Simple – CollegeFashionista

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.

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!

5 Makeup Products for a Natural No-Makeup Look

With the hot weather, you don’t want to put too many layers of makeup on your face. You don’t want to sweat it all off and look like a mess at the end of the day. It’s better to go light on the makeup for the summer. For this no makeup look, you only need five makeup products that you probably use on a daily basis.

1—Sunscreen. First thing first is to apply sunscreen! It’s not a makeup product, but it’s important to put sunscreen on first before you apply your makeup. What I like about this is that it’s a moisturizer and sunscreen in one—you get a two-in-one product altogether. It keeps my skin nice and moisturized while being protected from the sun.

2—Concealer. Skip foundation! You only need to conceal the areas that need to be covered. That way it feels like you are not wearing any makeup. I use the concealer for red spots on my face, under my eyes, and to highlight under my eyebrows.

3—Mascara. You want to add some interest to your eyes. When you use mascara, it makes your eyes look more awake and gives the illusion of you having longer eyelashes. I love using the CoverGirl waterproof mascara as it is one my favorite mascaras, especially during the summertime.

4—Eyeliner. No need for the winged eyeliner. You want to look like you’re not wearing any eyeliner. One tip is to use a pencil eyeliner because it gives off a softer look, but liquid eyeliner will do, too. Instead of putting the eyeliner on the eyelid, you want to tight line right on your lash line.

5—Lipstick. Lastly, you want to use a natural pink or nude lipstick shade. This gives you color to your face even though you’re trying to look like you have no makeup on. A tip is to put on lip balm first and one that has SPF in it, that way you’re also protecting your lips from the sun, too.

What’s your take on a no makeup look? Take a photo and share it on social media by tagging @Cfashionista!

SaveSave

This Easy and Delicious Guacamole Recipe Will Impress Any Crowd

Do you need a new recipe to impress your girl gang with? If so, then I have the solution for you. Whether you need to bring an appetizer to a girls’ night in party, or you need a quick, healthy snack for yourself, this guacamole recipe will be your new go-to. This recipe is so simple, yet tastes amazing! I have to admit, it will be very hard to stop eating this dip once you start.

1—Chop up all the ingredients. First, I like to prepare all of my ingredients so I can easily add them into the mix. For this recipe, you will need a 1/2 cup of finely diced onion, a 1/2 cup of deseeded and diced tomato, and a 1/2 cup of chopped cilantro leaves. (Pro tip: Make sure to scrape out the seeds and flesh of the tomatoes. If not, your guac will be too watery.) You can add or subtract as much of an ingredient depending on your liking. Set all of your chopped items to the side.

2—Add the flesh of three avocados to a bowl. Make sure to use ripe avocados. They are essential to great guacamole. After the avocado flesh is in a bowl, squeeze the juice of one small lime into the bowl.

3—Mash together the avocado and lime juice. Mash until you reach a consistency you like. Chunky or smooth? You decide!

4—Add the onion, tomato, and cilantro into the bowl. Fold the ingredients into the avocado mixture.

5—Sprinkle with some salt and ground cumin. I prefer to use Himalayan pink salt. Again, this is all about your preference. You could even add in some hot peppers if you want to make it spicy.

6—Enjoy! Grab some tortilla chips, rice crackers, pepper slices, or carrot sticks and dig in. You can even spread the guac on grilled chicken, add to a salad, or eat right out of the bowl with a spoon. You can also display your fresh guacamole in cute and creative ways. Serve it in a cute bowl for everyone to grab from, or separate the guac into personal bowls so everyone gets a fair share.

If you make this amazing guacamole recipe, be sure to let me know if you liked it in the comments below. I would love to hear if you added anything new to the mix!

How to Turn Effortless Outfits Into Exciting Style

As the spring breeze develops into summer heat and we trade our time at school for long days by the beach, the last thing a Fashionista/o may want to think about is putting together a complex outfit. Luckily, this summer, simplicity is key. However, looking effortless does not mean you have to risk making your outfit exciting, trendy, and fun!

Get the Look

The perfect effortless summer outfit for me means sticking to basic items that I can rely on. For this outfit, I decided to reach for my favorite boyfriend jeans from Madewell. These jeans are great for the summer because they match almost everything in my wardrobe. They also have tons of stylish distressing which will help you keep cool. While I opted for a super basic pair of jeans on the bottom, I decided to wear a twist on the basic white top for a shirt. I revamped this classic style by reaching for one with a fun graphic print from Zara to add some interest to my simple outfit.

I stuck to simple Birkenstock sandals for shoes (because comfort is key in the summer, right?). However, I decided to add a little more of my personal style through the accessories. I completed my look with a choker necklace from Madewell and a pair of thrifted vintage shades.

Dressing for the summer should by no means be complicated. It’s time to stop shopping for elaborate items which might go out of style by the fall. Instead, hang onto timeless pieces which will last you a lifetime and will save you some time when putting an outfit together. Dress the outfit up and add some character through accessories and details which showcase your personal style. You’ll be summer-ready in no time!

Styled your own effortless but fun summer outfit? Show us on social media, and don’t forget to tag @Cfashionista!

SaveSave

Keeping It Simple When Going Out to Summer Brunch in the City

Oh, how I love summer brunch in the city. Not just for the strawberry french toast and eggs, but for the comfort of dressing up. I’m always finding some sort of excuse to dress up. Whether it be going out to brunch, dinner, or just to my favorite coffee shop. This gorgeous glowing Fashionista keeps it simple when it comes to going out to brunch in Old City, Philadephia. Keeping it simple for a summer brunch means wearing light clothing for comfort, a small shoulder bag purse, and less makeup. Just remember that when it comes to brunch, there is no need to really glam up. Save all your glam for later that evening.

This Fashionista decided to choose comfort and style when going out to her favorite brunch spot. She is wearing a striped dress from Madewell. What I love about this dress is the material of the dress which is made out of breezy crinkled cotton that’s inspired by a vintage embroidery piece. As far as what to bring with you to brunch, it should be just a few items. Items such as your phone, money, credit cards, and lip gloss. The Fashionista has the right idea with this small shoulder bag from H&M. The shoulder bag can be worn two ways depending on your mood. You can wear it either over the shoulder or like a crossbody bag such as how the Fashionista is wearing it. The Fashionista’s bracelet is exclusively handmade from an upcoming handmade jewelry line called Spoiled By Sparkles, which is launching very soon.

The straw hat is vintage. A similar hat you can find is at Forever 21. You can find straw hats just about anywhere now and days. Straw hats for a summer brunch are great to wear because it brings out your outfit giving it a more stylish look.

Can we talk about how gorgeous is this Fashionista’s wedges are? The flower ornament detailing is so pretty. The wedges are Chinese Laundry. When going out to brunch with friends or family, wedges are so much fun to wear when paired with a super comfy dress. In order to achieve this look for summer brunch, start by searching for a comfortable summertime dress with great patterns. Make sure when choosing a dress with patterns go for more lighter colors, such as white. Go light on the bag and bring something smaller such as a shoulder bag so you can only carry important items you need. Wear shoes that are super comfy but stylish. Wedges would be a good choice because not only are they comfy and stylish, but they are also the hottest summer trend right now. Put the icing on the cake by adding a sun hat to your look. This will jazz up your outfit completely. Also, go for limited jewelry, such as a bracelet or some earrings, and do less makeup.

How would you dress up your look for a summer brunch? Show us on Instagram and tag @Cfashionista!

3 Skincare Favorites I Actually Can’t Live Without

This summer, I interned at a PR firm whose clients are mainly beauty and wellness brands. In addition to learning valuable skills involved with managing a successful PR firm, I became absolutely obsessed with beauty and skincare products as a result. I had no idea the difference it would make once I learned my skin type and used products that cater to it.

I recently went on a family beach vacation, and my packing and bathroom space was limited. I applied my new knowledge of skin care to my minimalistic packing routine and realized that I’d love to share a favorites post with y’all! Hope you enjoy these go-to happy skin products as much as I do!

1—Coalface Charcoal Bar by Lush Cosmetics. I love this product so much that I’m currently on my fourth or fifth re-purchase. I find that I rarely buy the same product twice unless I really love it, so my dedication to Coalface is quite significant. This facial soap is so cool because it foams up when you wet it and can also be used directly on the skin as an exfoliant. Hello, 2-for-1 deal! My skin is oily and acne-prone, so anything charcoal is pretty much my BFF. I learned recently that not using oils or serums on oily skin will actually cause the skin to overproduce oil—mind-blowing, right? Coalface contains rosewood and sandalwood oils to keep the skin nice and balanced. I’m clearly obsessed.

2—Onomie Powerful Priming Serum. This serum was my first introduction to face serums and oils. To say my perspective on oils and serums changed would be a huge understatement. I love this brand because they are committed to keeping skin healthy by implementing vitamins and extracts that contribute to skins hydration, evenness, and firmness (aka wrinkle prevention). I absolutely love this product because it works as a serum and a makeup primer, allowing me to cut down my beauty routine by one step. It also has a little shimmer to it to help you stay on trend with the dewy look everyone is loving right now. Thanks, Kim K.

3—It Cosmetics CC+ Cream. It Cosmetics used to identify as a very “mom brand,” which is actually what initially drew me to them. I love anything anti-aging. Recently I’ve seen so many more beauty bloggers show interest in this brand, and rightfully so because their products are amazing. I have a hard time not using this CC cream every single day because not only is it a great foundation for the summer, but it also works as an SPF 50+ sunscreen. Can you tell I love 2-for-1 products?

Have you used and loved (or hated) any of these products? Could there possibly be something better? Let me know in the comments below!

Top Ways to Keep Your Professional Attire Classy and Fabulous

As wisely stated by the famous Coco Chanel, “A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous.” This quote applies to many areas of fashion but emphasizes an important point. It is crucial to remember these two elements when you’re getting your professional attire ready for a day at the office, an interview, or any professional setting.

The first item you should start with is your “centerpiece.” This would include dresses, shirts, skirts, or dress pants. Decisions like these must be made early on so you can ensure that you are truly dressing to impress. It is important to note that when individuals network in business settings, the only information a person provides is what they show standing before someone. This includes what they talk about and, more importantly, their professional attire. This Fashionista knows that a simple, straight, medium-length dress is a perfect way to stay cool in the heat while still looking classy and fabulous.

Another key to maintaining a professional look is to not be excessive. A dress with a simple print like this can allow you to make a statement while not going overboard. Your “centerpiece” will be your main focal point, so you want to ensure that your accessories complement your outfit and don’t do more harm than good. A gorgeous, safe way to do this is by picking a color and maintaining it. This Fashionista balances her look perfectly with a simple black handbag, black heels, a sassy pair of shades, and a cup of coffee for her travels. While the print on the dress adds flair, the solid black accents become an asset to the look.

As much as we all want to make a statement when networking with professionals, going to an interview, or attempting to be an adult in general, always remember to keep it simple, balanced, classy, and fabulous.

How do you show your style through professional attire? Show us on social media and tag @CFashionista!

Here’s Exactly How to Transition Your Summer Wardrobe to Fall on Campus

As the final freedoms of summer begin to wither away it’s time to pack up the car and head to college. Now the biggest and most difficult decision to make is what kind of clothes to buy, bring, and ditch. The first month of school feels like summer and the next thing you know the air has become cool. Your new summer clothes suddenly begin to collect dust and take up space in your already tiny closet. So how do you avoid bringing your entire summer, fall, and winter wardrobe with you? How do you know what to shop for? You can save yourself the trouble of trying to store everything in a closet that clearly can’t fit it, by collecting the perfect transitional pieces. Find items that will work in the heat, the brisk air of fall and will get you through your days as a college student. Below I have put together a list of eight lovely pieces, accessories and shoes that will be perfect for those first few months back to school!

1—Trousers. These classic high-rise trousers are both comfy and professional. Being lightweight and breathable will make these pants perfect for back to school.

2—Button-downs and Stripes. Easy and on-the-go these button down shirts are great for my girls who love a lazy day but still want to dress to impress. Stripes have also become a great way to spice up a pair of your favorite jeans (or leggings) and give them a pop of color and personality to your wardrobe.

3—’60s Sunglasses. For those Mondays after a fun fulfilled weekend the only thing on your mind is coffee and avoiding all eye contact as you make your way through campus. Throwing on these adorable sunglasses automatically brings you from drab to fab—minimal effort required and no makeup needed.

4—Sheer tops. Talk about making a statement. Sheer tops have been all the rave lately. They easily will become a weekend must have in your college wardrobe. Throw a cute lacy bralette under a sheer top and you’re cool for the summer heat or warm fall afternoons.

5—Mules. These have easily become the crème de la crème of all the shoes in my closet. Dress them up or dress them down, these guys are so easy to just slip on and go.

6—Jumpsuits. Achieve that sweatpants and a T-shirt feeling while still looking cute and put together—at least as much as a college student can after pulling an all nighter.

7—Bulky Sneakers. Thanking my lucky stars that simple kicks, like my favorite Air Force 1’s, have become such a killer trend. They work with anything and everything! Perfectly versatile for any season.

8—Tote Bags. An oversize canvas bag has remained super popular and they make for a perfect way to carry around your laptop if you’re just not feeling a backpack that day.

How do you plan your wardrobes for college and what are your essentials for the upcoming fall season? Tag @Cfashionista on Instagram and show us how you rock your trendy transitional pieces around your campus!

The Busy Girl’s Guide to Self-Care

Ah, August. Thirty-one days dedicated to the beginning of the end of summer, going to county fairs, and preparing for the fall semester. Personally, I am moving apartments, towns, and preparing to transfer schools. Because of all these sudden changes in my life, I am dedicating this fall semester to focusing on taking care of myself. Self-care is more than brushing your hair and teeth every day. Self-care also involves maintaining your mental and emotional health, which is just as important. Here are a few tips for balancing life with living.

The Busy Girl’s Guide to Self Care

1—Create a schedule. Set aside time to do laundry and dishes. Go to bed before 2 a.m.

2—Declutter. Whether it is cleaning out a junk drawer or cutting ties with a negative person, surround yourself with things that allow you to grow.

3—Plants. Nothing says adulting quite like keeping something besides yourself alive. Bonus: Succulents will solve all your Instagram aesthetic issues.

4—Do what you love. Take a bubble bath, play some music, sit with a dog, or redecorate your room. Stop worrying about pleasing everyone!

5—Remember what you’re grateful for. Call a friend just because, spend quality time with your parents, or remind someone you love them. It might just make you feel whole and less alone.

Most importantly, don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it, take the time to recharge yourself, and remember to breathe, always!

What are some ways you practice self-love? Tell me in the comments!

SaveSave