5 Heels That Will Pump Up Your Summer

I think it’s safe to say that shoes make the outfit. Step into Summer on the right foot this year with these five must-haves in your closet.

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Nude is the new ‘it’ color! Dress it up or dress it down, nude will be your best friend. A classic nude pump will be your most versatile heel in your closet so invest in a comfy pair!

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Colored wedges are great to adding a pop of color to any outfit. Wedges are great with sundresses, or cuffed jeans and can easily transition you from day to night. 

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The ankle-strap heels are the new "pumps".  They have the classic look that will go 
with everything and anything!

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Strappy heels look great with jeans and can really revolutionize a basic outfit to a ultra-trendy and sexy outfit.

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Not wanting to strut in tall heels for the day? Invest in a neutral pair of casual booties for your everyday wear.

10 Ways to Nail An Interview

It’s already spring which means it’s time to start that summer job hunt if you haven’t already. One key aspect that will make-or-break your search will be the interview. Most likely, if you’re lucky enough, you will land one of these bad boys and they can be pretty intimidating. But have no fear! Here are ten ways you can nail your interview:

1. Arrive early. This means you need to be walking into the office, café, wherever the interview is, at the very least ten minutes early. Be sure to factor in traffic and parking! If you’ve never been there before, do a test drive the week leading up to the interview. Look up directions and know where you’re going ahead of time so you won’t get lost.

2. Dress to impress. You can never be overdressed for an interview. Always lean towards the more formal side unless the interviewer has specified otherwise. You can never go wrong with some straight-leg slacks, clean blazer, white blouse, and maybe a statement necklace for a little fun pop of personality. Stay away from cotton, denim, wild prints, sleeveless tops, loads of makeup, and cleavage. 

3. Have your resumé printed and in a folder. This is something people commonly overlook. Just because you applied for the job and got called back for an interview does not mean that they have your resumé printed and on hand. This way, when talking about your accomplishments or experience, you can easily point to them on your resumé. The folder will keep the page flat, clean, and free from wrinkles. It’s best for the interviewer to hang onto the resumé after the interview, but sometimes they don’t have a bag or anything to hold your resumé in. The folder provides them with that. 

4. Do your research ahead of time. Know the company’s mission statement, understand the specific requirements of the position you applied for, and know the interviewer’s background and position at the company. 

5. Shake their hand. Okay, this may sound silly, but when you first meet your interviewer, make eye contact, shake their hand firmly, and smile. This will prove your confidence and professionalism. First impressions are vital in an interview. They may not extend their hand first, but don’t be discouraged. Stand up, look them in the eye, and reach your hand out.

6. Ask questions. Interviewers love to ask, “So, do you have any questions for me?” Sure, you may not really have any questions, but you should have a couple in your back pocket for times like these. Ask about the company culture, the interviewer’s position in the company, what they’re looking for in a new hire, etc. This will show your interest in the company and the job. Don’t ask questions that could be answered by a Google search though!

7. Have specific examples ready. When you’re talking about your skills and qualities as an employee, be ready with a few concrete examples that support your statement. If you claim to be a problem solver, provide a specific example of a time you came up with a solution to an issue. Without evidence, it’s just empty words.

8. Avoid rambling. Don’t lose track of time when you’re talking. Yes, the interviewer is ultimately there to hear about you. However, they’re not there to hear a monologue. Avoid bragging about yourself for too long. Say everything with purpose and keep it concise. 

9. Email them immediately after. Send them an email within five hours of finishing the interview. Thank them by name and reiterate why you want the position. This should be a total of five sentences tops. 

10. Send a handwritten note the next day. Yep, you are thanking them twice. Sending a handwritten note takes much more time and thought. It will genuinely set you apart from your competition!

5 Trends of Spring Formal Dresses

 Romper | Pastel | Geometric | Floral | Skater

Formal season is just around the corner, which means it’s time for dress shopping! Whether it’s your own sorority formal, or if your favorite Fraternity is off to Vegas, here are some of my favorite styles and where you can find them!

1.     Geometric lines and cutouts

Geometric lines and patternts, cutouts and slits, and deep v-necks are by far the biggest trend this season! These styles offer strategically placed designs to create the illusion of a slimmer figure. 

2.     Rompers

Rompers are the one clothing item I will forever swear by. They are comfortable, flattering, and you are able to dress them up or down. A basic romper with a cinched high-waist is my go-to! 

3.     The Two-Piece

Making their way to center stage this fashion season, are two-piece ensembles! A very Miley-esque sort of look, these are great for looking cute, while still having a good time. 

4.     Florals and Pastels

Typical of spring, florals and pastels are making their comeback. Nothing quite matches up to the girly feeling of twirling around in a pretty floral dress. 

5.     The Skater

As a huge fan of skater skirts, I can’t help but love the skater dress! The sinched waist and flowy bottom offer a flattering and flirty look!

Spring into Season with TSS {by, Audree}

Say ‘hasta la vista’ to your sweater and boots ladies because it’s springtime! Think bright, colorful, and of course floral. 

When transitioning from winter to spring, balance out your outfits with cuffed pants and a light sweater or jean jacket. Colorful skinny jeans and skirts are a must-have for spring, so match them with a neutral top or be daring with a floral print. Springtime is also the perfect season for color blocking. To successfully color-block, pair complementary colors or colors that are in the same monochromatic family and keep your color-block balanced with neutral jewelry and shoes. 

Outfit details: jean jacket: Levis | blouse: thrift | skinny jeans: H&M | sandals: Charlotte Russe | clutch: thrift

When spring comes around, I instantly think of tea parties, brunches and fun social events. A bright dress paired with wedges and a sun hat will be your go-to this season. A dress that cinches at your waist is flattering on all body types and a nude wedge is the most versatile shoe to have in your closet. Pair the outfit with simple jewelry and let your dress speak for itself!

Outfit details: dress: Ross | wedges: Steve Madden | cuff: H&M

Brighten up the season with bold colors and feminine prints! Shop your local mall or favorite online stores for key pieces for the season and remember, color is always in style. 

Happy Spring!

Go on a Staycation! {By, Audree}

{photo credit}

It’s that time again, spring break! But what if you don’t have plans? No worries, you can have a vacation wherever you are. Grab a group of sisters and try some of these ideas below for a fun and relaxing week!

Spa Day 
Surf the web for easy at-home facemasks and hair treatments and spend the day pampering yourself. Between the craziness of school and work, a spa day is always a great way to relax.

Day trip
Venture with your best gal pals to a town nearby and grab lunch, take some photos and even get a little shopping in. 

Get outside
Spend an afternoon hiking, biking, off-roading or swimming. Pack some snacks, water and enjoy Mother Nature.

Coffee Shop Dates
My personal favorite pastime is discovering local coffee shops. Visit a coffee shop you’ve never been to before, bring a book you’ve been dying to read and just sit, read and sip on a cup of coffee. Perfection. 

Potluck 
Invite some friends over and have a potluck! Tell people to bring the ingredients for a dish and then all cook them together. 

Movie Marathon 
How often do you get to just curl up on your couch and just watch movies all day? Make some popcorn, gather a collection of your favorite flicks and relax!

Concert
Search for local small concerts happening through the week and check them out. There are always small bands performing at coffee shops, jazz bars or concert houses and it is fun to discover some new bands and rock out with your friends. 

Sport games
Spring training has arrived! Grab a blanket, your ball cap and go watch a good game of baseball. 

Although you may not be on a beach in Mexico, you can still have fun this spring break right at home! The best memories are impromptu and spontaneous adventures, so don’t forget to enjoy your spring break! Try something new, catch up on some sleep and mentally prepare for finals!

Woman Crush Wednesday!

From Mardis Gras to March Madness, St. Patrick’s Day to the start of Lent, March is a month packed with activities and holidays. One detail that tends to get lost in the excitement is that March is also Women’s History Month! As a sorority woman myself, I can’t help but take notice of any opportunity to celebrate strong and empowering women. In honor of this month, here are three young new celebs that are making media history:

Jennifer Lawrence – Quirky, raw, and ambitious – what’s not to love about JLaw!? This spitfire has made a name for herself over the past year, from the release of the newest Hunger Games to being nominated for her third Oscar for American Hustle……and, of course, tripping at the award show for the second time. But what we love most about Jen is her uncanny ability to keep us laughing and show that she is a genuine person. Through her wacky interviews and her love for junk food, JLaw has got us hooked!

Miley Cyrus – Okay, I know what you’re all thinking….Miley Cyrus, really? Although I do agree that her twerk enhanced, tongue-tastic antics aren’t the best example of feminine power, there is something to be said about a woman that is this fearless. It takes a strong person to be able to handle the scrutiny of the media, while still being true to themselves. Through the judgment of millions, Miley has proven to be an entertainment powerhouse, and eludes a sense of self-confidence that girls and women should aspire to have.

Ariana Grande – Quite possible Miley’s polar opposite, Ariana Grande is making her mark in music through sheer vocal talent. The petite crooner first appeared in the music scene in 2013 with her single “The Way,” and made an impression with her performance of her song “Tattooed Heart” at the 2013 Grammy’s. She’s a little girl with a big voice and an adorable 50’s style that isn’t going anywhere!

Spring Nails {by, Audree}

Help brighten up your outfit this season with the perfect polish! Spring 2014 is all about colorful pastels, vibrant neon, and feminine pinks. This season is all about freshness; keep your nails solid colors to add an extra pop against your outfit. 

Visit your local beauty store and stock up on the season’s newest spring shades. My favorite brands are OPI, Essie and Sally Hansen. They are super cheap and have a great variety of colors. 

My top three choices from OPI are (pictured left to right): ‘Lucky Lucky Lavender’, ‘I Just Can’t Cope-acabana’, and ‘Kiss Me On My Tulips’. 

My top three choices from Essie are:  ‘Resort Fling’, ‘Truth or Flare’, and ‘Dj Play that Song’.

My top three choices from Sally Hansen are: ‘Mint Sprint’, ‘Petal Pusher’, and ‘Peachy Breeze’.

At home manis are great for a quick fix or when you don’t have time to go in, but step up your nail game and try gel polish. Gel lasts 2+ weeks and instantly gives you that straight out of the salon look. Recently I started using an at home gel LED light and my life is now complete! You can purchase lights and polish for under $100 at local beauty supply stores, but check out this portable LED light for only $24.99 at ULTA. What a steal! 

Gel polish goes on like regular nail polish and just curate your polish between coats under your light and, viola! You have the perfect manicure for spring!

Lessons Learned from Mardi Gras

Ah, Mardi Gras. The one time of the year where it's socially acceptable to wear an obnoxious amount of plastic beads, break your diets with local foods such as beignets or po-boys, or stay up to the early hours of the morning as enormous, elaborate floats pass by with riders adorned in theatrical costumes.  I am no rookie to the Mardi Gras scene thanks to an amazing roommate who opened my eyes to the traditions of her hometown last year. Having survived my first go around, it was of no surprise that I was ready to jump back on the horse when the time rolled around again. Whether this year's Mardi Gras is your first time to the 504 or you're a seasoned NOLA veteran, here are a couple of lessons you should learn after your time in the Big Easy. 

1. It's pronounced Mardi "Graw" even though it's spelt like Mardi "Graws"

I'll admit, I still struggle with this one even though I have experienced the craziness that is Mardi Gras. Learn how to properly pronounce the way Mardi Gras is said if you want to avoid the "Oh you're a tourist" look from local residents as well as be corrected every single time you accidentally emphasize that deceiving “s”. 

2. Pace Yourself

Remember: Mardi Gras is a marathon...NOT a sprint. A typical Mardi Gras rookie will go all out the first night and be so tired that they can't enjoy the rest of their time. Yes, I am speaking from experience. The energy of Mardi Gras may push you to go above and beyond on your first night but trust me when I say the same things you want to do your first night will be there the second and third night. Have fun but remember you have to wake up to do it all over again the next day. 

3. The Jump & Snatch 

When it comes to parades, having unique, one of a kind beads thrown at you is basically a given. Each parade has their own set of beads that they throw so catching said beads becomes somewhat of a bragging tool when you proudly display them on you. Enter the jump and snatch. When a float is throwing beads, your best chance of getting them is jumping into the air at the time of release and snatching whatever your hand catches first. This method of bead collecting works...90 percent of the time anyway. 

4. The Bourbon Street Buddy System 

Oh Bourbon Street. From your flashing lights to your packed streets, no Mardi Gras trip is complete without visiting Bourbon Street at least once. It's one of the most well known destinations for Mardi Gras and also the most crowded. With that in mind, say hello to your savior: the buddy system. While it may seem obvious that staying with your group is imperative, you would be surprised how easily it is to be next to your BFF one second and in a flash be holding hands with a complete stranger. The buddy system is simple: stick to the sidewalks when moving from place to place and in the event you find yourselves caught in the tidal wave that is Bourbon Street, latch on to one another and make your way to the closest, least crowded spot to regroup. 

There are countless lessons that one can learn from Mardi Gras as each experience is unique to the individual, however these four lessons are imperative to learn should you have any chance at conquering the Big Easy. Take it from a seasoned Attendee-these lessons will only enhance your time in the 504. 

The Ultimate Ultra Guide

When you hear the word “Miami" you probably think of South Beach, tanning and a popping nightlife. While Miami may be all of that, there is a unique factor that happens every March, which makes going to school in Miami that much better. Ultra Music Festival, or Ultra as it is commonly known, is one of the worlds largest electronic dance concerts that takes place every year in Miami. People from all over the world travel to the sunshine state to experience the culture and raw energy that literally transports you to another world. Before coming to school here, I had absolutely no idea what Ultra was. Now, as a junior, I can proudly say that this year will be my third time attending with each time topping the last. No matter if this is your first Ultra or you've been going since you were in high school, here is your ultimate guide to all things UMF. 

1. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Ultra is no joke. Think of that one night you literally danced away and multiply that by three. Add in the humid Miami weather plus a crowd of 100,000 and what do you have? A recipe for dehydration. It is so imperative that you keep hydrated throughout the entire day-spend the five or ten dollars in water or invest in a camelback to share with your friends-all of it goes a long way. While Ultra has made efforts to keep their attendees hydrated with free water stations being implemented, sometimes you just can't (or won't) wait. While spending even more money on water seems costly, your body will be thanking you later. 

2. Pick a Meet Up Location 

Despite your best efforts to stay with your group of friends, getting separated from them is bound to happen. Make a plan at the beginning of each day to meet up at a unique spot should any one of you ever get lost. While the obvious solution might be to simply text and ask where everyone is, cell phone reception isn't your friend during Ultra and chances are you'll be too busy dancing to Krewella's newest hit to be checking your phone. 

3.  Go in With a Game Plan

Over 100 DJs showcase their talents during UMF. While it is unlikely that you will get to see them all, you can increase your chances of jamming to your favorite artists if you go into Ultra with a game plan of what you want to do. Every year, Ultra releases the set times of every artist and what stage they're going to be performing on via their app. My advice? Download this app the week of and plan your time at Ultra around the information it will provide you with. That way you aren't totally overwhelmed when you get there and you aren't missing your favorite DJ! 

4. Bring Back the Fanny Pack

I know. It's so old school. But the Fanny Pack will actually save your life at Ultra should you make the decision (and you totally should) to invest in going. Not only does it hold all of the essentials (water, keys, tickets, and phone) but you also don't even realize that it's there! There is nothing more annoying than having to hold a backpack or purse and constantly having to make sure it's untouched. A fanny pack gives you the security of knowing all of your things are safe because it is literally hanging right in front of you. The best part is it rests on your hips so you are free to fist pump all Ultra long. 

5. Pictures aren't really worth 1000 words

The best piece of advice I can offer is this: don't experience Ultra from behind your cell phone. The urge to take a million and one videos and pictures is going to be there and I'm not saying you shouldn't take any but the culture that is Ultra demands to be felt. You miss out on the beauty of everything if you're constantly trying to capture it on your phone. Take in your surroundings and dance to the amazing beats that artists prepare especially for this event. Worry about videos and pictures later because chances are someone in your group will be furiously snapping away. 


If you ever get the chance to attend Ultra Music Festival, prepare yourself for an incredible weekend filled with fun, laughs, and lots and lots of dancing. Each year Ultra changes little by little so that no two Ultra's are alike. The DJ's performing may change, but this guide is forever. 

Solving Your Monday Blues

We all know that Mondays can either make or break your week. But don’t fear, solving those Monday blues are easier then you think. Plus, it’s February, which means less Mondays!

1.     Wearing a cute outfit can start your day off with a bang! Look good feel good right?

2.     Grab your watch! I’m obsessed with my gold Kate Spade watch, and every time I look at it while in class or at work, I smile.

3.     Getting Starbucks on a Monday morning is well worth waking up ten minutes earlier.

4.     Lunch with a friend can make your whole week! Monday afternoons are the perfect time to catch up with sisters about your prior weekend.

5.     Bring your planner. A trendy day planner always makes getting organized easier and more fun.

6.     Get your Ray-Bans out. Sunglasses help hide those unwanted Monday dark circles.

Music Festival Outfit Guide

[Nasty Gal- Flower Shorts][Topshop-Acid Wash Denim Shorts] [Topshop-Moto Zip Shorts]

[Thakoon Addition- Crossback Romper] [Rebel Yell-Venice Romper] [Angie-Print Romper]

[Topshop-Floral Cami] [Topshop-Flower Brill Bralet] [Rag & Bone- Daytona Top]

[Frye- Brown Combat Boots] [Sam Edelman- Darwin Combat Boots] [Lucky Brand-Combats]

[Urban Outfitters- Black Panama Hat] [Urban Outfitters- Suede Boho Hat] [Urban Outfitters- Panama]

The countdown to music festival season has begun! Whether it’s Coachella, Stagecoach, Outside Lands, or just an outdoor concert, music festivals are a great way to show off your style! This season, look out for floral, tribal prints, and crochet. Here are a few staple items to perfect your festival wardrobe: 

1.     High Waisted Shorts: Sorry boys, but this trend is not going away anytime soon! High waisted shorts are the perfect way to add an edge to any outfit. Go for a classic jean, or try one of the floral or tribal prints that are big this year. 

2.     Rompers: Rompers are the perfect way to enjoy a festival hassle-free! They’re easy to slip on, and unlike a dress, you can still dance without worrying about showing a little too much.

3.     Crop Tops: If just a bikini top is a little too revealing for you, pair a crop top with high-waisted shorts or a skater skirt to complete your outfit.

4.     Boots: although strappy sandals or a pair of Converse are a consistent trend at festivals, for those that can stand the heat, boots are a great addition! Try out a classic pair of combat boots this summer.

5.     Hats: add a little something to your outfit while protecting your skin, with a cute wide-brimmed or floppy hat!