As someone who likes to generally play it safe, I can attest to the fact that it is challenging to go out on a limb. Yes, my closet is filled with neutral colors, but what keeps things interesting in my wardrobe are statement pieces—the oh-so-spontaneous bursts of color that keep me saying, “Yes, I work in a cubical, but I do have a life.”

The key to wearing statement pieces successfully is to not overdo it. If you have a chunky necklace, opt for something subtler ... Read More »]]>

Do you ever walk by that occasionally style-confused person and think “Great idea, but bad execution?”

As someone who likes to generally play it safe, I can attest to the fact that it is challenging to go out on a limb. Yes, my closet is filled with neutral colors, but what keeps things interesting in my wardrobe are statement pieces—the oh-so-spontaneous bursts of color that keep me saying, “Yes, I work in a cubical, but I do have a life.”

The key to wearing statement pieces successfully is to not overdo it. If you have a chunky necklace, opt for something subtler to pair with it like stud earrings or a thin, dainty bracelet. Similarly, hand diamond-shaped chandelier earrings are the perfect addition to a solid dress or blouse, but leave the necklace at home. I love oversized rings, but wear them as a single piece; two or more, especially on one hand, creates chaos. Layering bracelets is an ongoing trend, and what makes pairing bracelets so simple is that you can dress them up or down.

Pair colored, beaded bracelets with a trendy fedora for the weekend, or mix and match bangles for a fun boho look. Try a gold or silver cuff for a night out.

Patterned flowers, rhinestones, and oversized bows—these are all trends that have turned the bad hair day into a chic look. Headbands, hats and other hair accessories are appropriate in their own way, but be mindful of the way you wear them. Just like a hat doesn’t go with a pencil skirt, so a sunflower clip doesn’t compliment a cocktail dress. Instead, opt for a rhinestone bobby pin when on the job, and a funky, chick headpiece for a night out.

Scarves, in my opinion, are the absolute perfect accessories, and the great thing about them is that they are acceptable year-round. A colorful, flower print scarf gives any classic or ordinary outfit a sassy twist. The truth is you don’t have to be a trendsetter to have an up-to-date style, simple, bold accessories are just the trick to make a statement!

Earrings by Leslie Danzis
Earrings by Kenneth Cole

Leslie Herring is a senior at the University of Oklahoma, where she is studying journalism writing as well as health and exercise science. In addition to campus involvement and extracurricular activities, she is working towards a career in magazines.

You’re not working out

Sure you may be going to the gym, but are you really working out? Fifteen minutes on the Elliptical (level one) will not do you justice. Your workout routine works, but only for a short period of time. Once you’ve met ... Read More »]]>

Do you find yourself struggling to shed pounds? Sure there are dozens of diet plans to choose from, but just because you have meals delivered to your house doesn’t guarantee that you will lose weight fast and keep it off.  It might not be a lack of effort, but you may be overlooking some key weight-loss essentials.

You’re not working out

Sure you may be going to the gym, but are you really working out? Fifteen minutes on the Elliptical (level one) will not do you justice. Your workout routine works, but only for a short period of time. Once you’ve met your goals and are starting to see and feel progress, bump it up a notch. Run ten minutes longer, increase the incline or add a couple pounds to the weight machine. Challenging yourself is a healthy form of competition and eventually produces a sense of self-accomplishment. You’re spending your precious time to burn calories, so do it!

You’re eating before bed

It’s simple. Don’t do it! Think about it. If you’re eating two hours before bed, you’re consuming pointless calories that you will most likely not burn off before you go to bed. Trade that midnight snack for a cup of caffeine- free hot tea. It’s soothing and, believe it or not, it’s filling!

You’re eating the wrong foods

For those who have cravings just about every meal, you’re not alone. As an experienced food indulger and enthusiast, I know how tough it is to suppress that oh-so-strong desire to substitute french fries for veggies, or to have that “job well done” cookie after a hard workout. Sure you can burn those extra calories, but fatty foods (the foods we crave) make it more difficult to burn.  Also, eating out can be extremely deceitful. You think you’re doing well for eating your greens, but did you know that a Cobb salad from Chili’s contains 710 calories and 52 grams of fat? If you’re looking to lose weight, I suggest documenting what you eat.

You’re not getting enough sleep

For all you busy bees out there, getting a sufficient amount of sleep is not selfish, nor is it lazy; it’s smart. Just like a healthy dose of carbohydrates gives you energy, do does sleep. In other words, five hours of sleep is not considered adequate. When your body doesn’t get enough rest, you become tired and don’t have energy to exercise or cook healthily; it turns into a cycle that actually sets you up for weight loss failure. According to the National Sleep Foundation, the average adult needs seven to nine hours of sleep a night. It’s a it’s a no-brainer; getting enough sleep will make you happier and healthier.

You’re drinking the wrong drinks

Did you know that one regular latte (Grande) from Starbucks is 190 calories and seven grams of fat? Considering you have one with breakfast, black tea lemonade in the afternoon and a cappuccino after dinner, you’re looking at 355 calories and 11 grams of fat in beverages alone. Solution? Be aware of your liquid intake and what you put in them. Choose sugar-free flavor and non-fat milk when available and try to stay clear of carbonated drinks. If you’re not dependent on caffeine, just stick with water.

Of course with every dieting trick, it’s easier said than done, but these essentials could make or break your weight loss program. If you follow the rules, then you’ll get the results you want, so trade in your bad habits for a healthier life!

Leslie Herring is a senior at the University of Oklahoma, where she is studying journalism writing as well as health and exercise science. In addition to campus involvement and extracurricular activities, she is working towards a career in magazines.

From lip balm and body milk to conditioner and oils, L’Occitane offers worldwide best-seller products. Featured perfumes like Myrtle Eau de Parfum and Iris Eau de Parfum produce unique scents “as soft as a sea breeze” and “as wild as a mountain flower.”

Want to get rid of cellulite? L’Occitane’s Almond Delicious Tummy gives double ... Read More »]]>

Do you know that horrid feeling when you pass by someone that smells as if they took a bath in their perfume and you just have to hold your breath for a while? Look no further! L’Occitane fragrances contain the perfect blend of fresh and sweet aromas.

From lip balm and body milk to conditioner and oils, L’Occitane offers worldwide best-seller products. Featured perfumes like Myrtle Eau de Parfum and Iris Eau de Parfum produce unique scents “as soft as a sea breeze” and “as wild as a mountain flower.”

Want to get rid of cellulite? L’Occitane’s Almond Delicious Tummy gives double action on cellulite for a refined body! Shaving gel, shower oil, body lotion and soap—L’Occitane beauty products have something special for every need.

L’Occitane is the only fragrance brand I’ve found that keep you smelling fresh and relaxed throughout the day, unlike most perfumes and body sprays. Don’t be that person with the overwhelming scent; find your bliss with L’occitane!

FREE Standard Shipping on ALL Orders Over $80 at L’Occitane!

Finding the right shade: For light skin tones, use a bold, pinkish shade. Be careful with lighter shades of pink or natural colors because it tends to have a reverse effect and  drown out the face. Light to medium skin tones should wear a bright pink or peach tone. This SHADES give the skin a sun-kissed look.  The brightest (but not overboard) pink is the best blush color choice for ... Read More »]]>

Is your daily makeup regimen getting bland?  Is your face looking haggard-like from lack of sleep or stress?  A simple application of a happy shade of blush will do the trick.

Finding the right shade: For light skin tones, use a bold, pinkish shade. Be careful with lighter shades of pink or natural colors because it tends to have a reverse effect and  drown out the face. Light to medium skin tones should wear a bright pink or peach tone. This SHADES give the skin a sun-kissed look.  The brightest (but not overboard) pink is the best blush color choice for darker skin tones. This pretty stain will give the cheeks a pop of color.

Application: Stroke your blush high on the cheekbones. The key here is to not go overboard with the application. Too much blush looks overdone. Over time, you will discover the right amount to use.

Helpful  Hint: concealer can be a miracle worker if you use just a shade lighter than your powder or foundation. Apply it under the eye generously.

Don’t hide behind those dark circles, give your face a pop of color!

Beauty.com
NARS Powder Blush Cheek Color, Madly (153660)
Cheek Color, Madly

Beauty.com
NARS Powder Blush Cheek Color, Gilda (153672)
Cheek Color, Gilda

Beauty.com
NARS Powder Blush Cheek Color, Taos (92774)
Cheek Color, Taos

Leslie Herring is a student at the University of Oklahoma, where she is studying journalism writing as well as health and exercise science. In addition to campus involvement and extracurricular activities, she is working towards a career in magazines

It is extremely painful to watch a person who has impractically mistaken leggings for pants. The cellulite, the saddle bags, the unattractive jiggle of the rear end — your eyes cannot help but focus directly on the problem area, which in most cases is the backside-hip area.

To avoid an ongoing diatribe about all the wrongdoings of wearing leggings, here is some practical advice on the proper way to wear them.

Leggings, if worn correctly, can ... Read More »]]>

Though leggings are extremely popular, they are often horribly executed. There is one universal truth to leggings: They do NOT take the place of jeans or pants.

It is extremely painful to watch a person who has impractically mistaken leggings for pants. The cellulite, the saddle bags, the unattractive jiggle of the rear end — your eyes cannot help but focus directly on the problem area, which in most cases is the backside-hip area.

To avoid an ongoing diatribe about all the wrongdoings of wearing leggings, here is some practical advice on the proper way to wear them.

Leggings, if worn correctly, can be substituted for pants to make a trendy, chic outfit. If your legs are you best assets, and if you are comfortable with showing them, then a pair of leggings could be your best friend. However, if your legs are not your best assets, that doesn’t mean they’re not an option for you; you just have to follow the rules, as everyone should.

Choosing the right leggings:

When shopping for leggings, first consider your body type and then what you will piece with it. If you are wearing leggings as pants, choose a thicker pair that will keep you legs warm. Also, if you are curvy, black is the best way to go. Other colors, especially light-colored or bold-colored leggings should be worn as under skirts, dresses, shorts etc. This goes for sheer-looking leggings as well. Don’t pick out ones that are too big; baggy leggings look awkward in the front, and leggings tend to stretch.

Jean leggings, or jeggings, when worn correctly, are perfect for cold weather, but can be a horrendous sight to behold. My advice is to look in the mirror and ask a friend or family member if they give your body justice. If not, try adding another layer or longer shirt, dress or sweater.

Putting together the outfit:

The number one rule for a classy look is to cover the hinny, even if just barely. Thick leather leggings are the only exception to this rule. If you are comfortable with this look, wear it for parties, an evening out, or a trendy occasion. A fitted shirt with leggings is strictly for exercise, and otherwise should be worn with a sweater or tunic of some sort.

When putting together an outfit, start with the leggings first and work around them. Bold jewelry is a great addition to a legging outfit. Leggings and jeggins also look great with a chunky heel.

Oversized sweaters are another trend this season that work perfectly with leggings. Layering with neutral separates, big, cozy sweaters and flats for a relaxed look is great for lounging, shopping, running errands, or going to class.

Boots boots boots! All kinds of boots look great with leggings and jeggings, especially with tunics and long tops. Flats are always a safe bet with leggings. Wear bright flats with leggings to give any outfit a pop of color.

Skinny Denim by DKNY Jeans
Skinny Denim by Forever 21

It’s fun to play around with leggings and create different, unique outfits. Remember the rules. Cover your backside, look in the mirror, stick to the basics and ask a friend. If you follow these laws of leggings, no doubt you will become addicted to them! Who says chic, sexy, classy and comfortable can’t be in one outfit?

Leslie Herring is a student at the University of Oklahoma, where she is studying journalism writing as well as health and exercise science. In addition to campus involvement and extracurricular activities, she is working towards a career in magazines.