3 Fall Jackets To Spice Up Your Wardrobe

Ladies and gentlemen, fall fashion is finally back! After a summer of cut-off shorts and fun times, it’s time to return to the cozy trends of layering scarves, jackets, and socks. With cooler temperatures comes the need to layer on a jacket or two, especially when transitioning your summer pieces into a more fall-appropriate look. Jackets have to be my favorite way to do that. Here are three essential jackets that make your look stand out.

PHOTO: Cassidy Clark

1—Denim jackets

This is the most quintessential piece for transitioning summer looks into fall. A denim jacket goes well with brighter pieces and helps to tone it down a bit for the season. There are a wide range of fits and washes for any look. I love pairing light wash, cropped denim jackets with a summer dress, a scarf, and booties for an ultimate fall-chic look. If I would rather wear pants, an oversize medium wash jacket adds a cool, edgy look to any basic T-shirt. Don’t be afraid to wear denim-on-denim, either! Embrace the ’90s trend and all its glory this fall.

PHOTO: Kelly Rogowski

2—Trench coats

Trench coats are the hidden gem missing from a lot of closets. Whenever I imagine a woman wearing a trench coat, I also picture her as very confident and smart. Take advantage of that! Feeling under the weather one day? Throw a trench coat on to remind yourself of how strong and beautiful you are. It’s an instant confidence booster. Trench coats can look extra chic paired with black skinny jeans and top. They are also great for layering over chunky sweaters.

PHOTO: Jordyn Wissert

3—Statement jackets

Nothing makes more of a statement than a cool patterned or embroidered jacket. Who says all jackets need to be basics? They can be statement pieces too! The great thing about statement jackets is that you can wear the most basic outfit and it will still stand out with a statement jacket. Throw it over your go-to jeans and T-shirt look or a simple dress. Use the jacket as an accessory when you style it. You can wear it normally for a more functional purpose, drape it over your shoulders for an instant chic vibe, or tie it around your waist for a slimming affect.

How do you style your favorite jackets in the fall? Comment below!

All the Best Shows to Binge-Watch This Fall

Even though September is full of changes, adjustments, and growing schedules, it’s important to enjoy what free time you have. Personally, I love to watch—well, binge-watch—my favorite shows. Though not maximally productive, I believe that entertainment and storytelling are such significant parts of culture. You can gain a lot from decompressing with a sweater, a warm blanket, and a Netflix subscription. The following shows are my personal picks for chilling out while also getting into the spirit of fall.

PHOTO: Anna Coke

1—Gilmore Girls

When it comes to fall television, one of the first shows on my mind is always Gilmore Girls. The little town of Stars Hollow is the epitome of cozy—even when flowers are in bloom and the sun is shining. The tight-knit relationships of all the different characters mixed with a seemingly old-fashioned setting make for the perfect hot cocoa binge-watch session (with a cute mug, of course). Plus, Rory’s trials and tribulations with friends, school, and relationships often offer some pretty sound real-life advice.

PHOTO: Rachel Zuckerberg

2—Stranger Things

Second is the best, right? Stranger Things is the perfect addition to this list for a multitude of reasons. Not only is the show literally set in the fall of 1983, but the ’80s music, fashion, and overall vibe easily put the viewer in a mood most naturally paired with fall months. With season two set to premiere late this October, now is a better time than ever to put on some snuggly tacky socks and binge-watch. Stranger Things may be hyped-up to no end, but the hype is very much lived up to.

PHOTO: Jordyn Wissert

3—Master of None

If you’re a fan of laughing in general, then there is no reason why this Netflix-original shouldn’t be on your to-watch list. Comedian Aziz Ansari and writer Alan Yang, the creators of the show, never fail to deliver hilarious moments without traditional set-ups and punchlines. Master of None is clever, charming, and straight up funny: the perfect combination for back-to-school viewing. There’s also something about the New York City setting that always makes me feel transported and inspired.

PHOTO: Kelly Rogowski

4—The Vampire Diaries

Much like Gilmore Girls‘ town of Stars Hollow, The Vampire Diaries‘ setting of Mystic Falls provides a quaint small-town atmosphere that complements snugging-up this season. Of course, it goes without saying that the fantasy world of vampires, werewolves, and witches screams “Halloween.” Additionally, the outlandish drama of TVD’s core group of high schoolers often helps to distract me from any of my own problems or anxieties—even if just for 45 minutes.

What’s on your to-watch list for this season? I’d love to read your suggestions in the comments below! If you’re searching for other ways to get into the fall spirit, check out college fashionista’s Pinterest mood boards.

Featured photo by Jordyn Wissert.

3 Fashion Career Myths You’ve Got All Wrong

Those of us seeking a career in fashion are often met with criticism about our decided path of life. Parents, mentors, and friends give us their bits of wisdom hoping to deter us from a career many people view as too risky. They have the best intention for us, but they have some of their facts wrong. Below, I cover three of these fashion career myths and the truths that bust them.

PHOTO: Layne Miller

1—The fashion industry is full of shallow people.

This isn’t necessarily true. While there may be some shallow people in this career field, it isn’t different from any other industries. Some people may be in it for shallow reasons, but most people want to make a difference in the field. There are a lot of ethical issues in fashion that still need to be worked on, and many people going into the fashion industry today have goals to change some of those issues. People are focused now more than ever on creating environmentally friendly clothing, changing the working conditions of the manufacturers, and diversifying those who participate in the industry.

2—You have to go to a fashion school to be successful in fashion.

On the contrary, all you have to do to be successful in fashion is have a passion for it and the drive to never give up. Plenty of big-name designers never went to fashion school and in fact majored in something entirely different. Refinery 29 did a short listicle of designers who did not attend fashion school. Some of those designers include Kate Spade, Giorgio Armani, and Chiara Ferragni.

PHOTO: Amber Sudra

3—It is hard to make a living in fashion.

Isn’t that true of every industry right now? The job market is competitive no matter what industry you are entering so you may as well enter a career field worth being competitive in. Besides, the likelihood of making a living in the fashion industry isn’t really as bad as it seems. In 2016, Fashionista surveyed their readers to find out how much they make on average based on their position. They surveyed people who worked at companies like Prada to people who worked at companies like Macy’s and H&M. Overall, the average salaries wouldn’t leave you living paycheck-to-paycheck, even with NYC’s ridiculous cost of living.

What are some career myths you have encountered? Let us know in the comments below!

Additional photo by Kenia Viezcas.

Here Are 4 Ways to Fall in Love with Your Solitude

The words in Rupi Kaur’s New York Times bestseller Milk and Honey struck my soul in more ways than one. A page that particularly opened my eyes to the internal struggles of the world quoted, “fall in love with your solitude.” This led me to wondering, what is it that makes our generation so terrified of being alone?

I took it upon myself to challenge these fears and defeat the dependence we all drown in throughout our daily lives—this made me realize that being comfortable on your own is practically a superpower. Requesting a table for one gives you the opportunity to occupy yourself with nothing but your own thoughts, feelings, and desires, and it’s absolutely liberating. It can teach us fortitude and the ability to satisfy our own needs, while also bringing forth the longing to explore and confidence to be an individual. So why is there such a negative stigma?

Total solitude is meant to be celebrated—all it takes is one killer experience and you’ll be hooked. So if spending a weekend solo is a prospect you do not find wildly appealing, I’m here to change your mind. Beginners, here’s what to do:

1—Manage your time

As life pulls you in several different directions, always remember to never let a busy schedule force you to give up the things you love. Write your poetry. Read your books. Go on those nightly runs. Even when it feels like there’s not enough time in the day, it’s so important to make time for yourself.

PHOTO: Emily Truong

2—Find your safe place

In a culture that thrives on constant stimulation, the trick to enjoying the accompaniment of your own mind is to never be bored. Finding a place that satisfies all your needs is key. Intimidated? Take baby steps and try a matinee movie or mid-day shopping trip. An hour a day is sure to keep you feeling refreshed and ready for the big leagues in no time!

PHOTO: Amber Sudra

3—Disconnect

Because we live in an age where you’re reasonably presumed dead if you don’t answer your phone in a certain period of time, airplane mode is truly an electronic saving grace if you want total peace going off-grid. Instead of investing your “me time” in everyone else’s whereabouts on Snapchat, you owe it to yourself to pull the plug.

PHOTO: Daisa Harris

4—Journal

Now that you’ve ditched your cell, bring a pen. During the loner phase, you’re forced to speak less and listen more—whether that be to your personal thoughts or eavesdropping on the quirky couple behind you, write it down. Self-reflection is the first step to personal growth.

PHOTO: Natalie Miller

No matter what place you’re at in your journey, be easy, take your time, and remember, you can always come home…to yourself. It’s time to start living and spend time just doing you.

Do you crave alone time? If so, let us know how you’re spending it in the comments below!

This Simple Beauty Routine Can Do More Than Save Time

Three years ago, I started to do the unthinkable—wear only the bare necessities for makeup. This was before the simple beauty routine was actually popularized by Glossier and fresh-faced models. My decision to begin this no-makeup makeup routine required no complex thought process; it was simply a result of saving time in the morning. While I didn’t realize at the time that this change would result in anything more than a shorter morning routine, the benefits started pouring in. If you’re on the verge of cutting your beauty routine in half but are still unsure, keep reading below to see the hidden perks nobody tells you about. P.S.—your skin will thank you.

PHOTO: Cassidy Clark

1—You’ll focus your energy on your skincare routine

A lazy beauty routine implies putting minimal effort into your routine, but who says this applies to skincare? When I spent 30 minutes on my makeup every morning, I had zero skincare products. Fast-forward three years later, and now I own too many to count. Cutting back on beauty products that block your skin allows you to actually stop and care for the largest organ on your body. I now moisturize at least twice a day, use vitamin serums, and try to use a face mask on a regular basis. You know that meme where skincare can magically cure all of your ailments, even if every other aspect of your life is crashing and burning? I can confirm that to be 100 percent true. Just as Glossier says, skin is in.

PHOTO: Natalie Miller

2—Makeup will become a tool to enhance your features, not hide

Using only three to four beauty products makes it nearly impossible to hide your flaws, and will enhance the features you love. Like your cheekbones so much that you want to make them glow? Use a dewy highlighter. Have naturally bushy eyebrows but want to make them just a little more defined? Apply a simple brow gel to your brows. This technique not only saves money, but it also allows you to realize the features you love about your face. Say hello to a huge boost in confidence.

PHOTO: Jordyn Wissert

3—You’ll have more time to do, well, everything

It’s clear that a simple beauty routine will literally cut minutes of time, but the free time will show up in more ways than the obvious. Time to decompress and take care of yourself will increase; instead of spending 20 minutes on eyeliner, you could meditate every morning. You won’t be worried about always looking your best when you leave the house, and this automatically gives you the energy to worry about more important aspects of your life, like your future summer internship. You’ll learn that makeup is only a tiny detail in your life instead of its basis—as it should be.

How has turning to a lazy beauty routine changed your life? Leave your response in the comments!

Additional photos by Amber Sudra and Lex Kelly.

3 DIY Face Masks You Can Whip Up in Your Kitchen

Beauty products can be expensive—especially when you’re trying to keep up with the latest masking trends. As someone who’s struggled with breakouts and uneven skin tone for the longest time, I always look for at-home natural DIY alternatives that offer the same benefits as many high-end face masks. Here are just a few:

PHOTO: Amber Sudra

1—Coconut oil. The benefits of adding coconut oil to your beauty routine are widely discussed. I love using it as a natural moisturizer. Simply rub about a teaspoon of coconut oil onto your face, and let the oil sink in for at least 20 minutes. Some people choose to leave the oil on their face until it’s all soaked in, but if it’s too much moisture for you and you have somewhere to go, you can wipe it off with a clean towel to reveal glowing skin.

2—Turmeric. Turmeric is known for being high in antioxidants, which helps with acne, dry skin, and overall texture. Not only is the orange colored mask fun to apply, but it’s also super easy to make. In a small bowl, combine a teaspoon of turmeric, a few drops of honey, two tablespoons of milk (or yogurt), and a tablespoon of flour. Mix all the ingredients together, and then apply the mask for about 20 minutes. You may have some leftovers which you can keep in the fridge to use later that week.

3—Baking soda. Baking soda is great for balancing the PH level of your skin. This allows it to help with blackheads, inflammation, and over time, it can slowly heal acne scars. The mask is really easy to create, just mix a tablespoon of water with 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking soda, apply and allow it to sit for about 10 minutes. Rinse it off with warm water, and then apply a moisturizer.

Try out these face masks, and share with us on social @CFashionista!

Additional photos by Cassidy Clark.

7 Fall Beauty Trends That Are Perfect for Your 8 A.M.

We all know how hard it is to wake up for that early morning class since studying and homework keep us up at night. This makes trying to do your hair and makeup seem almost impossible. But it doesn’t have to be. These seven beauty trends, straight off the fall runways, are perfect for when you just can’t deal with that early morning class.

PHOTO: Lex Kelly

1—Vampy Lips

Probably always a given for fall, vampy lips are still trending. The great thing about this look is that it requires minimal makeup on the rest of your face. Just grab a berry shade of your favorite lip product and swipe away. Only 10 seconds or less of your time and you look like you actually tried to get ready for class this morning.

PHOTO: Julia Michael

2—Deep Side Parts

Early classes mean that sometimes there’s just no time to wash your hair. Deep side parts are here to rescue you and your greasy strands. Just smooth your hair down with a brush and tie it into a messy chignon or low bun.

3—Monochrome Makeup

Millennial pink ruled spring and summer fashion and now it’s ruling fall beauty trends. Monochrome makeup is a great way to quickly do a look that appears like it took much more effort than it really did. Trendy multi sticks are perfect for applying a wash of color to your eyelids, cheeks, and lips in a matter of seconds. Smudge out with your finger and you’re out the door and on your way to class.

PHOTO: Lex Kelly

4—Braids for Days

The messier, the better when it comes to braids this fall. Just braid your hair however you like before bed, sleep on it, wake up, and head to class. Add some texturizing spray before you head out the door to play up the texture.

5—Clean Complexions

Heavy face makeup for fall? No way. The focus this season is on skin care. Good news, right? Just sticking to your normal routine and having clear, glowing skin is enough to get you to class in the morning without all the fuss. If you can’t leave without at least a little concealer, pick a natural one to spot conceal any problem areas like under eye circles or blemishes.

PHOTO: Madison Paloski

6—Statement Hair Accessories

Another way to disguise that second—or third—day hair is with statement accessories. Headbands, ribbons, scrunchies, you name it. Just throw one in your hair to hide the grease. People will think you really put in some effort before that 8 a.m.

7—Highlighted Inner Corners

Finally, highlighting your inner corners is an instant way to make it look like you actually got more than a few hours of sleep last night. Skip the rest of the eyeshadow and just focus a brightening color on the inner corner of the eye. Add some mascara and you’re ready to go!

Which beauty trends are you trying out this season? Let us know in the comments below!

3 Makeup Brands That Double as Skincare

Although the new year technically begins in January, students, teachers, and Vogue would argue that the year really begins in September. In elementary school, back-to-school season meant a new composition book and shiny new Mary Janes. In middle school, it meant a fresh haircut (remember side bangs?) and a new L.L. Bean backpack. In high school, it meant a new black eyeliner pencil (to match the teen angst) and a pair of Converse. Now that I’m in college, my back-to-school essentials have upgraded to include sheet masks and makeup that doubles as skincare.

Even though I’m fully aware that by November I will be rocking a paper bag to class, it doesn’t stop me from putting effort into my appearance at the start of the semester. However, since Tulane is basically in the swamp, the humidity makes it impossible to wear regular makeup. Instead of layering on foundation, my go-to is light and airy makeup that actually improves my complexion—which in turn lessens my need for makeup. Here are three makeup brands that double as skincare.

1—Glossier

Glossier prides itself on being a beauty brand inspired by what girls want in real life. Their mantra is “skin first, makeup second.” Every one of their products is built to enhance natural beauty as opposed to hiding flaws. Emily Weiss, the founder of the beauty blog Into the Gloss, founded Glossier in 2014. The cult favorite product is Boy Brow, which is a mascara wand meant to fill in and define your brows. Other fan favorites include the Milky Jelly Cleanser, Stretch Concealer, and the Moisturizing Moon Mask. In addition to arriving in the most aesthetically-pleasing millennial pink packaging ever created, all the orders come with an array of stickers and posters.

PHOTO: Lex Kelly

2—Milk Makeup

Milk Makeup designs their makeup for “the girl-on-the-go, who spends less time getting done up and more time getting stuff done.” Their products are multi-functional, eco-conscious, and easy on the skin. Mazdack Rassi, Zanna Roberts, Georgie Greville, and Dianna Ruth founded Milk Makeup in 2015. My favorite product is the Blur Stick. I find that with just a tiny amount of product, it evens out my complexion. Their other lauded products that I want to try are their Cooling Water and Holographic Stick.

PHOTO: Natalie Miller

3—Dr. Brandt Skincare

While the line by Dr. Brandt does contain a few makeup products, the core is skincare (after all, Dr. Brandt did get his start as a dermatologist). My favorite of his products is the Pores No More Primer which instantly evens out my complexion and mattifies. While the primer is designed to prep the canvas before layering on the foundation, I prefer to wear the primer alone like a BB Cream on days where I’m just running errands or going to class.

Have you used any products from these brands? Share your experiences on social media and don’t forget to tag @CFashionista.

Featured photo by Lex Kelly.

5 Ways to Change up Your Wardrobe on a Budget

I get it. We’re college students; we’re on a budget. But that doesn’t mean we don’t like to stay on top of the latest trends and change up our wardrobe every now and then. And while some people love to blow their paychecks on a little retail therapy, I thought I would show you some ways to change up your wardrobe on a college budget.

PHOTO: Julia Michael

1—Go thrifting

I didn’t realize how cool thrifting was until recently. You can pick up some nice finds at thrift stores. But I’ll admit, as with any store, thrift stores (i.e. Goodwill) have their good days as well as their bad days. You just have to be willing to spend some time searching for the fun pieces that can help you change up your wardrobe.

2—Look for staple/basic pieces year-round

These staple pieces include T-shirts, denim jackets, and hats. It’s really any piece that you can effectively style all year long that will add so much simplicity—and trendiness—to your wardrobe.

PHOTO: Stella Fanega

3—Accessorize

Accessories can literally change any outfit. Be quick to respond to new and revived trends like hoop earrings, rings, bar necklaces, and charm bracelets. You’d be surprised what good deals you can find when you’re really looking. Budget tip: check stores like Forever 21, Francesca’s, and American Eagle Outfitters for inexpensive jewelry and accessories!

4—Shop at discount stores

This is a helpful tip for clothes and shoes! You can find brands like Steve Madden, Toms, Nike, and a whole lot more for discounted prices at stores like T.J.Maxx and Ross.

PHOTO: Maddy Haller

5—Re-do your wardrobe

DIY your wardrobe! This is a great solution for anyone on a budget. Go through your wardrobe and take an inventory of what you wear. Redesign the clothes that you don’t really wear anymore, and turn them into things you actually want to wear! For example, you can take a plain black pair of jeans and cut rips into the knees of them. If you want to take it a step further, chop the hem of your jeans and pull out the threads, instantly turning the jeans into a new pair!

Are there any other wardrobe budgeting tips you use? Let us know in the comments!

New Ways to Style Military Boots for Fall

There’s no need to defend my feet from dirty trench water, because I stick to pavement and the occasional puddle. The only thousand-yard stare I have experienced is spotting a must-have item from across the store and instantaneously falling in love. What can I say? Military boots are just super cute right now.

PHOTO: Leana Concepcion

Originally created to withstand harsh weather conditions and mortal combat, military boots were made to be sturdy. Nearly indestructible, but definitely not cute. However, when chunky boots became a style rather than a necessity, the cuteness factor skyrocketed. Now anyone can purchase full-on glitter military boots, or even a pair with heels.

Combat boots come with a stately, traditional vibe. They’re structured, neutral, and classic. These shoes are popularly styled with jeans and a flannel; however, the possibilities are endless in terms of style. A baggy sweater or cropped T-shirt with chunky boots are also popular combinations. I wear maroon Dr. Marten’s regularly, and that slight pop of color adds so much spunk to my outfits.

For some Style Gurus, the masculinity of military boots is overwhelming; however, I think even the girliest of girls should give them a go. Boots look great with pants as well as dresses and skirts. Outfits should be chosen based on what you find stylish in your comfort zone. A flowery dress with boots is always a pleasant surprise in terms of street style.

Everyone loves a good guilty pleasure outfit. This summer, I lived in Birkenstocks. They’re the most convenient shoe for my everyday business. Once it gets colder and I replace shorts with sweatpants, I pair my Dr. Marten’s with acid-wash sweats and a casual shirt. It’s easy, comfortable, and appropriate in snow and rain; however, it looks edgy for a lazy day outfit.

Pro tip: do not settle on full retail prices. Dr. Marten’s boots are great quality but sell for well over $100 at popular stores or on the website. It’s important to check thrift stores before committing to a big purchase. In times like these, it’s also nice to have places like Plato’s Closet or apps like RetailMeNot.

Military boots are a staple for any Fashionista’s wardrobe. Show us how you style yours and tag @cfashionista on Instagram!

Additional photos by Leana Concepcion.