Last week I let my roommate borrow my coveted dupe for Chanel’s Black Pearl nail polish, which she was very excited about. But she wasn’t as excited when, much to her dismay, she started noticing chipping in just a few days.

This got me thinking about how many girls are faced with this problem. I mean, how frustrating is it to spend money on an awesome manicure with a great color, only to have the polish chip off in two days? Not cool. So, to help you avoid this, I’m going to offer you a few of my personal tips for maintaining your manicures (and pedicures), and keeping them chip-free for longer!

Click here to get CollegeFashion’s 3 secrets to a lasting manicure!

Nail polish and I have never been friends. I’m the girl who doesn’t realize she’s wearing dark blue nails until five minutes before she has to leave for an interview. I didn’t paint my nails for years because I knew, despite strict instructions on how to do a perfect at-home mani, that I did not have the patience to wait for them to dry, or the ability to stop checking if they are dry every five seconds only to smudge them with my grubby paws. I’ve left streaks of polish all over my apartment and have only had a wonderful set of nails when I’ve shelled out the cash at a salon because I’m inept at painting my own. And there is nothing less satisfying than paying for a great look, only to find it chipped the next morning.

Sally Hansen heard my plight, and finally came out with a product I’ve been holding my breath over for years (which was dangerous, to say the least). They’re called Salon Effects Polish Strips, which are so much better than the nail stickers I had prayed (with my chipping nails pointing towards the heavens) for all these years.

Simply put, they’re amazing. For less than 10 dollars, you can pick up this nail kit with a variety of shapes to fit your nails that last up to 10 days. They come in 24 different shades and they. are. awesome. There are muted, plain shades if you need professional digits, plus glitters, animal prints, and some fantastic fashion prints like my favorite, lace.

And if all that doesn’t get you excited, I have a feeling this little video will make you squeal. (At least it did for me.)

I really could not have asked for more. The application is easy (stick and file), the price is ridiculously good in comparison to those no-chip manicures that promise to last as long (that cost around 50 bucks), and it only takes nail polish remover to get rid of these when you’re ready for a change!

I can see it already, my glittery nails holding a drink, my lacey nails matching my outfit, my professional tips not stressing me out over smudges or chips before an interview. I just have to find them first. These aren’t even posted on the Sally Hansen website yet, but you can already get your needy nailed hands on them in Target, Walmart and Walgreens (if they’re not already sold out!).

Let’s all raise a glass to these Sally Hansen Salon Effects, day after day for 10 days. (Editor’s Note: Sounds like a bender to me, ladies….) The only difference to your regular college routine will be that this time, that glass will be held with perfectly manicured nails.

See what else Julia’s jonesing for right here.

It’s a new year, and you know what that means; it’s time to start working on those New Year’s resolutions. But before you start jotting down those promises take a minute and really think about this. New Year’s resolutions almost always involve giving something up, and making sacrifices. And that negative approach makes you all the less likely to keep them. Not fun  and definitely not productive. So instead, I’m offering you something a little bit different. Ten New Year’s resolutions that are actually attainable.

And even better, ten New Year’s resolutions you’ll actually want to keep.

10. Be more organized. In order to make any of your other way more interesting New Year’s resolutions happen you should probably commit to this one. Get a planner, or if you prefer, use a Google calendar, or your BlackBerry. (Or I’m sure there’s and iPhone app for that.) Keep track of dates. Make lists. Write down your goals. If you know what you want it’s so much easier to make it happen.

9. Do something you’ve always wanted to do. Everyone has a bucket list, something they’ve always wanted to do but have never had the time, the nerve or the money. This year, make it your resolution to make it happen. Get a tattoo. Learn to speak French. Have sex in the stacks. Whatever it is you’ve always wanted to do, make it happen.

8. Enjoy your family and your friends. We college girls live pretty busy lives, and that makes it difficult to stay in touch with people, even some of the people that matter most. This year, try not to let that happen. Make an effort to do more than just Facebook comment. If being in the same pace at the same time isn’t an option, try a Skype session. Or something they use to do way back when – a phone call.

7. Step outside of your comfort zone. I’ve already told you to do something you’ve always wanted to do. Now I’m telling you to do something you’d never thought you’d do. Grab a friend and go sky diving, or you know, skip a class if that’s more on your level. Just do something different.

6. Make healthier choices. Every year women makes resolution after resolution about losing weight, cutting out the carbs, and exercising every single day. But crash diets don’t work, and denying yourself something only makes you want it more. That doesn’t mean you should live off of Cherry Garcia and Raman noodles either, though. So start small. Exercise three times a week. Switch to whole wheat breads. Limit your ice cream intake to one night a week. Just make simple, healthier choices.

5. Stop counting calories. So now that you’re making healthier choices, one of the best resolutions you can make is to stop counting calories. It’s tedious and impossible to keep up with and takes all the enjoyment out of going for drinks or eating out. So stop with the calorie counting. You’re making healthier choices and that’s the more important thing.

4. Find some fabulous female role models. Nothing against, LiLo and co. but most of the women that are in the spotlight these days aren’t exactly role models. So start searching. Find some old school actress, some kickass women in the political sector, some awesome business women. Or even someone you already know. (Hi, Mom.) Get inspired by their accomplishments and set your own goals to work towards.

3. Splurge on something extravagant. Well, maybe not so much splurge, but rather save up for it. Instead of spending that hard earned money or that quickly pocketed holiday cash on little things, save it up for something substantial. Then, three months, six months, nine months, or even a year from now you’ll have the money saved when you really, really want something. Like those cute boots, that new i-Pod, or if you’re really ambitious, that new laptop. So save first, and then splurge.

2. Focus on you. A little shallow? Maybe. But also just a little bit necessary, and completely attainable. Stop the distraction and make sure you indulge in a little me time every now and then. Go for a manicure. Take a bubble bath. Shut off your cell phone for an hour. Everyone needs a little time to recharge. And after some rest and relaxation it will make it so much easier to focus on everything else that needs to be done.

1. Enjoy yourself. All the time. Alright, so the “all the time” part might not really be all that attainable. (I mean, you can’t exactly be expected to enjoy yourself during a three hour lecture.) But you should try to enjoy yourself whenever you can it. Be a little irresponsible. Do things you probably shouldn’t because you’re in college and you can. It will be over before you know it (Spoken as a second semester senior.), so enjoy it while you can.

What are your resolutions this year?

How?
With a little DIY, of course.

When it comes to treating yourself, you don’t need to shell out the big bucks for a professional; you can get the same results right there in the privacy of your bedroom. And we’ve got all the secrets. From great first date make-up and hair ideas, to cheap ways to bring your closet from drab to fab, here is your do-it-yourself guide to looking and feeling great.

The DIY Manicure. Even those cheap-o $12 manicures add up, so save that dough and manicure your own fine hands. You’ll have to head to your local drug store to stock up on all the essentials, like this season’s most fun and funky colors, but you’ll end up spending way less in the long run. And it’s worth it for Zebra-print nails.

The DIY Wax. If you’re especially daring, check out these seven tips for a successful at-home wax. And if you want to try the latest vajazzling craze without the awkwardness of having a strange woman in your area, there are now peel-and-stick rhinestone designs you can apply (and take off….) yourself.

The DIY Facial. We all want that perfect, glowing complexion but it’s not always (or ever??) practical to drop $90 on a salon facial. e.l.f. Cosmetics’ Creative Director explains step-by-step how to get that dewey but not greasy look yourself. And if you want to be really resourceful, you can even make face masks and body butter from leftover items in your pantry. Yum.

The DIY Makeover. There’s no reason not to look stunning for a first date (or a night out looking for a boy to take you on a first date), even with an empty wallet. Think Blair Waldorf! You can recreate her pulled-together, always classy look by making your own hair flair and copying her barely-there makeup. Just don’t forget to prepare for any mishaps (pit stains, anyone?) that might come your way.

The DIY Up-do. You don’t need some beauty school grad to update your everyday ‘do. It can be as simple and inexpensive as upgrading the half-up, half-down look, or being a little more adventurous and trying a retro side pin-up.

DIY Couture. Can’t afford the pricey goods lining the walls of your campus boutiques? Think high-fashion on a budget and add some Michael Jackson bling to your everyday V-neck tee. Instead of shelling out the cash, take your already amazing jeans and destroy them yourself. And make the boyfriend blazer you love so much completely unique and individual (like you!) by adding some funky patterned cuffs.

And if you really wanna knock everybody’s socks off, all you really need is a perfect Angelina Jolie pout and sultry smudge-proof eye makeup.

You go girl! Hit the town and knock ‘em dead….then spend all that leftover cash on something fabulous.

Make those thrift clothes look couture.

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Did you smudge your mani? Fix it in seconds!

But what’s an over-worked, underpaid and grumpy girl to do (besides wallow in self-pity and take out her frustration on her poor parents)?

Have no fear. The ladies here at CollegeCandy know how you feel (because we’re feeling it right now) and we want to share our tried and true pick-me-up tricks that won’t burn a hole in that pretty wallet of yours. It’s summer time and you deserve a little love.

Dive in, pamper yourself and thank us later:

Jump into a hot bubble bath.
Since it’s nearly impossible to get a good bubble bath in in college (like you’re gonna lay down in that nasty tub), we often forget what a good bubble bath can do for a girl. It’s luxurious and relaxing, and it won’t cost you a dime. Toss a little Epsom salt in there, light up some candles, turn off the cell phone and turn up the Guster, and you’ve got the whole afternoon to unwind.

Turn off the cell phone and prop open a book.
Yes, the mere thought of going off the cellphone grid for an hour may leave you shaking, but sometimes you just gotta disconnect. And there’s no better way to do that than with a book.  Reading a book will give your mind a rest, free from all that mundane work and life stuff that bogs you down daily. Need a book suggestion? We’ve got plenty.

Go for a stroll at the park
Working in an office all day will put a damper on anybody’s spirits. And what will lift that haze? A little time outdoors. Put on your cutest sundress and hat and step your cute wedges out the door. Nothing will calm you down more than nature, and, let’s be honest, a little Vitamin D never hurt anybody.

Dress up and look great, for no reason!
I do this anytime I’m feeling down. I hop into my closet, grab my favorite dress and go about my day. Who cares if I’m just going to Starbucks to drink coffee and stare at the cute boys studying for the LSAT? Dressing up makes me feel confident and sexy – two things that will make anyone feel good.

Indulge
There’s something to be said about digging into an ice cream sundae/Sonic Blast/DQ Blizzard. Somehow those little cups of goodness make everything else melt away. Should you make this a daily habit? Not unless you want to add cellulite-stress to the list of things you’re already worrying about. But giving in and treating yourself once in awhile will do wonders to your mood.

Get a manicure ($12 or less!)
This is honestly my go-to whenever I’m feeling less than stellar. No matter what I do, getting a manicure is the cherry on top. It’s the easiest way to feel a little more fabulous, a little more posh, and that massage chair will run even Mel Gibson’s bad mood right outta town.

Get a tan
I don’t know what it is, but a sun-kissed glow is like Red Bull for your mood. You feel fresher, more vibrant and more beautiful than ever. Grab your iPod and some magazines, slather on the SPF (let’s do this safely, ladies!) and give yourself a few hours in the sun. Hell, even a spray tan will do the trick and leave you feeling fabulous about yourself.

Got anymore tips on giving yourself a little love? Share them below!

Lucky for me, I moved in with a girl (Hey Kelly!) who has a habit of painting her nails multiple times a day if she’s bored. So I developed a new appreciation for nail polish and nail care, leading to a perfected at-home manicure. In this video, I’m taking you step by step and giving you some of my tips to make your nail polish last!

Got something awesome everyone needs to know about? A really great local band? An awesome website? A product that truly changed your life? CHOCOLATE? Email your “The Know” ideas to Jill@collegecandy.com and I’ll pass them along to everyone right here, every week. Make your kindergarten teacher proud and share!

Spring. It’s so close I can taste it.
Flower printed mini dresses in store windows
Iced coffee’s out and about even though it’s still a little bit too cold.
Girls running to the bars in short dresses and no jacket.

Oh wait – those idiots do that all year long.

Another favorite of mine for Spring? Ditching my dark nail polish for fun springy colors. Usually by mid Feb I’m so sick of wearing Wicked or Lincoln Park After Dark, but with 6 feet of snow on the ground and frost bite on my toes I can’t justify wearing those pastels. But now (well on Saturday) it’s officially spring and even if there is a snowstorm next week (I wouldn’t put it past you, Midwest) I don’t care because these spring colors are so – well – SPRINGY!

Essie has an AMAZING Lilac color (that is currently being worn by yours truly) called Lilacisim. I love it so much I would buy 1,000 bottles of this stuff and risk my security deposit to paint my walls with those teeny, tiny brushes. I would put streaks of it in my hair. And if it was a cupcake I would eat it (although I’m not so discriminatory when it comes to cupcakes…).

And OPI’s new Hong Kong Collection has a few winners as well. My personal faves are their pinky/lilac colors: “Lucky Luck Lavender” and “Dim Sum Plum.” Also, for those who like to go bold with their nail colors, “Jade is the new black” is pretty kick-ass too.

Either way, the time has come! Throw those puffy coats and dark nail polish into storage and start painting those tootsies and fingers for Spring!

I know I lead a charmed life by any standards. I’m single during my senior year, I love my family, I have the most amazing friends, I go to a great school, and I live within five blocks of the most scrumptious fro-yo in the world. Life is great. So why the heck didn’t I feel as great as I should?

Well, even now, a few weeks later and finally back in Happyville, I don’t have an answer to that question. Something was just off, and I can’t really explain what it was. All I know is it’s over now thanks to a few things I did for myself. If you’re feeling funkadelic (and not the good kind) – whether caused by boys, school, or an unsolved perpetrator – maybe a few of these activities will help you claw your way out.

Outdoor Activities: Exercise gives you endorphins and endorphins make you happy (and happy people just don’t shoot their husbands, as Elle Woods would say). So get out and go for a hike, or play tennis, or take a dance class! Go solo or with friends, either way, take some time for yourself!
Set a short-term goal for yourself; reaching goals will give you a sense of accomplishment, which generally makes people feel happy and productive. Setting an attainable, short term goal will force you to be proactive and get you motivated.

Even better, make a to-do list of things you want to accomplish and add a few tasks on there that you’ve already completed. Then cross them out. That black line of ink you drag across a bullet point on a to-do list is one of the best feelings in the world. All hail you, master of the list.

Ben & Jerry’s Phish Food/Chunky Monkey: This is sex in a carton. The food gods literally captured sex and bottled it up for the world to enjoy. Both flavors offer chocolaty goodness that you can’t find anywhere else. Yeah, it’s not the healthiest approach to life, but indulging in this will make you feel better, I swear. If you’re worried about the calories and your funk is from the new muffin top you’re sporting, try Skinny Cow ice cream and ice cream sandwiches. They’re almost as good and half the calories (but really, nothing beats Chunky Monkey).

Mani-Pedi: This time-honored tradition can’t be overlooked. There is something magical about getting a mani-pedi at a cheap, local salon. The manicurists may talk about your bad cuticles, but you won’t ever know it, so sit down in the big comfy massage chairs, read all the trashy tabloid magazines, and relax. A little polish can do wonders for your mental health.

Go See a Movie By Yourself: You won’t have to share the popcorn or the arm rest. It’s glorious. This seems intimidating at first, but will give you some major confidence as you see a movie stag and do an activity just by yourself. Nowadays, we are always surrounded by people, whether in your environment or through texting and Facebook, so it’s nice get away every once in a while and hang out with the coolest person you know (yourself, obvi.).

What about you? Have you been in a rut recently? If so, what did you do to get out of it?

You don’t have to be a Monet to do nail art, because it’s basically as simple as paint-by-number. If you can copy that complicated stats diagram into your notes, then trust me, you can put a gorgeous sprig of florals on your nail. Plus, your friends will be totes jealous when they all drop twenties on French manicures and your nails look a zillion times better for only the cost of the polish you grabbed at the drugstore.

Speaking of polish, here’s what you need to do this:

- Nail polish (duh)
- Cotton balls or Kleenex
- Toothpicks
- Topcoat (optional)
- Nail-polish remover

It helps to plan out your designs before you do them, especially if your drawing skills, like mine, are limited to scrawling malformed stick figures. Note that you don’t have to do something fancy on each nail – it works just as well to do a nice design on the thumbs (or big toes) and leave the rest of the nails as solid colors. Also, depending on how intricate your design is, you need to plot out an hour or two in your day to do the whole thing, since you have to let each color of the art dry before you can start the next color. The good news is that you can split this time up if necessary, and your nails will look really cool and avant-garde if they aren’t quite done yet.

OK. Got your plan? Good. For the sake of demonstration, I’m going to describe how to do this pretty red flower.

The brushes that come with bottles of polish are nifty tools, but they’re designed for full coats rather than nail art, so I propose that you use something else: toothpicks. Grab a few and keep them nearby.

1. Paint one or two layers of a red base coat. Let it dry thoroughly.

2. Use a toothpick to paint the main white flower on your nail first. Just paint the background shape (the middle circle and five surrounding petals). Then paint the four white leaves around it and the little white dots going outward from it. Grab a new toothpick if yours gets gloppy.

Important: obviously, your nail will not look totally perfect, but that’s OK! Especially since you will be adding more detail as you go, which is the perfect time to fix mistakes and add more pizazz.

3. When the white is COMPLETELY dry, go back to the red. Using a toothpick, start at the narrow end of the striations on the flower petals. Drag the toothpick lightly toward the middle of the flower. If you mess up, wipe it off quickly or glob it on a little more to make a different-looking design. Make striations on each petal this way.

4. Let the red completely dry, then dot on black in the very middle of the flower.

5. With gold polish and another toothpick, make tiny dots around the bottom and sides of the flower. Now let that dry! You know how annoying it is to smudge a normal manicure; imagine messing up all this hard work!

Here are a few more design ideas to get you started:

Orange floral nails
Flamingo nails
Checkerboard
This book is also helpful, though it’s meant for kids

Remember–this is art, and art is subjective. If all else fails, bust out the nail-polish remover and just start over. The point is, you can do it and you can make those nails look great. When everything is dry and finished, put on the topcoat and walk around showing off your hot new nails to everybody!