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5 Things to Do if You’re a Mid-Year Transfer

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Okay, so things didn’t exactly work out at your first school.

Maybe the scholarship your original college promised you fell through, or you broke up with the significant other whom you ventured off to college with and you decided you need a fresh start. Maybe you realized you want to study a major that isn’t offered at your current school. Perhaps you simply decided that your university just wasn’t the right fit for you. No matter the reason, you knew it was time for a change and decided to transfer.

You might be anxious about what you’ll be walking into come spring semester. Transferring mid-year can seem daunting, but it’s no harder than anything you went throughyour first semester of college. Here are a few tips and tricks to help you get acquainted with your new school!

1. Do some digging

If you’re transferring to this new college, chances are you already have some knowledge of the school and know a little about the area. Nonetheless, do a little more research! Dig around your school’s website for the latest news and updates. Did your new school win any major games last semester? Did the school have any interesting speakers come to campus?

Be sure to brush up on fun events happening around your new college town as well. Is there a 5K you want to participate in? What bands are playing close to campus in the spring? Is there a food tour downtown you might want to check out? These are some talking points that could come up in conversation with your new classmates!

2. Connect with someone on campus

If you’ll be living on campus, get to know your roommate and take the time to say hello to your neighbors.

“Living in the dorms made it a lot easier to meet new people and make friends,” says Joy, a junior who transferred from El Camino Community College in southern California to a school in Washington, D.C.  “I had almost automatic friends in my roommates, and their friends became my friends and vice versa.”

If you were in a sorority, see if the same organization is active on your new campus. If so, be sure to reach out to some of the sisters at your new school to see how you can get involved. If you don’t know anyone on campus, see if your school has a Facebook page or an on-campus meet-and-greet event for incoming transfer students.

“Try out some of the transfer activities that the school has planned,” says Farrin, who transferred in the middle of her sophomore year to American University. “[These events] might sound silly, but you never know who you'll meet along the way.”

3. Get involved

Join a few clubs! Clubs are a great way to meet people, and there’s sure to be a club that will meet your interests (trust us on that one). Sure, the fall semester is over, but that doesn’t mean clubs are closed off to welcoming new members.

“Get involved in different activities,” Joy says. “It is hard to get involved and excited about a new school when you have spent a year or two at another college. Taking part in school activities…can really make a difference.”

If you’re not interested in clubs, spend some time volunteering for a philanthropy that has a chapter on campus, like Relay for Life. Don’t hesitate to approach the organization’s leaders and members if they put out a table on the quad.

Farrin researched clubs, organizations and different activities that her new school had to offer, and, although she says she didn’t fully intend to join a sorority at first, she went through recruitment to meet people along the way. She ending up joining Alpha Epsilon Phi and says she could not have asked for a better transfer experience.

“I was welcomed instantly by such an amazing group of women who have become my best friends and shaped my entire experience,” Farrin says. “I recommend trying out Greek life to any transfer student. Everyone is in the same boat as you, trying to find a comfortable place to have fun and make friends.”

4. Put down your cell phone

Instead of texting before class, chat with people around you. Don’t be afraid to tell a classmate that you’re a newcomer, collegiettes! See if he or she has had the professor before, what his or her major is and why he or she is taking the class. You just might find a friend and a study buddy at the same time!

“Meet as many people as possible, take opportunities you wouldn't necessarily do and be open-minded,” Farrin says. “Do everything you can to get out of your comfort zone and meet new people.”

5. Above all: don’t stress

Being a new face in a new place might seem overwhelming, but don’t forget that you’re not alone. Chances are there’s another mid-year transfer struggling to find his or her place at this new school as well. If you don’t find your niche in the first few weeks, don’t fret! College is all about letting things happen naturally and building relationships over time.

“It's not an easy thing to switch colleges,” says Taylor, a sophomore who transferred to Trinity Baptist College. “But it is really worth it in the end if you feel like it's the college you should be at. Don't let the little problems you will run into get to you…Once you get past the little problems, I promise it gets way easier.”

Instead of approaching your first semester at your new school worried about the transition, be excited about the fact that you’re starting fresh, making new friends and enjoying new experiences along the way! 


Need to Know if You’re Pregnant? There’s An App For That

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Nowadays, seemingly everything is accessible through your phone. But did any of us think the day would come when you could tell whether or not you’re pregnant simply by opening an app? Well, the world is a magical place, collegiettes.

The pregnancy test company, First Response, announced a pregnancy test with a twist at the Consumer Electronics Show, Cosmopolitan reports. The new “First Response Pregnancy PRO Digital Pregnancy Test and App Access” is Bluetooth enabled (don’t get too excited, it doesn’t play music), which means it will connect to your smartphone through an app you can download.

Once you have urinated on the stick, the app will start a countdown while you wait for your results. If this situation has you feeling anxious, they have a solution. You can choose from three categories: Calm Me (where you can choose things that relax you in hopes of calming your nerves), Educate Me (where you’re able to learn more about pregnancy itself), and Entertain Me (for when you just want to watch dogs being cute to distract yourself).

A press release for the product reports that if you were to receive a negative result, the app is able to help you track your cycle, and provide you with various options on where to go from there. With a positive test result, the app will attempt to provide a due date estimate while also providing a pregnancy tracker and tracking the baby’s growth. While these test results tend to be 99 percent accurate, it’s very important to get a definite answer from your doctor.

This innovative test will release later this year with prices ranging from $14.99 to $21.99, acting as a crucial helping hand and information system for women who are expecting.

5 Ways To Rock A Scarf You’ve Never Tried Before

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Any fashion lover will know that fall and winter mean only one thing: scarf season. We’ve been bundling up in our favorite blanket scarves since mid-September, so now we’re looking for ways to spice things up a bit. The good news is that there’s more than one way to rock a scarf. In fact, the possibilities are pretty much endless. So grab your biggest, coziest scarf and mix up your wardrobe in one (or more!) of our favorite ways. 

1. As a poncho

Every fall and winter wardrobe needs a good poncho, but your favorite blanket scarf can double as one too! Simply drape the scarf over your shoulders, making sure it hangs low down your arms like a poncho would. Bonus tip: throw a belt around your waist to add shape and pull the whole look together.

Related: 3 Coats, 6 Ways: The Most Versatile Ways to Dress for Winter

2. As a hair accessory

If you’re stuck bracing the bitter cold, this 2-in-1 style is perfect for you. This is also one of the easiest styles to recreate. Simply place the scarf over your head, folding it in half first. Then wrap the ends of the scarf around your neck like you would normally, and voilà! You have a scarf and a hat all in one.

3. As a cape

Every aspiring fashion icon will tell you that capes are a huge trend this season. Fortunately, there’s a way to try out the trend without spending big bucks on the real style. For this look, all you’ll need is an oversized scarf. Fold it in half and drape over your shoulders (like Taylor Swift did in the photo) or try tying it in the middle of your chest. Either way, you’re guaranteed an easy and sophisticated look!

4. As a body wrap

This look is perfect for those who love to rock an effortlessly chic vibe. All you have to do is take your favorite scarf and wrap it around your waist, just like you would a towel when you get out of the shower. Then, separate the two pieces and throw on a belt. You’ll definitely start a trend on campus with this one.

5. As a sash

If you’re really looking to make a fashion statement, this is the look for you! Draping your favorite scarf across you like a sash is the perfect way to add a pop of color or print to any look. Try it one-sided or drape the scarf across your body diagonally. For this look, you might want to add a belt to give structure and keep the scarf in place.

Of course, there are just about a million ways to tie a scarf—these are just some of our favorites. Don't be afraid to take a few fashion risks and rock new styles this winter, collegiettes!

Adele At the Gym is ALL of Us

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We've known all along that Adele just gets us. From the ultimate break-up songs to anthems we like to belt out at every chance we get, her songs are an integral part of our lives. Relationship struggles aren't the only things we can relate to Adele on—turns out, she totally has the same feelings about going to the gym.


The singer captioned the photo with “Getting ready…” in which she is pictured working out on a crossover machine at the gym. She's clearly killing her workout, but it doesn't mean she has to love it—and her face shows that perfectly.

Yes, Adele, a tough workout at the gym makes us want to cry, too. We've all been there.

16 Signs You're the Grandma of Your Friend Group

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Every friend group has them: the one who's always making dad jokes, the one who reminds you of your drunk Uncle Earl, and the one who's just like your sweet old Grandma. If you don't know who the Grandma of your friend group is, it might just be you. Do you find yourself turning down weekend plans to stay home and knit? Do you friends turn to you as a shoulder to cry on? Read on and see if you might just be a the Grandma among your friends. 

1. You have a scheduled bed time.

 

2. You probably wear nightgowns.

 

3. Your friends can always count on you for a hug

 

and some wisened advice!

 

4. You get up early,

 

5. and probably enjoy a cup of tea or black coffee.

 

6. You just don’t get “Kids These Days.”

 

7. You wear sensible shoes.

 

8. You like to bake.

 

9. You use outdated phrases.

 

10. Technology isn’t your forte.

 

11. You just can't keep up with the Kardashians.

 

12. You’re always organized,

 

13. but you have a lot of knick-knacks.

 

14. You take pictures of everything,

 

15. and always print them out.

 

16. In the end, everyone loves you.

20 Things Only GDIs Will Understand

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At college, Greek life is pretty overwhelming. While it comprises a minority of the student population, it definitely feels like everyone is involved in it. So when you decide not to rush, life at college can feel a little…strange. But being a GDI is nothing to be ashamed about—in fact, the student body at your college is mostly GDIs. Like everything else in life, not joining Greek Life has its pros and cons. Here are just a few things that GDIs have to deal with: 

1. Not understanding the appeal of frat parties. Why is it always so hot and sweaty, and it just seems like a sex pit.

2. And when you have nowhere else to go, so you decide to go to a frat, waiting in the long line to get in is the most irritating thing in the world.

3. Plus, you have experienced much better alcohol than Natty Light, so why bother?

4. You don’t understand salmon shorts. Why is that a thing?

5. You have no sympathy for girls crying over pref sheets during rush, but you try to make them feel batter anyway.

 

6. Buying anything other than Timberlands or Bean boots to avoid being considered “Greek.”

7. Getting asked, “did you rush?”

8. And then having to explain why you didn't when they ask.

9. Being extremely confused by the tier system. How are you supposed to know which frats and sororities are top tier? Why can’t you socialize with bottom tier?

10. Actually, keeping track of all the houses on campus is a task you can’t be bothered doing.

11. You don’t even understand the Greek letters anyway. Is that gamma or lambda?

 

12. The struggle of walking into a class and seeing groups of people all dressed in the same letters so you have no where to sit.

13. The hassle of asking around to borrow clothes because you don’t have hundreds of sisters to ask in a GroupMe.

14. Having extra money you don’t have to spend on dues to buy more important things like Chipotle and booze.

15. Listening to all the events that your sorority friend has to go to with absolute horror.

16. Finding housemates for next year can be a struggle because you don’t have a huge amount of ~sisters~ to room with you.

17. Being involved in so many organizations because you have so much time on your hands because you aren’t Greek.

18. Meeting someone in Greek life and being super surprised when they aren’t anything like you thought they would be.

19. But ultimately sticking with your decision not to rush because, well, it isn’t you.

20. You’re excited to spend your college years with your close group of friends and being proud of your GDI status. 

I Rinsed My Hair With Coca-Cola & This is What Happened

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As a follower of (read: slave to) beauty bloggers and everyday hacks, I have been attempting to perfect the beachy wave look for longer than I would like to admit. After trying many products like Bumble and Bumble’s Surf Spray and TRESemmé's Perfectly (Un)Done collection, I was just about ready to pick up my flatiron and give up on my perfectly-tousled dreams… that is, until I got wind of model/actress Suki Waterhouse’s go-to tip.

Waterhouse, known for her perfect blonde tresses and enviable ex-boyfriend—she recently split from Bradley Cooper, for those of you who are new here—spilled in an interview that her beachy waves don’t come naturally. The model said she swaps shampoo for Coca-Cola, and swears it gives her the perfect amount of volume and texture… think: the morning after. 

Being that the Coca-Cola rinse is a newly trendy beauty hack, I just had to try for myself, no matter how strange it may have seemed. When I told my friends of my plans by asking them to help me pour bottles of Coca-Cola onto my hair, to say they were confused would be an understatement. Some were concerned about the natural oils in my hair, asking things like, “Have you seen what soda does to your teeth?” and “Why would you put it in your hair? It can strip rust off of metal surfaces!” Others were as intrigued as I was, wondering if it really could be possible to achieve Suki Waterhouse-status hair with just a few bottles of soda. Eventually, though, once my friends all saw that hoards of other bloggers have experimented with this hack without having their hair fall out, everyone was excited to see what would happen. 

Disclaimer: My natural hair is relatively flat and straight, depending on the day. This is my hair after showering at night and going to bed with it wet. 

To really test the effectiveness of the Coca-Cola rinse, I did it on two different occasions. The first time I did it, I stood in the shower and had my roommate soak my hair with the soda. I let it dry for five to ten minutes, then got back in the shower and rinsed it all out (then scrubbed all of the soda off of my body). It was a pretty messy experience, but once it was rinsed out, the smell of the soda was gone. I let my hair air-dry, and slept on it overnight. When I woke up, it felt much more voluminous, from root to tip. It was surprisingly soft, and required no other product. 

I felt good about the way the rinse worked, but thought that I might have rinsed it out too soon. My hair wasn’t dramatically different looking, so the second time around I changed a few things up. I took two 16oz. bottles of Coca-Cola and put my head in the sink. I carefully poured the soda into my hair, making sure it wasn’t just running over my hair and straight down the drain. Once every strand was soaked, I put it in a bun and let it sit for thirty minutes. 

It was decently sticky, but I knew this time it would work much better. It was already looking bigger and curlier, so I had high hopes. I rinsed it in the sink, then took a shower without getting it wet. I went to bed with it only partially dry, and woke up pleasantly surprised. My hair was much more tousled than the first time I did the rinse, and had a lot more texture to work with. It was not as soft as it was the first time, but I think the grit of it is what holds in the texture so well. 

Overall, I was much happier with the rinse the second time around. It definitely was much wavier than the first time, and really felt like it had texture. I would absolutely do the rinse again to get tousled hair this way instead of wasting any more money on expensive products. Suki Waterhouse may have a whole hair and makeup team working for her, but this trick is easy enough for anyone to add to their own beauty regimen. Maybe I'll even get a call from Bradley Cooper next time I do it... *sigh* a girl can dream. 

8 Questions You’re Too Embarrassed to Ask Your Gyno

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Do you remember how awkward your first talk about sex and puberty was? Maybe it came in the form of your parents explaining the birds and the bees, or maybe it was during health class when your teacher tried to demystify the changes going on in your body. No matter how hard you tried to play it cool, it was probably borderline traumatizing.

Unfortunately, talks like these don’t get any easier, just more intimate (read: not in a room full of giggling middle schoolers), especially when you start visiting a gynecologist. No matter how comfortable you might be talking to your friends about your latest hook-up or your weirdest bodily function, it can be pretty intimidating to talk about your sexual life and “down-there” problems one-on-one with a doctor.

Even though a gynecologist appointment can be awkward, it’s important to ask any questions you might have about your body so you can keep yourself safe and healthy. To lighten your load, we’ve talked to gynecologists ourselves to answer some of your most embarrassing questions.

1. I’m worried that I might smell or taste bad during oral sex. How can I make sure everything is okay?

Oral sex is extremely intimate, and no matter how good it is, sometimes it might be hard to tell what your partner is thinking while he or she is down there. But the only way to really tell how you smell or taste down there is if your partner talks to you about it.

Dr. Sarah Crane, an OB/GYN with Cambridge Health Alliance in Massachusetts, says that many times, women are much more sensitive to their own vagina’s odor, real or imagined, than anyone else. So even if you think something is funky down there, your partner might not notice anything.

If you do have excess odor that is noticeable during oral sex, Dr. Crane says that it is most often due to an overgrowth of anaerobic bacteria. To prevent this, Dr. Crane suggests wearing cotton panties and wearing loose bottoms or nothing to bed. Your vagina needs air to stay healthy, and these practices help maintain good air circulation. “Air is the friend of the vagina,” she says.

2. What is douching, and should I do it?

You’ve probably heard about this thing called a “douche”—and we’re not talking about that obnoxious frat guy who hits on every girl in sight. Douching is the use of a cleansing solution to freshen the vagina. Douches typically come in a prepackaged bottle that allows women to squirt the solution through a nozzle.

Although douching used to be viewed as a beneficial practice, gynecologists today are uniformly against douching, says Dr. Crane, because the substances in the solution can disrupt the normal balance of your vaginal ecosystem, potentially causing yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis. In addition to throwing off your vagina’s natural chemical balance, using a douche has also been associated with an increased risk of pelvic inflammatory disease in women with vaginal infections. So even though douching used to be perceived as a sanitary practice, stick with the natural options of showering regularly and keeping a good airflow to your nether region.

3. How much discharge is normal, and what should it look like?

Who actually wants to talk about wet, sticky stuff that your body produces? On a meter of awkwardness, this question is definitely way up there. Luckily, it’s pretty easy to figure out yourself if your discharge is normal if you know what you’re looking for.

Dr. Crane says that clear, white or light yellow discharge is normal, and it should be in amounts that just slightly moisten your panties each day. No one really likes the word “moist,” but if that’s what’s going on for you, then you’re operating normally. According to the University of Illinois’s McKinley Health Center, a vagina produces discharge in order to “cleanse and regulate itself, similar to how saliva cleanses and regulates the environment of the mouth.”

But if your daily discharge is a different consistency or a drastically different color, then it’s time to bring the situation to the attention of your gynecologist. Discharge that is abnormally colored, thick or clumpy, noticeably odorous or accompanied by any itching or burning may be a sign of infection. Discussing your discharge with your gyno might be awkward at first, but you’ll feel better when your body is back on the right track.

4. I’ve noticed some painful bumps down there. What are they, and how do I know if it’s something more serious?

Horrifying thoughts can easily run through your head the second you see something down below that shouldn’t be there. Traumatizing lessons during high school sex ed taught us that no good can come from a bump or red spots, but if they do arise, it might not be what you’re thinking. Oftentimes you might get a pimple or an ingrown hair on your pubic region. This can be even more common if you shave your pubic hair.

But if the bumps are extremely painful, seem to be growing or spreading or secrete a colored liquid discharge, you should see your gynecologist, because it may be something more serious. Dr. Crane says that sometimes these bumps can result from the herpes virus or other infections, but you need to visit a doctor to confirm this. In the meantime, she recommends that you don’t have sex until you get it checked out.

5. Every time I have sex, it’s way too painful. What can I do to make this easier?

Sex is supposed to be enjoyable, not painful. If you are finding that sex is too painful or uncomfortable, then there are some tricks you can use to make this experience better.

A common reason why women experience painful sex is because they’re not properly lubricated, whether due to nerves, not being sufficiently turned on or other reasons. One of the options that Dr. Crane suggests is putting lubricant on your guy’s penis and at the entrance to your vagina. This will give the best odds for making a smooth entry. It’s also a good idea to go slow. If you’re new to having sex, one of the best ways to get your body accustomed to the feeling is by taking it easy and going slowly, attempting to relax. Tensing up will only make it hurt more!

Another option that Dr. Crane suggests is practicing with a tampon. Although this is a different feeling, it can still help prepare your body for what it feels like. If none of these techniques work, Dr. Crane recommends a visit to the gynecologist to make sure that there is not a medical or anatomical reason for the pain.

6. I’ve never had an orgasm. What can I do to change that?

Like we said, sex should be enjoyable. A lot of that enjoyment comes from having an orgasm. Even though you can have fun without hitting your climax, it can still be frustrating when you’ve been having sex for a while without feeling that peak of maximum pleasure. As exasperating as it might be, Dr. Crane says that it’s not rare to have not experienced an orgasm when you’re in your late teens or early 20s. In many cases you just need time, experimentation and an understanding of your body’s nuances to understand what it takes to get you to that point. Having a partner who is willing to work with you can make this an easier task.

“Women typically take three to four times longer to reach orgasm than men, so foreplay is important,” Dr. Crane says. Don’t just cut to the chase—let the anticipation build by engaging in enough foreplay with your partner. Dr. Crane adds that “stimulation of the clitoral region is necessary for many women to achieve climax, and this may require self-stimulation or adjustments on his part.” Your best bet is to get on top so that you can adjust your angling and positioning accordingly.

7. Does hormonal birth control affect my sex drive or anything else during sex?

When people go on birth control, like the pill, many times they talk about how their weight fluctuates or their boobs get bigger. But something that’s not usually mentioned is how hormonal birth control can affect your sex drive.

Dr. Crane says that birth control does not always affect a woman’s libido, but in some cases it can.

“Occasionally a woman who is very in tune with her natural cycle may note a decrease in libido when she takes oral contraceptives or other hormonal methods such as Depo-Provera,” she says. “These methods suppress ovulation and thereby prevent the surge of hormones that naturally occurs just prior to ovulation.” If you are finding that your sex drive isn’t what it used to be after switching to a new birth control, talk to your gyno about other options.

8. Is there less risk of pregnancy if I have sex the week after my period?

An unplanned pregnancy can be a scary thought when you’re in college, so many people take as many precautions as possible to prevent this from happening. Your fertility levels change as you move throughout your cycle, and it is true that there are times when you are more fertile than others. But Dr. Crane says there is never a time when your fertility levels drop low enough to completely eliminate the chance of becoming pregnant. She says that the time after your period is still a very fertile time, so it’s still important to use necessary protection.

Although these questions might make you feel mortified if you had to ask them out loud, gynecologists deal with these situations every day. It’s their job! By finding a gynecologist who makes you feel comfortable, you can continue to take steps to promote your sexual health and well-being.


15 Ways to Organize Your Life This Year

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New year, new me…we get it. While we might have a huge list of things we hope to accomplish this year, some take a bit more effort than others. Getting organized, on the other hand, is made easy with these 15 DIY organization tips! All you need is a few minutes, and you’ll be on the way to starting your year off right!  

1. Cereal box drawer dividers

When you’re a collegiette on the go, keeping your desk nice and tidy might be the last thing on your mind. So take a day to ensure all of your desk essentials have a place to call home by crafting these adorable drawer dividers—made out of leftover cereal boxes—from iHeart Organizing.

2. Magnetic bowls

Tired of losing your bobby pins and earrings? Check that frustration off of your list with these magnetic bowls made by A Girl and a Glue Gun. You can throw them on the mini-fridge next to your bed or get a dry erase board to hang above your desk to guarantee you always know where these essentials are.

3. Hidden book storage

Does your roommate like to “borrow” (and never return) your jewelry? Then Sewing Barefoot’s hidden book storage is the perfect solution for you. Sure, you can buy these containers at a number of stores, but you can create this look for less. Just find some old hardcover books, take out their pages, hot glue the bindings together and you have a secret hideaway for all of your valuables!

4. DIY planner

The key to getting organized this year is to find a planner you can rely on. DIY Mama proves you don’t have to go out and spend $20 on a planner. Instead, you can buy a cute binder at any discount store (or raid the sale bins at your favorite stores). To keep track of your upcoming assignments, make an assignment list to put in your planner, similar to this one from Organized Charm. Trust us, having all your assignments on one paper and being able to check them off is such an amazing feeling! 

5. Makeup magnet board

This magnetic makeup board by Laura Thoughts is a cute and practical decoration. Just put magnets on the back of your favorite eyeshadows and stick them on any magnetic frame. You’ll never have to spend a half hour rummaging through your makeup bag again.

6. Recycled tin storage

Better Homes and Gardens shows us that we don’t have to completely regret eating a whole tin of Pringles while binge-watching Scandal. Just wrap one of these old tins in leftover wrapping paper and you have some adorable—and probably much-needed—storage space.

7. Sushi roll makeup brush organizer

Sushi lovers, rejoice! Irina’s Cute Box has an unconventional yet adorable way for you to store your makeup brushes—in a sushi mat! It’s a simple and cheap solution for the girl on the go.

8. Wire shower caddy storage  

Metal shower caddies aren’t just for the shower anymore. Better Homes and Gardens suggests hanging your caddy with a Command strip for instant storage.

9. Framed dry erase calendar

Calendars are one key to staying on track, but who said they have to be pitched after a year? Tangles and Tangents proves you can make a cute dry erase calendar for less than ten dollars, out of a cheap picture frame from Walmart. Add some colorful paper, and you have a lovely reusable calendar!

10. Over-the-fridge snack caddy

These over-the-fridge snack caddies from Buzzfeed are a lifesaver, but you don’t need to pay the Pottery Barn prices in order to get one. Cut up a fabric shoe caddy and drape it over your mini fridge to store your plates, napkins and utensils!

11. Book phone charger

You can't exactly leave your phone lying around in any old place. Thanks to Caught On A Whim, you can charge your phone in secrecy. Just hollow out an old book, and you have the perfect hiding space for your phone.

12. Cork wall squares

These cork wall squares are all the rage, especially if you need to keep your dorm room walls intact. CharmBeauty111 is here to help with this stylish alternative to a huge cork board. Simply add a little wrapping paper or fabric to turn these squares into wall art.

13. Chanel makeup brush holder

Who needs to spend hundreds of dollars on a Chanel bottle when you can make your own for less than five dollars? Mara Bee DIY proves that a trip to the discount store and a printed label make for the cutest makeup brush holder in the game! 

14. Memory jar

Sometimes it’s the little things we want to remember the most. Start your year off right with these printables from Vicky Barone, and create your own memory jar. Write down one great thing that happens each day of the year; then, open and read all of your favorite memories on January 1st of next year!

15. Clipboard hangers

VasseurBeauty shows us how to turn drab clipboards into a snazzy display for all of your A+ papers—think of it as motivation for the coming year. Wrap the clipboards in wrapping paper and hang them above your desk for a reminder of just how amazing you really are! 

It’s time to get organized, collegiettes!

5 Tips for Growing Longer Hair

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With spring seemingly as far away as ever, it’s not yet time to ditch our winter hats and bring our hair out of hiding. However, winter may not be kind to our tresses, and it's best we prepare for it now. Whether we have dry, brittle strands from the cold winter air or heat-damaged hair from going overboard with the curling wands we got for Christmas, growing long hair eludes us. But our fantasy of luscious, waist-length locks can be a reality! Celebrity hair stylist and beauty expert Hasblady Guzman shares her tips for nursing your hair back to its long, crowning glory.  

1. Use a Good Shampoo

Hair breakage and thermal damage are the main culprits behind short, unhealthy hair. Guzman says that in her experience, she has identified several factors that can lead to the broken bits we see in our brushes and on our shirts.

“Heat styling, sulfate shampoos, not enough conditioner and too much or too little protein in the hair can cause breakage,” she says. “Excessive sun exposure, spending a lot of time in chlorine pools or too much salt from the ocean can cause breakage as well.”

Sulfate-free shampoos do not strip your strands, leaving your hair moisturized and less likely to snap. We recommend using L’Oreal’s Everpure Moisture Shampoo ($6.99).

2. Trim Your Hair

Guzman’s best advice for heat-damaged hair? “The long and short of it is to trim every six weeks,” she says. “Even if it's minor, you still must do it. As soon as you see some damage, cut the white knob with good scissors.”

With her simple instructions, you can do this in your dorm. “Do this by twisting the hair,” Guzman says. “This way you can go down the shaft of the hair too. Cut off all the knobs that are white and are about to split, as well as the hair that has already split.”

3. Protect Your Hair

Heat protectants help you maintain the nutrients, volume and moisture in your hair by creating a barrier between the heat and your hair. Guzman also suggests using a leave-in conditioner. This added moisture will prevent the hair from getting dry and breaking off before it has a chance to grow longer. We recommend trying John Frieda’s Frizz Ease Heat Defeat Protective Spray ($5.09) and Design Essentials Hydrate Leave-In Hydrating Conditioner ($16.95). Apply the leave-in and heat protectant to damp hair before blow drying and styling.

4. Style Your Hair Safely

Hair can snap off when its protective layer is damaged by heat from appliances and friction from brushes. “When styling with a hot tool, always count to 20 and then remove the tool,” Guzman advises. “Do not leave pieces of hair on heat tools longer than this.”

The protein bonds in our hair are the weakest when wet, so Guzman advises that “when you are combing through your hair, start at the ends and gently work your way to the top. Be careful not to pull or tug the hair too much.”

When in the sun, Hasblady suggests wearing a hat and braiding your wet hair as a protective style. Bonus tip: Unravel the braid when it’s dry for easy, loose waves!

5. Watch Your Diet

Forgot to take your daily supplements? It will definitely show in your hair! What we put into our bodies undeniably affects the length of our hair. Guzman recommends taking vitamins like vitamin E and biotin. Together, they increase circulation in the scalp and the production of protein in the body, boosting hair’s growth rate. We recommend Natrol Skin Hair Nails Dietary Supplement Capsules ($11.99), which contains both vitamin E and biotin. Guzman also says avocado and salmon help with hair growth. Try these two by serving guacamole at your next sorority social and baked salmon at dinner.

Don’t let winter blues affect your spring ‘dos! Make damaged hair a thing of the past and start your journey to long, healthy hair with these tips. What are some of your favorite tips to grow long locks?

Jaden Smith is the New Face of Louis Vuitton's Womenswear Collection

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Jaden Smith has always had a pretty unique sense of fashion. That may be why he just landed a major gig with Louis Vuitton. 


Earlier this week, Nicolas Ghesquiere, the artistic director behind Louis Vuitton's women's collection, shared a photo of the 17-year-old actor, musician and son of Will and Jada Smith wearing a grungy leather jacket and a pleated skirt along with the caption, "Happy to introduce Jaden Smith @christianingrey in the new SS16 @louisvuitton ad Campaign photographed by Bruce Weber."


The announcement didn't come as much of a surprise, as Smith was named one of GQ's Most Styish Men Alive in 2015. According to Cosmopolitan, this is the first time in which a man is being featured as the face of Louis Vuitton's womenswear campaign. Smith, who's always challenged gender norms with his androgynous style, is the perfect person to be at the front of this groundbreaking moment in the industry.

There's no doubt that the campaign will break down barriers and gender boundaries in fashion—and we're so excited about that.

Ashley Benson, Size 2, Was Told She Was 'Too Fat' For a Role

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It's 2016 and, yes, body shaming is still an issue. If you don't believe us, just ask Ashley Benson.

In a recent interview with Ocean Drive magazine, the 26-year-old Pretty Little Liars star opened up about her experiences in Hollywood. At some point during the interview, Benson, who is a size two, revealed that she once lost a role after she was told that she was too big for the part. 

"I was just told I was too fat for a part," she revealed. "I'm a size 2! I cried for 30 minutes, but then you have to let it roll off your shoulders or it could cause a serious eating disorder. A lot of people in this industry hear they need to lose weight more times than they should."

The actress then went on to say that, though the experience was pretty troubling, accepting the criticisms that come with the territory of being a celebrity eventually made her stronger.

"It does make you stronger, though. Because if you let that affect you, you can't be in this industry—you'd go crazy," she said.

While on the subject of the dangers of societal beauty standards and ideals, she also makes in clear in the interview that she accepts all of her flaws and is against heavy Photoshopping.

"I saw photos from a shoot of myself just the other day and though, 'What the hell? That doesn't even look like me!'" she claims. "I was so disappointed. I hate to think that girls are like, 'She's so skinny! Her skin is so perfect!' I have pimples just like they do."

Head over to Ocean Drive to read the rest of Benson's interview. 

Chipotle's Facing a Criminal Investigation For a Norovirus Outbreak

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Chipotle hasn't been doing too hot recently. NPR reports that the fast food chain saw sales drop 14.6 percent during the last quarter of 2015 after multiple outbreaks of foodborne illness. Outbreaks of E. coli, salmonella and norovirus have been linked to the company's food. Remember last month when well over 100 Boston College students got sick after eating at the local Chipotle? And...that burrito bowl with guac doesn't look so good anymore.

The company is now coming under fire from the government for an outbreak in Southern California. Last August, a Chipotle branch in Simi Valley, Calif. infected 234 people with norovirus, which causes cramps, diarrhea and vomiting. The virus is spread through casual contact or by eating contaminated food, making the restaurant a super easy target. After the outbreak, the Chipotle branch briefly closed its store. The company has since received a subpoena. The store is required to release "a broad range of documents" relevant to the outbreak to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Central District of California and the Food and Drug Administration's Office of Criminal Investigations. 

So far, not much detail regarding the source of these outbreaks have been disclosed. Could the outbreaks have to do with Chipotle's supply chain? Regardless, it seems that while Chipotle has apologized, it hasn't taken enough measures to guarantee its future customers won't become sick, leaving room for the federal authorities to step in. We'll have to see what they decide Chipotle should do next.

Universities Are Banning Hoverboards Due to Safety Concerns

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Before any of you head back to campus with your shiny new hoverboards, you may want to make sure that your college or univeristy hasn't banned them. 

In recent weeks, at least 20 colleges and universities have banned the use of hoverboards on campus due to safety concerns, according to the Associated Press. For those of you who are familiar with the video of Mike Tyson's epic hoverboard fail that went viral in a matter of hours last week, you may understand why this is such a big issue. But, beyond that matter, campus officials are also warning of issues regarding some of the gadgets catching on fire while charging, which could turn out to be problematic for any students living in residence halls.

"It's clear that these things are potentially dangerous," Len Dolan, managing director of fire safety at Kean University in Union, N.J., told the AP. "These things are just catching fire without warning, and we don't want any of that in our dorms."

Kean is one of the many schools that has issued a campus-wide ban on hoverboards, effective on Monday. According to school officials, any hoverboards found on campus are to be confiscated. Other universities that have joined the list of hoverboards are Emerson College in Boston, Mass., George Washington University in Washington, D.C., and, as of this morning, Georgia State University in Atlanta, Ga. 

The introduction of hoverboards was definitely a highlight of 2015, with several brands beginning to produce them and many celebrities endorsing them via social media.

"This is one of those gifts that went viral," Allan Blattner, president of the executive board of the Association of College & University Housing Officers-International told Cleveland.com. "They were nowhere and now they're everywhere. Because of safety concerns, a lot of residential programs, at least temporarily, have banned them until the final safety outcome."

On top of the fact that hoverboards have now been banned from New York City streets, several airlines have also banned the devices, fearing potential fire because of the lithium-ion batteries that are used to power them.

If you're in mourning over the thought that you may never ride a hoverboard through the halls of your dorm, don't be—Several schools have stated that the hoverboard bans are temporary and are only in place until the manufacturers can develop and implement safety standards.

Channing Tatum's Surprise Guest on 'Lip Sync Battle' Shocked Everyone

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For fans of the Magic Mike franchise, it’s no secret that Channing Tatum can dance. He showed off some different moves, however, during his appearance on Spike’s “Lip Sync Battle.”

In Thursday night’s episode, Channing competed against his wife, Jenna Dewan-Tatum, to see not only who was better at lip-syncing, but who could put on a more over-the-top performance that would blow the audience away. With both of them having dance experience, considering that they met on the set of the 2006 filmStep Up, the competition was sure to be fierce.

Jenna wowed us with her choreography to “Pony” by Ginuwine, reminiscent of her husband’s routine in Magic Mike XXL, which ended with a lap dance that left Channing red in the face from laughter.

Channing took it to the next level when he chose to lip sync Beyoncé’s “Run the World (Girls).” He was killing it on his own, with a blonde wig and a replica of the original singer’s outfit from the music video, but our jaws dropped when Queen Bey herself walked out on stage to join him. Granted she was only there for about 30 seconds, but that alone was enough to have Channing bowing down in her presence and to have Jenna, well, like this:


Prior to his performance with Beyoncé, Channing lip-synced “Let It Go” from the Disney movie Frozen, embodying Elsa in a blue gown and blonde wig. Since both Channing and Jenna brought their A-game, it was impossible to pick one winner. The show ended with the host, LL Cool J, announcing a tie, making Channing and Jenna the first championship couple in the show’s history.


The 13 Best Outfits We've Seen On 'Pretty Little Liars'

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Can you believe Pretty Little Liars has been around for five and a half seasons? That's a lot of episodes, and considering the fact that the Liars' closets seem to be never-ending, even more outfits. In honor of season 6B's premiere on January 12, let's take a stroll down memory lane and look at some of the show's best fashion moments.

1. Spencer's Velvet Dress

This still from the season 6A finale captures all the girls looking fabulous in their prom dresses, but Spencer is the star of the show here. Her velvet dress with its wrap detailing and elegant high neckline perfectly suits Spencer's figure, but remains true to the character's classic sense of style. Not to mention, that dress was practically born to be worn with that background and blue-toned lighting.

2. Hanna's Printed Dress

Hanna is known for her fondness of patterns and prints, and her outfit here does not disappoint. We are loving how the geometric print on her flared dress is echoed on her leather jacket.

3. Emily's Bomber Jacket & Graphic Tee

Emily is looking oh so chic in her bomber jacket and tee combo, but then she goes and elevates the whole look with a pair of leather shorts. We've seen Emily in flannels and simple t-shirts for a majority of the series, so it's especially nice to see her dressing up her signature laid-back style.

4. Aria's Winter Ballgown

Aria is looking absolutely stunning in this fancy tulle gown with silver embellishments. In fact, she's making us wish it was still December so we'd have the opportunity to copy her ensemble for our own holiday parties. At least there's always next year!

5. Ali's Pink Knit

Even in this casual girl-next-door look (although Ali's anything but the girl-next-door type), Ali looks extra polished thanks to her bejeweled flats, form-fitting pink knit, and the detailing on her distressed jeans.

6. Aria's Colorful Scarf

This is one of those looks that would probably look crazy in concept, but somehow comes together perfectly. In other words, classic Aria. We are especially digging the leopard accents on her scarf and Aria's shearling-accented jacket.

7. Hanna's Old Hollywood Look

Remember that one episode ("Shadow Play") when Spencer hallucinated in black and white? In Spencer's imagination, Hanna wore this glamorous "Old Hollywood" outfit featuring a short-sleeved polka dot blouse and pencil skirt.

8. Spencer's Cropped Trench Cape

Yeah, you read that right: Spencer is wearing a cropped trench coat cape, and absolutely killing it. The rest of her outfit is equally amazing, and we are glad she kept to the neutral color scheme with a pair of faded jeans and a striped top (bonus points for suspenders).

9. Emily's Jersey Dress

Simple and sporty. The sleeve detailing on Emily's dress sets it apart from your typical LBD and suits Emily's style.

10. Aria's Comic Print Dress

Undeniably, this is one of Aria's boldest outfits. We absolutely adore how colorful yet cohesive this outfit is, including Aria's bright yellow bag (of course, studded with pins).

11. Spencer's Cream & White Combo

We have to applaud Spencer for flawlessly pulling off cream and white in one outfit. Not to mention, her French braid adds the right amount of elegance to this classy look.

12. Mona's Scalloped Bag

Mona's feminine yet preppy look would make Blair Waldorf proud. The focal point of this outfit is undoubtedly Mona's bag—where can we get our hands on one?

12. Aria's Pleats & Stripes

Layering a striped crop top underneath a sheer, modest dress spices it up enough to suit Aria. Plus, who knew strips and pleats went together so well?

13. Hanna's Two-Toned Jacket

Hanna's graphic tee works so well with her two-toned leather jacket for a fierce and sophisticated look. She adds a touch of sweetness with a pink, almost iridescent satchel.

While Pretty Little Liars has always been about plot twists and turns, they have managed to also be a series that defines fashion for ladies everywhere, from Emily's cool, relaxed style to Aria's fashion-forward outfits. Count that as another reason why we will be tuning in on January 12th to catch another season of this show.

22 Reasons Why Friday Nights In Your Room Always Trump Going Out

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Staying in instead of going out is a choice. There’s no reason to feel ashamed for wanting to do so. After a long week, sometimes we just need to recharge our batteries! Here are 22 reasons why Friday nights in your room always trump going out.

1. Free food

Sure, there are no waiters or waitresses waiting on you hand and foot, but there is a fridge full of food. And plot twist, it doesn’t cost you $25 a plate.

2. There’s no chance of embarrassing yourself

You don’t have to worry about tripping over air in front of a bar full of bystanders or not realizing you had something in your teeth the entire night.

3. Your bed

There are no beds at the club. Hell, there are no free seats at the club.

4. No chance of witnessing secondhand embarrassment

Secondhand embarrassment can be just as bad as firsthand. You won’t have to witness your drunken friends making fools out of themselves or be forced to watch a stranger attempt to dance on beat.

5. Wear whatever you want

Why force yourself into pleather pants or a latex crop top when you can just look homeless in an oversized t-shirt and your boyfriend’s basketball shorts?

6. No makeup

Every girl’s face deserves a day where it gets a break from concealer and contouring. Friday nights in are the perfect time for facemasks and cucumbers.

7. No judgment

No company = no manners. You can belch, fart and pick your nose all you want.

8. You don’t have to contain your weirdness

After a full day of acting normal, Friday nights are your time to let loose. Belt out that song you’ve been dying to sing all day, with matching choreography. Make animal noises while you cook dinner. Lay starfish on the living room floor and make air-angels. Do everything you couldn’t do if you were out in public.

9. No waiting in line for the bathroom

You avoid the pee-pee dance and the germs of a public restroom.

10. Slippers > heels

You don’t have to worry about your ankles caving in and betraying you. Your slippers don’t give you blisters, and therefore make you happy.

11. You get to binge-watch television and live vicariously through the rich and fabulous

It’s the perfect activity for when your week sucked and you don’t want to go out and risk it sucking even more.

12. Avoiding a horrible hangover the next day

You can literally feel your body thanking you.

13. Time to read

You’ve been looking for the perfect time to crack open that new novel you got for Christmas and Friday night is the perfect time.

14. Real talks

Small talk has to be one of the worst things associated with going out and meeting new people. When you spend a Friday night in, you can invite over whomever you want. It’s a chance to have a real discussion about anything and everything without having to scream over loud music and competing conversations.

15. Introspection

Friday nights in are the perfect time to take care of YOU. Make your dorm room into a mini spa, reflect on your past week, catch up on the work you’ve fallen behind on, re-evaluate your life plan, and maybe even put some toothpaste on that zit you’ve been resisting to pop all day.

16. You get a break from people

Between school and your part-time job, you’re constantly interacting with people. It can get tiring. Everyone needs an opportunity to bask in the peace and quietness of their room every once and a while.

17. Bras are optional

Whoever invented them hated womankind, and whoever made them a social requirement deserves to be thrown into a hunger game (…just kidding…).

18. You don’t have to share your alcohol

We all have that one friend who never buys any alcohol and then expects to mooch off of you the entire night. Well, they don’t have to be invited to your Friday night in, now do they?

19. You get to explore the weird side of YouTube

Sometimes it can be hard to find, but once you’re in deep enough, it’s there and boy is it entertaining. Odd trailers for movies you’ve never even heard of, strange challenges and Ice JJ Fish protégées. You name it, it’s there.

20. You get to choose what music you dance to

Why go to a club just to wait until the very end of the night to finally hear the song you’ve been waiting to dance to all night? You can play it straight away on your laptop and dance the night away, just saying…

21. No stress about how you’re getting home

Because guess what? You’re already home!

22. You’re saving money

Have you ever sat down and calculated all of the money you would save if you just stayed home and Netflixed? Just doing that alone will be enough to convince you to hibernate in your room for the rest of the winter, trust us.

14 Secrets All College Women Are Hiding

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Okay, so the jig is up! Us girls aren’t so perfect after all. In fact, we’ve got plenty to hide. We planned on taking our secrets to the grave (in true Pretty Little Liars fashion, of course!), but it’s about time we let the truth set us free! We’re still amazing little creatures, but there are a few secrets we collegiettes have filed away. Maybe we’re coming off of a truth serum high or we’re just plain crazy, but we’re revealing 14 secrets nearly every college woman has (sorry for letting the cat, or shall we say cats, out the bag!) 

1. We already have our wedding planned 

Isn’t that what Pinterest boards were made for?

2. And we’ve picked out the first and middle names for our three future kids

There’s nothing wrong with being prepared!

3. We've watched porn

Okay, maybe not as much as guys!

4. No shave November? We’ve been there, done that!

And we actually kind of like our extra fur during those cold months!

5. We still stalk our exes on social media

And his sister…and our ex BFF from ninth grade…and our current crush from chem lab.

6. It’s highly unlikely that we’re on our period

Sometimes we just really don’t want to sleep with you. #SorryNotSorry!

7.We’ve worn the same yoga pants three times this week

Ugh, we're the president of that club, Lizzie!

8. We probably slept in last night’s makeup

#REALLYwokeuplikethis!

9. We can down a bottle of wine in less than an hour

What we do in our spare time is none of your business. K thanks, bye!

10. We practice our dance moves in the mirror when no one’s around

Miley isn’t the only member of the twerk team!

11. We sometimes have penis envy

Being able to stand and pee anywhere… One could only dream!

12. We got dressed and put on makeup just to reply to our crush on Snapchat

There’s no way we’re snapping with bed head!

13. We can’t help but practice our picture poses and pouty lips in a mirror before going out

You didn’t think we perfected that skinny arm overnight, did you?

14. And we CAN grow mustaches

But we will bleach, shave and pluck that furry member away if it’s the last thing we do! 

Kerry Washington Named Hasty Pudding's Woman of the Year

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Harvard’s Hasty Pudding Theatricals announced that Kerry Washington will be honored with their annual Woman of the Year Award later this month. Recipients of the award are chosen by members of the organization who they feel have made a “lasting and impressive contribution to the world of entertainment.” And we have to agree that Washington’s contributions have been impressive and we are confident they will last.

Appearing on one of our favorite shows to binge-watch, Scandal, as Olivia Pope, she defends politicians and their benefactors in times of crisis. In this role, she has achieved awards and accolades, including the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actress in a Drama Series. She has also been nominated for awards at both the Emmy’s and Golden Globes. When the show premiered in 2012, she was the first African-American woman to play a lead—in 40 years—on an American network drama.

As the annual tradition goes, Washington will be treated with many celebrations named in her honor, including a parade, a celebratory dinner, and other festivities to follow.

Last year, Amy Poehler was similarly honored, and past honorees include actresses Helen Mirren, Julia Roberts and Meryl Streep.

The 10 Best Throwback Looks From the Golden Globes

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It may not be Thursday, but here's a throwback to get you in the mood for this year's Golden Globes. We're talking not only pre-2000s style, but also some serious "what were they thinking?" moments. Whether you're a fan of Old Hollywood or not, get ready to feel the nostalgia.

1. Kate Winslet & Leonardo Dicaprio, 1998

This was the year that Titanic won Best Motion Picture - Drama, a pretty iconic moment in Golden Globe history. We just can't get over how adorable baby Leo was, not to mention how much Kate resembles the poster child for 90s fashion—berry lips, the choker (extra points for the red carpet-worthy bling), the messy updo.

2. Whoopi Goldberg, 1986

In 1986, Whoopi Goldberg didn't have her trademark tinted glasses yet, but she definitely had her quirky style when she took to the stage to accept her award for The Color Purple in a yellow tracksuit. We repeat, tracksuit.

3. Julia Roberts, 1990

Julia Roberts was frequently named as one of the sexiest women in Hollywood. Her boxy suit is unconventional, but also a reminder that genderless dressing has been (and should be!) around for awhile.

4. Natalie Portman, 2011

Who could forget Natalie Portman's gorgeous look during the 2011 Golden Globes when she dressed up her baby bump with a pale pink dress embroidered with a showstopping rose? Portman went on later that night to win Best Actress for Black Swan and deliver the most adorable acceptance speech.

5. Anne Hathaway, 2013

Anne Hathaway's performance in Les Miserables blew us all away, and her pixie cut became her signature look for a while. We're looking forward to seeing what she wears to this year's award ceremony.

6. Maggie Gyllenhaal, 2003

We can't imagine Maggie Gyllenhaal wearing anything so precious today, but she looks prim and proper in this Chanel dress in 2003.

7. Marilyn Monroe, 1969

Marilyn Monroe looked stunning in an elegant black sequin gown as she was escorted from the stage after receiving her award. You can also glimpse a very different stage setup compared to today's tech-savvy displays.

8. Kate Hudson, 2001

Rocking brunette instead of her signature blonde tresses, Kate Hudson epitomizes '90s fashion with a silk dress and ultra-skinny straps. 

9. Helen Mirren, 1994

Helen Mirren looks incredible, if a little bit like she just stepped off the set of a period drama in this patterned corset and shawl.

10. Sarah Jessica Parker, 2000

Sarah Jessica Parker truly channels her Sex and the City counterpart in a sweeping, nude gown with itty bitty straps. We're expecting Mr. Big to swoop in at any second.

The Golden Globes have brought us some of the most iconic looks at their best, from '90s-era dark lips to delicate strappy dresses. They have also given us the chance to follow our favorite actors and actresses as they grow up and grow older, starring in some of our favorite movies. This throwback is a celebration of not only their style evolution, but also how far the movie industry has come since the conception of the Golden Globes.

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