Call it childish, but no matter how old we get, we’ll never get tired of crafting! Not only is it fun, but it makes for great (and inexpensive) dorm room décor. With Halloween right around the corner, we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to find some great DIY crafts to get our apartments and dorm rooms ready for October 31. Whether you want to prep for your own Halloween bash or just love DIY projects, check out these nine easy Halloween crafts you can complete in your dorm!

1. Candy Corn Mason Jars

What you need: 

• Orange, yellow and white spray paint
• 3 Mason jars
• Assorted black dyed faux flowers

Start out by spraying the entire Mason jar white. Once dry, spray the middle portion of the jar with the orange spray paint. Finally, spray the bottom of the jar yellow. Repeat on the next two jars. Accent with assorted black dyed flowers.

2. Blinged-Out Pumpkin

What you need:

• Black spray paint
• One pumpkin
• Assorted craft jewels

Trade in the traditional jack-o’-lantern for this glamorous alternative. Simply spray-paint a pumpkin black (or buy a black plastic pumpkin) and add your favorite “bling” to add some pizzazz.

3. Boo Jars

What you need:

• Mini Mason jars
• Candy corn (or other Halloween candy)
• Ribbon
• Scrapbook paper
• Cardboard letters

Give your roommates a treat (not a trick!) with this cute Halloween favor. Simply fill your mini Mason jars with your favorite Halloween candy and replace the lid with fall-themed scrapbook paper. Accent with orange and black ribbons and cardboard letters that spell out the word “BOO.”

4. Halloween Wine Bottles

What you need:

• Empty wine bottles (or other assorted glass bottles)
• Various colors of spray paint
• Painter’s tape
• Sharpie marker
• Mod Podge
• Black glitter

Start by removing all labels and residue from your bottles. Then, depending on the type of design you want, tape off part of your bottle using painter’s tape. Spray with the color of your choice over the taped-off area. Once dried, remove the tape and decorate with black Sharpie. If desired, add black glitter by mixing it with Mod Podge and painting over the black Sharpie. 

5. Halloween Milk Jug Ghosts

What you need:

• Empty milk jugs
• Sharpie markers
• X-Acto knife
• Mini lights

Light up your hall or living room with these easy-to-make Halloween lanterns. Start by cleaning out the milk jugs and decorating them with spooky faces using a black Sharpie. On the opposite side of the face, cut a small flap (about two inches wide and two inches tall) and string lights through the opening, adding five to seven lights to each jug.

6. Pumpkin Paper Lanterns

What you need: 

• Orange paper lantern
• Green paper
• Scissors
• Craft glue
• Green and brown pipe cleaners
• Wire frame

Using the green paper and pipe cleaners, create a leaf and tendrils. Attach the leaf and tendrils to the paper lantern by winding the ends of the pipe cleaner around the wire frame. Create a stem by rolling a few sheets of the green paper together into a tapered shape. Attach the stem to the lantern using glue. Secure by wrapping another pipe cleaner around the base of the stem and securing it to the wire frame.

7. Monogram Pumpkins

What you need: 

• Monogram template
• Pushpin or needle
• Pen
• Linoleum cutter
• Keyhole saw
• Candle 

Cut a hole in the pumpkin’s base and hollow the pumpkin out. Tape the monogram template to the pumpkin using masking tape. Using pushpins, poke holes to create an outline of the letters. Use these dots as a stencil to carve out the letter, leaving about half the thickness of the translucent flesh of the pumpkin to allow light to show through. Light a candle inside and watch your pumpkin glow! 

8. Chevron Pumpkins

What you need: 

• Masking tape
• Scissors
• Spray paint (any color)

Using masking tape and scissors, tape a chevron design around the pumpkin. Spray-paint the pumpkin using any color spray paint. Let dry, remove the tape and voilà: a cute and classy Halloween decoration.

9. Burlap Ghost Lights

What you need:

• Globe string lights
• Burlap fabric scraps
• Twill string
• Sharpie marker

Add some Halloween spirit to your everyday string light décor by wrapping burlap around the globe bulbs. Tie the burlap pieces at the bottom of each globe bulb using twill string and let the remaining fabric hang. Add a ghostly effect by drawing two eyes on each bulb with the Sharpie marker.

Now you just have to grab your DIY box full of Mason jars and spray paint and get crafting! Before you know it, your living space will be covered with just the right amount of Halloween decorations. 

Let us know how your crafts turned out in the comments!

You’re 97.4 percent sure that you’re totally ready for this “career” thing. You’ve got the business cards, the stylish-yet-appropriate work wardrobe, the networking know-how, the internship experience and the perfect LinkedIn profile. Even Boy Scouts aren’t as prepared as you are.

But do you have a mentor? If not, get on that, girl! Mentors are the last piece of the professional puzzle. The basic definition of a mentor is someone with more experience than you who will give you advice about your career—but mentors do so much more than that. They’ll help you kick butt and take names up and down the boardroom, inspire you, connect you with other professionals, help you navigate tough issues, teach you and support you.

You may want to pin this article, because here are the top five reasons you need a mentor for your work life—even if you’re still in college.

(Also, check out our tips for actually finding a mentor in the first place!)

1. You can follow in his or her footsteps

Say you’ve always dreamed of managing your own PR firm—but you’re a little fuzzy on the details of how you’ll get there. Obviously, every career path is different, but having a mentor with your dream job is a great way to figure out what your next step (or four) should be. Maybe your mentor got a degree in marketing, then moved to New York to work at a PR agency. Then she spent a couple of years building up a huge network of contacts in the industry before branching out on her own. Look at that, your list of goals went from, “Graduate college, become owner of PR agency,” to, “Get marketing/advertising degree, find employment at firm in big city, go to networking events and make lots of connections, build credibility and reputation.”

“If you don’t really don’t know what to do, look at someone who’s in the same professional field and say, ‘What are the steps that she took?’” says Tiffany Dufu, chief leadership officer at Levo League, a community for professional women. “Then you know, ‘That’s one way to go, and if I do that, it might work for me.’ But keep in mind your path might be different, so don’t feel pressure to follow her exactly.”

You can also copy your mentor in less obvious ways. Is he or she an avid user of social media? Take note of how often she tweets, what she says and her tone, and then adopt those techniques. Or, if you currently work with your mentor, ask to sit in on a meeting or phone call and pay attention to how your mentor interacts with others. Whoever said imitation was the sincerest form of flattery had it right.

The nice thing about a mentor is that you don’t have to be super close with him or her to benefit from his or her experiences. If you don’t live in the same city, or if you only talk once a month over phone or even if you only communicate via email—that’s okay!

Basically, you’re playing Simon Says, but for your career.

2. He or she can connect you to other professionals

Unlike in your social life, it’s totally expected—even kosher!—for your mentor to introduce you to as many people who could help your career as he or she can. And thanks to age and experience, your mentor will inevitably know way more people in the field than you.

Why is this so important? Almost 80 percent of jobs are filled by word of mouth, not through job postings. Your mentor can help you land an interview for a position you didn’t even know was open.

So don’t be afraid to tell your mentor you’re on the job or internship hunt. He or she will start dropping your name… and maybe your business cards.

Your mentor’s connections also can also help you build your own network. It’s like your industry is a huge frat party, and you’re the collegiette in the corner who knows almost no one.

Then, your mentor swoops in and starts showing you around.

“If you have a mentor who’s taking you around and introducing you to people, the value in that is that the mentor is saying, ‘Hey, this is a person who I believe in,’” Dufu says. “And now those people assume [good things] about you, because your mentor endorsed you.”

Even if you only talk to five people at the “party,” you now have five more people to ask for insight, opportunities and assistance. (Also, we think it goes without saying that you shouldn’t take the frat analogy literally, so don’t even think about showing up to an informational interview in your sequined bandage skirt.)

3. You can draw on his or her wisdom

Problem at work? Take a yoga breath, collegiettes. We promise that no matter how weird and unique your career-related problem is, you’re not the first person to ever deal with it. And guess who’s the perfect person to help you find a solution? Right—your mentor. Unlike your mom, your friends, your SO or your cat, your mentor knows the context of your professional dilemma. Either he or she has handled something similar or knows someone who did. Plus, your success is your mentor’s goal, which means you know you’re getting objective feedback.

“The basic definition of a mentor is someone who helps you achieve clarity through guidance and his or her own experience,” Dufu says. “You should absolutely ask them for advice!”

If you have multiple mentors—lucky you!—Dufu recommends asking them all the same question and then seeing what all of the answers have in common.

So if you’re unsure whether to go to grad school, volunteer abroad or get a job after graduation, you can ask your mentor for advice. If you’re super into your campus’s chapter of Engineers Without Borders but you know joining means your GPA will inevitably suffer, ask your mentor what’s more important to hiring managers in the field: relevant experience or super-high grades. You can even ask which specific classes to take or what skills you can learn now that will be huge assets to you later.

4. You can learn specific skills

Speaking of skills, maybe you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, but when we say, “due diligence,” you say “due what?” Your mentor can teach you what due diligence is (for the next Arianna Huffingtons, it’s when you carefully research the potential consequences, rewards and risks of a business decision) and how to do it. Or maybe you’re into graphic design, but some of Adobe Photoshop’s more advanced features are completely beyond you. Ask your mentor to show you the virtual ropes!

“I worked with a reporter at my last internship who gave me advice on my on-camera personality and appearance,” says Rachel Cisto, a senior at Hartford University. “I’ve taken the advice he gave me and [have] begun using it in my work at the Student Television Network.”

And even though Dufu is well into her career, she still uses this benefit of mentorship.

“I’m not a coder, but I have access to people who can help me with that skill, whether it’s General Assembly or some other type of programming,” she says.

If you haven’t entered the workplace yet, this is a great way to get ahead of the game so that you’re well prepared for your first job. And if you’re already cozily installed in a cubicle, learning from your mentor supplements the on-the-job education that you’re already getting. Either way, it’s a total win—so pick out a couple of things you want or need to learn and then ask your career mentor for help.

5. Your mentor can give you a confidence boost

We all have those days where it feels like we’re playing hide and seek with our confidence. Meaning, it’s MIA. However, it doesn’t matter if your mentor has the job you want or a completely different one—he or she can be a great cheerleader, pumping you up when you’re feeling deflated, inspiring you to keep trying or reassuring you that you didn’t just flub up that interview.

As a result, you won’t feel like you’re totally alone trying to navigate in the career world. Because feeling as lost as Hannah from Girls? It makes for good TV, but it’s not so fun in real life.

“I started making appointments with my current career coach, Heather, at the end of junior year,” says Kathryn Williams, a senior English major at Vanderbilt University. “What I’ve really enjoyed from the experience is the peace of mind. Every few weeks I check in with Heather and we make sure that I'm on the right track and that I don't have any pressing doubts about what I want to do post-graduation. Heather has really helped me manage my stress and has encouraged me every step of the way.”

It can also be incredibly difficult to keep things in perspective when you’re working at your first couple of internships or jobs; after all, you don’t have any experiences to compare them to. You may think it’s a huge deal that you spilled coffee all over your manager’s sparkling white button-up, but she tells you everyone has those moments—and then the protocol on buying your boss a new shirt.

Plus, your mentor can push you to take on projects or apply for jobs that you don’t think you’re qualified for. A couple of people in the department you’re interning for are starting a massive rebranding project, and you think you have some valuable insights—but you’re scared of speaking up. One call to your mentor, and he or she can give you the confidence you need to volunteer your help. Huh—is that the sound of a future job offer we hear?

We hope that if you don’t already have a mentor, you just added “find one” to your goals list—because clearly they’re one of the best ways to upgrade your career, your confidence and your connections. And if you do already have one, take this article as a sign to send him or her some gratitude!

The ultimate accessory you need to have on campus? The coolest pair of over-ear headphones. You know the ones—they're ultra-sleek, come in colors that match your personality, and offer stunning sound quality... enough to block out the people whispering loudly at the next table in the library.

We've found the headphones that fit the bill, checking off every one of your requirements: Panasonic's newest Monitor Stereo Headphones, with vintage-inspired style and modern-day quality. They're lightweight enough to carry with you all day, and that super-comfortable ear cushion means your temples won't be sore even after an hours-long study (...or jam) session. You get to choose from four trendy colors—baby blue, pale pink, black and taupe—so whether you're into neutrals or a subtle touch of color, you'll find a pair that works with your personal taste.

Five lucky collegiettes will win a pair of these amazing headphones, worth $60 each! Enter below now for your chance to win, and check out the full collection in store and online at Urban Outfitters or at shop.panasonic.com! 

By the end of college, we’ve all grown to love (or loathe) certain student meals. These are the dishes that you’ve made so many times by the time graduation comes around, you could probably whip them up in your sleep—and no doubt you did at some point!

Jumping into a busy work life so soon after graduation can make it difficult to break the dietary habits that we acquire as students. If a bowl of mac and cheese is satisfactory after a day full of lectures, it’s good enough after a full day at the office, right? But the step from student life to real life can also require a similar shift in your diet. A working lifestyle can mean greater stress on your body, which also increases the need for healthier and more filling meals. At the same time, learning to make these healthy and filling meals from scratch can be very time-consuming. So why not just enhance what you already know?

If you’re not ready to move on from dorm-room cuisine just yet, here’s how to spice up some of your favorite student meals to match your life in the real world!

1. Grilled cheese sandwich

Ahh, the humble grilled cheese sandwich. Nothing can really beat the ease and simplicity of melted cheese in bread after a long day slaving away at that essay. Surprisingly, it’s also pretty easy to upgrade your sandwich to post-college standards. Plus, grilled cheese version 2.0 also includes protein, veggies and healthy fats, which help to balance out the carbs and provide a nutritious spin on the college staple.

Ingredients

• 2 slices of multigrain, seeded bread
• ½ cup cooked chicken, sliced or cut up into small chunks
• 3-4 slices fresh avocado
• 3-4 slices beefsteak tomato
• 2-3 slices of any hard cheese (such as Parmesan) – this can also be grated over the top
• Margarine

Directions

1. Spread some margarine on the inside and outside of both slices of bread.
2. Layer all the ingredients in any way you want, leaving the cheese until last.
3. Top it with some ground black pepper or red pepper flakes for added flavor, if desired.
4. Pop your creation into a panini press for 3 to 4 minutes on either side, or until the bread is crispy and golden brown.
5. Serve with a side salad.

Other great combos include turkey, cranberry and Brie (especially since the holidays are coming up!), or feel free to switch up your cheese, the bread or the veggies – grilled eggplant and zucchini with mozzarella is a winner! Grilled cheese sandwiches are the most versatile student staple—you can basically add whatever you want, so get creative!

2. Cereal

Who can forget the days where you’d come home from a study session in the library only to end up eating Cheerios for dinner? While that may have been the height of simplicity and sustenance as a student, as an adult it’s time to get a little upgrade. Here’s an adventurous way to use up that bran cereal that you’re still buying out of habit!

Tomato and Lentil Soup

Ingredients

• 4 cups vegetable stock
• 1 cup lentils
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 8-10 medium-sized tomatoes, skinned and chopped
• ¼ teaspoon dried mint leaves
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ½ cup all-bran cereal or regular bran flakes

Directions

1. Put the vegetable stock in a pan and bring to a boil.
2. Fry the onion in a little oil until soft.
3. Add onions to the stock, and gradually stir in all the other ingredients. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Simmer for 20 minutes, or until lentils are soft.
5. Top with cilantro leaves and serve with bread.

As you can see, the versatility of cereal knows no bounds. Try sprinkling honey-flavored cereal on a salad for some extra crunch or using cornflakes to bread chicken. The list is basically endless—cereal can be best friends with a lot more than just milk!

3. Omelets

Omelets are great because they feel like serious cooking—you have to actually turn the stove on!—yet you can still make them even when your brain is frazzled after an intense day. Transforming the humble omelet into a dish more appropriate for your sophisticated post-college lifestyle isn’t that tricky either. This dish with a Mexican twist creates a tasty, filling evening meal and is perfect if you’re looking to maintain a healthy diet since it’s crammed with protein!

Omelet-wrapped fajitas

Ingredients

• 2 medium eggs
• 1 tablespoon of milk
• ¼ cup chicken pieces
• 3-4 iceberg lettuce leaves
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• ½ medium onion, sliced
• ½ avocado
• 1 small tomato, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• ½ teaspoon chipotle powder
• ½ teaspoon dried garlic powder
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Brown the chicken with a little oil in a frying pan on high heat.
2. Once browned, lower the heat and add the bell pepper and onion. Cook until soft and chicken is cooked before adding the chipotle and garlic powders and seasoning. Take off the heat and set aside.
3. Make fresh guacamole by mashing up the avocado and mixing with the chopped tomato and lime juice.
4. Whisk the eggs with the milk in a small bowl. Pour into a large hot frying pan, ensuring the mix spreads out thinly.
5. Cook as you would a normal omelet, making sure it does not break or collapse.
6. Once cooked, empty onto a plate. Fill with the cooked chicken mixture, the guacamole and the lettuce leaves. Roll up and serve as a normal fajita with sour cream and salsa.

4. Ramen noodles

This list would not be complete without mentioning ramen. The instant packs are so cheap and student-friendly; they are a MUST for college. Understandably, it can be difficult to let go of such a staple! But it turns out you can make ramen more suitable for your real life.

Upgraded ramen

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon sunflower oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2-3 carrots, chopped
• 2 cups lamb mince (or another ground meat of your choice)
• ½ mixed herbs (optional)
• 1 can chopped tomatoes
• 1 cup water
• 1-2 packets of ramen (the meat flavors would work best, but feel free to experiment!)
• Grated Parmesan (for topping)

Directions

1. Cook the onions and carrots in a large pan with a tablespoon of sunflower oil until soft.
2. Turn up the heat and then add the mince, stirring until browned. Add the herbs if desired, and season to taste.
3. Pour over the tomatoes and water, then bring mixture to a simmer. Cover pan and leave for around 35-40 minutes, or until meat is cooked through.
4. Cook the ramen according to packet instructions.
5. Top cooked ramen with meat and veggies.

You don’t need to abandon these meals once you graduate! Similarly, all of these student staples—and many others besides—can be jazzed up with just a bit of creativity and only a slight stretch of your budget. In doing so, you’ll make the transition from collegiette to graduette in no time. Happy munching!

When fall and winter roll around, everyone starts to break out their warmer coats. That's when everyone on campus starts to look identical: black parkas, navy jackets—classic, but a little dreary especially when paired with gray skies. If there's any time where we should be breaking out the colors, it should be the coldest days, so we can be in a cheerier mood! We've rounded up 7 colorful coats that will keep you warm, in a bright mood and looking chic—so don't be afraid to embrace the brights this winter!

 1. Factory City Coat - J.Crew Factory ($218)

The cocoon coat has become a huge winter staple lately. Its baggier fit is actually very flattering. This green version from J.Crew Factory is just the right shade of emerald. It's enough to draw the eye but isn't blindingly bold!

2. Wool-Blend Long Blazer - Old Navy ($69.94)

If you thought pastels were only meant to be worn in the spring, guess again! This amazing mint-colored blazer will keep you toasty this season. Plus, the low collar will allow you to show off the outfit you're wearing underneath!

3. Colorblocked Tweed Jacket - Forever 21 ($49.80)

A cobalt blue like this is a great color to rock in fall and winter—it's bright, but not summer-y. The assymetrical zipper and black colorblocking detail add a bit of edge to help you stand out!

4. Short Fur Coat - Zara ($129)

At first, you may think you'll look like Tweety Bird in this fluffy coat, but if you style it the right way, you won't have to worry! Try pairing a casual, very minimal outfit with this bold piece since the coat pretty much has you covered in the drama department. A pair of plain Vans sneakers would go great with this look!

5. Wool-Blend Moto Coat - Ann Taylor ($228)

Though we just told you to try out new colors this season, but you honestly can't go wrong with a pale grey coat—it's minimalist-chic (dare we call it the new black?), but easy to dress up or down. The oversized pockets add a new spin to this classic pea coat style and will be guaranteed to complement any outfit.

6. Zip-Up Puffer Jacket - Forever 21 ($59.90)

Puffer coats often bring us back to our youth and make us look a decade younger than we really are. This number is an exception! The oversized collar is a chic upgrade and the powder pink color will be a huge relief to see in the throes of winter. 

7. Lined Parka - H&M ($79.95)

If you're looking to embrace color this season, but you're not quite ready to go the full monty, pick a sage coat like this one. We love the slightly oversized length, which will provide you with the warmth you need. Plus, the adjustable drawstring makes this flattering on any shape!

With a rainbow of options to choose from, you don't have a reason to sulk about the onset of winter! What colors will you be sporting this season, collegiettes?

October is almost over, which means we only have a few days left of Breast Cancer Awareness month (though you should still show your support for the cause year-round!). You may have already shopped for BCA or are already rocking pink in your beauty look, but we can always find another way to wear pink! We've picked out our ten favorite accessories you can wear this month (and more!) to show your support for Breast Cancer Awareness!

1. Tommy Hilfiger Patent Leather Belt, $17.99

Dress up your skinny jeans with this patent leather belt, or use it to add a hint of color to an LBD!

2. Michael Kors Slim Runway watch, $136.99

The bold watchface brings fun personality to the classic gold bracelet watch. Wear it with chunky bracelets to create a funky arm party, or let it speak for itself—either way, it makes a colorful statement!

3. American Eagle Outfitters Shimmery Printed Scarf, $24.95 

Bright accessories bring life to any outfit—especially in the fall. Pair this with other jewel tones to create bright look, or let it pop against a darker fall palette.

3. Kate Spade New York Earrings, $58

Simple and classy, these earrings are ideal for date night, girl's night out... or just on days where you want to bring a little cheer to your look!

4. Adidas Copa Zone Cushion, $19.99

Sporty-chic is in this season—so these bright pink socks can be worn to more places than just the gym! Dare we say you should try these socks with sandals?

5. Luxe Tickled Pink Necklace, $195

This is a statement necklace if we ever saw one! How great would this piece look with a monochromatic black or white outfit? 

6. Kate Spade Leroy Street Leather Wristlet, $59.98

 Every collegiette needs a carry-all wristlet for her ID, phone, lip balm, keys and other necessities! It's great to have around campus, and perfect for going out, too.

7. JanSport Classic Superbreak Backpack, $35

Stand out on campus with the best, brightest and cutest backpack! Plus, you can show your support even more by adding a Breast Cancer Awareness pin to the bag.

What accessories will you be wearing this month to show your support, collegiettes?

What’s more adorable than a baby? A baby dressed-up in a Halloween costume, of course! We scoured the web to bring you the cutest little nuggets of All Hallows’ Eve. Get ready to “aww” your brains out.

1. Breakfast at Tiffany’s

Isn’t she darling? This little lady’s take on Audrey Hepburn’s Holly Golightly from Breakfast at Tiffany’s is spot-on. She’s going to grow up to be quite the fashionista some day.

2. Hobo

This pint-sized drifter looks like he just got back from a long night of trick-or-treating and his sad face breaks our hearts. Don’t you just want to take him home with you?

3. Gnome

We just want to pinch the chubby cheeks of this happy little garden gnome. And his clever bib beard couldn’t be cuter.

4. Oompa Loompa

It’s not too often that a trick-or-treater will knock on your door to give you candy! We could just eat up this baby Oompa Loompa with his green hair and Wonka bar.

5. Raggedy Anne

What a doll! She’s just adorable with those big blue eyes and giant red wig.

6. Rainbow

Just the sight of this little one is enough to brighten the gloomiest of days! Her colorful costume makes us feel all warm and fuzzy on the inside.

7. Frosty

This little Frosty melts our hearts. From the top of her little hat to bottom of her tiny boots, she is perfection.

8. Spider-Girl

Girls can be superheroes too! Our friendly neighborhood Spider-Girl completes her web-slinging look with a dainty tutu. She rocks!

9. Up

Just when you though the movie Up was the cutest thing you’ve ever seen, then this picture happened. We know; he’s too much cute.

10. Lobster

Isn’t the scared expression on this lovable lobster baby’s face precious? We just want to rescue him from that pot and snuggle him up.

11. Ghost

This tiny spirit is anything but spooky! Her white tutu adds such a sweet touch to this Halloween classic.

12. Peapods

These delightful twins are just two peas in a pod. Double, double, toil and trouble.

13. Superman

It’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s Superbaby! This miniature Clark Kent costume is the perfect mix of cute and geeky.

We’ve got your College Fashion Week fix with highlights from the third stop on this year's tour! After finishing up a fab show in New York City, the HC team migrated west to Chi-town. The swanky event took place at Revel Downtown, a super stunning and spectacularly designed space located right in the heart of the city, which helped make for an unforgettable night. In case you couldn't make it, we'll walk you through what went down! 

Her Campus teamed up with the mega-popular online clothing e-tailer boohoo.com, the official fashion sponsor of College Fashion Week, to provide the sweet fashion for the night. There was even a boohoo fashion closet where collegiettes got to play around and scope out the hottest trends! It was every fashionista's dream! From the U.K.’s best-kept secret to one of the fastest-growing international e-tailers, boohoo.com has quickly evolved into a global fashion leader of its generation.

TRESemmé, the official hair care sponsor of CFW, had its amazing team come up with the most trendy hairstyles to be showcased during the fashion show! CFW was lucky enough feature the super talented TRESemmé stylist Tyler Laswell (pictured above), who has done styling work for InStyle, Vogue, and more! With him, everyone's hair was in good hands.

The Imperial Messy Top Knot (above and below) is so cute! It's everything a "messy" hairdo should entail. Plus, the leather headband accent takes the whole look up a notch!

This 'do would be great for a school day, since it won't take you hours to create and it won't look too fancy to rock to class. To put your bun-making skills to the test, start trying it out now by following these steps:

1. Prep hair with TRESemmé Thermal Creations Volume Mousse and rough dry. For added texture, use a one-inch curling iron to create a soft wave. Lightly spray TRESemmé Fresh Start Volumizing Dry Shampoo at the roots to absorb excess oils (bonus: it'll give added texture to work with)!
2. Section the top half of hair from ear to ear and clip out of the way. Next, pull the bottom half of hair into a tight bun at the crown and secure with an elastic.
3.  Release the top half and lightly tease for added volume. Separate this section into three equal parts and clip the middle section out of the way. 
4. Loosely wrap the outer section above each ear around the base of the bun and secure with bobby pins.
5. Repeat step four with the center section.
6. Once all hair is gathered around the bun, wrap leather string (found at local craft store) around head (acting as a headband) and tie at the nape of the neck.
7. Spray TRESemmé 24 Hour Body Finishing Spray liberally over completed look for a voluminous and flexible hold.

For more gorgeous hairstyle ideas, stop by TRESemmé's YouTube channel, which features dozens of tutorials!

As the official beauty sponsor of CFW, bareMinerals had a station where attendees were treated to mini make-unders and foundation shade-matching. Everyone got to the chance to feel like a pampered model, even if they weren't rocking the runway! Some lucky ladies even got to take home a full-sized foundation! 

Many collegiettes had the chance to let loose in the Bosco GIF booth, provided by Premium Outlets. It was a total hit; these ladies look like they're having a blast! We would be too, if we were turning our selfies into GIFs! Plus, there's no need to have to sqeeze into a tiny little frame! All the room to pose to your heart's desire (and then ogle the fab results online afterwards).

Backstage, energy was high and glamour was off-the-charts, as it should be at a fashion show! The models slipped on their shoes, adjusted their outfits and made other last-minute adjustments just before their debut on the catwalk. P.S., that boohoo.com necklace is killer.

The fashion show featured some of the most jaw-dropping (yet still wearable!) outfits any collegiette could rock. No crazy, avant-garde, unwearable pieces here! How ready does this model look for fall?! Her swingy top is perfectly tucked into her pants, and the bright bib necklace adds a nice pop. The taupe-colored parka sure looks cozy, and its gold hardware adds a nice flare to a normally dull type of outerwear. This outfit screams effortless, but still put together!

Ah, we can't get over how amazing this model looks! Her boohoo.com outfit is so boho chic with the bowler hat and statement necklace, plus she will definitely keep warm for the Chi-town fall in that oversized cardigan.

For a fuller look at how spectacular the night was, check out the exclusive album and like the CFW Facebook page for updates. While it's true that CFW 2014 tour is coming to an end, let's not get too ahead of ourselves –there's still one last stop! This time, the HC team is taking on California. San Francisco, here we come! So as you look back on the month's amazing shows in Boston, New York City and Chicago, just think about how awesome the last hurrah will be in the Bay Area on Saturday, October 25th. Don't forget to RSVP, because time is running out!

Whether you’ve been in one or not, you’ve probably heard that relationships are hard work, especially in college. We change so much in the four short years, and it can be tough to maintain a relationship with someone else who is changing just as much as you are! So, how do college couples do it? One word: compromise! Relationships are all about the give and take, and it’s important to be willing to compromise with your SO in order to maintain a healthy, happy relationship.

While compromising might seem like the obvious choice when it comes to where to go to dinner or what to do on a Friday night, there are plenty of other situations in which the decision to compromise (or not to) can be tricky. But don’t worry; when it comes to figuring out when to compromise and when to stand your ground, Her Campus has you covered.

What you should not compromise on

1. Your values

In order to grow from a relationship, you have to know what you want out of it and, perhaps more importantly, what you need out of it. “I suggest each person get clear about their own non-negotiables or deal-breakers in relationships,” says Kim Olver, author of Secrets of Happy Couples.“When you are not in a relationship is the time to consider your non-negotiables. What are the things you absolutely must have from your partner?”

Olver points out that everyone’s “non-negotiables” are different, and all are valid. You may decide that you value your religion and wouldn’t feel comfortable dating someone outside of it. You may feel that you value friendship above all else, and wouldn’t be happy dating someone who took too much time away from your girl friends. Your values are valid simply by virtue of being important to you, so don’t compromise on them!

For all those single ladies out there, now is the time for a little introspective soul-searching. Figure out what you would want out of a relationship and make a list. When you find yourself in a relationship, don’t allow that honeymoon phase to sway your resolve when it comes to demanding your non-negotiables. After all, they’re non-negotiable for a reason!

2. Your goals

It may feel silly, but dreams are an integral part of your identity. Maybe you’ve always dreamed of volunteering in Africa or studying abroad in Paris. Maybe you want to intern on the set of a TV show in Los Angeles or launch your own fashion line. When you’re single, you typically have more time and energy to devote to your dreams than when you’re caught up in the comfortable cycle of dinner dates and movie nights.

While it’s definitely possible (and ideal) to have a relationship that helps you grow towards your dreams, a relationship can become problematic if it causes you to choose it over your dreams.

“My best guy friend was planning on going abroad for the whole year this year,” says Megan*, a junior at Colby College. “But once he started dating his girlfriend, he realized he couldn't trust her and decided not to go abroad at all. In my opinion, this was a horrible compromise, if it's even a compromise at all.”

Putting your dreams off for a few months is one thing (say your SO is going through a family crisis and you cut your volunteer trip short a couple weeks to be there for him or her), but a relationship should never keep you from following your dreams indefinitely. You may feel that life with your SO is a dream come true, but don’t forget the dreams you had before you fell head over heels!

3. Your safety

This is a big one, collegiettes. “No one should have to compromise on his or her own safety,” Olver says. “If your boyfriend/girlfriend hurts you physically, it is time to prioritize yourself and get out of that situation.”

According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, domestic abuse includes controlling whom you see, discouraging you from seeing friends or family, threatening you, physically harming you or forcing you into situations that make you feel uncomfortable. If you are experiencing any of these situations, call the 24/7 hotline at 1-800-799-7233.

Safety isn’t just limited to violence or emotional or physical abuse; it can also mean pressuring you into things you know are harmful. “We look for partners with the same values so we don’t compromise many of the things that are most important to us,” says Jay Hurt, author of The 9 Tenets of a Successful Relationship. “For example, if drug use, sex before marriage or any misogynistic relationship is a compromise to who you are, don’t do it. Any request that threatens your character is a compromise you should not make.”

If your SO is pressuring you into sex before you’re ready or trying to get you to try a substance you’re not comfortable with, not only are your values being compromised, but your health and safety are as well.

What you can compromise on

1. How you socialize

When it comes to where you go to eat or which party you go to on Friday night, compromise is the way to go. “You may have to compromise about how you spend time, including how much time you spend together, what activities you engage in together, whose friends you spend time with at a particular time, etc.,” says Dr. Mark Sharp, a licensed clinical psychologist and founder of the Aiki Relationship Institute in Illinois. Obviously this will be much easier if you have the same friend groups or engage in the same activities, but if you don’t, a bit of compromise might be in order.

Maybe you decide that you and your SO will have date night once a week when you turn off your phones for a few hours and just enjoy each other’s company without compromising your other friendships and commitments. Rachel, a junior at the University of Kentucky, found carving out a specific time for her boyfriend to be super helpful. “We realized once we made focused time for each other, instead of worrying about what our to-do lists were, it made our relationship much stronger,” Rachel says.

In a loving relationship, you and your SO should be willing to make small compromises when it comes to how you spend your time in order to maintain a healthy balance.

2. Things that help you grow as an individual

Dr. Patrick Wanis, a human behavior and relationship expert, points out that just because something is uncomfortable, doesn’t mean it’s unhealthy.

“Compromise on something that will help you to grow and step you out of your comfort zone,” Dr. Wanis says. Just like stepping outside of your comfort zone by going backpacking through Europe or moving to New York City after graduation can be nerve-wracking but ultimately a positive growing experience, relationships can be the same!

You might want to see your out-of-state SO all the time, but compromising by sticking to visits every other weekend will not only help your relationship, but will also help you to grow as an individual, which is what good relationships are all about! Don’t be afraid of compromise just because it’s unfamiliar, especially if it can be a growing experience.

So how do you know if one of you is compromising too much in a relationship? “If one person is always getting their way the other is probably giving up too much,” Dr. Sharp says.

If your SO makes you feel guilty for wanting to stick to your guns, there’s a good chance you’re giving too much to your relationship and not getting enough in return.

“Ask yourself, if your best friend was in your shoes, would you tell her to stay or would you tell her to walk away?” Hurt asks. You would never let your bestie be in a relationship in which she wasn’t appreciated, so show yourself the same love!

At the same time, there will undoubtedly be times when one of you winds up compromising more than the other. If your relationship is balanced and healthy the majority of the time, it’s a good idea to stick it out. “It's time to fight when you have been together a while (say, a year or longer) and most of that time things have been good,” says Dr. Seth Meyers, a licensed psychologist and the author of Dr. Seth’s Love Prescription: Overcome Relationship Repetition Syndrome and Find the Love You Deserve.

Just because you and your SO don’t agree on every little thing doesn’t mean you’re not in a healthy relationship. As long as you can grow as an individual while growing as a couple and you don’t feel like you have to compromise on your values and the things that are important to you, you’re in good shape, collegiette!

*Name has been changed.

It's been far too long since our beloved Taylor Swift came out with an album full of the breakup songs, girl-power anthems and dance-your-face-off jams that she's known for. But the wait is almost over, collegiettes! T. Swift's newest album, 1989, will be released on October 27, and it's been generating some serious buzz. The album was named for the year in which Taylor was born, and there is plenty of evidence to suggest that this round of songs will be totally different than anything we've heard from the songstress. Here are nine reasons we can't wait for 1989 to drop. 

1. This is T. Swift's first official pop album, and it marks her departure from country

As much as we loved the days of "Teardrops On My Guitar" and "Tim McGraw" and will always have a soft spot in our hearts for Taylor's twang-ier numbers, we're totally digging her new pop sound.

2. The first single off the album, "Shake It Off," is our jam

We dare you to watch the adorably awkward music video and not fall in love with her (and to not have that song stuck in your head for the rest of the day).

3. The music videos will undoubtedly be filled with more of the Swift-iest dance moves

4. At least one of the songs comes straight from the pages of her journal, according to Rolling Stone

We can't even begin to imagine what lurks within the pages of Taylor's personal journals, but we can almost guarantee it will make for some amazing songwriting material.

5. The album was heavily influenced by late '80s pop

That means influences from the likes of Madonna and Phil Collins, and all things rebellious, exciting and colorful - we can't wait, basically.

6. There are sure to be plenty of songs about a certain One Direction member

Rumor has it that the song Taylor recently released, "Out of the Woods," is about Harry Styles, T. Swift's ex (and sources say that's not the only song the Brit inspired!). 

7. If the listening parties are any indication, it's going to be amazing

Yes, Taylor invited fans to her home in Los Angeles for a listening party that featured goodies baked by T. Swift herself, tons of swag, hugs and hipster polaroids with Taylor and, of course, lots of dancing.

8. There is a song called "Bad Blood" on the album about a feud with another female pop star 

T. Swift claims that a fellow pop star tried to sabotage her arena tour, and although she isn't naming names, numerous media outleta have speculated that the song is about Katy Perry.

9. And, finally, Lorde has deemed the album "joyous"

And, therefore, it must be so. 

Mark your calendars, collegiettes... T. Swift is back.

In order to stay breakout-free and have clean, healthy skin, it's important to have a daily skincare routine. It doesn't have to be too fancy or inexpensive—simply cleansing, toning and moisturizing your skin regularly can work wonders. 

Have you ever wondered what other collegiettes around the country do when it comes to taking care of their skin? We wanted to know more about their methods, techniques and product recommendations, so we asked three collegiettes to let us in on their secrets! Keep reading to get the inside scoop.

Our West Coast Gal: Ashley Nicole Flood 

Ashley is a junior journalism major at Northern Arizona University, and she's originally from California. 

Her Campus: What is your skin type?

Ashley Flood: I have combination/oily skin, but during the winter it gets really dry!

HC: What is your daytime skincare routine? 

ANF: I typically use St. Ives. Pink Lemon Scrub ($3.99) or C. Booth's face wash ($6) to wash my face. Then I moisturize with Pond's Dry Skin Face Lotion ($6.99) and use Monistat's Anti-Chaffing Gel ($5.98) as a primer, followed by my makeup routine.

HC:What is your evening skincare routine?

ANF: Same, except only the cleansing and moisturizing part.

HC: Do you change your skincare routine when the seasons change?

ANF: Typically my skincare routine stays the same throughout the seasons, however I occassionaly will exfoliate with a face brush during the winter months, and sometimes in summer if I get a sun burn! For the most part I try to make sure I include an SPF in my skin care routine no matter what the season.

HC: What are your main skincare concerns, and what do you use or do for them?

ANF: I think my main skin care concerns are acne and dry skin. I use Mary Kay's spot treatment ($10) for acne, and sometimes a new toothbrush to exfoliate my face if it ever becomes unbearably dry.

Our East Coast Gal: Felicia Elizabeth Beaton

Felicia is a sophomore education major at Bunker Hill Community College in Boston, and she's from Massachusetts. 

Her Campus: What is your skin type?

FEB: Combination.

HC: What is your daytime skincare routine? 

FEB: I don't do too much in the daytime. I wake up and wash my face with a cleanser like Biore's Warming Anti-Breakout Cleanser ($6.47) or some Ivory soap ($4.99) and go about my day. Then, I'll either put on makeup or just dry my face and head out the door. [Editor's note: We recommend moisturizing after you wash your face!]

HC: What is your evening skincare routine?

FEB: I use Neutrogena's Makeup Remover Wipes ($6.99) if I have worn makeup, and then I'll wash my face with either Ivory soap or my cleanser. If I haven't worn makeup, I just wash my face.

HC: Do you change your skincare routine when the seasons change?

FEB: I do not.

HC: What are your main skincare concerns, and what do you use or do for them?

FEB: My main skincare concern is acne. Usually when I suffer from a breakout, I'll use whatever spot treatment and acne masks I have laying around. Most of the time, I end up over-treating the breakouts I get because I just want them to go away!

Our Southern Gal: Kelli Amanda Dunagan 

Kelli is a senior nutrion and dietetics major at Samford University in Alabama, and she's originally from Georgia. 

Her Campus: What is your skin type?

KAD: I have combination dry/oily skin. The area around my nose is typically the most affected by the seasons, and my bangs cause my forehead to be a little more oily than other areas.

HC: What is your daytime skincare routine? 

KAD: I'm super low maintenance with my facial skincare regimine, especially in the summer when it is more humid. Every morning, I use Neutrogena Pore Refining Exfoliating Cleanser ($7.21). I like that it clears my dead skin away without drying me out too much. That's it! In the winter, I use a moisturizer, as the chilly area completely dries me up. I use Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisturizer with SPF ($9.49) for those months.

HC: What is your evening skincare routine?

KAD: In the evening, I use make-up remover wipes to clean off my makeup. I'm a huge fan of the Neutrogena Cleansing Towelettes ($6.99). If I have any problem spots, I'll use a spot treatment that isn't too dehydrating.

HC: Do you change your skincare routine when the seasons change?

KAD: Yes. Due to the humid summers and dry winters in the South, I have to change up my routine once the temperature drops.

HC: What are your main skincare concerns, and what do you use or do for them?

KAD: My biggest issue is always the dryness of my skin. Moisturizers are the best treatment for this issue. Also, I've had bangs since I was in middle school and sometimes they can cause my forehead to break out. I make sure to always keep my bangs very clean and I don't use conditioner on them. Spot treatments are the best choice if the issue does occur.

Even though each of these collegiettes has her own unique skin care routine, all of these ladies have gorgeous complexions! Want more on skincare, makeup and more? We've got even more on the Beauty School Blog!

What is your skincare routine like? Do you use any of the same products as these collegiettes do? Let us know in the comments!

They say that acceptance is the first step to recovery, so we’re just going to say it: we are too old for trick-or-treating. Instead of running around our neighborhoods with bags full of Kit Kat bars and Twizzlers, we have upgraded to dressing up as provocative animals (à la Mean Girls) and partying on frat row. However, some campuses beat most colleges’ Halloween-themed frat parties with some seriously awesome traditions. Don’t believe us? Check out these 10 spooky celebrations, ranked in order of epicness.

10. Harvey Mudd College’s Halloweiner 

Imagine if your two favorite holidays—tailgating season (which basically is one holiday) and Halloween—joined forces to create an out-of-this-world celebration. At Harvey Mudd College, that fantasy is a reality. To start off their Halloween festivities with a bang, students barbeque hundreds (yes, hundreds) of pounds of meat for the entire student body. Halloweiner is basically a tailgate for this highly anticipated holiday.

9. SUNY Geneseo’s Halloweekend

Every collegiette knows that Halloween is no longer a one-night extravaganza, but at SUNY Geneseo, Halloweekend is more than a slew of frat parties. The festivities start with students rooting for their school’s hockey team… in costume. 

“Freshman year, my guy friends went as Braveheart in full kilts and school-colored face paint a la Mel Gibson,” says Megan Killea, a graduate of SUNY Geneseo. “My girlfriends and I went as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.”

The celebration continues with a street fair on Geneseo’s Main Street, which includes a Halloween parade as well as cider donuts—be still, our hearts. 

“Even the college kids come out to see it,” adds Megan. “They get their daily dose of nostalgia and innocence before they go home and start pregaming in their costumes.” Meshed with a plethora of Halloween–themed parties, what could be better?

8. UNC-Chapel Hill’s Celebration on Franklin Street

Parades are one thing, but not many towns shut down an entire street to celebrate Halloween. Franklin Street, which is right by UNC-Chapel Hill’s campus, is one of the coolest places to be on this frightful night. On Halloween night, the town of Chapel Hill blocks off Franklin Street so college students and residents can roam the empty street. Translation? You and your friends can dress up in crazy costumes and have a few drinks (if you’re of legal age, that is).

“I've heard that it's so popular that other schools in North Carolina send busloads of students to Chapel Hill that night, although I know the police department has tried to discourage that,” says Alex Gladu, a senior at UNC-Chapel Hill and HC’s Life Editor. 

According to the town of Chapel Hill’s website, this event attracts anywhere from 30,000 people (in 2013) to a whopping 80,000 attendees (in 2007). Between the large traffic this celebration receives and the ghoulish Halloween spirit, it’s no surprise that authorities have tightened up security. In 2008, Town Manager Roger L. Stancil initiated Homegrown Halloween, which strives to reduce crowd sizes and keep Franklin Street safe.

Since safety comes first and foremost, don’t be surprised if this street-wide celebration closes early or there are a lot of police officers patrolling the area—not just cute frat boys dressed up as cops!

7. Pennsylvania State University’s Pumpkin Festival

From selecting the perfect pumpkin at the patch to sketching out a spooky design to cooking pumpkin seeds, creating a jack-o’-lantern is arguably one of the best parts of Halloween. Penn State recognizes just how important carving a pumpkin is, and has dedicated a weeklong celebration to the cause. Though this event is only two years old, this annual collection of jack-o’-lantern festivities merits a spot on our coveted list. 

“It’s nice that Penn State and the surrounding community of State College is offering an alternative way to celebrate the holiday rather than just by drinking,” says Erica Kasan, a senior at Penn State. “It doesn’t matter if you’re 10 or 21, Halloween can still be celebrated by everyone in a safe and fun [manner].”

In addition to refreshments, music and crafts, this school’s pumpkin festival also features a pumpkin carving competition. For a very retro twist, winners are rewarded with old-fashioned ribbons. Festive and nostalgic, a good ole carving competition is impossible to resist. 

6. MIT’s Pumpkin Drop

Unless you have a knack for parabolas or physics, your ideal pre-Halloween extravaganza probably doesn’t include solving mathematical equations. But what if we told you that MIT’s highly academic event includes smashing frozen pumpkins? Um, what?

Just a few days before Halloween, students and friends watch a select group of classmates drop pumpkins off of the campus’s Green Building, which is 295 feet high. Participants are required to calculate which conditions would make the biggest splash—pun intended. After considering the height, velocity and other factors, these pumpkin smashers are required to put their calculations to the test. Whether or not you have an aptitude for science, how epic does exploding pumpkins sound?

5. UCLA’s All-Hill Halloween

While Halloween frat parties sound fun, they’re all missing one thing: candy. We may be too old to go door to door and beg for candy, but that doesn’t mean we have to outgrow the trick-or-treating spirit. Every year, more than 2,500 elementary and middle schoolers are invited to trick-to-treat all around UCLA’s campus. Instead of going from house to house, attendees go from dorm to dorm. How cute! 

“UCLA has always been big about giving back to the community, and All-Hill Halloween is a great example of that,” says Ekta Partani, a senior at UCLA and a HC Campus Correspondent. “It gives these kids a chance to have a safe and fun Halloween. Plus it's absolutely adorable to see all the kids running around in their costumes!”

And when you’re stocking up on delicious sweets for your trick-or-treaters, grab a bag of Hershey’s Kisses for yourself—you deserve it.

4. Georgetown University’s Healy Howl

“Did you know that [insert movie here] was shot at this school?” asks almost every campus tour guide ever. At this point, we feel like we know it all: tidbits of 21 were filmed at Boston University, Johns Hopkins University made a cameo in The Social Network and The Five-Year Engagement was set at the University of Michigan. But did you know that parts of The Exorcist were filmed at Georgetown University? In fact, collegiettes and collegents gather every Halloween to watch the 1973 film on Copley Lawn or in Gaston Hall. 

"Watching The Exorcist in Gaston Hall is something that every Georgetown student should do at least once before they graduate,” says Lacey Henry, a senior at Georgetown University and HC Campus Correspondent. “It will definitely make you think twice before using the infamous Exorcist stairs on your way down to M Street!"

Since the movie ends around midnight, students then go to the campus’s cemetery and howl at the moon when the clock strikes 12. Spooky.

3. Texas A&M’s Wicked Woods Haunted Trail

It sounds like something out of a horror movie: a group of fun-loving collegiettes take a spontaneous trip into the woods… only to discover there’s a crazed killer or supernatural creature on the loose who is out to get them. Texas A&M’s Kappa Sigma chapter is set to recreate this horrifying scene for the eighteenth year. And let’s just say this is more epic than your run-of-the-mill fraternity fundraiser. Texas A&M’s student newspaper, The Battalion, reports that this event takes months of preparation, and more than 4,000 people attend the festivities. As the fifth largest haunted trail/house in Texas, according to the fraternity’s website, this scary walk takes attendees through five acres of backwoods. Can we say scariest 15 minutes of our lives?

But before you chicken out of attending this event, don’t forget that this has a philanthropic motive. Proceeds from this fundraiser go to various charitable organizations. If it’s for charity, perhaps we can charge through this trail!

2. University of Rochester’s Scare Fair 

To be perfectly honest, libraries give us the creeps: anxiety-inducing aisles, fluorescent lights and the very slim chance that a secret passageway will open as soon as you grab that book off the shelf all make us a little freaked out. So it makes perfect sense that the University of Rochester hosts its famed Scare Fair at Rush Rhees, the school’s main library. For more than 80 years, Rush Rhees has been transformed into a haunted house, which also features a scavenger hunt. And let’s just say the prize is a lot cooler than a gift card to your favorite on-campus burrito restaurant.

“Winners get to go up the old, usually restricted elevators and take a tour of Rush Rhees tower,” says Katherine Varga, a senior at the University of Rochester. “This includes walking around on the dome that overlooks campus and parts of Rochester, [which is] a big deal [because] the only other time people are allowed up there is during Senior Week.” 

If spooky scavenger hunts aren’t your thing, the Scare Fair has also been known to display spiders and snakes from the Seneca Park Zoo, as well as some bands from the university. Spooky, but amazing.

1. Ohio University’s Halloween Block Party 

You probably attended several block parties when you were growing up, but Ohio University’s spooky variation puts your cul-de-sac’s soiree to shame (but we’re sure your neighborhood’s version of a block party was just lovely). Located in Athens, Ohio, right by this party school’s campus, this festivity is like a costume party for you and 20,000 of your coolest friends. This year, Athens’s annual event is set to have food and art vendors as well as live music. Though the block party is a great time to get dressed up and hang out with your friends, it can get a little wild. 

“Our school paper always reports the number of arrests on the front page of [the next day’s issue], and the majority of them are kids who are visiting from other schools who just wanted to get rowdy,” says Madelyn Gaither, a recent graduate from Ohio University. In 2012, The Athens Messenger reported that 80 attendees were arrested, many for alcohol-related reasons. If you decide to pack your bags and head to Ohio this year, be careful—having a rap sheet is so not collegiette-approved.

Does your school have a totally epic Halloween tradition? Sound off below!

We’ve got your College Fashion Week fix with highlights from the third stop on this year's tour! After finishing up a fab show in New York City, the HC team migrated west to Chi-town. The swanky event took place at Revel Downtown, a super stunning and spectacularly designed space located right in the heart of the city, which helped make for an unforgettable night. In case you couldn't make it, we'll walk you through what went down! 

Her Campus teamed up with the mega-popular online clothing e-tailer boohoo.com, the official fashion sponsor of College Fashion Week, to provide the sweet fashion for the night. There was even a boohoo fashion closet where collegiettes got to play around and scope out the hottest trends! It was every fashionista's dream! From the U.K.’s best-kept secret to one of the fastest-growing international e-tailers, boohoo.com has quickly evolved into a global fashion leader of its generation.

TRESemmé, the official hair care sponsor of CFW, had its amazing team come up with the most trendy hairstyles to be showcased during the fashion show! CFW was lucky enough feature the super talented TRESemmé stylist Tyler Laswell (pictured above), who has done styling work for InStyle, Vogue, and more! With him, everyone's hair was in good hands.

The Imperial Messy Top Knot (above and below) is so cute! It's everything a "messy" hairdo should entail. Plus, the leather headband accent takes the whole look up a notch!

This 'do would be great for a school day, since it won't take you hours to create and it won't look too fancy to rock to class. To put your bun-making skills to the test, start trying it out now by following these steps:

1. Prep hair with TRESemmé Thermal Creations Volume Mousse and rough dry. For added texture, use a one-inch curling iron to create a soft wave. Lightly spray TRESemmé Fresh Start Volumizing Dry Shampoo at the roots to absorb excess oils (bonus: it'll give added texture to work with)!
2. Section the top half of hair from ear to ear and clip out of the way. Next, pull the bottom half of hair into a tight bun at the crown and secure with an elastic.
3.  Release the top half and lightly tease for added volume. Separate this section into three equal parts and clip the middle section out of the way. 
4. Loosely wrap the outer section above each ear around the base of the bun and secure with bobby pins.
5. Repeat step four with the center section.
6. Once all hair is gathered around the bun, wrap leather string (found at local craft store) around head (acting as a headband) and tie at the nape of the neck.
7. Spray TRESemmé 24 Hour Body Finishing Spray liberally over completed look for a voluminous and flexible hold.

For more gorgeous hairstyle ideas, stop by TRESemmé's YouTube channel, which features dozens of tutorials!

As the official beauty sponsor of CFW, bareMinerals had a station where attendees were treated to mini make-unders and foundation shade-matching. Everyone got to the chance to feel like a pampered model, even if they weren't rocking the runway! Some lucky ladies even got to take home a full-sized foundation! 

Many collegiettes had the chance to let loose in the Bosco GIF booth, provided by Premium Outlets. It was a total hit; these ladies look like they're having a blast! We would be too, if we were turning our selfies into GIFs! Plus, there's no need to have to sqeeze into a tiny little frame! All the room to pose to your heart's desire (and then ogle the fab results online afterwards).

Backstage, energy was high and glamour was off-the-charts, as it should be at a fashion show! The models slipped on their shoes, adjusted their outfits and made other last-minute adjustments just before their debut on the catwalk. P.S., that boohoo.com necklace is killer.

The fashion show featured some of the most jaw-dropping (yet still wearable!) outfits any collegiette could rock. No crazy, avant-garde, unwearable pieces here! How ready does this model look for fall?! Her swingy top is perfectly tucked into her pants, and the bright bib necklace adds a nice pop. The taupe-colored parka sure looks cozy, and its gold hardware adds a nice flare to a normally dull type of outerwear. This outfit screams effortless, but still put together!

Ah, we can't get over how amazing this model looks! Her boohoo.com outfit is so boho chic with the bowler hat and statement necklace, plus she will definitely keep warm for the Chi-town fall in that oversized cardigan.

For a fuller look at how spectacular the night was, check out the exclusive album and like the CFW Facebook page for updates. While it's true that CFW 2014 tour is coming to an end, let's not get too ahead of ourselves –there's still one last stop! This time, the HC team is taking on California. San Francisco, here we come! So as you look back on the month's amazing shows in Boston, New York City and Chicago, just think about how awesome the last hurrah will be in the Bay Area on Saturday, October 25th. Don't forget to RSVP, because time is running out!

Studying abroad is an amazing experience – which is something you’ve probably been told by anyone who’s studied abroad. But, like any other experience, your time abroad will be what you make of it. While there are tons of opportunities to make your time abroad an amazing experience, there are also opportunities for it to go awry, and you may not realize it until the deed has been done. Lucky for you, we’ve gathered advice from collegiettes who have studied abroad to help you make the most of your time and avoid the common pitfalls. Here are the nine most common study abroad mistakes to avoid!

1. Not budgeting your money

Everyone knows that studying abroad can be expensive, but there are always ways to save. Budgeting your money before you even get to your destination is the first step to avoiding spending too much.

“One of my biggest regrets was not budgeting myself from the beginning,” says Carolyn Mullen, a senior at Saint Joseph’s University, who studied abroad in Italy. “I was so excited when I got to Rome that I didn’t even think about my spending!”

Start off on the right foot by creating a budget for yourself. Set aside a certain amount per week for groceries, travel expenses and fun things. Starting from the beginning will allow you to disperse your budget, making sure that you don’t run out halfway through the semester!

“I wish I spent less money on shopping and more on experiences,” says Emily Smoot, a junior at Clemson University who studied in London. It’s inevitable that your budget will be drained, but at least make sure the money is going where you want it to go. Cute shops and department stores are tempting, but think about the regrets you’ll have when you arrive home with an extra suitcase but not many memorable experiences. Cut your budget down on the shopping expenses and allot yourself a little more for travels and experiences.

2. Not traveling enough

Studying abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so make sure you take advantage of the opportunities! If you’re in a European country, consider jetting away to London or Paris – cities that aren’t too far away – for a weekend while you have the chance. If you don’t take advantage of the cheap and easy travel, you might end up regretting it when you return home and are itching to leave. Living in a different country isn’t only an opportunity to experience one culture, but also an opportunity to visit several.

“Even though my budget didn’t [always] allow for it, I wish I had traveled a bit more,” Emily says.

You often don’t get the chance to jet away when we’re at home, so make sure you don’t regret missing out on the unique opportunity. We know traveling is expensive, but there are ways around the hefty costs. Spend less money on going out and save up for a weekend trip. Plan early and take advantage of budget airlines, buses and trains. Stay in hostels instead of checking yourself into a hotel. There are tons of ways to cut down on travel expenses, so don’t let the big numbers get you down!

3. Not meeting new people

When you’re getting ready to go abroad, it’s hard to keep from dreaming of all the charming foreign friends you’re going to meet – but unfortunately that’s not always how it goes. A lot of study abroad programs group Americans and other international students together, so it can be hard to branch out. Keeping to yourself and your group of friends can hinder your experience, so be sure to make an effort to socialize with the locals!

Elise Chaffiotte, a senior at the University of Scranton who studied in Florence for a month, says that she traveled around with a group of girls from school, and as a result, ended up spending most of her time with them. “Having them as a safety net, I didn’t really branch out to become friends with the locals,” she says.

There’s nothing wrong with sharing your study abroad experience with friends from home, but try to take advantage of the situation and befriend locals and other international students. “I met and became friends with students from other U.S. schools, [and] even though I was with mostly Americans, I feel like I really submerged myself into Italian culture,” Elise says.

Try to branch out by putting yourself out there, remaining open-minded and immersing yourself in the culture!

4. Not immersing yourself in the culture

Speaking of which – not immersing yourself in the culture of your study abroad country is another pitfall to avoid. It’s easy to slip into habits from home and end up locking yourself in your room with snacks and a good rom-com, so try to avoid that at all costs. You only have a small amount of time in this country, so do your best to take advantage of what it has to offer!

Elise points out that immersing yourself in the culture is a really important aspect of studying abroad. “Waking up to go to the morning market, going to the local bars and eating the cuisine of the area – it's best to participate in local activities as if you actually lived there,” she says.

Elise says that even though she wasn’t fluent in Italian, she still tried to speak the language. “Even if you only speak at a beginner level, you should still try to speak their language,” she says. “You’re in their county, so it is best to try!”

Immerse yourself in your new country’s culture by checking out local events, eating the signature foods and trying your hand at speaking the language.

5. Not taking risks

Studying abroad is an experience you only have once, so do your best to make the most of it! It’s a time to explore new places and experience things you might not have a chance to in your home country. In reality, what you’ll probably regret most are the things you didn’t do – so take risks!

“I made the best of my experience by embracing new things,” Elise says. “Instead of second-guessing myself and turning down opportunities, I said yes.”

If you’re offered an opportunity to travel to a nearby city or even just go out for drinks with the locals, say yes! You’re more likely to regret the opportunities that you didn’t take than the ones that you did. “Take advantage of every and any opportunity you get,” Elise says. “[After all], you're only abroad for so long!”

6. Not exploring your host city

While you should consider how easy it might be to jet off to another city for the weekend, it’s also a good idea to get to know your new home. It’s not every day that you’ll be able to pick up your life and move yourself to a new city, so make sure to explore your temporary home while you can.

A number of collegiettes who studied abroad regret not spending their time exploring their new city. “I wish I had found little hole-in-the-wall random stores and coffee shops,” Emily says. “Just by walking along streets [I could have wandered] into whatever I came to.”

Semesters abroad are notoriously easy in the academic department (though not for everyone!), so take advantage of your free time between school and travels to get to know your new town. Take walks, look up hidden gems and explore the nooks and crannies of your city.

7. Partying too much

A younger drinking age and plethora of bars and clubs can be tempting to incoming Americans, but make sure you’re not spending too much time at the pub! Not only can partying drain your wallet and hinder your health, but it can have a negative impact on your whole experience. Emily says she wishes she had “gone out more during the day and a little less at night.” Sure, exploring your city’s nightlife is an important part of your experience, but make sure it’s not taking up all of your nights!

If you want to get your party fix, invite friends to your apartment for drinks and snacks to save time and money. Going out once in a while won’t hurt, but try not to make a habit out of it!

8. Taking class too seriously

Now don’t get us wrong, class is a very important aspect of studying abroad (hence the “studying” part of the phrase), but keep in mind that academics aren’t the only reason why you’re there. You’re much more likely to look back on your travels and new friends rather than the essays you turned in! It’s important to be a part of your school and observe how education varies in different cultures, but don’t stress too much about classwork.

Emily’s advice for future study abroad students is to not worry so much about school. “I know that sounds crazy, but a huge part of the study abroad experience is meeting new people, trying new things and visiting new places,” she says. While you should no doubt be doing your work and attending exams, don’t be afraid to prioritize new experiences.

“The whole experience is completely eye-opening and exciting, [and] you don’t want to miss out on something that’s probably a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” Emily says.

9. Putting your health on the backburner

Luxurious flights? New destinations? Sounds like a vacation, right? Wrong! Studying abroad can feel like a getaway at times, but you shouldn’t always treat it like a holiday. Make sure you keep up with your healthy habits and workout regimen. “It [might] feel like a vacation, but it’s still important to work out,” Carolyn says. “Even just a walk or run around the city [can burn off a few extra calories]!”

It’s easy to develop new habits in a new location, so make sure those habits are positive (like eating healthy and working out regularly) rather than negative (like eating gelato and hitting the pub every day). Go out on exploratory walks, join a gym or go for a quick run in the local park to work off those extra calories. You won’t regret it when you return home in tip-top shape!

With that said, it’s time to have a fulfilling study abroad experience! This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so take advantage of it and try not to suffer the common pitfalls. Follow these collegiettes’ advice for a satisfying and regret-free study abroad experience!

Fall shopping—there’s nothing like it. It’s a time to give our closets a full overhaul and a much-needed upgrade from last year’s wardrobe. But as we stock up on chunky knit sweaters, statement outerwear and dark wash denim, we often forget that our accessories need an update, too.

So if you’re finding yourself using the same tote you’ve been wearing around campus for longer than you care to admit, this one’s for you! We’re giving away an amazing 7-piece accessories collection from Vince Camuto, every collegiette’s go-to for the most stylish shoes, bags, jewelry, clothes and more (seriously—they’ve got it all). The prize includes an oversized red hobo big enough for all your books, glamorous sunglasses, a classic black wallet, an edgy stud bracelet, a layerable leopard print scarf, geometric statement earrings and the brand’s signature fragrance, a delicious blend of Bulgarian rose, jasmine, vanilla, amber and leathery musk that’s perfect for fall.

Enter below now so you don’t miss out on your chance to win the entire set, worth $608! And if you can’t get enough of Vince Camuto style, check out their blog, where you to the hottest new trends and the latest Vince Camuto collections!

It’s not always easy to meet girls who are into girls, and sometimes a collegiette has to get creative! Going to bars is a fun and inexpensive way to meet new people. Here’s a list of amazing gay bars every collegiette should know about!

1. Gossip Grill

Address: 1220 University Ave., San Diego, CA
Nearest school: The University of California, San Diego
Best for: Casual hangouts, special events

Gossip Grill is a tasteful bar located in San Diego, California, filled with fun art and a great menu. Since it opened in 2009, it’s been notorious as a great hangout for girls. What makes Gossip Grill so cool? The place plays nice with the boys, too, so you can drag your guy friends along. Each week they host a boy’s night featuring a hot body contest and cheap drinks.

2. The Dalloway

Address: The Lower East Side, New York City, New York (moving soon)
Nearest schools: New York University, Hunter College, Marymount Manhattan College
Best for: Casual hangouts, special events

There are many colleges in New York City, and fortunately, there are also many LGBT bars! The Dalloway is owned by Kim Stolz of America’s Next Top Model and Amanda Leigh Dunn of The Real L Word, making it a hot spot. The vibe of this bar is very relaxed; there’s some dancing and a lot of standing and chatting. It’s the perfect spot to meet the girl you’ve been looking for! The bar is in the process of moving to a new location on the Lower East Side, but we’re sure it’ll be just as awesome as the old one once it reopens.

3. Scarlet

Address: 3320 N. Halsted St., Chicago, IL
Nearest schools: Loyola University Chicago, DePaul University, The University of Chicago, Northwestern University
Best for: Inexpensive drinks, fancy environment

Located in Chicago, Scarlet has an old-school style. It was named after the old tradition of members of the LGBTQ+ community wearing scarlet clothing items to show their affiliation with others. Though filled with fancy-looking décor, Scarlet is by no means an expensive place to get a drink, with each night having a special on different drinks ranging from $3-6. You’ll love the relaxed and ambient feel!

4. Phase 1

Address: 525 Eighth St. SE, Washington, D.C.
Nearest schools: Howard University, The George Washington University
Best for: Live shows, variety of events

Lesbian bar Phase 1 has been open since 1970, making it the oldest operating lesbian bar in the country—and not one to miss out on. You don’t have to be afraid about not meeting a girl here. Whether you want to come and dance the night away to hip-hop, see a drag king show, listen to queer bands, see some Jell-O wrestling (or participate yourself!) or just play pool, The Phase has it! This bar is always teeming with lots of energy, so if you’re in the mood to hang out and party, this is the perfect bar for you!

5. Wildrose

Address: 1021 E. Pike St., Seattle, WA
Nearest school: Seattle University
Best for: Pride events, parties

Women-owned and operated since 1984, Wildrose loves to promote partying and having fun, particularly during Pride events. In 2013, they had a wild beach club called “Bush Gardens,” which hosted events the weekend of Seattle Pride. These events included a wet T-shirt contest, many DJs and dance parties and raffles and contests!

6. Sue Ellens

Address: 3903 Cedar Springs Road, Dallas, TX
Nearest schools: The University of Texas at Dallas
Best for: Special events, dancing

Everything is bigger in Texas! Sue Ellens holds two floors of fun and several different rooms. There’s dancing on the main floor and live bands in the Vixin Lounge. Not really feeling loud music or moving? Hang out in the Lipstick Lounge or go out to one of the four patios. With its huge space, this bar is able to host many different events each night, including classics like karaoke and comedy nights. No matter how you’re feeling or what you want to get up to tonight, this is a bar that’ll have it!

7. Blush and Blu

Address: 1526 E. Colfax Ave., Denver, CO
Nearest school: The University of Denver, The University of Colorado Denver
Best for: Quiet, low-key events

The only bar of its kind in Denver, Blush and Blu is lesbian-owned and run. Though male clientele are welcome, the bar is largely dominated by women. Blush and Blu host many fun events such as karaoke nights, queer poetry readings, poker nights and comedy nights!

Though they may be difficult to find, there are lesbian and gay bars in virtually any big (and even small!) city, and you should definitely check them out. Who knows whom you’ll meet and what sort of fun you’ll have!

What do chokers, overalls and platform sneakers have in common? They’re all '90s trends that have made a comeback. The runways are full of nostalgia these days, with references to the decade of grunge and the Spice Girls in a big way. Lately, mules have been a fashion editor obsession, popping up at labels like Celine, Tibi, 3.1 Philip Lim and Alexander Wang. With unexpected shapes and funky textures, this trend has seen a major update. Here are 5 pairs you can actually wear and some ways to rock the trend the modern way.

1. Classic black

These black suede mules from H&M ($69.95) are super versatile. They would look fabulous with a mini and a long sleeved top, or you could toughen them up with a leather jacket or pants.

2. Color blocking

The mix of beige and black leather gives these Kenneth Cole mules ($79) a fun twist. They would be perfect for class with skinny jeans and a button up shirt or loose sweater.

3. Minimalist white

These HeartSoul mules ($49.99) have an ultra-modern feel, with white leather and diagonal tops. Add a pencil skirt and a slouchy top for a classy vibe.

4. Fall-ready neutral

This pointed toe version from Rampage ($24.50) is an elegant take on the classic. Pair them with cuffed boyfriend jeans and a blazer for a look that’s comfortable and casual but still put together.

5. Chunky wedge

The platforms of these Chinese Laundry mules ($69.95) kick them up a notch, but the wedges keep them easy to walk in. Try them with a midi skirt and tank, and layer on a chunky knit cardigan to keep you warm.

What's your take on this '90s trend, collegiettes? Will you be wearing mules around campus?

There are few holidays a collegiette loves more than Halloween. 

You may be too old for the days of trick-or-treating,

but the new treat has become deciding what you’re going to dress up as each year. 

Once October rolls around, you start brainstorming ideas for your costumes.

Halloween used to last for just one night,

but in college, Halloween becomes a weekend-long event, which means several different costumes. 

You and your friends might plan some group costume you can all dress up as together…

…or you might find it easier to just come up with some solo costumes. 

At first you have trouble coming up with ideas…

…but once you decide on that perfect costume, you become determined to not tell anyone about it until October 31st.  

When you first start college, you’re all about making your look as sexy as possible,

even if your outfit is barely an excuse for a costume.

Other people may judge you…

…but you won’t let it faze you. 

However, as you grow older, you may start to see the appeal of a more conservative approach. 

Maybe you’ll decide you want to have a really clever costume,

or perhaps you’ll decide this year that you don’t even care if your costume makes you look good or not.  

As the big weekend approaches, you start making your party plans. 

That first night, you pull out all the stops to make sure your costume is flawless. 

The only things that could possibly put a damper on your night are having someone not understand your costume…

…and seeing other girls who have the same costume as you. 

You may lose half your accessories, but all in all, the first night goes off without a hitch.

As the weekend continues, you get progressively lazier with your costumes…

…and by the end of the weekend, it’s a miracle that you make it out at all. 

But somehow you survive Halloweekend! 

And then it’s time to start planning your costumes for next year.