Friday, February 28, 2014

Leggings: How to Earn an A+ in Class

  Any class that’s before noon basically demands comfort wear, but you also don’t want to come off as lazy because – let’s face it – you never know when you’re going to need that particular professor’s recommendation.  Luckily, we’ve been blessed with what some may consider a direct gift from God…leggings.

Now ladies, leggings can either go very right, or very wrong.  Here are a few ways to make sure you show up to class looking classy yet comfortable.

1)   Make the investment in a good pair of basic, black leggings.  And by good, I mean quality.  Personally, my CAbi leggings are my go-to choice.  They’re thicker than the usual $10 bargain pair (and consequently, warmer!), structured, comfortable, and have fun zipper accents at the ankle.  Perfect!
2)   When in doubt, chambray it out.  But really, you can never go wrong when combining a great pair of leggings and a chambray shirt.  You just can’t.  Make sure it’s a flattering cut so you still have some shape when rocking this subtle menswear style.
3)   Oversized cardigans and sweaters are in and hopefully will be for a while…or at least until we’re done with college!  An oversized top is a perfect combination with curve-hugging leggings.
4)   Work that flannel.  You know your favorite band t-shirt hanging in the back of your closet?  Grab that and throw on your favorite flannel shirt overtop.  Leave the flannel unbuttoned for a sweet yet edgy look. (P.S. Don’t have time to change before going out?  A statement necklace can dress up almost any outfit.)
5)   Now, the shoe choice.  If you can sacrifice the comfort for class, I would leave the Uggs in the closet.  Before you come at me with pitchforks and run me out of town, let me explain.  Uggs are a fabulous shoe creation, however they also tend to bring your ensemble down to a more casual level, and there are so many other fabulous options!  Let me introduce you to the riding boot.  Relatively same comfort level, but with a more put together vibe.  Not into that?  Moto boots & combats look adorable as well.
6)   Finally, the accessories. If you’re still feeling drab about your ensemble, now is the time to spice it up with patterns, prints, and color.  Choose accessories with bold prints and fun hues – just make sure they are all in the same color family as your base pieces.  Beanies, scarves, and long cardigans are all key players in the accessories game.  Lastly, if you’re feeling adventurous and your socks are cute, pull them up so they peek out from the top of your boot.   Cute, comfortable and classy?…check!
7)   Bonus Points!  Want to make sure you always look put-together while wearing leggings?  I recommend wearing tops long enough to cover at least half of your backside.  Now, I know that we all love what a good pair of leggings can do, but keeping your tush covered ensures that your outfit will look put together and respectable.  Not only that, but you don’t have to worry about how many times you skipped the gym last week.  It’s a win-win situation.  Leggings are already baring the majority of your leg, covering up your back-half will only enhance your ensemble.  Besides, oversized is in right now, you’re only being fashionable.

   
So don’t stress while buying that twelfth pair of leggings, with so many simple ways to dress them up, they’re definitely your most cost-effect and cozy purchase.




***As many of you probably already know, I also write for the Greek newspaper on my campus.  Every once in a while I may post some of the articles I write for them on here as well.  If you want to check out their new, updated website go to - http://theodysseyonline.com/  Apologies if the repetition bothers you. :)  Happy reading! 


Monday, February 3, 2014

And the award for most annoying goes to…


  …the people who feel the need to chime in with their opinion on your life, talents, and dreams.  The ones who say, “Really?  You’re not going to make any money doing that!”  “The odds of that happening are slim.”  “That’s going to be really difficult!”  I’m sorry, but did I ask for your opinion? No? Hmmm…interesting.

In fact, some of my favorite decisions have been the ones that people said I couldn’t or shouldn’t be making.  “That would require too much work…you haven’t ever played that sport before…you’re going to miss out”.  And yes, the decisions I made did require extra work, I did miss out on some “normal” events, but the result was so worth it.  I developed a confidence in myself – I can pick up a tennis racket and become a decent player without any previous experience. (Or learn anything new if I put my mind to it for that matter!)  I learned that in order to grow, you have to force yourself outside of your comfort zone – even if that means attending audition after audition and letting strangers evaluate your voice (which, for the record, is one of the scariest things in the world!!!)  I learned that while at first your choices might seem crazy, silly, and stressful – they are the decisions that will ultimately be the most rewarding.

My advice when dealing with these types of people - and I need to do this myself - is to ignore them.  The only reason they are telling you that you can’t achieve something, or that something is too risky, is because personally they’re too afraid to try.  Or if you go and accomplish and conquer your dream, they are going to feel like you’re now better than them.  (And no, you’re accomplishments do not make you any better.  Let’s not get arrogant, friends.)

So…take the plunge!  Go for it!  And if you fail miserably, at least you can stand proudly and say you tried.  Whereas the rest of the negative committee will still be sitting in their comfort bubble carrying out mediocre daily activities.  Refuse to let their insecurities and safety nets become your own.  Smile politely, say “thanks for your input” – if you’re feeling extra generous - and then move on with your life.  Grab the aerosol and spray their reeking, negative fumes away. 

Problem solved.