A round-up of all your holiday favorites and when they’ll be on TV

A faux-fur vest that won’t break the bank

Top ten New Year’s Eve destinations

This is the grossest necklace ever

Still confused how the Kardashians’ keep getting more famous

No matter what, we’re still rooting for Brit

Guess recycling doesn’t save the earth

Man goes blind from climaxing during sex

Tailgating essentials for the best football experience ever

Cosmo article rewritten by a guy

Here at CollegeCandy, we’ve sort of been obsessed with sequins lately.  And why shouldn’t we be?  Sequins are fun, glam, and, depending on what you style them with, you can rock them day or night.  And while designer sequined clothing can get pretty expensive, these pieces are all under $20!

This mini dress looks super comfortable, but  jewel-toned color and sequined stripes make it dressy and stylish.  You’ll wear it all year long–with tights and a coat in the colder months, and bare-legged with sandals in the summer!  And the best part?  It’s only $15.99!

Shoes can make or break any outfit–so make sure you have cute ones!  These silver sparklers will go with practically everything in your closet, making them more than worth the $12.99 you’ll spend on them!

Pulling on a sequined mini skirt instead of your go-to jeans is a great way to shake up your usual going-out look.  And this one is super cheap–only $13.98!

Another alternative to jeans for a nighttime look, these shorts are definitely attention-grabbing!  They’d look especially hot paired with a sexy white top (see this cover of Glamour for proof).

Basic black?  Not this top!  At just under $20, this tank top will look great under a blazer for day or with your favorite jeans at night!

This sequined scarf is a great statement piece for nearly any outfit: with a t-shirt or sweater for a casual look, with a tank under a blazer for work, or with a mini dress at night!  It comes in gold, silver, and black, and it’s just $19.90.

This sparkly vest is on sale for only $13.99, but it’s glam enough to to dress up even the most boring t-shirt and jeans look, with virtually zero effort!

So you’re going out tonight, but just the thought of wearing your favorite halter top in the cold nighttime temperatures make you shiver.  Easy solution: a sequined cardigan like this one.  You still have enough sparkle to look dressed up, but you’ll be warm and comfy all night long!

Every year it boggles my mind when boots and wool sweaters start showing up in stores in mid July.
I mean honestly, people! Sweat is dripping down my back and I’m supposed to be shelling out dough on the over-the-knee leather boots and colorful wrap scarves? I think not.

But all these early fall shenanigans in the stores means one thing: they need to clear room.

Enter: the summer sale (!!!).

Pretty much every store you go to (or shop online at) is offering HUGE summer sale discounts. So this week, instead of putting looks together, I’m highlighting 10 of my favorite summer sale pieces. From shoes to vests to cute tops to totes… these are my favorite budget buys that will you can wear now.

Because even though the stores want you to think it… summer is FAR from over and you’ve still got plenty of time to look hot.

Product Information (Left to Right):
Top Row: Vest – JCrew; Boyfriend Jeans – Banana Republic; Tank – Ann Taylor; Ruffle Dress – Bloomingdales. Second Row: White Skinny Jeans – Ann Taylor; Tote Bag – Gap; Zipper Skirt – Bloomingdales; Ruffle Tank – JCrew. Bottom Row: Ring – Banana Republic; Sandals – Ann Taylor

The new thing gaining popularity in my closet (and Kim Kardashian’s) is definitely the vest. I’m a layer goddess, so whenever I see a vest paired with a summer scarf or a big bag I start drooling. And it’s starting to get super embarrassing when I’m in public.

Whenever I find myself searching for an easy go-to-night outfit, the vest is loyal to my dress-up needs. The right kind of vest can dress up any simple tee and skinny jeans.  But you know what the fabulous twist is? The right kind of vest can also casual down any outfit as well.  It is so versatile!  Like an extra whipped boyfriend, the vest is the best for all your feel-good needs.

Therefore, in an ode to the vest let’s look at the cheapest and most stylish ones of them all.

Once I get past the idea I may look like the abominable snowman if I wear this, I absolutely love it. The texture is a great addition to any stylish and daring outfit.

I love the mustard-yellow color of this vest. It’s kind of ’70s vintage and super chic.  I’m dying to match this with skinny jeans, ankle booties and some bangles.

While I am not a fan of the button down underneath it, this is one of my favorites.  The glitzy jewels on top put this vest in prime night-outfit territory. It looks comfortable, airy and perfect for a night dedicated to sipping cosmos. You know what? This reminds me of New York meets Abu Dhabi. Hey, just like Sex and the City 2.

This crochet vest is as sweet as a Kelly Pickler country song. I love it. I can see it at a family gathering good ol’ college BBQ. With the bangles and worn jeans you would fit right in with the casual environment.

This vest comes with an insane deal. You can buy 2 for $12.90 or 3 for $11.90 – what a steal! And I’m not done. The vest comes in solid periwinkle, blue, teal, gray, salmon and many other colors. It’s almost impossible to pass up.

At only $10.00, how could you not want to snatch this up? This slightly biker chic top would look extra B.A. with a tank and skinny jeans.  If you’re feeling extra saucy, you could add some silver-rimmed aviators. Get down with your big, bad self.

The sweet ruffled edges of this top and dark gray color coincide in perfect contrast. Innocent and sexy, this vest would look great day or night.

Embroidered and detailed, this vest looks authentically vintage. The back is sheer and even sexier. The cropped cut makes the vest delicate and feminine. I’m absolutely loving this. It’s perfect for a first date and a great first impression.

God, what did we ever do without the internet? Besides the amazingness that comes from sites like this, there’s online shopping. And it rules! You can get all your favorite things without leaving the house and online stores can charge less for all of it since they don’t have to spend all that extra money on actual storefronts. That means lots of fabulosity without spending lots of money.

And one of those great stores is a recent CollegeCandy find: Anique Michelle. It isn’t well known – yet – and might just be one of the best kept secrets of the world wide web.  The selection is small, but everything Anique stocks is adorable and affordable. Nothing costs more than $60! I’m totally digging the accessories and can’t wait to spruce up a few of my outfits with some of these.

Envelope clutches are great for those nights out because they’re big enough to carry the essentials, but not so big that they’re a nuisance.  Love, love, love the purple (it’ll look great with a LBD) and the contrasting details.  Definitely worth $19.

These earrings a great statement piece and can add a little edge to any outfit. It’s no wonder they’re named after me.

I find big, funky rings are the easiest way to add a little punch to any look. And with three color options (black, gold and silver) you can find one for any outfit…

I’m a big fan of the studs and bright color choices on this over-sized wallet (or undersized clutch?). Now you can carry your ID, money and credit cards in style.

Chanel is one of my all-time favorite designers and this homage to Coco is a whole lot cheaper than buying the real deal. Not to mention, it would look just divine over a loose white v-neck tee.

Leather + gold + giant bangle = the perfect accessory.

Vests are like fashion magic. You just slip one on and your outfit is instantly cooler, especially when you’re talking about this studded little guy.

Despite what Jenny Humphrey may say, headbands are still a hot accessory this season. I’m loving the rich color of the flower on this one. It will look good with just about any hair color and easily update a simple ensemble. Plus, it’s only $9! Take that, overpriced Urban Outfitters accessories!

Don’t forget: CollegeCandy readers get another 15% off at Anique Michelle through November! Just enter “collegecandy” at checkout! Yay!

Graphic tees are a fun, comfortable way to express your individuality and style (sorry, your “I LOVE BEER” shirt doesn’t count…), without breaking the bank. Every one of us has at least one that we enjoy wearing on a regular basis, but most likely we are wearing it simply with a pair of jeans or some sweatpants for the sake of comfort. While Jon Gosselin ruined graphic tees for the world, if done right (Read: not over-the-top and obnoxious), they are a simple and fun way to add some serious cool to any outfit.

Here are some ideas to re-work the graphic tee with some other items you’ve already got lying around.

1. Wear it under a jacket.

We all have at least one type of jacket in our closet, whether it be a a basic suit jacket, denim jacket, or cropped. The structure of the jacket adds a bit of class and makes the outfit look a bit more put-together, while the graphic tee adds an edge to an otherwise simple (or stuffy) outfit. An easy accessory to dress up the outfit even more is a long necklace, preferably one that is not too over-the-top. You don’t want to overdo it, after all.

Oh and, for the love of Anna Wintour, PLEASE, don’t pair a denim jacket with jeans. No one wants to end up on a Glamour “Don’t” page along with the old picture of Justin and Britney in their matching head-to-toe denim tuxedos. Eek.

2. Wear it with a vest.

The graphic tee looks great with a longer sweater vest or  a shorter suit-inspired vest for an added layer of style. This look is perfect for a polished casual look with jeans, or even a night out with some hot dark denim or black pants with some sexy pumps. Adding a long necklace or scarf will complete the look and take you from “jeans and a tee” to “totally chic and put together.”

3.  Wear it with a long-sleeved shirt.

I know, I know; picturing this style may remind you of your high school days or fall American Eagle or Gap catalogs, but you can make this outfit look stylish so that you can show off creative graphic tees even in cooler weather. Try to coordinate a different-colored long-sleeved tee under. For example, a more neutral graphic tee could use a fun, bright long-sleeved tee underneath. Conversely, wearing a more neutral tone under a colorful graphic tee will ensure that the tee is the focal point. Make sure to pull down the long-sleeve tee so that the bottom pops out from under the graphic tee near your hips. This look also looks great with a thinner scarf!

While these may be simple adjustments, when grabbing a graphic tee out of your closet, many times the temptation is to wear it alone as part of a casual outfit. This way, you can get an extra bang for your buck by being able to wear your graphic tees for all sorts of occasions- regardless of whether they are casual (pong tournament!) or on a hot date!

Sometimes all those layers can get a little stuffy… especially during summer. But you don’t have to skip out on that draped and layered look when you’ve got a vest to hang on your shoulders. Add a hip piece that won’t keep you sweltering with a long vest that wraps your shoulders like a scarf.

Paired with summer staples like shorts and tank tops, it’s a cute and comfortable alternative to your fitted button-up vests, but the look of a sleeveless cardigan sweater makes this vest a more casual layer. Some drape over like a curtain, lending a richer and more delicate style. These accessories will prove even more valuable on a chilly night, as well as into the fall season when you actually will need something to shelter your shoulders.

Check out the long vests in this Stylehive slideshow and treat your trendy self to an edgy, layered look!

As a college student gearing up for a summer internship or office job, you might not have a very expansive work wardrobe. Maybe your parents footed the bill for a few new professional outfits, but after the first week of work you might start feeling like you’ve run out of things to wear.

One thing you most likely own is  a white blouse, like this one from Gap. This top is so basic, there are a million ways to wear it. The good news? You may already have a couple of the other items in your closet too! Here are three ways to wear a white blouse (Click on the pictures to get all the shopping info!):

1) With a vest – While it’s still chilly, put a sweater vest on over your white blouse. It can be basic (black or grey) if your office is conservative, or add a pop of color (like blue or pink) if you want. Cinch your waist with a skinny belt to make it a little more fashion forward. When it gets warmer (soon, I hope!), pick up a cropped vest and wear it open for a sophisticated, cool look.

2) Under a sheath dress – If you’re worried that a sleeveless dress might be inappropriate for the office, wear a white blouse underneath it!

3. Tucked in – Tucking a white blouse into a high-waisted skirt or pair of pants makes you look effortlessly chic and sophisticated. This is a great look for the weekend, too – pair it with a pair of trouser jeans to do casual without looking sloppy.

For more fashion tips, follow me on Twitter or read my blog!

In other words, I know American Apparel.

Their stores are chock full of ridiculous things I would never wear, but they also happen to carry some seriously awesome essentials. You may have to pick through the sparkly unitards to find em, but they are most definitely worth the work. Don’t know what to look for? That’s why I am here.

I give you: The Best Things (EVER) at American Apparel.

1. The Vest

I bought the vest last summer and it’s still around. I remember the sales guy and I agreeing that the vest was “smart.” The vest is reversible and goes well with just about everything and is an easy way to spice up a rather boring ensemble. I pair it with a fitted tank, skinny jeans, flats and some bangles. Simple and stylin’ cuz that’s how I roll.

2. The Intimate

When a co-worker rocked a strapless top I asked her how she kept the ladies up so nicely. Everyone knows it’s hard to find a great strapless bra. She told me it was American Apparel! Yup. So I went shopping and bought three. The bandeau top layrs nicely under any kind of shirt and comes in more colors than your bag of Skittles. Just don’t jump/dance too hard or your support will ends up around your waist.

3. The Dress

The Sheer Jersey Bandeau Dress is pretty much amazing. There really is no other way to describe it. This thing can be worn a billion different ways! (They even have a video to teach you all the snazzy things you can do with it.) Really, this dress is like 15 dresses in one, which means anyone can wear it for any occassion. Genius, I tell you. GENIUS!

4. The T-Shirt

In morning you can fight with your boyfriend over who wears this one. The Unisex Tri-Blend Short Sleeve tee is soo comfortable and yet still sexy. The deep v-neck gives intrigue to the eye and the loose fit shows off curves while leaving something to the imagination. You can take this thing from class straight to the club! To say I am obsessed is a major understatement.

5. The Legging

I didn’t want to put the American Apparel leggings on this list, but due to the fact that I am currently wearing them, I realize that they had to make the cut. Leggings can be stylish or functional, so they are a definite closet necessity. And with the awesome three pack, you can stock up for super cheap.

Watch the dollars when you shop at American Apparel, they go quickly! And if you’re shopping online, the sizes tend to run a little small, but I think that’s the point.

But what I do get is sharing the joy of Gossip Girl after it airs. This week, I’ve decided to pseudo live blog. Because with an episode name like Poison Ivy, you know this sh*t is going to be good!

And if you missed the episode? Consider this your cheat sheet so when your girls ask if you watched tonight at dinner…you’ll be able to join the convo.

What will happen with Dan and Serena? Will he ever forgive her? What will happen with Serena and Blair? Will she ever forgive her? And what, pray tell, happened between Dan’s dad and Serena’s mom??

I’m so excited. And now that I’m settled in my bed with my ice cold can of Budweiser and my YouTubed episode of Gossip Girl, let the drama begin…

Part One

How cute is Dan with all the knicks on his face from shaving? Endearing.

HAHA. The choir is singing Glamorous. AHAHA.

Wait, they’re only Juniors… yesss. This insures at least one more fabulous year of Gossip.

I love Jenny, she just talked like a Latina girl while making fun of Dan’s inability to shave.

I love that vest Serena’s throwing on. Tres cute. Grey knit is big for fall. Oooh and I love the grey suede boots. They look like knee socks, BUT NO! Adorable.

And there’s the zinger of the first eight minutes, ladies. Blair to Serena: “Oh, too bad you missed the assembly. Not that it would have mattered, Brown doesn’t offer a degree in Slut.”

Snap.

Part Two.

I think the three Tylenol and the beer are getting rid of my headache. High school boys are hot.

Why must Blair’s mignons insist on dressing so fugly all the time? She’s the bitch here, shouldn’t SHE tell them?

GIRL FIGHT!!! Girls with sticks… brutal!

Dan is doing so well in his interview… how cute is he! Except he and Nate are vying for the same position.

Ahhaha. I love Chuck. Why should he be an usher? Because he’s Chuck Bass. Of course.

Nate is showing compassion… kind of. And of course, Dan should be pissed, why the fuck didn’t he get the usher spot? Ugh, I hate money. And society. And legacies. But I love Dan. And Budweiser.

I wish my Williamsburg apartment looked like theirs. It’s totally sweet ass.

Oh, Jenny. Life is tough in the ‘Burg isn’t it? I feel ya, babe.

Part 3

Serena’s mom is bailing on the therapy sesh. She’s totes pissed her kids are standing up to her.

I totally want to know what happened between Dan’s dad and Serena’s mom!

And I wonder why the juniors only get to go if they get the usher spot? It’s a mixer, doesn’t that mean people mix for God’s sake? Stupid prep schools.

Oooh. Love Serena’s dress. So cute! And her hairdo. I wish I had thick hair. And a hair stylist. Or at least the money to get my hair cut.

Oh, Serena is a huge bitch! I looove it.

Haha. Chuck is trying to get into the Princeton rep’s pants. He’s so sleezy, loves it!

Part 4

I love Jenny. She and Eric would be so cute together! And she’s wearing the dress Blair gave her… poor thing. But it looks good on her. My friend’s clothes never fit me that well. Then again, we’re not all size two’s either.

Nate just stood up to his dad! About damn time…he’s been acting like a pussy.

Eric is opening up to Jenny. They’re adorable!

Blair always dresses like a damn WASP. That suit outfit is totally unbecoming.

Oh no, I knew Blair would choose the Ostroff Center. I saw it coming. Sh*t, sh*t sh*t. Blair is a bitch.

And now Serena’s totally taken the fall for her brother. She’s such a good sister.

Dan and Serena sharing kind words… is there a chance?

Blake Lively has an awesome décolleté. Can my collar bone look that hot please?

Oooh, getting together and not talking? Maybe that means sucking face. Please, do!

Eric is standing up to Blair! Oooh, she got told and never saw his attempted suicide coming.

Why is Nate ALWAYS sleeping over at Chuck’s? And always on his couch. Chuck lives in a hotel, there are PLENTY OF ROOMS, NATE.

Awww. Jenny went to rehab to see Eric. And brought him a present! So sweet. And adorably outfitted.

Part Five

WHAT is that on Serena’s head? That hat is not cute. It’s totally 70’s. Blair’s booties look cute.

Blair is a bitch because she was abandoned! By her Dad who ran away with a 31 year old MALE MODEL! And then by her best friend! I suppose those are a few good reasons to be such a bitter biatch.

Does Blair really have a heart? Will they ever forgive each other? Will things ever be the same? Sigh.

General consensus? LOVES IT!

‘Till next week!