For the last few months, I’ve seen a pair of BRIGHT blue jeans staring at me through the window of Intermix on my walk to and from Starbucks, yoga, dinner, etc. Paired with what I can only imagine is a top that costs more than my rent, I keep thinking that they are pretty C to the U-T-E. I’m always tempted to go in and try them on, but just as I’m about to, my inner dialogue goes a little something like this:

“Of course they look cute on a tall and skinny mannequin. But you Jill, are not a tall and skinny mannequin. You, in those blue pants would look less like a mannequin and more like… a Smurf. And not one of those cute little Smurfs with their cute little legs and white little hats that a 3 year old would want to see in 3D but a Smurf with really big, bright blue thighs. But then again they are so cute. But is it silly to spend $150 on a pair of pants that may or may not make me look like a Smurf and may or may not be out of style in like 4 days?”

And so, after months of staring and contemplating, I figured what did I have to lose?! I went into the store and I tried on the bright blue Smurfette pants. And to my surprise, I looked like a CUTE Smurf. As in, these pants were blue AND bangin’, fun and surprisingly flattering. I mean, don’t get me wrong these are no black pants and they sure as hell are not Spanx but paired with the right top, shoes and bag, I am confident that just about anyone can rock bright colored denim and look darn cute doing so. All it takes is a bit of confidence and knowing what to pair with your bright bottoms (we’ll get to that in a moment). But the $150 pricetag? I’m all for shelling out big bucks on quality timeless pieces that will last you more than a season (Chanel handbag, I will own you ONE day!) But when it comes to these colorful and playful pants, you might be sick of them before you can say “Skittles, taste the rainbow.” Lucky for you, I’ve rounded up the brightest bottoms around at a budget price. Woot Woot.

Here are some tips and tricks to remember when dressing in an bright bottom: I say keep everything else pretty neutral. I love any of the below pants paired with a white top, and nudge wedges. If you want to play with color blocking, keep the other color as an accent- a headband, a handbag, or a bright patent belt or bangle should do the trick. Prints are OK so long as they are smaller in nature. And I would avoid big, bold stripes or prints! If you’re nervous about having a case of the TT’s (Thunder Thighs) opt for a longer tunic or top to cover your badonk-a-donk and a good portion of those quads/hamstrings of yours.

Top Row: Bright blue jeans- $54 Lulus.com, Teal jeans- $69.95- Gap.com , Brown jeans-$22.80- Foever 21, Coral Jeans- $44.50 dELiA*s
Bottom Row: Hot Pink jeans $69.95- Gap.com, Bright yellow jeans- $44.50 (buy another one get one for $20!) dELiA*s, Cherry red jeans- $54- lulus.com, Purple jeans- $74- Topshop.com

So here’s the deal.

I love Yellow.

Neon yellow is great and pastel yellow is just peachy, I won’t lie to you, there isn’t a shade under the yellow sun (pun intended) that I would shun away. But put me around a marigold yellow and I’m instantly happy. And pulling out and handing over my credit card before the sales person can say “mellow yellow.”

And here is why I love it so: marigold yellows or yellows with olive undertones are a great fashion staple because they can be used as a more fun neutral in your ‘drobe. Throw on this shade of yellow and it still allows you room to play with so many other fun fashion trends. And there is nothing to not love about that! A yellow shoe with a printed top, marigold sunglasses with a leopard skirt, a printed shirt with big flared pants, a yellow dress with a 70’s inspired scarf or big bold bangles- the options remain endless.

Not to mention, this shade of yellow is simply perfection as a seasonal transition color. It’s still bright enough to be worn with white pants or wedges and screams “Heyyy there Summer, I’m not through with you just yet!” but come frost bite season, you can easily wear this shade with darker chunky knits, tights or boots.

Here are a few of my favorite (budget) finds in this simply stunning and sunny shade!

Top Row: Striped top-$16.94- Old Navy, Printed Dress- $22.90- Forever21, Cigarette Pants- $80- Topshop.com, purse- $90- Topshop.com
Bottom Row: Suede shoes-$39- Urban Outfitters, Tank- $17.99- Gap, Sunglasses-$10- Urban Outfitters, Gingham top-$24.94- Old Navy

For as long as I can remember, I have been yelling at my mom for not saving her 60s/70s garb. I would look through albums upon albums full of her in big sunglasses, major platforms and super-duper bell bottom jeans. Talk about may-jor fashion envy.

And save for that year somewhere around 1996 when Paris Blues Super Bell Bottoms made a quick comeback, the flared jean has been buried in the fashion attics along with record players paving the way for skinny jeans and low rise jeans. And besides, let’s be real for a second here…who looked good in ANYTHING in 6th grade?!

But, my fashion obsessed friends, my prayers have been answered. It’s like I actually willed those photos of mi madre to life.

Store after store is showing off flared and bell bottoms of all widths, washes and rises. And I couldn’t be happier! While skinny jeans are great and still have their place, I love having an alternative for days I feel more like Thunder Thighs and an excuse to always channel my inner Raquel Welch circa the 70s.

And the best news is that there is absolutely no need to shell out big bucks on this trend. Everywhere from Old Navy to Target have fabulous (and flattering) options. Here are two bomb yet budget ways to rock the flare. You can dress them up, dress them down, pair with platforms or flats- the options are endless!

The Tailored Flare:
I love a higher rise of flares tucked into a simple shirt. Here we see color blocking (sticking with my favorite 60s/70s color palette) which is another huge trend carrying over from spring to fall. Pair with a shimmery gold belt, some killer platforms in an unexpected not-navy but not-bright-blue (so neutral and bad ass!) and some fun jewelry.

Orange Top- Ann Taylor, Flare Jeans- Old Navy, Yellow Purse- Top Shop, Necklace- Forever21, Shoes- Forever21, Belt- Old Navy.

The Relaxed Flare:
I love this laid back yet still totally chic look. The wash of these super light weight jeans are amazing, and unique. Take any button down shirt and tie in a knot creating a flirty yet boyish look. I adore the accessories: the bright belt, the fun hoops and funky ring make this look all your own. And of course, paired with a neutral wedge, you can’t go wrong.

Button Down- Urban Outfitters, Flare Jeans- Gap, Ring- Stella & Dot, Hoops- Stella & Dot, Bag- Charlotte Russe, Belt- Charlotte Russe, Shoes- Gap,

The key when shopping for animal prints with your Budget Stylista mindset is avoiding a cheap looking leopard print, which can be hard, lots of them exist. Sometimes it’s hard to determine what is chic and what is downright cheap (and tacky) looking. As a general rule of thumb, I tend to stray away from black and white leopard print (it just doesn’t look right to me) and smaller condensed animal spots.

Not sure about what to wear leopard print with? You don’t need to stick to a white or black base. Leopard print is the new neutral: It goes with nothing, yet everything all at the same time. In fact, I think this print is most fresh when paired with a bright color. Throw a leopard print top on with black jeans and a hot pink bag. Or tie a leopard print belt or scarf over a red dress. Pair the adorable leopard skirt below with a bright pair of blue pumps! Leopard should be fun and playful.

I LOVE the leopard print Keds with jean shorts and a vintage rocker T. The only rule is to stick to ONE animal printed item per ensemble. So don’t go mixing and matching these prints like it’s a denim on denim ensemble (which I don’t care how “in style” it is, I still think of it as what I wore in 5th grade/Canadian tuxedo).

Here are some of my favorite leopard print pieces that look more costly/couture than their Budget Stylista price tag:

Roar.

Top Row: Lace Tank $14.80- Forever 21, Pump $72.90- Nordstrom, Tote $19.99- Urban Outfitters, Neon top $42- Top Shop, Dress $22.80-Forever 21,
Bottom Row: Scarf $24.43- Express, Sunglasses $32- Top Shop, Keds $40- Keds.com, Skirt $59- Lulus.com, Belt $19.90- Delias.

Growing up I was tormented by brothers who tore the heads off my Barbie Dolls and farted on my lap (note, my 30 year old brother still does this…yep.) I always wanted a sister to turn to for fashion, dating and fitness advice, and of course someone to gossip about celebs with. So even though I don’t know G, I like to think that if I had a sister, she would be a lot like her: fun, funny, someone who exudes confidence and cool while still maintaining a down to earth vibe (and a kick-ass fashion sense). Not to mention someone who helped influence my every-day vernacular to include sayings such as “could you die?!” Someone who would approve my outfits for homecoming and tell me when my hair looked more “you stuck your finger in a socket” and less like the “messy beach waves” look I was going for.

Giuliana is insightful but hysterical, smart but easy to talk to, not to mention famous (with over 2 million followers on Twitter), but still a very REAL chic (I’ve seen her out and about in Chicago and just like every 20/30 something chica, she’s a fan of the fro-yo, good Italian food and nights out with the girls). You’ve got to totes love the girl who is just as comfortable and engaging talking about her struggles getting pregnant as she is talking about the latest hair style the Biebs has been rocking.

And while from the comfort of our couches and computers, her life seems like that of a one-in-a-million fairytale, she didn’t get the job, man, life and body of her dreams by a fairy godmother saying “bippity-boppity-boop” (although wouldn’t that be nice). She is the proof-is-in-the-pudding success story that dreams paired alongside goals and hard work do in fact come true.

G is one hell of a go-getter, with a jam packed schedule and a cross country marriage, it’s amazing she has enough time to shower much less take some time to talk with us here at CollegeCandy, but alas, she did! (Talk to us, that is— as for the showering part… I’m not so sure. I mean REALLY how does she fit it all in?! My bet is on Dry Shampoo.)

CollegeCandy: We see you on TV every day so a lot of us feel like we know you, but what are five things people would be surprised to learn about you?
Giuliana Rancic:
-I was born in Naples, Italy and did not move to America until I was seven years old.

-I am the youngest of three. I have one older brother and one older sister.

-I was a contestant in the Miss Maryland pageant, but sadly didn’t win.

-When I first moved to LA, I worked as a hostess at a popular restaurant on Sunset Blvd. while working my way up the TV hosting ladder.

-I am terrified of flying, but I have to do it all the time for work and to see my husband.

CC: It seems as though your wildest dreams have come true: you have the job of your dreams, man of your dreams, life of your dreams… what advice do you have for us college girls just starting to figure out who we really are and trying to get the life of our dreams?
GR: I would say that the most important thing a college aged girl can do is get an internship in the field that you are interested in and see if it’s right for you. If not, keep searching! When you’re young and just starting out, it is so important to show dedication and hard work. When I was working as an assistant when I first moved to Los Angeles, I made it a point to be the first person to arrive at the office, and the last person to leave. So many young people forget about the value of hard work and, let’s face it, almost everybody in the world has to start at the bottom and work their way to the top. Always have a positive attitude and work hard! It will set you apart from others who don’t show the same drive.

CC: How do you dream bigger from here? What is your new/next big dream?
GR: Right now I am just enjoying every moment and every opportunity that is coming my way. One of my biggest dreams was to host the Miss USA pageant and that dream finally came to fruition this year! I believe in the power of hard work and I am just excited to see what the future holds for me.

CC: Looking back, what advice would you give to your college aged-self now if you could?
GR: I would tell my college-aged self to remember that everything happens for a reason. I remember being kind of scared and anxious about what I was going to do with my life, but once I set goals and started working towards them, things began falling into place. It’s hard being young and on the verge of entering the “real world” so it is very important to always remember that you are in control of your own destiny.

CC: What energizes/excites you? Do you still get excited going on a red carpet interview or has that become routine for you? Do you ever get butterflies/nervous still?
GR: I love doing E!’s Live From The Red Carpet shows. Doing live television is such a rush and it’s just as exciting now as it was when I started at E! nine years ago. Of course, it has gotten easier with time and practice, but I still get butterflies every time.

CC: You’ve interviewed practically everyone– who was your best or favorite interview of all time?

GR: Several years ago I was working an Oscar after party for E! and I was interviewing Tom Hanks live. We were having a great, fun conversation and then all of the sudden Halle Berry shows up on the red carpet out of nowhere holding her Oscar that she had just won. I knew I had to get an interview with her because she had just won the Oscar! I didn’t want to ditch Tom Hanks so I invited Halle over to join my interview with Tom Hanks. I actually introduced two of the biggest Hollywood stars to each other and viewers got to see a very intimate moment on live TV. In the end what started out as an uncomfortable moment became one of my best to-date.

CC: If you could interview anyone (that you haven’t yet interviewed) who would it be? What would you ask?
GR: I would absolutely love to interview Celine Dion and ask her about her struggle to have children. She has had a long, tedious journey, but had great success in the end.

CC: Fill in the blank…what’s your favorite:
Snack? Kashi bars

Book? “I Do, Now What?” by Giuliana and Bill Rancic

TV show? – pretty much all reality TV

Jersey Shore cast member?- Tough decision, but I’d have to say JWOWW

Indulgence?- Dessert! I have a huge sweet tooth!

Sunday morning activity? Hanging out with my hubby

CC: You seem to have an incredibly successful relationship with Bill- what is the single best piece of advice you wish you would have known when you were in college when it comes to guys and dating?
GR: Don’t settle! There is always time to find Mr. Right. Bill and I didn’t get married until we were in our 30’s. It’s ok to wait to settle down and get married. I made it a point to focus on my career in my twenties and early thirties and I still ended up with the man of my dreams.

CC: Health and fitness are a huge passion of yours… What health or fitness change has made the biggest impact in your life?
GR: I really try to avoid processed foods and I have noticed that that has definitely made an impact on the way I feel on a daily basis. I try to eat foods with very few, simple ingredients. The less ingredients on the back label, the better! Ever since I started eating more naturally, I have found that I have way more energy and my workouts are a lot easier.

CC: So what is on your workout playlist these days?
GR: I have a variety of artists and songs that I love to work out to. Lady Gaga is always a good choice!

CC: Okay and last but certainly not least (and in my opinion, most important!) honestly, how many pairs of shoes do you own? AND- How do walk around in those ridiculously high (albeit amazingly gorge) heels all the time?(I always try, but I end up limping a quarter of the way through my day)

GR: I have no idea how many pairs of shoes I own – HUNDREDS! Heels are definitely my weakness! I have to say, walking in heels takes many years to master. Just like anything else, it gets easier with practice. Also, try to buy shoes that are comfortable when you try them on in the store! If they hurt when you first put them on at the department store, chances are you aren’t going to wear them at home.

Thanks G!
For all things Giuliana Rancic, check her out daily on E! News live at 7/6 central, or E’s Fashion Police Fridays at 10:30/9:30 Central. For even more G in your life, the 4th season of Giluana & Bill debuts TONIGHT (July 18th) on Style- not be missed so set your DVRs! And of course, for a daily dose of the G-ster, subscribe to her fabulous daily newsletter, FabFitFun at www.fabfitfun.com.

If you’re at all like me, when it’s 90 degrees outside and I have the choice to go for a run or lay by the pool, I choose the latter. Or if it’s scorching hot, I choose to sit on my couch blasting the AC, sipping on iced tea…and since we can be honest amongst friends here, these days a workout is the furthest thing from my mind.

It’s usually around mid-summer that I lose that amped-up, I’m-going-to-look-bootylicious-in-a-bikini-damn-it! attitude and my motivation starts to dwindle. After all, stores are already selling boots and sweaters- it won’t be long until I can bury myself in an over-sized sweater right?!

So since this week I hit a bit of a workout slump (anyone else?) I decided to dedicate this Monday’s body blog to four things that will help to revitalize and re-motivate us all to hit the gym and keep working towards that beach bo-dizzle!

1. Add new songs to your workout playlist. This week I added fifteen brand-spankin-new songs to my usual workout playlist. After all, as fabu as it is, there is only so many times one person can listen to Glee’s “Thriller/Heads Will Roll” mash-up while running and still feel pumped. I added some new top 40s (J.Lo’s new song, I’m Into You, Run the World (Girls) by lady Beyonce, I Wanna Go by Brit Brit, Love in America by JTX and Jason Derulo’s new hit Don’t Wanna Go Home) but, inspired by the 90s sample of Show Me Love in Jason Derulo’s new jam, I also added some 90s JAMZ (you know we love the 90s here at CollegeCandy!). Let me tell you, hearing 100% Pure Love by Crystal Waters and This is Your Night by Amber- really put a spring in my step (while also reminding me of those gloriously awkward middle school years) I highly suggest some 90s tunes!

2. Treat yourself to some new workout gear. I treated myself to a new pair of Lululemon cropped workout pants that I’m so excited to wear, I’m almost looking forward to setting my alarm for my 6:30am workout tomorrow morning (keyword in this scenario is almost, but I know once I’m up and IN these adorbs pants, I will be ready to sweat it out in style). Sometimes it’s the little things that make you excited for a sweat sesh. I also bought myself some bright neon workout socks I’m so obsessed with…I’m pretty sure they are the convincing factor when I’m deciding if I should go for a run!

3. Try a brand new workout! From Bikram yoga to cardio strip- think of the class you’ve always wanted to try, but always talked yourself out of…only this time, actually try it! A new workout is not only great for your mind and for your motivation but keeps your body guessing and keeps the results coming. An all around win!

4. Get a hobby. And no, by “hobby” I don’t mean watching the Real Housewives or even joining book club (although that’s a fun hobby too). But aim to find an active hobby like playing tennis, hiking, golf, swimming laps, croquet, beach volleyball- something that gets you outdoors, out of your comfort zone and mooooving. Now is the best time to try new activities in place of your typical treadmill run, and an active hobby will seem like more fun and less like “omg my glutes!”…the workout will be a total perk!

What are your tips and tricks for staying motivated all summer long? Share them below!

I, however, am not “some people.”

July for me brings a different kind of excitement. An excitement in the form of warm colors in chestnuts, cognacs and browns, wools and greys… boots and coats, sweaters and scarves paired with slashed prices…well there really is no containing my excitement for all of it!

For me, July is all about the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale.

And it is BACK baby.

And since you are too busy getting your tan on, you might think it’s okay to wait until September to start thinking about fall. But I’m here to tell you that now is the PERFECT time to stock up on some fall staples and wish list items. Besides, your skin will thank you in 15 years for the break (and your wardrobe will thank you in a few short months).

It starts TODAY so strike while the iron is sizzling ladies! Grab the things you know you love (Hanky Pankys are slashed to $12.90!) and invest in boots that, while still pricey, are far more affordable than their post-sale price. From Frye to Steve Madden, this year’s sale has no shortage of fabulous boots, booties, flats, wedges and everything in between.

There are tons of adorable capes and perfect satchels that take you from class to the mall to dinner with no need to switch out your bag. What’s not to love about that? Plus, watches and jewels in rose gold, designer sunglasses majorly marked down… take it from me, this is one sale worth heading away from the light and towards the AC for.

Here are a few of my favorite Anniversary Sale picks- Check out the whole catalog here!

Top Row: Michael Kors Watch in Rose Gold $166.90 (After sale, $250) Collection B faux shearling trim bomber jacket $44.90 (After sale, $68) DV by Dolce Vita- Wyatt Boot $79.90 (After sale, $129.95) Calson Cover Stitch Dolman Sleeve Sweater $45.90 (after sale, $69.00)
Bottom Row: Lulu Floppy Felt Hat $15.90 (After sale, $24)
Beatrix Ost Hooded Poncho $79.90 (After sale $120) Hanky Panky’s $12.90 (After sale, $22) Halogen Military Leather Satchel $164.90 (After sale, $248)

Now is the PERFECT time to stock up on sundresses, shorts, swim suits, sandals and anything else that begs you to accessorize with SPF and a straw tote. First of all, I don’t know about where you live, but it JUST got warm in Chi town and I’m thinking (hoping, praying, begging) that it will stay this way until October — which gives me plenty of time to rock all my sale purchases. And of course, there will be December break, spring break with your girls, or next summer to wear these discounted duds. Not to mention you can use this opportunity to snag pieces that can be used in the early fall to transition your ‘drobe.

Just about every store from Bloomingdales to Old Navy are having fabulous sales right now. Here are three stores that have MAY-JOR sales going on and a few of my fave picks.

Ann Taylor- As if the sale price wasn’t enough, now ALL sale items are an additional 50% (yes you read that right!) off! Woot Woot! This eyelet dress is adorable, the citrus halter is playful and sexy all at the same time and the sandals are the perfect touch of femme and tough. Snap these bad boys up or else I will!

Eyelet Dress / Ruffle Halter / Bronze Chain Sandals

Gap- We all know that The Gap has great sales and this time around is no exception. I love these wedges paired with a killer pair of flared pants or jeans, the paperbag shorts are adorable with a simple tank, wedges and a long necklace, and this top (which I have in white might I add) is the best way to spruce up your typical white or black T’s!

Shorts / T-shirt / Wedges

J.Crew- Browsing J. Crew during a non-sale is like looking in the fridge after you’ve used up all your Weight Watched points for the day– tempting to give in but you know you will be mad at yourself once that credit card is swiped (or that cake is eaten!) but J. Crew on a sale?! That is like those days when you find out your favorite carrot cake is fat and calorie free– hook a sister up with 3 servings baby! This swim suit it ADORABLE and I love the idea of color blocking. The sequin tank can be worn day or night and can 100% take you into fall. And the pants? So casual cool paired with wedges and a slim tank OR toms and a cute T. done and done!

Sequin tank / Bathing Suit/ Bathing Suit / Pants

Fourth of July Weekend is HERE!

Bring on the hot dogs, the sparklers, singing Bye Bye Miss American Pie on repeat and…the tacky American flag apparel.
But this year my friends, there is no need to don that over-sized American flag shirt from 1998. You can lose the red bandanna and pig tails because that looks good on no one (unless you’re 5 and even then I’m wary). This season is all about color, so you can safely do up the colors of our grand ol’ flag while still looking as fashionable as ever.

No matter what you’re up to this weekend- here are three outfits that should have you covered!

Day:

Shirt, Shorts, Shoes

Tuck this shirt into the cherry red shorts and go with some simple white sandals and a pair of aviators if you have them! Perfect for the 4th of July (or any summer day) it says festive without saying “I’m related to Uncle Sam.”

Pool:

Coverup, Bikini Top, Bikini Bottom, Sandals

This is the perfect ‘fit for chowing down on potato chips and apple pie by the pool. I love the casualness of the loose tank- and of course, the swim suit underneath goes perfectly with a raft and an iced cocktail.

Night:

Dress, Shoes, Cuff, Bangle

Whether you’re hitting a bbq at your uncle’s or the clubs downtown in your city- this outfit is flirty, festive and fun! You’re giving off the perfect balance of, “I’m being festive but not in an overkill, I-look-like-a-middle-aged-mom sort of way” and the, “I’m too cool for school to even acknowledge this holiday”
4th of July perfection!

Nothing says summer, summer, summertime quite like a refreshing cocktail (or a Will Smith song), but we all know that sippin’ our calories away poolside leads to a not-so-cute looking backside (or all-around side). Many of our favorite friendly cocktails come along with a heaping helping of calories. And with all those hidden, tempting, pink and fruity calories, it sure gives a WHOLE new meaning to drinking responsibly.

But who says you can’t have your Sangria and sip it too?! Not I. Because this weeks body blog is all about finding the healthy balance between keeping cool with fun refreshments and looking bootylicious in your bikini.

Here are a few of my favorite healthier summer cocktails and bevvy’s! Including a delicious sans-alcohol option for a super low cal iced tea!

Sangria

Sangria can normally be made with lots of sugar- but swap that with a can of fresca (or lemon flavored stevia for those of you like me who don’t use artificial sweetners) and you have yourself a delicious and guilt-free treat!

Red Sangria:

Just slice up 4 apples and 3 oranges. Combine fruit with 1 pound red grapes, halved; 3 bottles light-to medium-bodied red wine; 1 can Fresca (or any diet lemon soda); and 1 can club soda. Chill mixture, and serve over ice for 16 servings of scrumptiousness.

Each serving has only 173 calories—that’s 125 calories saved per glass!!

White Sangria:

Combine 8 peaches and 4 white plums pitted and sliced with 1 pound of green grapes cut in half. Mix in with 3 bottles of Prosecco, a 12 ounce can of diet lemon/lime soda (or lemon flavored stevia drops!) and a 12 ounce can of club soda. Toss all the ingredients together and chill for at least 1 hour. Serve over ice.

Blackberry Vodka and Lemonade:

Vodka and Lemonade go together like MK & Ash Olsen- A fabulous pairing! But not when you think about the sugar that usually comes in the store-bought lemonade you dump into your vodka. Here is a lighter and healthier version- and I love the blackberry twist! Yummy!

• 2 ounce yuzu juice

• 1 ounce lime juice

• 1 ounce lemon juice

• 1 ounce agave nectar

• 3 ounce vodka

• 1 handful of muddled blackberries

ICED MINT GREEN TEA:

We all know how great green tea is for us- and because of that, I’m standing by this bevvy even though it has a li’l sumthin’ sumthin’ to spruce it up!

• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves

• 3 green tea bags

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 4 cups boiling water

• 2 cups sake, divided

• 4 stalks lemongrass, for garnish

Combine mint leaves, tea bags, honey and boiling water. Let steep for 5 minutes; remove tea bags. Refrigerate until chilled. Divide among 4 large ice-filled glasses. Add 1/2 cup sake to each glass. Garnish with a stalk of lemongrass. To keep it PG and lower in cals, omit the sake!

This bad boy only has 76 cals per drink and if you go the sans sake route- a measly 36! I’ll take thirds please!

Slushy Watermelon Mojitos:

• 5 cups cubed seeded watermelon

• 1 cup sparkling water, chilled

• 3/4 cup white rum

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint

• 1 (6-ounce) can frozen limeade concentrate, undiluted

• Mint sprigs (optional)

• Lime slices (optional)

Arrange watermelon in a single layer on a baking sheet; freeze 2 hours or until completely frozen. Combine frozen watermelon, sparkling water, rum, mint, and limeade in a blender; process until smooth. Garnish with mint sprigs and lime slices, if desired. Serve immediately. At only 119 calories per serving, feel free to indulge in two!