The other day I was browsing the Topshop website and came across a dainty little number with so much potential. The Orange Cutaway Halter Dress (yeah, real original name, Topshop), is, like you guessed, an orange, halter-style dress made of flowy chiffon. Besides the knockout color, this dress also features a stunning cutout in the chest area, giving it a sexy ’70s feel and a very thin break in the fabric on the back, which will be evident when you’re moving around. Bottom line: The dress is hot, but leaves something to the imagination! When most people look at this dress, they immediately think “going out,” however, when paired with the right pieces, this dress becomes a super versatile item for both day and night.

Since night is the overtly obvious fit for this dress, I’m going to start there.

Because the color is so punchy, I wanted to make it the center of attention and paired it with a neutral pair of peep toe pumps and clutch. Night time is when you can get away with lots of sparkle and bling, so I suggest adding a dainty, rhinestone-covered headband and big door-knocker earrings, along with lots of bangles and rings. To keep this look from being overwhelmed, keep the jewels in the same tone. I chose silver this time, but gold or bronze would look great too! This look would be great for a semi-formal evening event (graduation dinner, perhaps?) or a cocktail night with your gals.

Now, onto daytime…

To make this dress more daytime-friendly, I was first concerned with the cutout. That’s just too much skin for a walk in the park or a casual lunch, so throw a tank top in an equally bright color on underneath. (This season is all about color blocking!) I chose to stick with a citrus-inspired palette and went for emerald green, but a pink or yellow would look awesome! I also added a cardigan in a soft lemon yellow to cover up the arms and shield from that brisk spring breeze. If the weather happens to be supa dupa hot, skip the cardi. If you want more color, throw a skinny belt on around the cinched waist. Finish off with a pair of woven flats (with that same emerald green!) to keep your tootsies comfy, a straw fedora and a summery tote. Jewels are optional, since this look is already so colorful, but if you feel naked without any, feel free to add some girly bracelets or earrings.

It’s truly that easy. Take a look at any semi-formal dress in your wardrobe and see if you can make it daytime, too! Add layers to cover up, and fun, casual accessories to tone things down a bit. You’ll increase the versatility of your wardrobe and get mucho bang for your buck. Good luck!

Now that Spring is officially here, I can’t wait to start bringing all my favorite warm-season clothes back into rotation — and of course, pick up some new items as well! One must-have I’m looking forward to purchasing this season is a LWD — A Little White Dress! Think of it as your LBD’s lighter and brighter cousin — it’s perfect for nearly every occasion (except a wedding — you don’t want to upstage the bride!), there’s a fit and style out there for everyone, and it’s even possible to find one that fits a college student’s limited budget!

All these dresses are just $20 (or less) each and are perfect for all sorts of occasions, from Spring Break and beyond!

We’re so close to Spring Break I can almost taste the sunscreen and tequila (not together. Ew.)

As you start to think about what to bring (and equally important, what not to bring) you might be finding some gaps in your Spring Break-appropriate wardrobe. Got your swimsuit (or maybe 15)? How about something to go over it? If you left your favorite sundress at your parents’ house, or lost it somewhere between Independence Day and Welcome Week (damn you, kiddie pool!), there are plenty of cute (and affordable!) options hitting store shelves right now.

And don’t hold back; you need one!

First, a new sundress can do double duty, working both as a cover-up at the beach-side bar and as a super sexy, fun frock for when you’re out at night with your friends. Plus, while you’re most likely buying it for Spring Break, you’ve got a whole lot of spring and summer coming up (not soon enough) to get plenty of use out of it. And, depending on the cut and style, with the proper accessories (tights, a long-sleeve tee or a blazer) you can make a sundress last well through next winter.

So have some fun and embrace the variety of shapes, bold colors, funky patterns and styles of this season’s sundresses. Just don’t forget to pack your sunblock. Lobster red skin clashes with everything.

Although the end of summer means the end of many good things in life (i.e. slip n’ slides, lemonade stands, dunk tanks, debating the possibility of frying an egg on your driveway…), the end of summer also means the beginning of something brand new.  Something fresh and exciting.  Something every style-hungry college girl craves out there…

End-of-summer sale racks.

Overflowing with those highly coveted summer items, now super duper cheap, they are a fashionista’s dream come true. And just in time for Labor Day! Can you handle it?? I barely can.  In fact, I’m itching to toss this computer aside and haul ass to the mall, frizzy hair be damned.  Oh, but wait.  We have the sales right at here at our manicured fingertips. And it’s all under $20? Who says dreams don’t come true?

These shoes are the perfect transition piece to get you ready for fall fashion. I’m loving the gray suede and the detailed, strappy style. Especially the zipper on the back which makes for easy on (when you’re running late to class in the morning) and easy off (when you’re running into your bed with your honey).

For some reason, I LOVE these. They are flirty and bright and remind me a little of my childhood.  However, if you’re a little nervous about they color, they also come in coal-gray and black. At only $11.50, this makes Forever 21′s list of Fabulous Finds. And with a crisp, simple white tee and a pair of flippy floppies, I would have to agree.

Anndddd another adorbz romper.  I’m starting my own collection in my closet and this one is quickly making its way to the top of the pile. (Yes, pile. Don’t judge.)  The budding rose print and sweetheart neckline is so bubble gum sweet, and rompers are a great tool to begin creating layered fall outfits.  At $12.80, this Gwen Stefani inspired romper wishes to be mine.

Urban Outfitters has an insane end-of-summer sale going on right now.  But even with the loads of great deals, this particular struck my fancy because it is innocent, flirty and the soft lilac color is a perfect way to say TTFN to summer.  I can see this frock already with cute white tights and fabulous ankle booties. Hi fall, I like you!

I’ll be frank: could this get any cuter?  And it looks so cozy!  Imagine it for a moment with a cute straw hat, skinny jeans, a braid and a beautiful brown bag. Hmmm, yummay.   Oh and I’m not done. This keeper is only $7.50.  You do realize that price is equal to a hungover trip to Starbucks? Beautiful.

OK, sans the weird see-through black thingy going on in this picture, the vest, I love.  It would look so fun with pastel colored anything. Its dainty and pleated ruffles are so feminine, so in this season, and could so easily dress up any outfit. Well, maybe not sweats, but still.  P.S. It also comes in dark grey.

And for the portion of your life in college you spend bumpin’ it at the clubs, here is the ideal embroidered shirt for you (which also comes in black).  This top is light and perfect for a night dedicated to dancing and drinking.  It’s versatile (could go with jeans or a high wasted skirt) and would look flattering on everyone.  Another plus: it has a built-in bra. Let freedom ring!

Last but NOT least, for your business-y endeavors, try this gorgeous Express top. It can be transformed into a such a professional dream, it will be tough to pass up.  Ruffles are perfect for fall and the slimming stretch material will keep you gorgeous all season long.

Fourth of July has come and gone (and, thankfully, so has my sunburn). Summer is half way over! Before you know it, you’ll be back at school walking to class hungover way too early because in your summer stupor you seemed to forget that 11am is really still too early to have a class. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves.

It’s still summer and for the past 6 weeks you’ve been working on that tan of yours. And, glass half full, you’ve still got a good 6 or 7 weeks left to bronze yourself. You know what is best paired with a tan? White, coral, turquoise and brown – only the best summer pairings since you put jicama and guacamole together. But to all you Snow White ladies of the universe (I SO feel you, my fair ladied sisters) these colors are universally flattering on every skin tone and every hair color. I have yet to see someone who does NOT look good in turquoise. (Seriously, find me said person and I will buy you a drink.)

Anyway, here are some of my favorite ways to rock this killer summer combo, day or night.

Dress:
I love the eyelet detailing on the dress, as well as the almost-sweetheart neckline. It’s extremely flattering and adorably romantic. The obvious thought would be to go with dainty and feminine accessories, but that’s boring. Add some chunky flair, ladies. Stella and Dot is ALL over these color combos for summer and I’m just loving every single piece. While some of their other pieces are a bit too pricey for this Budget Stylista, they’re having a sale on their SALE (an extra 20% off!) through today so check it out because if you’re going to splurge, now’s the time to do it!

Product Information: Dress – Lulus.com, $42; Shoes – Urban Outfitters, $48; Necklace – Stella and Dot, $35; Bracelet - Stella and Dot, $29.

Pants:
The ankle length on these skinnies makes them universally perfect for heels or flats, so, basically, your entire summer wardrobe. And this brown hobo will transition you straight into fall, but paired with these summer colors it’s not too heavy. If skinny white jeans make you nervous, go up a size. Or, pair with a longer top. (Forever 21 has this adorable ruffled number in turquoise as well!)

Product Information: Shirt – Forever 21, $22.80; Skinny Jeans – Urban Outfitters, $49; Sandals – Urban Outfitters, $34; Bag – Forever 21, $25.80

Shorts
Here’s a way to rock a print but still wear the turq. Paired with a coral accented canvas tote and some brown woven sandals, you’ve got a perfect outfit for a summer day to accent that gorgeous sun kissed skin of yours.

Product Information: Top – Forever 21, $10.80; Shorts – Old Navy, $19.50; Bag – Forever 21, $12.80; Sandals – Forever 21, $14.80

Why didn't I think of that?

Okay, so it’s hot.  Like really, really sweltering hot.  The temptation to stay inside and watch the first season of True Blood on DVD is certainly great, but you’ve got to escape the house at some point.  While there’s not much we can do to persuade mother nature to tone it down a few (hundred) degrees, there are a few tactics you can implement to keep cool on your outdoor adventures…and a few you’d do better to stay away from.

Grab a Cold One
The timeless, tried and true remedy for beating the heat.  Find a shady porch, call over a few friends, and ice down a six-pack.  Just make sure you don’t over-imbibe, as alcohol dehydrates you quicker than a walk through the Sahara.  Throwing a few bottles of water into your cooler can save you from hangover hell.

Kick Off the Heels
Nothing’s worse than dressing for work in the summer.  Fitted pencil skirts, blazers, business shirts…might as well add pit stains and forehead sweat to the company dress code.  Lighten up your wardrobe by mixing in airy (yet professional) sundresses and ditching the heels for a pair of cute flats or sandals.   Looking to make a bold statement at the beach?  A bikini and stilettos is not the message you need to be sending unless you just divorced someone named Spencer.

While We’re on the Topic of Shoes…
Kill the suede.  Get rid of the knee boots.  Aren’t your feet aching for a pair of fabulously simple rubber flip-flops?  Unless you’re hiding a SCRAM bracelet, opt for something more seasonally appropriate.

Shave
No one wants natural leg warmers and pits that look like they could belong to Mr. Pitt.  As you transition into short shorts and tank tops, recognize that your legs and arms are now accessories.  Keep them looking their best (and coolest), please.

Summer School
Did you know Gelato University is a real thing?  Looks like your dreams just came true!  While enrollment in the actual University, located in Italy, costs a small fortune, you can always visit your local supermarket’s freezer aisle and create your own curriculum.  Haagen-Dazs with Ben and Jerry’s?  Sherbet and sorbet?  Cool whip and sprinkles?  Looks (and tastes) like an A+ to me!

Don’t be afraid to get creative while thinking of ways to avoid the summer heat.  Find a cheap movie theater that plays older flicks, visit your town’s library for free reads, make friends with someone who has a pool, or bring your laptop to a very air conditioned hotel lobby and enjoy free wi-fi and beer nuts (like me…right now….why is that bellhop giving me the stink-eye?)…whatever it takes, ladies!

Got more ideas to rid yourself of permanent pit stains? Leave them below. We can use all the help we can get!

American Pride Doesn't Have to Look Like This

Fourth of July is here! Commence drinking, hot dogs, drinking, and singing “Bye Bye Miss American Pie” and maybe burning your hand on sparklers (which I don’t care how old I get, they will always be so freakin’ cool).

I’ve already given you recipes for the bbq you’ll be hitting, and now we have one more thing to tackle: the Fourth of July ‘fit.

You need to look somewhat festive (i.e. I don’t suggest your skull tank or vintage “I love Canada” tee) but you don’t want to look like a walking advertisement for the US of A. I’ve got you covered: from red, white and blue festive to festive without being decked in the colors of our homeland, you will look like those American Girls that all those foreign boys (and the Counting Crows) talk about. And you will be ready to pull a Miley and Party in the USA. Woot woot.

Skirt
The skirt in all three colors is adorable (it comes in red, white or blue! Fancy that!), but I’m totally loving the red – it’s so fun for summer! Whichever color you choose, pair with an opposite color tank. I went easy breezy with red and white here, but you could easily swap out the red for a blue tank and it will look even more festive, but still very chic.  Or go for the navy skirt paired with the red tank. Or the white skirt paired with either a red or blue tank. It doesn’t matter – the white sandals go with any of them.

So many options! I love America.

Product Information: Tank – Old Navy, $8 ; Skirt – Urban Outfitters, $58; Sandals – Forever 21, $15.80.

Dress
Could this look be any cuter or easier to throw on? I think not. Plus, it leaves plenty of space for all those hot dogs/Strawberry Shortcake ice cream bars you’ll be throwing down the hatch all night long. I’m a big time fan of you, red white and blue. A Big fan of your work.

Product Information: Dress – Lulus.com, $38; Sandals – Charlotte Russe, $10.

Shorts
This is a way to look festive even if red, white and blue doesn’t go with your skin tone/you don’t love rockin the american flag look. So cute with the Tom’s shoes!

Product Information: Tank – Forever 21, $13.80; Shorts – Delias, $34.50; Shoes – Tom’s, $43.95.

Pants
Ideal for those of us who can’t handle all those mosquitoes after dark, this look can really work for anything: day, night, 4th of July, or any random day of the summer. White boyfriend jeans are just adorable…and comfortable… and summery. Paired with this pretty red whirt (with blue detail) adds a nice feminine twist to the boyish pants. And the wedges are just a great way to get some height while staying completely comfortable.

God bless America.

Product Information: Boyfriend jeans – Gap, $59.99; Top – Lulus.com, $37; Wedges – Forever 21, $21.80.

It’s starting to get hot, hot, hot outside! While I’m stuck in landlocked Alberta, where no one has pools, I’m sure many of you out there are gearing up to start hitting the beach, or hang out poolside on a weekly (if not daily) basis.

Whether you choose to wear a bikini or a one-piece, you’re going to need a cover-up for going to the beach, or even just covering up a bit to avoid extreme sun exposure.  Lucky for you there are some really cute options this year that will easily transition from the beach to the boardwalk (assuming you dry yourself up enough to avoid those pesky wet marks around your boobs…). Seriously, toss a pair of wedges and a few bangles into your beach bag and you can take these things all over town.

So put on your sunscreen, grab your shades and don a cute cover-up as you get ready to hang out by the water!

Flowers are pretty in the garden so why wouldn’t they be extremely smashing printed all over your dresses, shorts, skirts and closet?  At least then they wouldn’t shrivel up and die after 3 days when you forget to water them. Yes, that is my ultimate philosophy with floral and I’m stickin’ to it. I will trip over children, bump into old women and elbow wandering husbands/boyfriends to find my way to get to that perfect, floral sale item.

Lucky for all you beautiful CollegeCandy readers, you don’t have to worry about injuring anybody in your quest to find the perfect, floral piece, because I’ve already given someone a black eye doing it for you. And here are eight, all under $20, floral beauties.

The black background of this dress contrasts beautifully with the deep blue and purple floral print. This would look adorable paired with a dark, metallic pair of gladiator sandals or a stylish set of bangles. Mmhmm tasty good.

I’m totally appreciating the vintage twist of this wistfully stylin’ tank.  It’s feminine, casual and would look supa’ fly with a pencil skirt at work OR (newly fashionable) high waisted shorts. Oh, and be sure to check out the back – you’re in for a glorious surprise.

The warm color-palette of this dress could transform you through summer and right into fall.  That’s why I love its versatile attitude. The short cut and scoop neckline make for a flattering dress and its generous giveaway price at $11.50 smells as sweet as the flowers.

This full and flirty skirt would look way cute with a simple and solid colored tank.  With a spoonful of bohemian and a teaspoon of vintage, this skirt is a perfect recipe for a summer treat (the non-edible kind).

This intricately detailed design is modest and innocent. I would love this with a stripped shirt and minimal accessories. It’s thick waistband would be perfect for wearing up high, or folding for an extra short effect.  Sounds saucy and versatile to me!

Another to-die-for floral skirt! Elastic waist… side pockets… flirty hem… This all sounds so great. Oh and at only $14.99 – so cheap!  With all your extra cash money get out and buy some modest accessories and call it a day mini-fashion-show-in-your-bedroom.

This top is airy, cool, and totally perfect for summer.  Can you imagine how cute this would be tucked into some high-wasted shorts?!  Its soft and simple cut is innocent, but its thin, sheer printed chiffon is yummy. The matching small buttons down the center are vintage and intricate.  You can’t pass this up!

Last but certainly NOT least is this fantastic cotton dress.  It would look bright and fabulous during the day or switch to some wedges and let your hair down and you have yourself a wonderful night number.  Speaking of numbers, you will probably be giving yours out all night with this dress. Better get a business card (wink wink, nudge nudge, cough).

First it was the skinny jeans that seemed like a good idea in my cool apartment, but instantly made the back of my knees sticky when exposed to the 90 degree sauna outside. The next morning I vowed to never make the mistake again and I slipped on a mini skirt. An hour later the hip hugging stretch fabric was making me claustrophobic, not to mention that it kept riding up making me look like the office hooker.

As I felt sweat stains spreading down the back of my white tank the next day I cursed myself and then hit the web in search of some scorching-temperature outfits that could get me through the summer of hell that this is turning out to be.

I stumbled across the Flowers in the Fountain Dress from Modcloth (which is always my go-to site for girly frocks with a vintage vibe) and wished I could have it delivered to me right at my desk.

The strapless top is just what I need, with no uncomfortable straps or restricting high necklines, and the sweetheart shape couldn’t be any more adorable – sexy in a way demure enough for the office. We get the comfort and airiness of a mumu without committing a massive fashion faux pas. Much to the contrary, this dress couldn’t get any cuter. The baby doll shape accents the waistline without feeling too binding as the fabric flows away from the body (giving my legs some much needed breathing room).

Even the pattern makes me feel lighter, with posies channeling a watercolor effect in the cool color palette of blue, grey and white. I’m already thinking of ways to rock this dress to work, without pit stains, flushed cheeks and beads of foundation colored sweat as accessories.

My office is freezing (thank god) so I’ll carry a light grey cardigan or a sheer, white silk scarf to cover my shoulders. Playing up the girliness of the dress’ floral pattern with white flats and a simple, single-strand necklace will make for a perfect summer work outfit. And throwing on a wide black belt, strappy heels and mismatched stacks of bracelets makes it edgy enough to transition to a night out.

What makes me even happier is that this dress totally emulates the Anthropologie vibe at half the cost. The garden party-chic style of my all time favorite store, a price tag I can manage to justify and no sticky-thigh syndrome? I’m totally sold.