CollegeCandy » summer style

Celebrity Chic on the Cheap: Rashida Jones is Subtly Sublime

Jasmine - Northern Arizona University — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 16:00:14 +0000

Rashida Jones has a way of taking roles in projects that I truly have no interest in – The Office, Parks and Recreation, any of her movies…and yet, she’s always someone I look forward to seeing photos of. It’s like she has invisible little birds always flitting around her, making sure her hair looks flawless, her makeup perfectly applied, and her aura sufficiently radiant, even in candid shots. Her whole aesthetic is delicate, very feminine, sleek and subtly sexy.

Black Tank - J. Crew, $19.99//Crystal Encrusted Cuff – J. Crew, $39.99//Pink Skirt - Urban Outfitters, $9.99//Hoop Earrings – TopShop, $10.00//Nude Shoes – Urban Outfitters, $49.00

This is a low-key dressed up look. A flattering black tank is a great way to begin an outfit. Pair it with a vibrant pink skirt to add a bold splash of color. Nude continues to be on trend, and nude pumps are seriously one of the most versatile pieces ever. Silver hoop earrings are a classic that add a touch of elegance to any outfit. For a fun accessory, a crystal encrusted bracelet adds some sparkle. This outfit is the perfect combination of versatile separates combined to make a really laid-back, but still fashionable impression. What amps this outfit up are the shoes and the bracelet, as she could have easily gone for plain black. This is the perfect example of how accessories can totally jazz up a really simple outfit.

Celebrity Chic on the Cheap: Emma Stone is Watermelon Chic

Jasmine - Northern Arizona University — Wed, 17 Aug 2011 16:00:48 +0000

Who isn’t obsessed with Emma Stone? Almost every person I know is, and judging by the fact that she has been in approximately 9 zillion movies in the last year, so is Hollywood. I think we’re all desperate for a young redhead who isn’t a trainwreck (still rooting for you, Lindsay!) Emma is not only totally gorgeous, but she has a radiant aura and personality that is reflected in her beautiful, vibrant style. She’s not afraid of color, which always makes her outfits exciting.

pink dress - Delias, 39.60//green pumps - Endless, $38.00 //earrings - Piperlime, $11.97 //ring - Zappos, $22.50

Emma recently hit Jimmy Fallon’s late night show in a thoroughly fabulous outfit. It’s simple but eye-catching, my favorite combination. The highlight of this outfit is definitely the color scheme. A hot pink dress is the perfect explosion of striking femininity. The dress has a very simple and flattering cut, and could easily be layered under your favorite cardigan when the temperatures finally start dropping. Green pumps complement the hot pink very well – it’s essentially a subtly floral themed ensemble. The accessories are very simple and minimal. Gold chandelier earrings add some elegance, and a bold rose gold ring add some funky flair.

Celebrity Chic on the Cheap: Olivia Palermo is Resplendent in Orange

Jasmine - Northern Arizona University — Wed, 27 Jul 2011 16:00:53 +0000

Every time I see a photo of Olivia Palermo, I remember the days of turning to MTV at 10:00 on Mondays to eagerly soak up the dramz on The Hills, and then immediately going back to my computer the moment The City came on. I’d always have it on in the background and glance up to catch Whitney Port or Olivia making dramatic, over-the-top expressions at each other. And I think Olivia was supposed to be the villian? I never could give The City a real chance to win me over, but Olivia’s status as a socialite keeps her on red carpets all the time, and she has definitely won me over with her classic-yet-modern, dynamic style.

Orange dress - $39.000// Gold bracelets – $5.80//Flower clutch - $36.75//Leopard print pumps – $49.00

I used to be a vehement hater of all things orange, but it’s one of this season’s hottest colors, and I’m finally convinced that it does indeed have a place in fashion. An orange shift dress is a great because it is simple, but offers a lot of interesting options for accessorizing, whether you want to go minimal or dramatic. Olivia went for a balance, choosing a pink bag that complements the orange nicely. A set of gold bangles adds some understated glamour, and the leopard print heels add daring ferocity and adds some sexiness. This is an awesome aesthetic that can be tailored for day, night, formal, and casual occasions.

Tricks and Tips to Feeling Confident in Your Swimsuit

Brittany - University of Saint Thomas — Thu, 21 Jul 2011 18:00:39 +0000

It’s time. That moment when you are standing on the beach, or a yacht in Miami if you’re annoying and you have to find a sexy way to take off your maxi dress (which sounds impossible might I add) and debut your healthy and freckle-less skin. To the rays of sunshine. And all of the men ogling at your fun bags and all the girls admiring your creativity to mix-match your Target swimsuit.

It’s a tough, tough world out there Target goddesses.

In my mind, I want to step out in my Egyptian looking maxi (Kim Kardashian style) and rip it off like a sexy, slim, and bodacious lady-Hulk. And you know what? I can. All it takes is a little confidence, body shimmer and a pearly white smile. Kind of like an Orbit commercial.

Get out those spaghetti strapped swimsuits ladies, it’s time to show some skin.

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Celebrity Chic on the Cheap: Selita Ebanks Gleams in Gold

Jasmine - Northern Arizona University — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 16:00:55 +0000

Selita Ebanks is a model best known for her work with Victoria’s Secret and is now just…professional pretty person who gets invites to red carpets. Sure, why not? She is an absolute knockout, radiating casual elegance, sophistication, sensuality and glamor through both her demeanor and her clothing choices. She hit the red carpet recently in a totally sexy, eye-catching, but still laid-back look that I’m totally lusting over.

Gold Skirt - $50.00 - EDressMe //Basic Black Tank - $4.50 – F21 // Red Sandals - $38.00 -Endless //

Gold Necklace - $9.97 – Nordstrom Rack

I am absolutely drooling over this gorgeous gold paneled statement skirt. I know it’s a bit on the expensive side, and obviously, if this is a too over the top for you, I would never encourage you to spend $50 on a skirt that would lay in the back of your closet for eternity. But if you are into glitzy, shimmery, bold pieces, then this is totally worth it. You can play with this skirt in so many different ways because it would contrast perfectly with almost any neutral piece. Selita chose a basic black tank top, which adds plenty of laid-back summer swag to this look, but you could just as easily go for a blouse or a button down in a muted color. A gold necklace complements the skirt nicely and contrasts well with the black tank. Red sandals are an interesting and unexpected choice, but they do add a layer of warmth and keep the outfit grounded and relaxed.

Beat the Heat with Sweat-Proof Makeup for Less than $10!

Heidi - Bridgewater State University — Thu, 14 Jul 2011 20:30:25 +0000

Sweat and water are great… when you’re at the beach, covered in sand and enjoying a day off, but when you have somewhere to go and people to meet- you want to look your best. When it gets to be hot and humid out, make-up just loves to run and smudge at the most inconvenient of times. That being said, sweat-proof and oil-free make-up is obviously the way to go during the summer months, but don’t worry! It won’t burn a hole in your pockets either!

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What’s your favorite summer product? Have any tips for keeping things looking clean? Let us know!

Baggin’ Out: Melie Bianco Ethnic Applique Hobo

Alex - Lakehead University — Thu, 23 Jun 2011 16:00:10 +0000

[Every girl needs a good purse (or 12). Whether you’re going for groceries or running from class to class, they are simply essential for holding all your, uh, essentials. Each week, I’m going to show you a fashionable, yet functional purse for the college crowd and let you know why you absolutely need it! I apologize ahead of time to your bank account.]

Since last week’s MBMJ bag was uber cute, yet uber pricey, I wanted to hunt down an affordable purse with just as much chic-ness for this week! I’m often so disappointed by the quality of cheaper brands’ purses; the seams rip open after a few wears, the faux leather looks terrible and the shape isn’t functional at all. It’s almost more difficult to find purses that are a good bang for your buck when you’re shopping bargain rather than high-end. Thank goodness for brands like Melie Bianco, who realize that not everyone can drop hundreds of dollars on a purse, but everyone deserves good style and quality!

The Melie Bianco Ethnic Applique Hobo is one of the prettiest bags out there. The tribal pattern will definitely stand out in your purse collection, but the neutral colors Melie sticks with make it super wearable. Even the mint – it goes with a whole host of shades and really spices up an outfit. The faux leather is quite nice and the wrap detail on the handle really up the ante. This bag is just a delight for the eyes!

On the inside, you’ll find a full fabric lining, a couple slip pockets and a back zipper pocket for valuables. One downside is the magnetic closure; it’s not as secure as a zipper, but the hobo shape of the bag wouldn’t work with a zipper. The handles have a generous drop, so you’ll have no issues slinging this over your shoulder on the run or over a heavy coat.

The ethnic trend is SO hot for summer and why not use your purse as a canvas to display that? The $60-70 price tag is also a huge bonus – you won’t feel bad about stuffing this under a cramped airplane seat and setting it in the grass at a music festival. Trust me, having a few great stylish bags that can get dirty without you having a coronary is a good thing!

If you’re interested, several etailers deal in Melie Bianco, and you can also purchase directly from the company at meliebianco.com.

Budget Stylista: N is for Nautical

Jill - University of Wisconsin — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 19:00:10 +0000

While Nautical inspired clothing is big every year around the 4th of July (I mean we all remember owning an Old Navy $5 flag shirt at some point or another) this year, Nautical is even more in style. From stripes to cherry colored bottoms, Navy blazers to white terry zip-ups, dressing yourself in the colors of our grand ol’ flag has never been easier! Not to mention navy, white and red, when paired together, are a fabulously flattering combination. Score!

Here are three summer outfits to take you plenty more places than just your family 4th of July BBQ- from the beach to brunch, shopping to a soiree…all whilst feeling tres nautical!

Nautical Beach
This bold bathing suit draws the eye up keeping it fun and flattering. I love the simple crispness of the white cover up and sandals on the beach- not to mention it TOTES matches your SPF!

Product Information: Bikini Tip- Old Navy, $15; Bikini Bottoms- Old Navy, $15; Coverup- Gap, $28.99; Headwrap- Forever 21, $4.80; Flip Flops- Target, $12.99.

Casual Nautical
I love the fun cherry red bottom that screams “my (nautical) body’s too bootylicious for ya babe!” Pair it with these fun denim wedges for a bit of girlieness and a light weight button down for a touch of masculinity. I love this hat that serves both fashion (adorbs) and function (see ya later sun burned nose)- Grap the jean jacket for a cool summer night to complete the look- oh so put together, you!

Product Information: Shorts- Gap, $39.95; Shirt- Old Navy, $24.94; Jean Jacket- Old Navy, $29.50; Shoes- Target, $19.99; Hat- Old Navy, $10.50; Sunglasses- Forever 21, $10.80.

Day Time Dressy Nautical
This is the perfect nautical ‘fit to take you from a day on a boat to a bbq to a bar. Cute red dress with a flattering waist line, fun bangles and adorable slip ons. Swap out the shoes for soe wedges and the tote for a smaller bag and this look will take you even further… like to a walk of shame perhaps?!

Product Information: Dress- Lulus, $39; Shoes- Gap, $39.50; Bracelets- Delias, $12.50; Tote- Target, $29.99.

CC Beauty Live: Beach Hair

Caitlin-University of Alabama — Sun, 12 Jun 2011 14:30:46 +0000

The waves, the sand, the salty air. Sounds like the makings of a perfect beach day, right? Yeah, until you think about the fact that your hair becomes a hot mess when all of those things combine. Especially my curly/wavy girls out there. It can be tough to battle the beach when it comes to your hair, but fear not. I’ve got some quick ways to prevent your hair from looking like a pile of seaweed.

First things first, protection is a must. (FYI you should use that motto in all areas of your life!) You want to make sure you’re applying a heat protectant or Argan oil to keep your hair safe and frizz-free. You can get the Sedu Argan Oil in this video from Folica!

The beach can actually work in your favor if you’ve got the right style. Braids are my favorite style for the beach because the salty air acts like Bumble & Bumble’s Surf Spray (also fab!) and gives me a nice surfer girl wave at the end of the day. I believe braids are your hair’s best friend at the beach. Buns are also great for adding some volume and texture while keeping your hair off your face.

Got something you want me to cover? Post it in the comments below. And don’t forget to follow us on YouTube and check out my other videos right here! And for more beauty related tips, check out my website and follow me on Twitter!

Explore Sao Paulo with Jeff Staple and Havaianas

Alex- University of South Carolina — Thu, 09 Jun 2011 19:30:26 +0000

Here at CollegeCandy we’re all about embracing summer through great accessories, including some of our all-time fave flip flips, Havaianas. And while we love throwing a pair on to hop from a day at the beach to happy hour, have you ever stopped to think about where these brightly colored, super-fun miracle sandals come from? Well, a brightly colored, super-fun city, naturally!

Get your culture on with a glimpse of Sao Paulo, birthplace of Havaianas, courtesy of design guru Jeff Staple. He explores this amazing Brazilian city and talks with other designers to gain insight on Havaianas’ new Soul Collection.

Yet another item to add to your summer wardrobe wish-list? I think so.