Frolicking at the beach or spending hours in the pool definitely amounts to our idea of a good spring break. However, ruining a freshly painted manicure is not. Keep reading for a few tips on how to keep your nails looking good all week long, without having to worry about taking the time to completely repaint them.

1. Use gel polish

Sally Hansen's Miracle Gel ($7.99) polish only takes two steps—the color and a topcoat—and doesn't require a light! It's extremely durable for up to 14 days of color and shine. The best part is that removal is simple—just soak your nails and it comes right off!

2. Keep nails short

This doesn't mean you have to cut your nails to nubs, but cutting them a bit shorter than usual may help with chipping. The longer they are, the bigger the chance that the tips get hit, scraped or bumped.

3. Prep with a base coat

If you decide not to use gel polish then be sure to apply a base coat to your nails before applying color. Base coats help with chipping, eliminates streaking and ridges, and prevents dark polishes from staining your nails.

4. Seal with a top coat

Another way to prevent chipping is to apply a clear top coat after your colored polish has dried. It also makes the nail shiny and smooth, and protects the polish from fading. This will definitely be a problem when you're out in the sun all day during spring break, so be proactive and protect your mani! Seche Vite ($4.40) is the best topcoat I've ever used and dries in seconds.

5. Fix chipped nail polish

If the chips have jagged edges, take a nail buffer and smooth them out. Using a toothpick, lightly fill in the areas where the polish has come off. After the spots dry, paint a thin layer of polish over the whole nail and then apply a topcoat.

6. Prevent chipping daily

In order to prevent chipping, apply a thick line of top coat to the very tips of your nails. Be sure to pack top coat when you leave for spring break so you can take this preventative measure every day!

With all the activity that comes with spring break—beach volleyball, making sand castles and tons of other outdoor activities, your nails are going to be exposed to even more things that'll cause them to chip. Fortunately, with these tips, you can both prevent that from happening and fix the problem when it does! Here's to a chip-free spring break this year, collegiettes!

Wherever you’re going for spring break, you’re bound to catch a little sun. You already know to load up on the sunscreen—but there are some more glamorous ways to shade yourself from those rays. Yes, we’re talking about the ultimate spring break accessory: sunglasses.

We’re partnering up with Nectar Sunglasses to give five collegiettes a chance to win a pair of sunglasses (in the style of their choice*)! Get in full-on spring break mode with the brightest pair you can find, stay classic with a clubmaster silhouette, or show off your killer style with a pair of hip, round-framed shades.

Every pair of sunglasses offers 100 percent UV protection, comes with a lightweight frame (so you can wear them all day!) and is made with a super-durable polycarbonate, so you can play beach volleyball without worrying about breaking your sunnies.

Go ahead, chase the sun this spring break with Nectar Sunglasses! Enter below now for your chance to win one of 5 free Pairs—in any style and color of your choice*.

Yesterday, Amber Madison wrote an article for The Atlantic discussing how health organizations are being censored by websites that we use most (like Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest, to name a few), which often deem messages about safe sex to be "inappropriate content." 

After Bedsider, an organization that promotes that safer sex is better sex, was censored by Twitter for tweeting, "If you think condoms aren't for you, you just haven't found the right one yet. See how good safer sex can feel." Twitter's ad policy says that it's fine to talk about safe sex, just not in a sexual way. Confusing, right? Lawrence Swiader, Bedsider's director, thought so, too. 

"We need to be able to talk about sex in a real way: that it's fun, funny, sexy, awkward... All the things that the entertainment industry gets so well," Swiader says. "How can we possibly compete with all the not-so-healthy messages about sex if we have to speak like doctors and show stale pictures of people who look like they're shopping for car insurance?" 

Co-director of the National Coalition for Sexual Health Susan Gilbert added, "If we really want to improve sexual health in this country, we must give Americans access to accurate and engaging information that can help them protect their bodies, build good relationships, and access key health services." 

Amber agreed, and she decided that it was time for a little less talk and a lot more action. She created a petition on Change.org called "Stop Censoring Sexual Health Information" and is asking 1,500 people to sign it in support of asking Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, YouTube, Yahoo and Google to "engage in a dialogue with sexual health organizations and change the restrictive policies that prevent the promotion of effective sexual health messages." 

Swiader says that the sexual health organizations will even come to the offices of these top websites to start the discussion. "We're happy to bring some sexual health experts to Silicon Valley to hash this out together. We provide content your users want and need to be informed and healthy—and it's bad business, and poor citizenship, to restrict them from it." 

If you're on board with fun, funny, sexy, awkward, informative, and engaging information about sexual health, sign Amber's petition so that the websites you use can't keep it from you. 

No, Hermès is not the latest Target fashion collaboration. BUT! The former creative director of Hermès, Christophe Lemaire, is teaming up with Uniqlo to create a capsule collection at wallet-friendly prices. He brought creations like these to the Hermès runway:

Amaze, right? The French designer left Hermès to focus on his own line last summer. It seems as though he will be working overtime, as his men's and women's collection for Uniqlo is scheduled to debut in the fall. 

Uniqlo, whose stores are primarily overseas in Japan and China, is known for its simple basics that are at a reasonable price point. In case you need evidence of that, right now they have jeans for $39.90! Not too shabby.

Lemaire has fond feelings towards Japan in particular, as his own line has been well-received there. His eponymous line is currently available at a luxury price point, but we are expecting to have Lemaire in our closests for much less come the fall.

Before Hermès, Lemaire led Lacoste for nine years. Can we expect a scarf-polo combination of some sort? Only the fall will tell. 

Every penny is precious for the average college student, but spring break has a way of making you throw your good spending habits out the window. But you don’t have to sacrifice all of your savings for a stellar spring break vacay, collegiettes! Try these tips to have a blast this year but still have money left when you return.

1. Stay with people you know

Know a friend who lives in New York? Maybe your Aunt Jan has a vacation home in Florida. Call those friends or family members and ask if you can spend a night or two with them. You could save yourself $100 or more per night by not staying in a hotel.

Sophie Dodd, a junior at Middlebury College, says that when she vacations with friends, she tries to crash with buddies along the way as often as possible. “Chances are you’ll have a friend at school in Florida, New York, etc.,” she says. So if you know someone who lives at your spring break destination, give him or her a call and see if you can crash there for a night or two.

2. Take the bus instead of flying

Let’s face it: plane tickets are expensive. If you can, take a bus instead of a plane to your spring break destination. The tickets will cost you a fraction of the price of a plane ticket!

Gabrielle Sorto, a sophomore at Georgia State University, says that she once took a Megabus to New Orleans for vacation and paid only $90 for a round trip, a fourth of what the plane ticket would have cost. “It obviously did take longer,” she says. “But it was worth it with how much I saved.” If you’re traveling with friends, you can always play games and have a great time along the way!

3. Make it a camping road trip

Make the journey to your vacation destination into a road trip adventure! If everyone pitches in for gas, your traveling costs will be astronomically lower. Instead of paying for hotels every night, camp out under the stars. You can rent camping equipment from REI for a pretty decent price. You can also check out Recreation.gov to find government-owned campsites along your route, which are much less expensive to rent than private campsites. You can even save money by finding the least expensive gas stations along the way: check out GasBuddy. Pump up your favorite jams, pack your camping gear and remember that getting there is half the fun!

4. Do some creative touring

When it comes to vacation, it’s easy to spend your bucks on swimming with the stingrays, but there are so many fun and exciting attractions all over the country that you can try for free! Using the free app RoadTrippers, you can search for tourist attractions and offbeat destinations in your area and even compare their costs. You just enter your starting location and your destination, and RoadTrippers will show you tons of interesting tourist spots along your route. Instead of spending nearly $100 on a theme park ticket or breaking the bank over dinner at an expensive restaurant, you can use this app to find fun activities that are totally inexpensive.

5. Bring your own food

Dining out can drain your wallet fast. Did you know that in 2011, the average US restaurant meal cost $35.65? Think of how much money you could save if you packed lunch or cooked your own dinners!

When going on a trip, pack snacks! And, if you’re 21, bring your own booze (those fancy umbrella drinks aren’t always worth the $12). Stock up on granola bars, microwavable treats, other healthy snacks and supplies for preparing meals at a grocery store near your hotel.

Meghan Gibbons, a senior at Boston College, says that to save money on drinks, she brings a reusable water bottle. “I’ll bring it with me by the pool, on the beach or on an adventurous activity to save me money,” she says.

6. Don’t waste the food you do buy

While it’s great to save money by grocery shopping, chances are you’re going to eat out at some point. You’re on vacation, and you have to treat yourself! So when you do splurge, don’t be wasteful. Does your hotel have a free breakfast? Grab a few extra pieces of fruit or a muffin to snack on later. Take your leftovers from a restaurant lunch with you and eat them for dinner. Most restaurants will give you a to-go box, and most hotels have at least a mini fridge to keep your food from spoiling. Don’t let the money you spend on food go to waste!

7. Get discount tickets at Costco

Do your parents have a Costco membership? With a Costco membership, you can get discounted tickets to Disney World, Universal Orlando and many more theme parks. They also offer discounts for hotels, car rentals and vacation packages. You can go to the Costco Travel website to see what deals you can find before you leave. All you have to do is enter your membership information to purchase discount tickets.

8. Bring coupons with you

Groupon and LivingSocial will most likely have deals for your vacation destination! The sites can offer you group deals on dinners out, water sports or even a spa day.

“We went all-inclusive, which in the long run will be far less expensive,” Alli Smith, a staff writer for Her Campus Sewanee, says of finding a good deal on the sites. All you have to do is enter your vacation location a few weeks before you leave, and the sites will send you coupons in your area as soon as they’re available.

9. Use your student ID

You’d be surprised by how many places offer student discounts, and not just on clothes and food: many attractions and transportation companies will offer student discounts. If you’re not sure if a retailer offers a discount for students, just ask!

10. Rent a bike

So many big cities now let you rent bikes for cheap. Instead of paying for expensive cabs or renting a car when you get to your destination, rent a bike at your location and use that to get around. You can log onto Spinlister to find locations near you where you can rent a bike. All you do is enter your location and the site will show you places near you to rent a bike. Or, to save even more money, just walk!

11. Only bring the amount of money you want to spend

Credit cards can be a dangerous thing. It’s easy to lose track of how much money you’re spending when you’re just swiping a card. To make sure you stay on budget, only bring the cash with you that you want to spend when you go out at night. Or, if you’re uncomfortable carrying cash, you can always purchase a prepaid debit card.

Kailee Baylor, president and editor-in-chief of the University of Tampa Her Campus chapter, says that only bringing the cash with her that she wants to spend always keeps her on track. “By only taking out an amount I’m comfortable spending, it stops the temptation of impulse (and often drunk) buys,” she says.

Figure out what you want to spend each night and only carry that with you. It’s always a smart idea to be prepared for the unexpected, though. For emergencies, Kailee recommends keeping an extra $20 in a secret part of your purse. “That extra $20 can pay for a taxi back to your hotel—a lifesaver when you’re in unfamiliar territory,” she says.

12. Spend the night outside of touristy areas

When traveling to areas that draw a lot of tourists, the hotels and hostels right in the middle of everything are usually the most expensive. Chastity Deforme, a senior at Brandeis University, recommends checking websites like Hostels.com to find inexpensive options just a little further away from the center of everything.

“Sometimes you will find bed-and-breakfast houses that give great discounts to large groups, and the places are really quaint,” she says.

13. Use your phone to keep you on track

Have trouble sticking to a budget? You’re not the only one! Budget apps like BUDGT ($1.99) or Travel Budget Tracker ($1.99) allow you to input the amount of money you have to spend and then track your daily expenses. All you have to do is input your overall budget and then enter in how much you spend every time you make a purchase. You can keep track of exactly how much you’re spending and make sure you’re staying on track.

Having a great spring break doesn’t have to cost you a ton of money. With a little extra planning, you can save a ton of money on your vacation, but still have a whole lot of fun! 

Ladies, it's official. Your smartphones, the devices which connect you with the outside world, link you to social media, serve as a receptacle for shameless selfies and drunk Tinder swipes, is now bringing you something even greater: happiness. Or at least as close to happiness as you can get... meaning, Girl Scout cookies. That's right, the Girl Scouts have just released a new app that puts you one step closer to cookie nirvana.

The app, simply titled "Girl Scout Cookie Finder," was unveiled to the public this week, available for free in the App Store and on Google Play. According to the organization's website, you can "use the app to find the cookie booth closest to you (including the time, date and location of the sale), contact your local Girl Scout council, and access the complete listing of Girl Scout Cookies available—in every Zip code across the U.S. and Puerto Rico." By simply pressing the "Find Cookies Now!" button, you can use your phone's GPS to sniff out the Samoas closest to you.

A comprehensive guide for the cookie monster in all of us—what more could we possibly ask for?

Spring break is just around the corner, so it's time to transition your wardrobe from puffy coats to pretty sundresses. Whether you're heading to a beach or going on a cruise, these essentials will keep you looking (and feeling) cool:

1. Crochet Waist Insert Beach Dress, ASOS, $41

This adorable sundress was made to be worn on a beachy vacation. Just throw it on over a bathing suit to take you from a lazy day at the beach to a night of dancing!

2. Resort Tote - Treasure, Lilly Pulitzer, $138

The print on this roomy tote is the perfect nod to all things nautical without being too gaudy. With the large compartments and durable canvas structure, this tote will carry all your spring break essentials.

3. Contrast-Trimmed Floppy Straw Hat, Forever 21, $14.90

This floppy hat is not only fashionable, but the wide brim also protects your delicate skin from scorching rays. Wear it during all your spring break escapades to save yourself from a sunburn disaster.

4. Neoprene Bikini, Forever 21, Bottoms: $12.90, Top: $14.90

Sporty swimsuits are totally in this season! This fashionable bikini from Forever 21 lets you steal designer style at a fraction of the price.

5. Knotted Tank Cover-Up, Victoria's Secret, $39.50

This laid-back cover-up embodies the relaxed vibe of a spring vacation. Throw it over your swimsuit to take part in a game of beach volleyball or simply stroll around the shops.

6. Beach Towel, PBteen, $26

You've spent the time and money shopping for a brand new swimsuit—why pair that with a subpar towel? This colorful beach towel lets you relax on the sand in style. Don't forget to have it monogrammed to make a personalized fashion statement!

7. Riley Infinity Loop Scarf, Lilly Pulitzer, $78

A loose, colorful scarf is the ideal way to transition from hot days to brisk evenings. Throw it over a t-shirt for an easy fix that won't leave you shivering.

8. Angelfish Flamingo Floral Slip-On Boat Shoe, Sperry, $88

Whether you're planning on spending spring break walking along the beach or joyriding on a boat, these boat shoes are the perfect way to keep your feet feeling comfortable.

9. Ombré Giraffe Print Sunglasses, Forever 21, $5.90

The unexpected ombré detail on these eye-catching sunglasses turns the traditional tortoiseshell print into an edgy fashion accessory. 

10. 'Neo Clara' Flip Flop, Nordstrom, $24.95

Why settle for normal, rubber flip flops? These cute sandals keep the waterproof, durable design, but with a twist—an adorable bow!

What spring break essentials will you be bringing with you on vacation this year, collegiettes?

Becoming an established member of a bar takes time, skill and a lot of confidence. Whether you just turned 21 or you’ve been hitting up bars for a year, Her Campus has 12 tips for you so you can become the best bar-frequenter ever.

1. Know Your Drink

Ordering at a bar is just like ordering at a restaurant: before you flag down the bartender and hold up the line, know what you want. Don’t be afraid to try something new or ask for recommendations, but don’t stand there and say, “umm…” It’s always safe to know which type of wine, beer and cocktail you prefer.

“Do ask if there are any specials,” recommends bartender Alex Norton, a senior at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.  “It could save a lot of money.”

2. The Money Situation

Everyone has an opinion on whether cash or credit is better for the bar scene. If you’re a cash person, have enough to pay for your drinks and tip generously. If you have a card, open a tab and hand it over early in the night so you don’t waste the bartender’s time. When you “open a tab,” you give the bartender your credit card to have your drinks charged to it automatically throughout the night. At the end of the night, you “close the tab,” or go up and sign for the bill.  Always make sure to close your tab (and leave a good tip!).

“Don’t open a tab and then leave it without closing,” Norton says. “Nothing is worse than standing in line for 20 minutes, finally getting to order your drink and then realizing your credit card is still at the last bar.”

3. Three is the Magic Number

If you are going to a bar to meet people, it may not be the best time to invite your entire sorority. A group of three is the perfect number for a night out, but it also makes you approachable because it makes it possible to couple off: When a guy approaches, you won’t be leaving one friend to fend for herself, and the guy also won’t have to fight through a pack of friends to get your number.

4. Blend In

Take in the scenery of the bar—is the music pumping, is the game on or is everyone speaking in whispers above smooth jazz? If you want to be a regular at a bar, work on blending in with the general atmosphere. Every song that comes on the speaker isn’t “your song”—especially if it’s not karaoke night. Keep the singing along to a minimum. 

5. Patience is a Virtue

Fighting through the crowd and snapping your fingers at the bartender is not a good way to be a welcome customer. Leaning over the bar and slurring flirtations isn’t much better. You’re not going to get a free drink, and you’re not going to be put ahead of the rest of the people wanting a drink. Be assertive, not aggressive; be friendly, but not a floozy. And above all, be patient.

“Wait your turn at the bar, but don’t be a pushover or you’ll never get a drink,” Norton says.

6. Keep it Classy

A bar is not a frat party. The point is not to be puking in the bathroom; it’s to enjoy the libations. If someone asks you to leave, you’re not doing it right.

7. Play it Safe

Watch your drink and trust your gut. Be aware that bars can be as dangerous as they are fun. Don’t leave a drink unattended, or you risk getting drugged. Watch the bartender make your drink, and definitely don’t accept drinks from strangers unless you saw the drink being made. Overall, be smart!

Another important safety tip is to keep track of how much you’re drinking. Consider making a small pen mark on your finger or a discreet note in your phone to keep track; everyone will just assume you’re checking your texts instead of your sobriety.

8. Own It

If you’re out with a guy, it is not his job to buy you every single drink. Be willing and able to pay your own tab, and understand that he, too, is a college student with a college student’s budget.

9. Closing Time

The staff can’t go home until you do. It’s rude to stay after hours, and chances are the bartender is just ready to go home. Consider moving the party to a late-night pizza restaurant if you’re really that set on staying out.

10. This Isn’t Starbucks

We’re all adults here. A good customer does not overcomplicate things with their skinny, extra bitters, with-a-twist, shaken-not-stirred martini on the rocks. Throwing out excessive lingo and a ton of demands isn’t becoming. Ask the wine bar for a glass of wine, and the dive bar for a beer. Don’t be complicated.

11. Befriend the Bartender

A friendship with a bartender is one of the most beneficial relationships you can have. If you’re going to frequent a bar, be friendly and make an effort to build a rapport with the bartender. Soon, your new best friend will be recommending new, niche drinks and making sure your cup doesn’t run empty.

12.Do Your Own Thing

If you don’t like beer, don’t feel pressured to drink beer. If you don’t like complicated cocktails, don’t order them just to look like you’re an alcohol expert. This isn’t a job interview, and you’re not out to impress everyone with your ability to toss down an Old Fashioned like Don Draper from Mad Men if that’s not your thing. Buying drinks is only fun if you like what you’re drinking.

It’s time to own your bar savvy. Be polite, have fun and be safe!

There's a common misconception that you often don't need SPF if you have dark skin, because darker skin tones have a naturally higher SPF—13.4, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Contrary to popular belief, those with dark skin do need sunscreen. We want you to keep that beautiful skin for ages, so check out our tips to keeping your skin safe!

Too much sun exposure can cause unslightly dark spots, wrinkles, and—worst of all—skin cancer. SPF measures how long it takes skin with sunscreen to burn compared to skin without it. With a naturally higher SPF, it's true that dark skinned individuals burn less frequently or easily, but we still burn at the end of the day. The belief that sunscreen isn't necessary, coupled with the fact that dark cancer spots tend to blend in with our skin, skin cancer often goes undetected and therefore, more fatal.

To protect your skin, make sure you are using a sunscreen with at least SPF 15 (the recommendation for all skin tones), and make sure to slather sunblock everywhere that the sun can touch. You should be using sunscreen everyday, and most importantly, definitely make sure to use it when you know you will be in direct sunlight for a while—like you might be on spring break. 

Dos and Don'ts 

Do make sure to use a product with one of these ingredients: zinc, titanium dioxide, avobenzone, or Mexoryl S.

Do not use sunscreen products with Retinyl or any Retinol products (Vitamin A), as they greaten the risk of skin damage. Vitamin A by-products break down in the sun and irritate your skin.

Do use a lotion sunscreen, because spray sunscreens can fill the air around you with particles that can cause lung inflammation when inhaled. 

Do reapply often; an ounce of sunscreen every two hours! 

Do make sure to reapply after physical activity, as sweat can remove sunscreen, or you might have rubbed it off.

Do not worry about looking chalky. A lot of products are currently micronized, meaning that the particles are so small, they are easily blendable and will dissolve into your skin.

Do make sure to practice other skin protecting habits, such as wearing hats and sunglasses. Also, cover up your skin wherever and whenever possible when you're spending extended hours in the sun.

Check out our list of some of our favorite suncare products for dark skin:

• Face: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 55 ($9.19) This product has a dry-touch that will not leave a white residue on your face. In addition, it won't make your face look greasy.
• Face: Kate Somerville Daily Deflector Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ PA+++ ($48) Oil free and very light in texture, this moisturizer has a bunch of other vitamins that help tighten your skin and fight wrinkles. It's also great for sensitive skin.
• Body: Healing Scents Live Long Mineral-based Sunscreen SPF 30 ($10.25) Organic and not formulated with harsh chemicals (which can cause breakouts or dry out skin), this sunscreen contains sun-filtering oils. It also includes lavender essential oil to protect you from bugs when you're outdoors!
• Body: Purple Prairie SunStuff Mineral Lotion SPF 30 ($11.99) Made with natural ingredients and cocoa butter, this lotion will leave your skin soft and well protected.
• Everyday: Glytone Retuxturize Body Lotion SPF 15 ($33) The glycolic acid in this formula will rejuvenate your skin; it moisturizes and protects skin from day to day errands in the sun. 
• Everyday: Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion with Broad Spectrum SPF 15 ($11.99) This non-greasy lotion product moisturizes skin for 24 hours! It also contains colloidal oatmeal that helps relieve dry skin and restores your skin's normal pH level. 

There's another myth that says the higher the SPF, the longer you can stay out in the sun without reapplication, but this is false. SPF is based off of UVB protection, which protects you from burns, but not deep tissue damage.

Sunscreen helps block powerful UV rays that damage your skin and causes it to age faster. The bottom line is that regardless of skin tone, wearing SPF is absolutely necessary—especially when you'll be spending as much time in the sun as you will be this spring break!

When you're on a collegiette's budget, the closest you get to the finest jewels is pinning them on your dream wedding Pinterest board. So what do you do when you want to up your jewelry game? It's about savvy shopping—knowing where to find necklaces, bracelets, earrings and more that look like they came straight from the runway... but at a fraction of the cost. Below, we've pulled together 15 of the most stunning pieces, all under $25!

1. Oasis Organic Metal Cuff Bracelet, $15, ASOS

Like liquid metal, this high-shine cuff adds glamorous sophistication to anything from semi-formal to girl's night out.

2. Lovely in Opulence Earrings, $14.99, Modcloth

Any time you're looking to jazz up your look, reach for these art deco-inspired earrings—this glitzy pair will shine no matter where you are.

3. Around the Globes Gold Pearl Bracelet, $10, Lulu*s

Pearls are having a major moment—but not the kind that your grandmother keeps in her jewelry box. Go for a modern, updated take on the elegant classic with this cuff!

4. Hammered High/Low Necklace, $18, Urban Outfitters

There's no better way to layer your jewelry than with a piece that's done the legwork for you. 

5. Gleam On! Earrings, $22.99, Modcloth

These dangly earrings are unique enough to stand out, but the delicate pattern and simple gold metal mean you can wear these on both casual and dressy occasions.

6. Happily Ever Abalone Necklace, $16.99, Modcloth

This mermaid-inspired statement necklace would look absolutely amazing with a little back dress, no?

7. Ahead of Schedule Gold Watch, $23, Lulu*s

Every collegiette needs a classic gold watch, and when it's under $25, it's even more of a must-have.

8. Gold Choker, $12.59, American Eagle Outfitters

Chokers are the hottest new accessory—every street style star and it-girl has been spotted with one of these. Bring your skinny jeans and t-shirt outfit up to edgy-glam status with a touch of gold!

9. I Dreamed a Gleam Earrings, $12.99, Modcloth

Intricate details like the ones on these earrings are usually found only on high-priced pieces—but we're pretty sure your wallet will approve of this price.

9. Rhinestone Cocktail Ring Set, $5.90, Forever 21

Your stacking game will be strong with these diamond-like rings, which look equally as eye-catching along as they do together.

10. Rhinestoned Faux Pearl Studs, $3.90, Forever 21

We just had to include another pearl piece on this list—this time, it's an upgrade from traditional pearl studs.

11. River Island Double Wrap Arm Cuff, $15, ASOS

We love how sleek this upper-arm cuff looks. Try it with your bikini this spring break, with a silk cami when summer hits, or with a strappy dress when you're out dancing.

12. Rhinestone Necklace, $24.95, H&M

We're used to statement necklaces in fun, bright colors, but this icy, monochrome one is just as bold.

13. Cutout Rhinestone Ring Set, $3.80, Forever 21

Pavé diamond rings for under $5? Okay, they may not be real... but who needs to know, anyway?

14. Studded Hoop Drop Earrings, $16, Urban Outfitters

These studded hoops have an elegant, vintage-y vibe.

15. Cut Stone Cuff Bracelet, $23, ASOS

Proof that you can snag a giant rock, now—we recommend wearing this piece throughout the upcoming festival season!

Hello, luxury for less. Which of these under-$25 pieces will you be adding to your jewelry box?

Spring break and moderation tend to be like Kim Kardashian and low-key: mutually exclusive. Between the club scene, the drinks, the endless waves of attractive people, the drinks, the real waves on the beach, the drinks, the copious amounts of sun, the drinks, the bad-for-you foods, and, oh, the drinks, it’s easy to have a fantastic time during spring break—but hard to end it without feeling like your body needs a lifetime of detoxing to get over it all.

After one too many “I need a vacation to recover from vacation” experiences, we’ve learned how to have an awesome time without the awful side effects. Read on to discover our top tips and tricks for having a healthy spring break.

1. Don’t try to lose weight “for spring break”

In the weeks leading up to vacation, the gym is usually full of collegiettes trying to lose weight before they head to Cancun or Miami Beach. We’re big fans of exercise and wanting to look and feel your best—but setting out to drop a couple pounds too quickly for one trip isn’t healthy.

“College women might have expectations of a certain size or swimsuit they want to fit into before they go on break,” says Malia Mattox, a nutritionist and wellness coach. “But they can put unrealistic goals into play and set themselves up for disappointment,” she says. “When losing weight, you want to focus on overall healthy patterns, not just how you look in a bikini.”

You don’t want to have visions of a perfectly flat stomach or toned arms dancing in your head before break, only to be inevitably disappointed when you don’t achieve your “ideal body” in time. Instead, Mattox says you should focus on building confidence and self-love at your current weight. Focus on the attributes you’re super proud of, whether they’re physical or mental.

Plus, if you’re working out extra hard or restricting your diet before break, it will be even harder not to overindulge once you get there. You might think, “What the heck, I’ve earned this,” to that chocolate lava cake… and that strawberry daiquiri… and that late-night pizza run… you get the picture.

Rather than going from “fasting to feasting,” Mattox recommends establishing permanent lifestyle changes, like staying active and indulging in moderation, that will have your body naturally settling at a healthy weight.

2. Drink lots of water

Okay, so you’ve heard this nugget of wisdom before. But according to Mattox, remembering to drink water is extra important on vacation, because we’re distracted by the new place, friends and activities.

When your body’s running low on water, you get grumpy, tired and headache-y—not exactly the best ingredients for a day sightseeing with friends or dancing at the club. That’s why Mattox recommends always keeping water with you. “Make your water bottle just as important as your phone,” she says. “Some of my clients will leave it right by the door so they can grab it on their way out.”

She says you can also use digital reminders. For example, set an alarm on your phone for lunchtime asking if you’ve drank 32 ounces (or four cups) of water. Mattox says you should be consuming around 64 ounces of water a day. “If you’re behind at lunch, you can figure out, ‘Okay, how am I going to get those 64 ounces in by the end of the day?’” she says.

Alcohol is dehydrating, so should you drink more agua with your alcohol? Mattox says yes! She suggests having one glass of water in between every serving of alcohol—you could have one glass of wine, and then sip some seltzer, then another glass of wine, another glass of seltzer, and so on. Not only will this help you pace yourself when you’re drinking, but it will help you avoid a hangover the next day!

3. Make sure your food intake is balanced

It’s easy to go crazy on spring break. Not only are you with your friends 24/7—which can encourage you to eat more—but you’re surrounded by delicious food. Mattox says there are two aspects to keep in mind: sodium and calories.

What do salty fries, loaded nachos and stuffed quesadillas all have in common? Yup, they’re worth drooling over… and they’ve all got super high sodium contents. Sodium makes us bloat and causes the body to retain fluid. No one likes feeling like a too-full water balloon, so Mattox shares her tips on avoiding sodium while in a foreign land. “Sodium is a preservative, so it’s usually really high in restaurant food, because their food sits around longer,” she says. “Instead [of chains], go to local restaurants, where it’s more likely they’ll have fresh food and unprocessed ingredients.”

Since your normal eating patterns will be thrown off, it’s also likely you’ll be taking in more calories than usual. Going to local restaurants won’t just help you avoid excess salt—it’ll also help you make healthy choices. Mattox says you should look for whole foods (in other words, foods that are pretty close to how they appear in nature). For example, grilled fish with veggies and brown rice on the side would be an easy, delicious lunch or dinner you could get almost anywhere in the world. “You can also go to a grocery store—either before or after you arrive—and stock up on healthy snacks,” Mattox suggests. “I love raw nuts, veggies like snap peas and carrots, string cheese, Greek yogurt, dried fruit and fresh fruit that’s not as perishable, like apples and bananas.”

However, watching what you eat doesn’t mean you can’t indulge. If you’re in Spain and you’re craving some flan—go for it! If the majority of your choices are good for your body, the rest of them can be good for your soul.

4. Stay moving

No, you do not have to wake up at the crack of dawn to go for a run on the beach. It’s surprisingly easy to incorporate exercise into your vacation, and you’ll feel much more energized as a result. Plus, some cardio will help you balance out that flan and those margaritas while making unique memories.

“I encourage people to think of the world as a fun playground for exercise,” Mattox says. “There are opportunities all around. If you have a chair, you can be doing triceps or bench steps. If you have a wall, do floor or wall push-ups.”

Mattox also suggests creating a travel circuit ahead of time that’ll be easy to do in a small hotel room or shared house—check out HC’s fave travel workouts! If you’re staying in a hotel and it has a gym, that’s a convenient way to get your heartbeat up as well.

If you’d rather incorporate exercise naturally into your day, suggest activities that involve movement. “Go for a walk on the beach, or do yoga, or hike, or kayak, or surf, or bike or take a local dance class,” Mattox says. “There are so many fun activities!”

She says dancing at the club definitely counts as exercise—so when you and your friends arrive, make a beeline to the dance floor and shake it, shake it like you’re supposed to do.

Mattox advises you not to concentrate on how many hours of exercise you’re getting. After all, you won’t enjoy your vacation if you’re constantly tallying up how many hours of cardio you’ve logged. Instead, just focus on staying active throughout the day.

5. Recruit your friends

You don’t have to go through the battle to stay healthy alone, collegiettes! According to Mattox, having a partner or partners is one of the best ways to ensure you’ll keep that promise to yourself about being healthy. “Social support is huge,” she says. “Accountability is the number one reason why people choose to work with personal trainers or nutritionists!”

Obviously you can’t bring your trainer on vacay (we wish), but Mattox says recruiting a friend is a great way to re-create the effect. She recommends committing to a plan beforehand with your friends—whether that’s drinking enough water, making smart food choices, getting enough exercise or all of the above. “Making that affirmation ahead of time is very powerful,” she says. “Also, you can figure out what you’ll need to do to make that plan happen.”

Even if your friends don’t want to join in, consider saying something casual like, “Last time I had a crazy vacation, I felt awful for so long after. This week, I’m definitely going to do everything in moderation!” When your friends know you want to have a healthy trip, they’ll be way less likely to pressure you into, say, eating something you’re not hungry for or having more drinks than you’d like. They might even be influenced by your choices.

With these tips, you can have a super-fun spring break without sacrificing your health! Have a great vacation, collegiettes! 

The thought of aloe vera might take you back to the time you fell asleep on the beach... and then woke up with a crazy burn that left you spending the rest of your spring break wanting to soak in a tub of the gel. Since you've already stocked up on a ton of SPF for your upcoming trip and are taking precautions not to let a nasty burn happen to you ever again, we're hoping that bottle of aloe vera won't be necessary to help with a sunburn. So what do you do with it instead? There's no need to set it aside for spring break 2016—there are many ways you can put aloe vera to use in your daily beauty routine.

1. Makeup remover

Instead of reaching for a makeup remover with harsh chemicals, squeeze a drop of pure aloe gel onto a cotton round and watch your makeup disappear—naturally!

2. Shaving cream

Aloe vera acts as the perfect shave gel for three main reasons. First, it's anti-bacterial, which is great because somehow we always end up with nicks around the knees. Second, it's super smooth, ensuring a close shave. And third, it's moisturizing. Combine these three attributes for totally touchable legs!

3. Face wash

There are many different combinations of DIY aloe vera face washes you can make at home. We like this one that combines aloe vera and almond oil for the best anti-inflammatory face wash to sooth even the most stubborn pimples.

4. Breath freshener

Couldn't resist those onion rings? Don't fret! Simply mix 1/4 cup of pure aloe vera gel dissolved in 1/2 a cup of water or apple juice to take care of bad breath in a jiffy.

5. Nighttime facial

Create your own cooling concoction of pure aloe juice, three inches of cucumber and half an egg white for an ulta-hydrating mask you can sleep in. Wake up refreshed and glowing!

6. Brow gel

When it comes to our brows, the sleeker and bolder, the better! Unfortunately, thicker brows tend to be a bit unruly. Dip a clean mascara wand in some aloe vera gel and apply to keep stray hairs in place without the risk of stickiness or too hard of a texture.

Here's to hoping your bottle of aloe vera gel won't be necessary to nurse any burns this spring break—instead, put it to good use and up your beauty game instead!  

We’ve all had those days where we feel weighed down with worries about the future. How do I get an internship? Is my resume good enough? What career path should I choose? There’s no need to panic, because you’re not alone! These are questions all collegiettes find themselves asking from time to time. Before you let the stress of internship applications and finding a job after college take over your life, take a look at these websites that will help guide you toward ultimate career success.  

1. The Muse

On The Muse, you can find tons of articles filled with career advice that will help you find a job that lines up with your passions. You can also find information about grad schools and how to make your job application stand out from the pile. Additionally, you can up for The Daily Muse newsletter to get even more career advice and the latest updates on companies that are hiring.

“The Muse is like a one-stop shop for all things related to your career,” says Lily Herman, a Wesleyan junior who works as an editorial intern for The Muse. “The site features absolutely stunning company profiles, so you can see what working at these organizations is really like. I really believe that The Muse offers some of the best career advice out there. You can never really go wrong reading an article on there.”

2. Levo League

Sometimes websites can be filled with tons of information, but you still can’t find the specific answers you’re searching for. If you’re looking for one-on-one career advising, Levo League is the perfect source for career advice on a more personal level. Levo offers a mentoring program where you can connect with professionals who will help to jump-start your own career.

“I reached out to a mentor who worked in the field I was interested in, and it was the perfect way to gain insight for future jobs,” says Caitlin Avery, a senior at The Ohio State University. “I got to learn about her experiences, and she even helped me engage in networking opportunities with employers.”

You can sign up for free and ask different career experts questions to steer you toward the right path!

3. CareerRookie

Sometimes career fairs can be pretty overwhelming, but that doesn’t always have to be the case. CareerRookie is a student-based organization that links job and internship seekers to different opportunities. One of the unique features this website offers is local career fairs. You can also post your resume and interests to the site and let employers reach out to you.

“CareerRookie led me to a career fair near my school, where I met with companies and actually got a couple interviews!”says Rebecca Kid, a senior at Dartmouth College. “It was a great resource to help me get connected with future employers.”

4. Intern Queen

If you’re looking for internship advice or opportunities, look no further. The Intern Queen Lauren Berger is here to help. Berger started the website in 2009 to share her experiences and help college students find jobs and learn professional skills. She has been featured on The Today Show and Fox & Friends and in The New York Times, the New York Post and Teen Vogue.

“When I was an intern and looking for internships, there were not many helpful websites,” Berger says. “I wanted a website that felt like a community — and I wanted a person to take me by the hand and guide me to great internships. That what I try to do for students.”

Her blog is full of tips and tricks to impress your bosses, use social media in the workplace and boost your resume. Big-name employers and companies can post jobs right on the site for you to browse and apply to. Take advice from Lauren, who has had 15 internships throughout her career. Her website will put you one step ahead of the crowd!

5. Ed2010

Has it always been your dream to work for a magazine, just as our favorite stars do in all those clichéd films? Turns out it might be possible after all. Ed2010 is the perfect website to find advice on getting into the magazine and media business. On the site, you can find job and internship opportunities all over the country. They even have tips for how you give your resume a complete makeover to attract specific brands.

“Ed2010 is awesome for editorial and magazine internships and jobs,” says Avianne Tan, a senior at New York University. “They also have resume reviews and mentorship programs you can apply to.” Check out Ed2010 to kick-start your magazine career!

There’s no need to panic about your future just yet. Take time to do some research and find out what’s right for you! These resources will bring you one step closer toyour dream job.

Spontaneous late-night snack runs, conversations over lattes and free food at events are as much a part of college life as essays, books and exams. But with those activities come extra calories that certainly have a way of sneaking up on you! If you find yourself a culprit of frequent snacking and want to work off those extra calories but don't have time to fit in a real workout, check out these 12 clever ways to burn 200 calories. And the best part is, you don't even have to enter the gym!

1. Walk or bike everywhere

Let's admit it—we've all been tempted to drive to places that we could easily walk to, whether it's classes or the library or the nearest grocery store. Melanie Ludwig, owner of Prestige Fitness, also suggests walking a lap around the buildings that you have classes in before class starts. For a 150-pound collegiette, walking for 40 minutes at a pace of three miles per hour burns 200 calories. Calculate how many calories you burn from walking here!  

If walking isn't your thing, biking for 23 minutes can also burn 200 calories. Not really into pedaling? Try rollerblading, riding a scooter or getting off the bus early to walk to class. These little decisions can accumulate and make a huge difference for your health!

2. Have a stair-ing contest

Don't think we've forgotten about those dreaded stairs! We all know it's a no-brainer to take the stairs instead of the elevator, but sometimes we can’t help avoiding and hating on the stairs, especially when we have to lug around our own body weight in textbooks on a daily basis. But if you choose the stairs every day, your body will thank you in the long run. After all, a 150 to 160-pound person can burn 10 calories every minute she climbs stairs. That means that only 20 minutes of climbing a day will burn 200 calories!

3. Exercise while studying

It's really easy to stay in one place for hours on end when you have reading to do or an exam to study for. But it isn't good for your health, because as soon as you sit down, calorie burning drops down to one calorie per minute and enzymes that help break down fat drop by 90 percent.

"We are made to locomote, and inactivity leads to poor health," Ludwig says. To increase activity, Ludwig suggests sneaking in movement while you are otherwise preoccupied. "Have a lot of reading to do? Do it on a recumbent bike at a low resistance so that it's easy [and] your reading or studying is all you think about," Ludwig says. "I don't suggest this on a treadmill or elliptical as it is harder to balance, but you can try."

For a 150-pound collegiette, only 26 minutes on a recumbent bike, 26 minutes on an elliptical trainer at a moderate pace or walking on a treadmill at three miles per hour for 56 minutes will burn 200 calories. And you'll get your work done, too! If you don't have access to any of these exercise machines, check out these other exercises that you can do at your desk. Talk about multitasking!

4. Do your chores

For most of us, the early morning rush to class means that your bed is left unmade and your clothes are scattered around your room. And everything tends to stay that way—it's easy to leave chores to a (way) later date when your mom isn't there to remind you to do them. But if you desperately need to take care of the mess in your room, burning calories is a great incentive to get those chores out of the way!

Light housework, like doing laundry, burns 170 calories an hour. Who knows, maybe you'll even find your long-lost shirt or missing books along the way!

5. Put on your dancing shoes

Everyone needs a good dance session now and then. What better time to have one than while you're doing dreaded chores?

"Need to clean you room? Put on some music and get a swifter duster and voila!" Ludwig says. "You will be dancing while cleaning and not even notice that you are really exercising."

You'll be able to burn calories, have fun and cross off your to-do list in a breeze. Just 40 minutes of dancing can burn 200 calories--smooth moves not required! So crank up some fast-paced songs like "Wake Me Up" by Avicii and "Alive" by Krewella and channel your inner Beyonce!

6. Squat when you blow-dry your hair

After your nice morning shower, you pull out your hair dryer and start drying... and drying... and drying. Hair can take so long to dry, so why not squat up and down while you do it? You can burn 70 calories for every five minutes you do squats, so only 15 minutes of squatting will burn about 200 calories. Talk about starting your day off right! In fact, you can even go the extra mile and try squatting while brushing your teeth, making a cup of coffee, brushing your hair... you name it!

7. Work on your flexibility

Stretching feels good, helps protect you from injury and burns more than twice the number of calories as sitting. If you spend just 12 minutes a day doing stretches, you'll be able to burn more than 200 calories a week and be that much closer to touching your toes! You can also try doing stretches on the floor with your notes while studying.

8. Swap out your desk chair for an exercise ball

Those wooden dorm desk chairs can feel so uncomfortable after you've hunkered down in them for a few hours. To avoid this and burn some calories, consider swapping your desk chair for an exercise ball.

"My chair at my desk is a ball, so I also do some abdominal exercises while working, and stretch my hamstrings and hip flexors on the ball all the time, as being sedentary for too many hours is detrimental for our bodies," Ludwig says.

Sitting on an exercise ball increases calorie-burning by six percent, and since desk work burns around 106 calories per hour for a 135-pound individual, you can expect to burn 200 calories by doing work on the ball for an hour and 47 minutes. Feel like being more active? Doing a set of sit-ups and abdominal crunches on an exercise ball for 24 minutes burns 200 calories for a 150-pound person.

9. Drink ice-cold water

Next time you're thirsty, skip the room-temperature water. Instead, drink your water ice cold. That way you can get a metabolic boost of about 25 calories per glass, because your body has to use extra energy to warm the water. Down eight glasses of cold water a day, and you'll be burning 200 calories like nobody's business!

10. Walk and talk

Few things are nicer than catching up with a friend over the phone and talking for hours and hours on end. Next time, instead of sitting and chatting away, step outside and get some fresh air—if you go for a walk while you talk, you'll be so engrossed in conversation that you won't even notice that you're burning lots of calories! Walking and talking for an hour burns 200 calories—and you’ll get to catch up with a friend you may not have talked to in a while. It's a win-win!

11. Sing your heart out

Let's admit it—we all miss singing in the shower at home. Sure, this might have annoyed a few neighbors and made a few dogs howl, but you probably got away with it and it was totally worth it.

College is a little different. With 10 girls sharing the same bathroom, it's easy to feel bad or self-conscious about singing. But if you need help convincing yourself about the virtues of singing in the shower, just know that singing for an hour and a half burns 200 calories on average! So whether you like to lock yourself in your room to belt out a few of your favorite songs or have an Easy-A-inspired, Emma-Stone-esque scenario, you'll be burning those calories away and getting that much closer to becoming the next big pop star!  

12. Laugh out loud

Who doesn't like to have a laugh attack with their best friends? Besides being totally fun, 10 to 15 minutes of laughter can increase energy expenditure by 10 to 40 calories per day. That means that about an hour and a half of laughing can burn 200 calories. So start practicing those jokes and tickling some funny bones!

Burning calories doesn't have to mean going to the gym and working your way through your usual exercise routine. With a little creativity and attentiveness, you'll be able to burn those extra 200 calories without even noticing it and continue to enjoy those snack sessions and coffee dates!

Wait, not everyone gets the same Girl Scout cookies?! [The Los Angeles Times]

4 tips every stressed out person should know. [Refinery29]

How a collegiette can host a perfect wine and cheese night. [Spoon University]

From college to Shark Tank.  [I Want Her Job]

Vineyard Vines and the enduring power of prep. [Racked]

The real reasons he's not saying 'I love you.' [Your Tango]

These apps will make you a happier person. [The Muse]

A guide to choosing your best underwear. [Aerie Blog]

The history of Daylight Savings time. [Nylon]

How to pull off a stylish walk of shame. [xoJane]

Erin Brockovich. Elle Woods. Leigh Ann Tuohy. Leading ladies that we all adore and all wish we could be a little more like. So often the gender inequality in film is subtle enough that it goes fairly unnoticed. But it's an undeniable truth that movies which feature a strong, independent female lead (who isn't just used solely as a foil or love interest for the male lead) aren't exactly in abundance. So when we do get treated to movies of the like, we cherish them, we watch them over and over again, and we tend to never forget the indellible characters which no doubt have shaped our own decisions as women. These girls aren't perfect by any standards—but the reason we look up to them as our role models is because rather than give up or (more often the case) rely on a man to solve their problems, they choose to pull from their inner strength and in the end they come out on top of the world because they did things their way. Without further ado, let's list the 20 greatest movies with fearless female leads! 

20. Breakfast at Tiffany's (1961) - Holly Golightly (Audrey Hepburn)

Everybody knows the iconic image of the ever-graceful Hepburn standing in front of the Tiffany's store on 5th Avenue, quietly indulging in a croissant, dressed in a floor length gown with black gloves, glam jewelry, big sunglasses, and a tiara to crown her messy yet elegant bun. Holly Golightly is the epitome of New York chic, roaming around in her cute apartment (which, admittedly, her many male suitors pay for), wearing gorgeous outfits and throwing lavish parties—yes, she may have a habit of latching on the nearest rich fella she sees, but Holly is a free spirit. In a manner quite different from the culture at the time, she is an independent woman who doesn't need to bind herself to a man to have a purpose in life. 

19. Flashdance (1983) - Alex Owens (Jennifer Beals)

While the strength of this film lies (as the title would suggest) in its incredible dancing and choreography, Alex and her exotic dancer friends help prove that women can be sexual and confident without selling their bodies to men. She's a welder by day, a dancer by night, and remains fiercely independent as she tries to achieve her dream of joining a professional ballet school.

18. Basic Instinct (1992) - Catherine Tramell (Sharon Stone)

Catherine is in many ways the anti-hero—she's confident and extremely sexual, yet just dangerous enough to leave the audience wondering if she's truly capable of the heinous crimes for which she is suspect. Women dominate the men in this film, and it is a satisfying, albeit a bit graphic, endeavor.

17. Clueless (1995) - Cher Horowitz (Alicia Silverstone)

"As if!" How could this ever cheerful, bubbly, ditzy valley girl with a heart of gold not make the list? Cher may be materialistic to excess and lack intelligence, but she makes up for it by being selfless, kind, and a positive role model to her friends and her school. And it does help that she's a fashion guru with an automated closet that is the stuff of dreams.

16. Across The Universe (2007)

There are several leading ladies in this musical drama (set to an all-Beatles soundtrack!). It was the late '60s after all, and women's empowerment was at an all time high—Lucy, Sadie, Prudence and all the girls in this film are as fearless as they are good singers. Lucy joins the anti-war protest movement, Prudence embraces her sexuality at a time when the LGBTQ+ community was barely on the radar, and Sadie—well, you'll just have to witness her greatness for yourself!

15. Nothing But The Truth (2008) - Rachel Armstrong (Kate Beckinsale)

This movie is the female version of All The President's Men in a way, except much more suspenseful. Kate Beckinsale delivers a memorable performance as a journalist who, while working on a story, uncovers a massive conspiracy that leads high up the political chain. Rather than give herself up, she stands steadfastly to her convictions, through investigations, threats, jail, and even prison—remaining strong through it all. She's a model for all female journalists.

14. Kill Bill (2003) - The Bride (Uma Thurman)

For the record, there are several Tarantino classics which feature a strong female lead (Pulp Fiction, True Romance, From Dusk Till Dawn), but Kill Bill has to take the cake. Uma Thurman is, for lack of a better word, totally badass. She takes down anyone in her path—and she's not even the only kickass female in the movie (lest we forget Lucy Liu's breakout performance as well).

13. Legally Blonde (2001) - Elle Woods (Reese Witherspoon)

She's blonde, she likes wearing pink, she has a chihuahua named Bruiser—oh yeah, and she's a Harvard law student who can shake it with the big dogs. Elle Woods may seem inane to her peers, but that's all the more reason for their shock when she breaks all their expectations every single time—fabulously, of course.

12. Dirty Dancing (1987) - Francis "Baby" Houseman (Jennifer Grey)

"Nobody puts Baby in a corner." She may seem timid and conservative, but Baby proves that even the good girls can get a little dirty (then again, for Swayze, wouldn't we all?).

Yes, she's a hooker, but she's also smart, funny, sassy and manages to court the love of an extremely wealthy lawyer and make him change his erroneous ways. He may be her knight in shining armor in the end, but as Roberts cleverly replies, "she rescues him right back."

8. Silence Of The Lambs (1991) - Clarice Starling (Jodie Foster)

This film is not for the faint of heart, but Jodie Foster shines as FBI agent Clarice Starling, brought in to work with the notorious Dr. Hannibal Lecter to help solve a gruesome crime. Worth watching if you can handle the scary and grotesque.

7. Pretty In Pink (1986) - Andie Walsh (Molly Ringwald)

"I just wanna let them know that they didn't break me." Andie doesn't fall into any of the classic stereotypes of an '80s teen flick. She's not popular or blonde, an athlete or a dancer. She's a smart kid from the poorer side of town who designs all her own outfits, doesn't let any richie bully her, and even snags the heart of one handsome and popular Blaine in one of the most adorably romantic end scenes of any rom-com. John Hughes was a champion of strong female leads but none were quite as special as Andie.

6. The Blind Side (2009) - Leigh Ann Tuohy (Sandra Bullock)

Leigh Ann might be a petite southern housewife, but make no mistake—she is tough as nails and never gives up on anyone she loves, making her not only admirable but easy to love as well. This role won Sandra Bullock an Oscar for best actress.

5. Chicago (2002) 

Women's prison narratives might be popular nowadays thanks to Orange Is The New Black, but we can't forget the original—a group of female prisoners who share one thing in common: they all murdered their husbands. Devilish, sexy, and fiercely independent, these ladies prove that men are not irreplaceable (or untouchable).

4. Heathers (1988) - Veronica (Winona Ryder)

This darkly humorous cult classic turns the teen movie genre on its head. Veronica is the heroine because she doesn't settle for the guy in the end (handsome as Christian Slater might be), but chooses to save the school, stop glorification of teen suicide, and not conform to any social norms. 

3. The Avengers (2012) / Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014) - Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson)

Scarlett Johansson was the perfect pick to play by far one of the greatest female superheroes of all time. Black Widow is just perfection, there's no other way to describe it.

2. Out Of Africa (1985) - Karen (Meryl Streep)

Many of you may have never heard of this 1985 film which earned Meryl Streep one of her (many) Oscar nominations, but it's one that's not to be missed. Yes, it is a love story to a certain degree, but what is more fascinating is the other storyline that exists—a woman who goes from being a spoiled society wife to a heroic icon who attempts to save the lives of all the African American workers on her vast lands despite all the hurdles she faces along the way. Truly an epic story of courage, love, and compassion, and you will never be the same after watching it.

1. Erin Brockovich (2000) - Erin Brockovich (Julia Roberts)

The fact that this movie is based on a true story, and that Erin Brockovich is a real person, just makes this film all the more gratifying. Julia Roberts is on fire as the single mom and paralegal who ends up almost singlehandedly taking down a corrupt California power company that was polluting city waters. It's an Oscar-winning performance but more than that, Erin Brockovich represents the idea that women can do anything they set their minds to, even if it is in a field traditionally dominated by men.

If there's ever been a better time to binge-watch movie after movie, now is it! How will you be inspiring yourself on International Women's Day today, collegiettes?

You may think just working out is enough to keep you healthy, but that difficult last mile you were attributing to an “off day” could actually be the consequence of not eating well before your workout. It may be tempting to grab a Pop-Tart on your way out the door or to skip the food altogether, but eating well before a workout is important for your health and performance. Nancy Clark, a Boston-based sports nutritionist and the author of Nancy Clark’s Sports Nutrition Guidebook, helped us create a list of college-friendly pre-workout snacks to maximize your performance at the gym.

Why Snack Before You Work Out?

While many collegiettes think that skipping the calories before a hard workout will drive your body to use its fat stores as fuel, Clark says fueling your body before a workout is just like putting gas in your car so you can drive. With a 100- to 300-calorie snack to jump-start your workout, you’ll sustain your energy levels, improve muscle toning and ensure that your efforts at the gym aren’t wasted.

Read on for a list of recommended pre-workout snacks and try one out the next time you’re headed to the gym for your mid-day spin class!

1. Oatmeal With Fruit and Nuts

According to Clark, the ideal pre-workout meal would be a combination of carbs to fuel your body with sustained energy and protein to power your muscles. Half a cup of Quaker Old Fashioned Oats has 150 calories and provides your body with 27 grams of carbs and 5 grams of protein. The great thing about oatmeal is that you can dress it up to fit your palate’s style. Top your oatmeal with peanut butter or nuts for extra protein, fruit for a sugary kick or cinnamon for a little extra spice.

2. Whole-Wheat Toast with Peanut Butter and a Sliced Banana

If a warm oatmeal breakfast doesn’t appeal to you, try a piece of toasted whole-wheat bread topped with peanut butter and a sliced banana. The bread and banana provide your body with carbs to power you through your workout, while the protein in the peanut butter will aid in muscle recovery.

One slice of Pepperidge Farm 100% Whole Wheat Bread will provide you with 100 calories, 20 grams of carbs and 5 grams of protein. Top with a tablespoon of natural peanut butter, like Skippy Natural Creamy Peanut Butter, which has 70 calories, 6 grams of carbohydrates and 7 grams of protein. You can also add a banana, which has about 27 grams of carbohydrates.

3. Turkey Sandwich

For a midday or evening workout, Nancy suggests fueling your body with a turkey sandwich. If it seems a bit heavy, you can always save half for later! Lean meats like turkey and chicken will feed your muscles the protein you need without weighing you down.

Spread two tablespoons of a healthy condiment like hummus (only 25 calories per tablespoon) over some whole-wheat bread and fill your sandwich with some of your favorite veggies, like spinach and tomatoes. To keep it healthy, use low-sodium deli-sliced turkey. If traditional bread feels like too much, you can always opt for sandwich thins or a wrap.

4. Apple With Peanut Butter

This is the easiest pre-workout snack to grab when you’re on the go! The apple’s 25 grams of carbohydrate will give you a quick burst of energy and the peanut butter will provide you with protein to repair your muscles. This snack is healthy, delicious and perfect if you only have a few minutes to spare on your way out of class.

5. Eggs in a Basket

Clark says eggs are one of the best protein sources, no matter what form they’re in. “Eggs in a basket” is a fun way to get your necessary dose of carbs and protein before a workout.

To make this snack, cut a circle in a slice of whole-wheat bread using the rim of a cup or a cookie cutter, place the bread in a heated pan (sprayed with canola oil or primed with a little butter) and crack an egg into the hole. Be sure to cook each side evenly and enjoy once your egg has cooked completely and your bread is nicely toasted. One egg will contain approximately 6 grams of protein to complement the carb-heavy bread.

6. Greek Yogurt Parfait

Fruit, nuts and Greek yogurt make the perfect trifecta to prime your body for the gym. A protein-rich Greek yogurt like Chobani’s plain Greek yogurt (90 calories, no fat, 7 grams of carbohydrates and 15 grams of protein) will fill you up and sustain your energy throughout your workout. Add nuts or granola for some added crunch and top with your favorite fruit for a sweet treat.

This parfait is made with fresh ingredients and is easy to make at any time of the day. Keeping granola and Greek yogurt on hand is a great way to ensure that you have a healthy snack ready to go!

7. Cheese and Crackers

Another quick snack that Nancy recommends is cheese and crackers. It’s just enough to fill you up but it shouldn’t upset your stomach before a workout. Seven of Kashi’s Heart to Heart Whole Grain Crackers have 120 calories, 22 grams of carbohydrates and 3 grams of protein. Spread a Laughing Cow Light Creamy Swiss cheese wedge onto your crackers for an extra 2 grams of protein.

That sluggish feeling you’ve been getting at the gym could be from bad pre-workout nutrition, so try eating a little before and feel your energy levels rise! A little trial and error is required to know what makes your body tick, so Clark urges you to take as much time as you need to prep for your workout. While some people can eat an entire meal right before a run, others might need an hour to digest before hitting the gym.

As a general rule of thumb, Clark says that “if you’re exercising at a pace that you can maintain for a half hour or more, it shouldn’t matter much how recently you have eaten, but if you’re doing an intense track workout, it would probably be best to let your digestive system rest before you put it to the test.”

Know your body and know how to fuel it with a proper balance of carbs, protein and, of course, lots of water!

Today is International Women's Day, meaning it's time we took a moment to appreciate the achievements of the fashion industry's greatest female leaders. On paper, it may seem like these ladies just design, curate and write about clothing (which is no easy feat to begin with), but in reality, they represent so much more than what their job descriptions may entail. As public figures, these fabulous women inspire us every day to lead empowering lives. Check ou these strong, inspiring women below!

1. Jenna Lyons

Jenna Lyons has had a cult-like following for quite some time now, and it clearly has something to do with the fact that she's the ultimate girl boss (um, she attends 10 to 18 meetings a day!). As creative director and president of J.Crew, Lyons is basically in charge of overseeing the designs, looks and polished catalog layouts we see online and in the coveted "style guides" that arrive at our doorsteps each month. We especially love that she totally owned her coming out a few years ago, breaking every stereotype and becoming an inspiration to the LGBTQ+ community.
Fun fact: She has dentures and isn't afraid to tell the world about them!

2. Diane von Fürstenberg

For any fashion lover, DVF is a household name. She's credited with inventing the iconic wrap dress and is the 2005 recipient of the prestigious CFDA Lifetime Achievement Award. You can spot everyone from First Lady Michelle Obama to Kate Middleton sporting her designs. But did you know that she built her brand from just a $30,000 investment in 1970? Clearly, she's got some major ambition! Now that she's a well-established name in the industry, she dedicates a sizable portion of her time to philanthropy. She's a board member of Vital Voices, a non-profit organization that aims to empower women's leadership, plus the director of her family's own foundation, so no big deal! 
Fun fact: For the duration of her marriage to Prince Egon of Fürstenberg, she was an official princess!

3. Leandra Medine

By now, the Internet feels full to the brim with fashion blogs, but Leandra Medine's Man Repeller is undoubtedly one of the pioneers of this blog phenomenon. Plus, her essays have proven that she has a serious prowess for writing! When Medine launched her blog in 2010, she was a 21-year-old journalism student. The quirky name of her now-famous site stemmed from the notion that she prefers to dress in a "sartorially offensive mode that may result in repelling members of the opposite sex." Now, MR receives over one million views each month and is consistently ranked as one of the web's hottest blogs. Medine also came out with a book in 2012, which is shrewdly titled Man Repeller: Seeking Love. Finding Overalls. Can anyone say #careergoals?
Fun fact: The term "man repeller" originated during a trip to Topshop. 

4. Victoria Beckham

We've loved lady Becks ever since she took on the role of Posh Spice, but our admiration for her has only grown! Not only has she established herself as a serious designer with her stunning fashion line that's now a staple at fashion week, but she has also joined the Ban Bossy campaign alongside Beyoncé, which inspires women to be leaders. Also, there's the fact that she has bred what is perhaps the most beautiful family of all time.
Fun fact: Sir Elton John is the godparent of her two eldest sons Brooklyn and Romeo.

5. Tory Burch

Tory Burch is quite the powerful lady, but we aren't in awe of her just because she created the ever popular Reva flat, or even because she's worth a cool $1 billion. Now a prolific designer, Burch has shown her enthusiasm for empowering other women to achieve their entrepreneurial goals. Aside from launching the Tory Burch Foundation, which mentors and economically supports women, she teamed up with Bank of America to roll out an initiative that administers loans to female-owned business. 
Fun fact: Burch attended the University of Pennsylvania and was a sorority member of Kappa Alpha Theta.

As a college student, I didn’t think anything bad would ever happen to me. No matter how many horror stories I heard about girls getting taken advantage of or how often I heard about the effects of underage drinking or blacking out from drinking too much, I never thought things like that could happen to me. I, like so many other college girls out there, thought I was invincible, and I thought I could do whatever I wanted and never face any repercussions.

But one Friday night, I was proven wrong, and my perception of drinking was changed forever.

My hair was perfectly straight, my heels were on and I was ready to get my Friday night started. Friday night is one of the biggest nights out at my school, as so many local bars and nightclubs have great drink specials and amazing DJs then. Going out didn’t sound appealing to me, but all of my friends were begging me to join them, so I decided to suck it up and go. I love to go out with my friends and have fun, but for some reason, I wasn’t feeling it that night.

After meeting up with a couple of my girlfriends, we walked to our friend Brad’s* house to pregame before we went out to a bar. We went to Brad’s house almost every weekend, so it had become a place where I always felt safe. We casually drank until it was time to head out for the night.

That’s the last thing I remember from that night.

I woke up in my bed the next morning with a horrible headache, an aching body and cuts all over my legs. I had never been so confused in my life—I remembered absolutely nothing from the night before. I remembered being at Brad’s house, but I didn’t remember leaving. The day before was just as much of a blur; as I couldn't even remember little things, like what I had for dinner.

My initial thought was that I got too drunk and either got into a fight or fell down, which would explain the bruises and cuts. I am a pretty clumsy person, so falling would be nothing new for me.

After talking with my friends, they told me that after Brad’s house we went to a nearby bar for a few hours. They told me I’d been very intoxicated and fell face-first after getting out of a taxi, which was the reason behind all of my battle wounds. I felt extremely embarrassed. Not only did I not remember a single person I talked to, a single song I danced to or a single drink I had at the bar, but I’d made a complete fool out of myself. It was the worst feeling in the world.

My body had never felt like that before. I was dizzy, I had blurred vision, I still felt loopy and I was generally confused about everything that was going on. This feeling was different than a hangover; it was 10 times worse. I knew something was wrong, and I needed to figure out what it was.

My friends explained that I’d hit my head pretty hard, which was why the pain was unbearable. I’ve had a concussion before and felt like I might have one again, so I decided to go to the emergency room to get it checked out.

After getting multiple tests done, including blood work, vision tests, a rape kit (which is not an experience I wish anyone to go through) and a test confirming that I did in fact have a mild concussion, the doctor came back to my room with startling news: I had been roofied.

He told me that he found Rohypnol, also known as roofies or the date-rape drug, in my system, and a lot of it. For those of you who aren’t familiar with Rohypnol, it is a pill that can be slipped into drinks, which makes the drinker black out and act extremely intoxicated. Rohypnol also affects your memory, even your memory of events that happened before you have the pill in your body. The pill can sometimes make your pupils increase in size and cause vomiting, a coma and even death.

This was such a scary moment for me, but it made a lot of sense. I knew I hadn’t drank enough to black out, so the fact that I had been roofied was believable. Though I knew about Rohypnol, I never had heard of anyone getting drugged at my school before. I consider my college a pretty safe place for the most part, so it was mind-blowing that someone would do this to me.

Luckily, I have amazing friends who had stayed with me all night until I went to bed, afraid that something bad might happen to me. If I hadn't had my friends by my side, someone could have easily taken me home and taken advantage of me. I cannot be thankful enough for having such great friends who have my back and are watching out for me no matter what.

My doctor recommended that I tell an official at my school what happened. After going into my campus safety office and explaining to a security officer what happened, I had to see an employee at the health and wellness center, who made sure I was doing okay. Talking to officials at my school two times about what happened was hard for me to do. I was uncomfortable talking about it. After a whole week of being asked what happened to me, explaining the pain I had gone through was upsetting and starting to get to me.

Although this has happened over a month ago, I still think, “Why me?” Why did I have to be the one who got drugged? It took me a few weeks to even consider drinking again because I was so traumatized about what I went through.

The important message to learn from my story is that situations like this can happen to anyone and anywhere. No matter how safe you feel or no matter how much you trust the people around you, there’s always a chance it could happen to you. Whenever you’re consuming alcohol, it is so important to constantly keep an eye on your drink. If you ever wake up one morning and think something is wrong, the best option is to go to the doctor, no matter what.

The best piece of advice I have is to never blame yourself if this happens to you. After weeks of thinking it was my fault that I was drugged, I am finally able to say that I’m so much of a better person than the individual who drugged me.

*Name has been changed.

Do you have a story to share? Submit your story to Her Story! 

Sick of this brutal winter? Counting down the days until March 20, the start of springtime (supposedly)? You're not alone—these precious pups can't wait for the upcoming season either!

1. Hallelujah, the winter coat can finally be put away! I hated that thing anyway.

2. Five words: trips to the dog park.

3. Games of fetch won't take place inside anymore. Freedom!

4. We're going out for a walk? A real, full-length walk that isn't cut short by the temperature!?

5. Less darkness, longer days, score!

6. Fresh fruits and veggies? GIMME!!!

7. The smell and feel of fresh grass... Oh, how I've missed them.

8. Impromptu trips to the park? Yes, please.

9. This is my "first-time-I've-seen-sunlight-since-November" face. 

10. So many blooming flowers that I must dig up!

11. Let the squirrel chasing re-commence!

12. Did somebody say 'picnic'?

13. Literally anything is better than winter, so please get me out of here!