Nail Tutorial: Backslashes and Polka Dots

If you are keeping up with the latest fashion weather forecast, you will know that neon shades are expected to be extremely popular this spring. What better way to embrace this trend, than on your nails?

TOOLS: One regular nail polish, and one nail art pen. I used 'Strawberry Electric' by Revlon, and a black nail art polish from Art Deco.

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Paint your nails with your base color.

2. Using the color with the nail art brush, paint a a few backslashes on the upper half of your nail.

3. Next, paint backslashes going in the opposite direction on the bottom half of your nail.

4. Add 2 rows of polka dots to the design you just made: 1 row above, and 1 row below.

5. Repeat this process on the rest of your nails.

Nail design inspired by Refinery29.com

Sam Edelman for American Eagle

My friend/classmate, A, who loves searching for bargains as much as I do, told me about a recent collaboration between American Eagle and Sam Edelman. I've always been a fan of Sam Edelman, though, I've never been courageous enough to splurge on a pair of the designer's shoes.

The prices from AE's new line range from $39.50 to $59.50. An original pair of SE shoes can range from $49.95 to $274.95. I think I've finally found my opportunity.

all images via ae.com //edited by SWEATshirt DRESSshirt

Turquoise Rings

nail polish: 'Valentine' via Revlon

I've always had a thing for turquoise rings. They have the ability to add a pop of color to any outfit, and are subtle enough for every day wear. The one you see above, I got while on vacation with my family in Hawaii. If you ever get the chance to go to Honolulu, I highly recommend going to the International Market. Though, you may want to sharpen up on your bartering skills beforehand, as the vendors there can get quite aggressive.

*Flower via ASOS

1. Travels in Babylon Gold Ring via Lulu's $11

2. Large Turquoise Stone Ring via Lucky Brand $35

3. Turquoise Geyser Ring via Thread Sense $14

4. Turquoise Sedona Ring via 1928 $20

5. Turquoise Stretch Ring via Liz Claiborne for JC Penney $10

6. Unique Turquoise Ring via Lulu's $12

We Have A Winner

image via http://therichandfamouss.tumblr.com/post/13581917543

Thank you to everyone who entered the Juicy Couture giveaway! There were an overwhelming number of entries, which I couldn't have been more thrilled about. Unfortunately, in the end, there can only be one winner. And that winner is:

Don't fret if you didn't win this giveaway, because I am holding another one as we speak. Click here to win $25 to sneakpeeq!

GIVEAWAY: $25 to sneakpeeq [closed]

I initially started this blog to share tips and tricks on how to save money as a college student. As some of you know, finding deals takes a bit of effort, which sometimes, is not worth the trouble. A few weeks ago, I was introduced to a company called sneakpeeq, which is a lot like Rue La La and Hautelook (if you're familiar with those). Long story short: sneakpeeq is a convenient website that gives you discounts on items you would find full-price elsewhere.

A few things I found on the site: top--Margo Morrison NY jewelry; bottom-- KOKO Indian-Inspired pillows (These items may not be on the site when the winner is announced. Sneakpeeq rotates the brands they feature every few days.)

And finally, the exciting part: sneakpeeq is giving away 20% off your next purchase just for entering, plus a chance at the Grand Prize: one winner will receive a $25 gift card to use on your favorite food, style and home products.

To enter: Click here and join sneakpeeq (and if you want, leave me a comment telling me you entered)! The giveaway closes on 3/7/12 at 11:59 PST, and the winner will be announced shortly after. Note: you must click on the link provided to be entered, as it was made specifically for this giveaway.

*I was not paid for holding this giveaway, nor did I receive any freebies.

Believe

My best friend, R, says that "no one has the right to make you feel small". Even though I agree with this quote 110%,  it can be hard not to question your abilities when someone you're supposed to look up to tells you that you are not capable of accomplishing your dreams.

In moments like these, I want you all to know that you are what you believe. At the end of the day, regardless of all the negative things you've been told, you are still the unique and amazing person you have always been. Don't ever let anyone bring you down, especially when they are oblivious to who you truly are.

Topsy Tail

I absolutely love doing hair. When my friend/classmate, M, sported a unique side ponytail this past week, I couldn't pass up the opportunity to re-create it. Not only did it remind me of Taylor Swift's hair from the 2011 AMA's, it brought back a bit of nostalgia from my childhood; a time where I had been obsessed with a tool called the Topsy Tail.

TOOLS: 1 hair tie, and hairspray (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Tie hair into a low side ponytail.

2. Loosen the ponytail by gently tugging the hair tie downwards.

3. Split the hair that is above the base of the ponytail into 2 parts to create an opening (see picture).

4. Lift the ponytail with your left hand, and with your right hand, pull it straight down into the opening.
5. Optional: To finish the look, lightly mist your hair with hairspray.