Kissable Lips

 Lipstick: MAC.

Lipstick is a girl’s best friend! It’s the perfect accessory, easily changeable and can complete any outfit.  Whether you’re a lipstick guru or prefer a subtle gloss, it’s always helpful to know which colors match your skin tone best. Luckily, MAC Cosmetics carry a large variety of colors that fit all skin tones and only $15!

Fair Skin:

If you have fair skin, don’t overwhelm or wash out your complexion with ashy colors- stick with orange-based shades, fruity reds, light pinks or nude. These colors will compliment your fair skin, accentuate your mouth and brighten your face!

Medium Skin:

When you have a golden/beige skin tone, you have more versatility when choosing lipstick colors- stick with colors with warmth and blue undertones. Try a deeper nude color for a day lip and switch it up to a berry or true red for a night look. Other great colors to try with your skin tone are peaches, pinks, or darker purple colors.

Deep Skin:

Go bold! Hot pink, crimson, and dark berry are excellent shades for your skin tone! The bold colors won’t be harsh against your skin, but light pinks and nude also look great for a clean look.

My personal favorite colors right now are a pastel pink {Rose Lilly}, bright red {Relentlessly Red}, and deep berry {Instigator}. In addition to the great selection at MAC, Revlon also has a large variety of similar colors and are only $5! Happy lipstick hunting!

No-Bake Cookie Dough Truffle Balls

Yay, it's Valentine’s Day! For some, that means receiving flowers and lovey-dovey notes. For me, this day usually involves copious amounts of candy, chocolate, and sappy rom-coms. I stumbled across the absolute perfect Valentine’s Day treat: no-bake cookie dough truffle balls. Doesn’t that sound amazing? Now, I’ve always been the one that asks to lick the spoon when my mom bakes cookies. I know there’s the risk of salmonella, but I just can’t resist the temptation of delicious, creamy, cookie dough. Luckily, these little marvelous truffle balls are egg-free, so I promise they are safe to eat! I’m not a good cook, so the best part about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy and fast. Coat them with white chocolate with pink food dye or just pink colored candy to fit the Valentine’s Day theme (or just stick to plain ol’ chocolate because….it’s chocolate). 

I mainly used the recipe from Food Network’s website as my guide – tweaking it just a little bit.

Ingredients

1/2 cup softened butter

3/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 cups flour

1 (14oz) can of sweetened condensed milk

1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (I didn’t have any mini ones when I made this, so I used regular sized chips)

(optional) 1 cup finely chopped walnuts

1 bag of Ghirardelli chocolate chips

1 bag of Hershey’s Candy Cane Kisses

Instructions

Mix butter and brown sugar in a large bowl on medium. When creamy, add vanilla. When thoroughly integrated, gradually add flour and milk – alternating between the two. Mix on medium. Finally, add chocolate chips (and walnuts if desired). With a melon baller or spoon, scoop dough into 1-inch balls and place on wax paper. Put them into the fridge to chill for 1.5 hours. After 1.5 hours, place candy for coating into a microwave safe bowl and heat until fully melted. Every 30 seconds, stir. Roll the balls into the melted candy and then place back on wax paper. Let them sit in the fridge for 1 hour or until candy coating has hardened.

***Tip: After the balls have chilled in the fridge and before dipping them into the melted candy, roll them in your palms to make them perfect balls.

Three Ideas to Spice up Your Galentine’s Day!

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We all know that it’s coming. In only one day, the holiday that screams pink, red, and hearts galore will be arriving. If you’re not like me, then you probably have your significant other’s gift ordered and ready to go and he, being the good boyfriend or hubby that he is, booked your dinner reservations weeks in advanced. But if you ARE like me and find yourself single this Valentine’s Day then put down that copy of the Notebook you were planning on watching and pick up your cutest pair of heels! 

Galentine’s Day inspired by the show Parks & Recreation, is the single gal’s solution to the one day that where the importance of having someone is overly emphasized. It celebrates you and your best group of girlfriends and is the one day to show the world not only how amazing you all are but how fabulous you can look on the arms of no one! I’ve put together a list of three ideas that will make THIS Galentine’s day the best one you and your girlfriends will experience yet!

Sleepovers 2.0
Just because we’re the 20 something year old generation, doesn’t mean we’re too old for a good old fashion sleepover! Have everyone rendezvous at someone’s house for a night of gossip, great food, and of course-your favorite chick flick or rom com (romantic comedy). My personal favorite? John Tucker Must Die because nothing says happy Galentine’s day more than a group of four women banding together for one common cause-the take down of a pretty face with a not so pretty reputation.

Oversized glasses, wedges, and brunch? Oh My!
Whether you’re going the morning of Valentine’s day or dragging everyone out of their beds the next day, an all-girls brunch at your favorite local restaurant could be an ideal time to get all your girls together, dress like your favorite Sex & The City character, and catch up on lost times. Granted, the restaurant might be decked out in the theme that you’re trying to avoid but after you and your friends settle in- I can almost guarantee you’ll be transported and will instantly forget about why you guys went there in the first place.

C…C..C..Cosmic Bowling!
As childish as it sounds, a night of cosmic bowling at your local bowling alley has its perks. Flashing neon lights, bumping music, a pair of shoes that barely fit and of course all of your best friends could make for an unforgettable night that will take you into the wee hours of the morning. If you’re looking for a night of dancing without the painful heels and can take a liking to aiming a ball at five pins-I seriously recommend that you consider trying this! You never know, you and your girlfriends could end up starting a little bowling league of your own!

No one likes to be single on Valentine’s Day. But it doesn’t have to be the end of the world. While everyone else is celebrating their love for their significant other, take the time to go out and celebrate the love you have for your best friends. Spending it with the people who understand you best can turn any Valentine’s Day into the one incredible Galentine’s Day.

The Single Girl’s Guide to Valentine’s Day

 

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Oh, the joy of Valentine’s Day! Heart shaped candy, flowers, love in the air…and, of course, the constant reminder that you’re single.  Now on the 21^st year of my solo V-Day Streak, I like to think of myself as somewhat of a Veteran. As an expert in the field, the one lesson I have learned from February 14^th is that, yes, you may be painfully aware of your single status, but that doesn’t have to be a bad thing. College is a time for self-discovery. This is the only point in a girl’s life where she is allowed to be completely, utterly, unforgivingly, selfish and stupid. Make mistakes, take risks, and most importantly, don’t ever apologize for being who you want to be. So, put down the Ben and Jerry’s, turn off “The Notebook,” grab your best girlfriends and make this V-Day a celebration of being young, single, and absolutely fabulous! *Cue “Independent” by Webbie*

Here are some ideas on how to make your single and sassy V-Day your best one yet:

1.     Throw a Party: What better way to celebrate than a few cupcakes, a little vino, and Beyoncé on repeat? For a fun little twist, do a Valentine’s gift exchange with your friends.

2.     Movie Date: not in the mood to party? Luckily there are a variety of movies premiering on Valentine’s Day this year. If you’re in the mood for romance? Find a show time for “Endless Love.” Two words: Alex Pettyfer. Feeling extra lonely? Opt for the movie “Her” and be thankful you’re not in love with a talking computer. And if you’re just looking for some laughs, check out Kevin Hart’s new comedy, “About Last Night.”

3.     Appreciate Yourself: Make this day about you by treating your body to a relaxing day of self-indulgence. Take hot yoga class, or a long walk to your favorite nearby spot. Eat healthy, because your body deserves to be treated well. Find a local spa or splurge on a mani-pedi.  Just feel like sleeping in? Do it! This day should be about you.

4.     GNO: That’s right, I’m not afraid of a little vintage Miley.  If you’re not familiar with the song, I’m talking about a classic Girl’s Night Out. Go out to dinner, hit your local bar or dance spot, and make the most of your night!

The Four #MCM’s You Should Consider

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Man Crush Monday. The one day a week where the female population takes to Instagram showing off the men whom have caught their eye. Whether it’s your long term boyfriend, some model you stumbled upon on Tumblr, or a well-known celebrity-these are the four #MCM’s you definitely should consider the next time Monday rolls around and you are debating whose picture should grace your Instagram news feed.

4. Kenny Vaccaro
Kicking off the countdown is NFL Saints safety Kenny Vaccaro. A born and raised Texas southern gentleman, this 22 year old University of Texas at Austin alumni was drafted first round by the Saints in 2013. Although he is a newbie to the professional football world, it didn’t take long for this cutie to make a name for himself…and make an impression on the ladies.

3. David “Dave” Franco
Ringing in at number four is David Franco, aka Dave Franco who recently starred in the hit film Now You See Me. And yes, you read his last name correct. Dave is the younger brother of accomplished (and also equally attractive) actor James Franco. Call it his alluring smirk, his charming laugh or those amazing eyes-any feature is more than enough to make him Man Crush Monday material.

2. Mark Wahlberg
Oh Marky Mark. This Boston native actor has been on the scene for quite some time now, starring in movies such as Ted or Lone Survivor. At the age of 42, he for years has captured the hearts and affection of women all over the world. Although he is older, we can’t help but melt every single time he opens his mouth and that to die for Boston accent comes through. Plus have you seen his old Calvin Klein ad?! Definitely something worth hash tagging #MCM

1. Aubrey Drake Graham
It’s of no surprise that Aubrey Drake Graham, more commonly referred to as Drake, wraps up our countdown locking in the number one spot. Starting out his career on the hit show Degrassi, Drake made a name for himself on the hip hop scene when he began with rapper Lil Wayne. His smooth, sultry lyrics coupled with that million dollar smile make him more than worthy for all Man Crush Mondays to come.

It goes without saying that there are millions of beautiful candidates out there that could easily earn the title of being your Man Crush Monday. But, it is definitely worth considering these four handsome men the next time it’s Monday and you find yourself browsing for a new face to add to your Instagram page. 

Who is your Man Crush Monday? Let us know below!

Rock Your “Fanicure” for Super Bowl Sunday

It’s that time of the year again where football fans across the U.S. lose their minds – Super Bowl Sunday. Whether you know the name of every player or just watch for the commercials, show your spirit by decking out your nails in your team’s colors! Broncos fans, you get to rock bright oranges and deep blues. Seahawks fanatics, show your pride with neon kelly green and shades of blue. Don’t be afraid to get creative! Here are some of It Girl, Madeleine's picks for the best Super Bowl nail polishes:

Broncos' Polishes (left to right)

• Butter London “Inky Six Nail” 
• Sinful Color “Cloud” 
• Sally Hansen Triple Shine “Wavy Blue” 
• Essie “Blanc” 
• Sally Hansen Fuzzy Coat “Peach Fuzz” 
• Essie “After-School Boy Blazer” 
• Sally Hansen Satin Glam “Sun Sheen” 
• Essie “Midnight Cami” 
• Sally Hansen Hard as Nails Xtreme Wear “Sun Kissed” 

Seahawks' Polishes

• Butter London “Giddy Kipper” 
• Essie “Shake Your $$ Maker” 
• Sally Hansen Fuzzy Coat “Fuzz-Sea” 
• Essie “Silver Bullions” 
• Sally Hansen Hard as Nails Xtreme Wear “Pacific Blue” 
• Covergirl Glosstini “Appletini” 
• Sally Hansen Hard as Nails Xtreme Wear “Green With Envy” 
• Butter London “Swinger” 
• Covergirl Glosstini “Sapphire Flare” 

Maintaining Healthy Skin in the Cold Weather

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Along with changes in the weather, come some changes in our skin. From head to toe, the winter months can do some serious damage to our daily beauty routine. Here are some of my favorite products for getting through this season:

Lotion-Eucerin
Eucerin is intended to treat heavy duty skin issues, such as eczema, it is perfect for curing the dryness that comes with cold weather.

Shaving-Skintimate Moisturizing Cream
This shaving cream packs the moisture to stop post-shaving itch, while providing the same great scent as regular Skintimate creams. 

Moisturizer- Hope in a Jar
I absolutely love this stuff! I get the original formula from Sephora for $40. It doesn’t leave my skin greasy, but moisturizes and heals throughout the year.

Lips- Blistex Medicated Lip Balm
This variation of Blistex helps to heal super dry lips and keep them moist through the winter.

Hair
CHI Silk Fusion hair oil- A good hair oil can stop breakage and help calm the frizz that comes with winter weather.

Head and Shoulders Itchy Scalp Care: Winter weather brings on dry, itchy scalp and dandruff. Fight these problems with this classic shampoo. 

Spring Recruitment Tips

As winter break begins to come to a close and those of us in the Northeast prepare to trade in our fur coats and Uggs for flip flops and bikinis-a record number of girls are heading back early to take part in the amazing process that is Spring Sorority Recruitment. Unlike most schools, spring rush at the University of Miami is our pride and joy as most sororities are not allowed to recruit during the fall semester. I can remember it like it was yesterday-anxiously texting my best friend pictures of possible outfits, reading hours on end about the different reputations of the sororities at the University, and nervously biting my nails as everyone in my Rho Gamma group waited outside our first party. This spring will mark the two year anniversary since my freshman recruiting days and now that I am on the other side of things, I’d like to offer a few spring recruitment tips that I wish someone would have told me. 

As silly as this tip may sound, I couldn’t even begin to tell you the number of times I would start breathing frantically before, during, and after each recruitment party I attended. As hard as it may seem, relaxation is the key. If you go into recruitment psyching yourself out, chances are you will miss out on the opportunity to truly connect with the sorority women who have worked tirelessly to ensure that this spring recruitment is one of the best. Before entering a party, close your eyes and slowly begin to countdown from five while picturing yourself as a tight roll of paper that is slowly beginning to unwind. By the time you reach zero, you should feel calm and collected. Plus, believe it or not-the ladies on the other side of that door are just as nervous as you are! So walk into that sorority suite with confidence and in turn, you will project confidence and ease everyone’s nerves-including your own!

Although it is not explicitly stated in the dress code they give you prior to recruitment, most girls choose to wear their best pair of heels during the different days of recruitment. While those cute Jessica Simpson’s look amazing on and compliment your outfit, your feet will secretly be dying inside by the time you reach your third party. Standing up for six hours at a time does begin to take a toll-at least it did for me. After a while you start focusing on the pain shooting up the arch of your foot and begin concentrating more and more on walking then at the conversation at hand. Enter my lifesaver: Dr. Scholls for Her! This amazing brand offers a high heel insole that, when put in each heel, offer a whole new world of comfort. What is even better is that you can purchase this product at your local CVS or Walgreens! If you haven’t been introduced to the wonderfulness that is this product-I definitely recommend it; your feet will thank you later! 

By definition, a Rho Gamma is a sorority woman who has chosen to disaffiliate herself during recruitment so that she can help facilitate the recruiting process, answer any questions you might have and ultimately aid you in the decision of choosing what sorority is best for you.  During recruitment, my Rho Gamma was like a goddess-she was on call 24/7 in the event we wanted approval for outfits and was so easy going and understanding that talking to her was like talking to a childhood friend. While not all Rho Gamma’s will be like the one I was fortunate to be paired with-they are all there willing, ready, and able to help should you let them. A Rho Gamma has to apply and be interviewed before being chosen so rest assured that you are in great hands as seen by Panhellenic Council. While it may seem strange to open up to a complete stranger about what you’re feeling about certain sororities-your Rho Gamma is there to listen to you and, if you allow her, guide you to the right sorority! 

While the urge to be as prepared as you can for recruitment should and will be there, venturing onto sorority ranking sites such as www.greekrank.com is not the way to quench your curious mind. While it may be nice to see what other people are saying about the different sororities you are interested in, you have to keep in mind that most posts are outdated, can be written by the sorority women themselves, and cannot even begin to accurately sum up the heart and soul of every chapter. If you truly are interested in a sorority and want to know more, try visiting their official website, Instagram, Twitter, or  their Facebook page. Each forum is an excellent way to gauge just what that particular sorority is all about! 

You’ve chosen the most perfect outfits, you’ve done your (correct!) research, and you’ve watched any and all movies that have to do with sorority recruitment. Whatever the case may be, the one and perhaps most important tip I can leave you with is to have fun! The way recruitment at Miami and many other schools are set up is a system that both benefits you and the sororities. It is designed so that in the end, you do end up where you truly belong. If you have faith in the system like I did, then I can guarantee the rest of your time in college will be spent with the best group of women-whatever letters they may wear! So have fun, laugh a little, and use everything the Panhellenic Council and this article have given you. You only go through recruitment once-make it the best it can possibly be! 

See you ladies all on Bid Day! 

Make The Most Of Dreaming Big This 2014 (Madeleine)

The New Year is the best time to set new goals! Most people have difficulty following through with their goals, but one great way to stay on track is to create a “dream board.” Even Oprah swears by it! Essentially, a dream board is a collection of pictures, words, and phrases that will inspire you and remind you daily of your objectives! I was shocked that only a few short months after creating one for myself, I had accomplished over half of the goals I set. Images are so powerful and it’s a great feeling to use them in such a positive way!

Want to make your own dream board? Follow the steps below!

1. Set your goals – Do you want to land a job or internship? Improve your health or fitness? Learn a new language? Want to save money for that Michael Kors bag you’ve been crushing on forever? Make your goals specific and realistic – don’t try to lose 20 pounds in a month, you’ll drive yourself crazy! 
2. Find compelling images – use magazines, Google images, favorite celebrities,       inspirational quotes, etc.
3. Make a cute collage including all of the pictures you find on a big poster board.
4. Hang it somewhere you look everyday – think subliminal messaging!
5. Go conquer the world!

 It can be overwhelming to decide which goals to focus on. Here are some of the ones I chose for my dream board: 

• Take more pictures with a REAL camera and print them out
• Write more letters
• Read five books
• Save $1,000
• Work out at least 4 times a week
• Get three A’s spring semester
• Drink more green smoothies
• Give more compliments

It’s so simple and rewarding. You’ll be thanking yourself for the daily reminder – it will motivate you to actively work towards your goals. Once you’ve accomplished all of them, save the board as a memento and start a new one!  

More digitally inclined? Check out Oprah’s online dream board creator: http://www.oprah.com/spirit/O-Dream-Board-Envision-Your-Best-LifeTM

Books to Read This Cold Weather Season

The fall season is well underway with the leaves around us browning and the smell of pumpkin spice lattes filling the air, yet with all these fun fall things happening the main change is the weather! The weather is starting to get colder as we transition into the holiday season and for me, cold weather means bundling up by a fire place (whether fake or real) with a good book.  I love a good classic novel as much as the next person but sometimes you just need a funny, girly book. Check out some of these titles the next time you are looking for something to read:

 

Written by Project Runway mentor and chief officer of Liz Claiborne, Tim Gunn breaks down every item in your closet and explains the significance and history behind them. From high heels to corsets you can learn how these things came to be. It is super informative and helpful when trying to plan a great outfit for a night out.

  

This hilarious, satirical book written by the creators of everyone’s favorite blog “Betches Love This” is a must read. It dabbles in the topics that are of the utmost concern to typical 20 something year old women such as texting, traveling, instagram and dying your hair. If you are having a bad day this book is sure to brighten it while also actually dishing out some helpful tips!

 

Former “The Hills” star dishes out her love and relationship advice for all to hear. She shares her personal stories about bad dates and failed relationships while giving awesome advice on what to do so you don’t end up in a situation like that. This book feels like advice from your own sisters!

In today’s society women of style and grace are hard to come by and even the best of us can lose our way. This book is a funny yet serious guide full of “old fashioned” advice on how to be a proper lady. It covers diet, speech, work ethic, friends, relationships, manners, makeup, and fashionable yet modest clothing, showing modern ladies how they can be beautiful, intelligent and fun while retaining values and morals.





Happy Reading!