many girls pull this off effortlessly.

In my experience, the key to British style is never looking too polished. The festival look is popular year-round – think bed-head hair and vintage-style pieces. Also, as Emma Watson said in that same interview, we’re governed by the weather in this country. We wear our skirts and shorts with black opaque tights, and flip flops are replaced with plimsolls. Colleen was definitely right when she said British style is “girly but definitely has an edge to it”. This is how I would categorize British style, and my own personal style, too.

British Style Key Pieces

floral dress/striped top/plimsolls/trench/leather jacket/blazer/ shorts/tights/pearls/ boots/rain boots/scarf

I didn’t realize until after I’d made this collage, but you could easily mix and match nearly all the items here. The floral dress could be worn with the trench or the blazer or the leather jacket – florals and leather are a popular combination in England. The dress could be worn with tights and boots or tights and plimsolls – or even the rain boots.

If you want more info on British fashion staples, make sure you check out this list of 50 Things Every British Girl Should Own. The tea dress is a style staple – even better if it’s vintage!

British Style Icons

Carey Mulligan

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Recently voted the best dressed woman of 2010 by Harper’s Bazaar, British actress Carey Mulligan mixes classic ’50s chic with modern designer pieces. And her style is all her own – she famously turned down Anna Wintour’s advice to wear a short dress to the Oscars. Carey’s style is tailored, yet ladylike, and her daytime style is simple but eclectic.

Alexa Chung

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Alexa exemplifies the archetypal British style – eccentric, fun and edgy. She mixes her girly pieces with tough leather jackets and always looks utterly effortless. Her festival-chic style really demonstrates the just-threw-this-on side of British style.

Kate Moss

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And what list of stylish Brits would be complete without Kate Moss? The woman who started the skinny jeans and ballet flats trend is always effortlessly stylish, and yet her model-off-duty look is also completely wearable. She is a huge fan of layers, as well as mixing textures and prints.

British Style Shops

In my experience, the most popular stores in England include, of course, the ultra-famous Topshop. But if you’re shopping in England, don’t forget to check out Miss Selfridge, River Island and All Saints, plus Primark and New Look for on-trend bargains.

British Style in 5 Steps

1. Layer, layer, layer.
Invest in a few great jackets- especially a leather one and a blazer. Scarves are always a great accessory for keeping you warm as well as stylish. Also, wear tights with everything!

2. Always be prepared for rain!
It rains a lot in England, so if you’re spending some time there, always pack a cute umbrella and make sure your shoes are waterproof!

3. Add edgy pieces to a feminine look.
Wear leather boots with a lace dress, a studded bracelet with a prom dress or a leather jacket over your tea dress. Even after all these years, British Style still has an element of punk left in it.

4. Never look too “done.”
Keep your hair messy or your eye makeup slightly smudgy to get a real festival feel. Don’t worry if you have a run in your tights- wear them anyway! Mix and match unexpected patterns and textures for a “I just threw this on” look.

5. Be brave and have fun!
My favorite thing about British style is that we’re not afraid to have fun with fashion. So wear bright tights instead of black, or pair two loud-print pieces together instead of keeping one simple. Incorporate catwalk trends into your everyday look, and don’t be afraid to rock outlandish items with confidence.

American Style Basics

From what I’ve gathered in my time here, American style is much more classic and much less trend-focused than British style is. The style here is much more casual, comfort-focused, and laid back.

To me, American girls just seem to wear simple pieces with impeccable style. A simple black tank or white t-shirt is always made to look much more interesting with the addition of accessories. Plus, American girls (and guys!) really know how to rock a pair of jeans!

American Style Key Pieces

hoodie/plaid shirt/white shirt/blue tank/jeans/shorts/flip flops/cowboy boots/sneakers/tshirt

First and foremost, I have to talk about denim! Americans have a way of wearing jeans so they don’t look like a last resort; they look effortless and casual. I especially love the way American girls dress up jeans with heels and a nice top for a night out!

Above, I chose pieces inspired by clothes I saw on campus here. All the pieces I chose are incredibly versatile and simple, but also cute and classic. Denim shorts seem to be a staple over here in the summer, and of course, the denim jacket is, too. I love that you can do double-denim in a completely cool way, without looking too try-hard! Cowboy boots had to be included, too – we Brits can never seem to wear them without looking like we’re trying to be ironic!

American Style Icons

Jennifer Aniston

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Jen’s style is so timeless – it’s simple, yet elegant, and feminine without being too girly. She always looks perfectly polished, whether she is at a premiere or walking her dog. She also always wears classic pieces and chooses dresses that show off her figure, without being too revealing.

Whitney Port

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We all love Whitney’s style because she takes risks without trying too hard. Her look is fun but sophisticated. She loves to mix prints but still has that cool Californian laid-back look, and she can rock a pair of short shorts like none other! Of course, she likes to follow trends, but she knows what suits her and has fun with it.

Katherine Hepburn

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You College Fashion regulars will know we all love Katharine Hepburn’s style. Her look is a mix of old Hollywood glamour and never-outdated menswear-inspired style. She is the epitome of taking something simple, like a plain white button down, and making it look amazing.

Katie Holmes

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For me, Katie is the epitome of the all-American girl. She doesn’t try to be a style icon, but she makes a fantastic statement in everything she wears. She rocks a casual look better than nearly anyone else! Her style has definitely evolved from awkward teen to Hollywood royalty.

American Style Shops

American Eagle, Forever 21, Urban Outfitters, Target

American Style in 5 Steps

1. Keep it classic.
Go for simple pieces but make them your own. We have two great posts here and here on wearing a simple plain white tee in unexpected ways. Simple pieces do not have to be boring!

2. Invest in key pieces.
I wrote a piece on the twenty modern classics every girl should own (part one and part two) and I think these pieces are essential to having an easy-to-navigate wardrobe for any occasion. These pieces are the ones you can easily mix and match to create something new and fun, without having to constantly shop. This simplicity is definitely a big aspect of American fashion.

3. Don’t follow every trend.
One thing I love about American style is that everyone seems to be so comfortable in their own style – they know exactly what suits them and how to wear it well. To me, American style is all about finding out what suits you and looking good in it, instead of always being swayed by the catwalks. Of course, experiment with trends, but stay true to yourself and your style.

4. Think simple, laid back, and cute.
Americans get a lot of flack from Europeans about their style being “boring,” but I love its comfortable and effortless simplicity. It’s more about style than fashion here in the US. In America, it’s not so much about what you wear, it’s about the way you wear it.

5. Think (and shop) outside of the box.
The local mall here in Minnesota is an uninspiring array of preppy and plaid, so I love to see girls on campus who dress outside of this. One of the first posts I ever read here at College Fashion was this one, and I also think this one is fab for finding your own style. I have found it’s easy to shop in the same places as everyone else, but I have also found there are amazing items available online in stores you might not have nearby (for instance, Forever 21). So if you find all the stores nearby are too “American” in style, try new places!!

Your thoughts?

What do you think? Are you a British girl loving American style, too? Are the majority of your style influences a different nationality to you? What fashion experiences have you had in other countries? I’d love to hear what you think!

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One night, while attempting to find a replacement series to fill the void left by Sex and the City, I stumbled upon the UK gem that is Secret Diary of a Call Girl.

The based-on-a-true-story series, starring Billie Piper (You might remember her as 90s pop princess “Billie,” the girl behind “Because We Want To” and “Girlfriend!”), follows the adventures and exploits of Hannah Baxter, a young, attractive, well-educated London woman living a double life as courtesan named Belle.

The show is a total guilty pleasure: crazy storylines, cute British boys with even cuter accents, and amazing high-street inspired fashion. It’s the perfect combination of funny, sweet, and sexy. All things considered, it’s actually a pretty decent substitute for SATC– and like Ms. Bradshaw, Belle is a published writer herself! Both fashionable women in their own rights, Hannah and Belle have amazing wardrobes. From casual to sexy and everything in between, Hannah and her alter-ego have it covered.

Interested in imitating either Hannah or Belle’s style? CF has your back! Read on and get inspired.

Elements of Hannah’s Style

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Structure. Hannah’s looks are streamlined, and each one incorporates an element of structure. She goes for blazers, shoulder pads, and peplums, all of which promote a more sophisticated, conservative vibe than the clothing worn by her alter ego.

Simple hair and a fresh face. The easiest way to tell Hannah from Belle is to note Piper’s changes in hair and makeup. Hannah often pulls her hair back, sweeps it away from her face, or simply wears it down with a subtle wave. Her makeup is minimal and natural, avoiding heavy eyeliner and dramatic lips. Hannah creates a subtly-pretty, dewy look by  limiting her cosmetic application to peachy-pink blush, black mascara, and natural lips. The result is a face that’s effortlessly youthful and attractive–perfect for every day!

Coverage. It shouldn’t come as a surprise that Hannah’s wardrobe staples provide more coverage than Belle’s! She favors longer hemlines and looser fits for skirts and dresses, layers her clothing, and shows minimal cleavage. Hannah dresses for women while Belle dresses for men.

Great accessories. In a similar vein, Hannah accessorizes far more than Belle does. With Belle, the focus is on the body and the fit of the clothing. Hannah, however, adds interest to her outfits by piling on bangles, wearing eye-catching dangly earrings, and carrying statement bags.

Gorgeous lounge-wear. Belle may have an enviable collection of seductive lingerie, but Hannah owns loungewear that is impossible to beat! She has an extensive collection of silk robes, floor-length printed kimonos, and bed jackets that she is often seen wearing while relaxing and writing – they’re SO much cuter than sweatpants, an oversized tee, and slippers.

Hannah’s Fashion Essentials

Product Information: Waterfall Devoree Kimono, Topshop. Nicole Sunglasses, Fred Flare. Lena Tuck Woven Trousers, Boo Hoo. Le Metier de Beaute Creme Fresh Tints, Bergdorf Goodman. Vintage Pearlescent Chandelier Earrings, Forever 21. Get Spotted Scarf, Madewell. The Boyfriend Blazer, Fred Flare. Sweetheart Party Dress, American Eagle. Faux Fur Stole, Topshop. Canvas Pump, Urban Outfitters. Turquoise Sedona Ring, 1928. Wrapped Up In Blue Skirt, Modcloth. Winter Kate Eden Jacket, The Trend Boutique.

Outfit Inspired by Hannah

Product Information: Closet Peplum Skirt, Oil. Rosebud Salve, Sephora. Mirror Cocktail Ring, Unique Vintage. Butterfly Sleeve Chiffon Top, Metropark. Kitten Heel Court Shoes, Dorothy Perkins. Talullah Earrings, Asos. Classic Trench, American Eagle. Doctor Doctor Bag, Spotted Moth. OPI Suzi Skis The Pyrenees Nail Lacquer, Hair Boutique.

Elements of Belle’s Style

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Body-conscious tailoring. When Belle is dressed, her style is sensual, but not overtly sexual. The look isn’t at all skanky (for the most part), even though, well, you know… Belle must, after all, live up to her title of a “high-class” call girl. When in doubt, this classy version of sexy is what we should aim for: Showing too much skin is never a good look. Wearing a great pair of heels and a longer dress can be much sexier (and more flattering!) than donning the same pair of heels with a tight mini. A little mystery goes a long way, and can make you look more mature and refined.

Feminine and romantic fabrics. Many of Belle’s outfits, and especially her nightwear, feature feminine textiles that are tactility-pleasing. Belle has an obvious penchant for lace and silk, and often includes these fabrics in her outfits. Of course, Belle’s gorgeous undergarments are wardrobe staples that cannot go without mention: She favors matching sets, stockings, corsets, and garter belts. It’s a mix of classic vintage style and modern-day sexy.

Sultry hair and makeup. Completely opposite from Hannah, Belle rocks a beauty look that’s decidedly sultry. The show’s opening titles feature Hannah getting into character as Belle–glamming up and applying makeup (as Kanye West would say, #itsaprocess) to make herself look like a very different woman. Belle’s makeup staples include dark eyeliner, false eyelashes, smokey shadow, dramatic lip color (either red or another highly-pigmented shade), and a spritz of men’s cologne. For her hair, Belle wears her long blonde locks down and generally prefers romantic curls or voluminous, touchable styles.

Variety. Belle’s looks also vary from Hannah’s in that Belle is more adventurous when it comes to wearing a variety of styles. Because Belle is constantly adapting and playing a part, her wardrobe has much more variation than Hannah’s: Belle plays with color, rocks hot shoes, and sometimes goes for hair extensions or wigs! Each of her looks is memorable and obviously “Belle,” but they aren’t particularly similar.

Belle’s Essentials

Product Information: Wisen up Coat, Modcloth. MAC ‘A Tartan Tale’ Lipstick, Nordstrom. Pick of the Glitter Heel, Modcloth. Luxe Leather Pencil Skirt, Oasis. Leopard Print Scarf, Yes Style. Hot Tools Professional Jumbo 1″ Curling Iron, Amazon. Dolly Cut Out Bustier Dress, Asos. O Lingerie Eloise Padded Bra and Brazilian Briefs, Oli. Salt and Peplum Dress, ModCloth. Steve Madden Haylow Pumps, Zappos. Vanessa Bruno Silk Camisole, The Outnet. ck one Fragrance, Sephora. Padlock Purse, Jane Norman. Shu Uemura Luxe False Eyelashes, Nordstrom.

Inspired by Belle

Product Information: Jessica McClintock Rose Clutch, Endless. CZ Pave Ball Stud Earrings, Fantasy Jewelry Box. Timpa Duet Lace Underwire Demi Bra, Journelle. Oasis Corset Asymmetric Neckline Dress, John Lewis. (Similar Product) Double Wrap Studded Belt, Asos. Sam Edelman Nivan Pump, Amazon. Frederic Fekkai Wave Creating Spray, Saks Fifth Avenue.

Want to see more?

If you loved Hannah’s or Belle’s style and you’re looking to watch a program that’s funny and sassy while still being thought-provoking, make sure to check out Secret Diary of a Call Girl! The series will premiere its fourth and final season in January on Showtime and is also available on Netflix and iTunes.

What do you think?

Have you watched Secret Diary of a Call Girl? Are you inspired by Belle’s/Hannah’s style? Did you recognize Billie?! Leave a comment and let us know!

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In honor of the new season of Gossip Girl, it seems only fitting that there also be an update to the original Gossip Girl fashion series that Zephyr wrote a while back.

While our original Gossip Girl fashion posts were written during the show’s first season, each character’s style has evolved considerably since then – so over the next few weeks, I’ll be providing updated guides to each Gossip Girl character’s style during seasons 3 and 4. First up? Blair Waldorf.

Blair’s New Style

Blair, played by Leighton Meester, is now an undergrad at Columbia University and after a summer abroad in Paris with her BFF, her style has definitely evolved from her season 1 style of school uniforms and a headband every day.

Although it’s still rare to see her in anything but dresses, Blair’s style is now more adventurous and playful than her wardrobe was during the first couple seasons. But the great thing about Blair is that she always manages to look pulled-together and classic.

Blair’s New Fashion Essentials

Tailored Skirts

Everyone’s favorite bad girl is still wearing skirts and dresses, but gone is the blue Constance Billiard plaid. So far this season we’ve seen her rock bright pastels, unexpected mix-and-match florals, and subdued laces and tweeds. Blair is obviously a fan of the mini skirt – but she always keeps it classy by opting for an a-line or looser fit (rather than something skin tight).

All skirts from Forever 21

Unique Tops

Although she no longer wears boring button-up oxfords and polos, Blair’s new wardrobe is still full of classic-fits. Collared shirts with a twist, tailored v-necks and fitted sleeveless blouses are all go-to staples for Blair this season, but they usually include unexpected patterns and detailing. The way she mixes classic tailoring with a fun print or girly accessories is what makes her new style unique.

Tops from ASOS, ASOS and ASOS, Forever 21

Classic Accessories

These days, Blair keeps her accessories simple. She utilizes belts to cinch in her waist and pull any outfit together. Other than that, a few classic pieces of jewelry and a chic pair of sunglasses are all you need to steal her look!

From left to right: Madewell, Wet Seal, Pacsun, Forever 21, Anthropologie, ASOS, Gap

Blair’s Hairstyles

Another change that’s been evident over the past few seasons is Blair’s departure from perfect-curls and plaid headbands. Recently she’s opted for more natural, sophisticated styles which really let her natural beauty show through. Here are a few easy styles to try:

• A low ponytail always looks pulled-together. To step it up a notch, keep one strand outside of the ponytail and wrap it around the hair elastic. Want a quick how-to? Check out this YouTube video.
• Braids are also a go-to style for Blair this season. Not coordinated enough to french braid? Me either. But a simple braid is just as classic. Feeling ambitious? Here’s a detailed video on how to french braid.
• My favorite traditional hairstyle (and a favorite of Blair’s) is half-up, half-down. Up the chic factor by using a pretty clip to secure the section of hair.

Tying it all Together

Overall, Blair’s new style has stayed true to her traditional, classic roots, but has evolved to include a few unique twists. She always looks put-together, but as she’s gotten older she’s started to experiment with different colors, prints and fits. Want to recreate her look? Invest in a few high-waisted skirts and tuck a top of your choice into the waist band. Instant chicness!

Your thoughts?

What do you guys think of Blair’s more mature style? Do you miss the Constance Billiard uniform and super-preppy accessories? How about her colored tights and curls? I love hearing from you guys so be sure to leave a comment!

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