Since the day SMS was born, women everywhere have spent countless hours poring over their cell phones with girlfriends, attempting to decode, analyze, and just plain figure out a response to all the vague and flat-out confusing text messages they’ve received from men. Websites such as HeTexted.com have even been devoted to the art. No matter how many texts you’ve worked your way through, there will always be those messages that make you pause and exclaim, “What does he even mean by that?!”

Luckily for you, we recruited those who know best to weigh in on the issue. With the help of some awesome relationship experts, Her Campus is here to decode some of the most common types of confusing text messages!

1. The Noncommittal Text

“I might be going.”
“I haven’t decided yet.”
“I’ll let you know.”

Is he simply indecisive, or does he have you on the back burner?

What it means:

When a guy is evasive about what he’s doing later on, it usually isn’t because he has so many plans and just can’t decide—it’s you he can’t make his mind up about. According to Patrick Wanis, a human behavior and relationship expert, “Often when someone hasn’t made up their mind, it doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re noncommittal; it really could imply something worse, such as, ‘I’m waiting for the bigger, better offer.’”

Carole Lieberman, M.D., psychiatrist and author of Bad Girls: Why Men Love Them & How Good Girls Can Learn Their Secrets, agrees. “What he really means is that he’s hoping for a better opportunity to come up,” she says. “If he doesn’t find another girl to do something with (whom he likes better), he’ll settle for you.”

How to respond:

Attempt to make the non-committer commit. Say, “Let me know when you figure it out!” or even ask, “What else do you have going on tonight?” Assertive, yes, but it’s the best way to coax a direct answer from the evasive texter. And if he still doesn’t give you a specific answer, don’t waste your time on him.

2. The Rain Check Text

“Sorry, can’t tonight.”
“Too much work to do.”
“Maybe next week?”

How much work could he possibly have? And if he were sincerely interested in you, would he really let it get in the way of seeing you?

What it means:

He really could have too much work to do, or he really could be out of town visiting his grandparents, or he really might be way too tired after work to see a movie. “But, on the other hand, he's being particularly vague about making future plans, so he's not all that enthusiastic about seeing you,” Lieberman points out.

If we’ve learned anything about men, it’s that when a guy wants to see you, he will go well out of his way to ensure that it happens. So while not all hope is lost when a guy can’t keep a date, this type of message should make you wary.

How to respond:

According to Wanis, “The best way to respond to this is to say, ‘Okay, I’m available Wednesday or Thursday, which day [works for you]?’ What you’re doing is responding in a masculine manner by being direct and clear, and you’re now giving him an option.” If your guy is interested, he’ll willingly agree to make alternative plans and, this time, he’ll (hopefully) keep them.

3. The Flake-Out Text

“Sorry I missed your text!”

You texted. He didn’t reply. But now he’s apologizing for it. Is it sincere, or was his oversight intentional?

What it means:

With all the emails and texts and tweets and wall posts we’re flooded with on a daily basis, there is a chance your text escaped his notice. But if seeing your name on his phone doesn’t immediately grab his attention, chances are he doesn’t regard you as a top priority.

The fact that he acknowledged his lack of response shows that he does have some courtesy, but only enough to respond when it’s convenient for him. It’s more likely that, instead of truly missing your text, your guy was evading a conversation he didn’t feel like having at the time–or didn’t want to have altogether—and claimed to have “missed” your text as a handy excuse.

How to respond:

Play it cool. If he can’t make your conversation a priority, then make sure he knows that he’s not a priority of yours: “Oh, don’t worry about it. I forgot I even texted you!” Your flippancy might just make your guy step up his game (and pay better attention to his phone!).

4. The One-Worded Text

“Cool.”
“Good.”
“K”

What does it mean when a guy has suddenly morphed into an inarticulate caveman?

What it means:

Wanis says there are three reasons a guy might send this type of message: “One, the guy is sincerely busy. Two, he’s stressed out. Three, he doesn’t really care that much.” While Lieberman points out that there are occasions when one word will suffice, especially if your guy is in the middle of something else, “it could [also] mean that he just doesn't think you're worth the effort of texting more.”

Just like with the rain check text message, your guy could be otherwise occupied. But if he were really into you, you’d probably be able to get a little more out of him than “sweet” when you tell him about your day, even if he’s in the middle of a Game of Thrones marathon.

How to respond:

Instead of trying to pull teeth to get your guy to talk, the best way to deal with this message is to take the hint. Wrap up the convo and try him again later when he’s a little less distracted and, with any luck, a little more talkative.

5. The Overly Complimentary Text

“You were definitely the most beautiful girl at the bar tonight.”
“You look unbelievably sexy when you’re working out.”
“That dress makes you look just like Beyoncé––but hotter.”

Beautiful, sexy, hotter than Beyoncé… how could this guy not be infatuated with you? Unless it’s all a bunch of BS from a practiced player. But how can you tell the difference?

What it means:

Whether sincere or not, two things are certain: this guy is very confident, and he’s very interested in you—it’s just a question of whether he’s interested in a relationship with you, or just a quick hook-up. “He could be really hot for you and not afraid to tell you,” says Lieberman. “Or he could just be trying to get you to go to bed with him as quickly as possible, and hopes that flattery will make you believe that he wants a relationship with you, not just a hook-up.”

Wanis says the most important things to consider with every text message are the context and your existing relationship with the sender. “If you’re already friends, he might be trying to take the friendship to another level,” he says. If you’ve just met this guy, however, Wanis says that he might be trying to get to know you better, “or he could just be a great player who knows how to compliment a woman so he can win her over.” Tread with caution, collegiettes; this guy may know the right things to say, but he may not have the best intentions.

How to respond:

Don’t let his flattery blind you. Respond with a playful quip, so your guy knows he can’t take you for a ride: “Oh, stop, I’m blushing,” or, “Oh yeah, nothing sexier than a girl sweating her face off on a treadmill.” Put that guy in his place and he’ll know in the future not to set off your BS detector.

6. The Delayed Text

You: [2:14 p.m.] “Hey, what are you up to?”

…

Him: [8:27 p.m.] “nm, just watching the game.”

You asked him how his week is going and he says that it’s going really well, thanks... five hours later. What’s with the time delay?

What it means:

He could be busy, he could be distracted, he could be at work or in class or driving or on an airplane or on the moon. But more often than not, your guy is playing games. Taking his sweet time to respond to you is your guy’s way of telling you that he has better things to do and that holding his end of the conversation is not his greatest concern.

If your guy is really interested in you, he won’t leave you hanging in the middle of a convo without an excuse. However, if you initiate the conversation and his first reply is delayed, your guy might actually have been busy (and will hopefully also offer an explanation!)

How to respond:

It’s tempting to prompt a guy with a “Hello?” or “Are you there?” or the ever desperate “?????” but it’s best not to acknowledge the delay—if he’s not actually busy, that’s what he wants, after all. His not responding to one of your messages is far less humiliating than not responding to eight of them. And though you’ll want to play games in return (“Okay, so for each hour he made me wait for his reply, I’m going to wait for two hours to reply to him…”) you should give a relatively prompt reply once he responds again. Two wrongs don’t make a right, and two people playing games can make for a conversation that gets absolutely nowhere fast.

7. The Booty-Call Text

[10:45 p.m.]“Yo. What’s up?”

[12:30 a.m.] “You back yet?”

[1:15 a.m.] “Let’s hang.”

Chances are, if any sort of text like this is sent after dark, he doesn’t want to know “what is up,” but rather if you’re “down” to hook up. So do you go for it?

What it means:

Christine Hart, dating coach and founder of YourDateCoach, says, “If a guy is interested in a serious relationship, he is not going to send booty-call texts at 3 a.m. Men know better than that. Also, if a guy is interested in pursuing a serious relationship, he does not send you texts like: ‘sup?’ or ‘where you at?’ or ‘you awake?’”

Lieberman agrees, saying that to respond to the booty call is to relinquish control of the relationship. “It shows that he's just using you for sex,” she says. “He obviously has no respect for you if he thinks all he has to do is text you to get you to give him whatever he wants.” There’s nothing wrong with giving in to a little carnal desire every now and then. But if you’re looking for a relationship, collegiettes, the booty call guy is not the one to pursue. This guy is perfect for some consensually detached, late night fun, but you probably shouldn’t hold your breath for this guy to take you out on a date.

How to respond:

If a hook-up buddy isn’t what you’re seeking, then make it known. The best way to express your disinterest in these types of texts? Silence. “You can let a guy know you refuse to take his messages that late by ignoring them,” says Wanis. If this guy really wants to see you outside of his dorm room in the wee hours of the morning, he’ll get the picture and text you at a more socially acceptable hour.

8. The Unprompted Sext

“So, about that dress that made you look bangin’ like Beyoncé…”

“[Picture you would never want your parents to see]”

Do we even need to explain this one any further?

What it means:

Guys, as Wanis says, are very visual creatures. So, his unsolicited requests for photos or unexpected confessions of fantasies could be expressing a strong attraction to you—or he’s simply attempting to satisfy his arousal through some naughty texting with the first girl that came up on his contacts list.

Whether his sexual come-ons are a reflection of his attraction to you or a reflection of his horniness, your guy wouldn’t be sexting if he wanted a relationship. An interested guy will find another way to express his attraction you––and usually it’s a way that isn’t X-rated.

How to respond:

Just like the booty call, there’s no reason not to reciprocate if you’re not looking for anything serious. But if a relationship is what you want, and you want a boy who’s just as serious about being in one as you are, ignore these texts. You’ll save yourself a lot of grief—and a lot of anxiety about composing the perfect “sexy” reply.

Hart says that if a guy is interested in a serious relationship, his text message to you will read more like this: “Hey (name), are you free this weekend? I’ve got passes to…” or “Good to see you at (event) last night! What are you up to this Friday?” His messages will be respectful, direct, and express the desire to make definite plans with you in the future. Bottom line: if a guy is really interested, you won’t need to hire a cryptographer to figure that out.

Someday those guys might stop playing games (we’re hoping it’ll be different in the post-college dating scene), but until then we’ll just have to use our intuition—and a little advice—to decipher all their confusing text messages.

Whether your skincare routine involves a simple wash-and-moisturize or you're a total beauty junkie who layers serums, creams, SPF and more on your face daily, the goal is always the same: to have healthy, dewy skin. But is that $5 really the best thing for you? Is that $50 eye cream actually worth it? RYNKL, a new skincare app available this week on Android and for iPhone user in February, will answer those questions for you. All you need to provide? Selfies. Ooh, ~science~.

RYNKL tracks your skin's progress with weekly or daily selfies. The app spots fine lines and wrinkles in the five key areas of your face: between your eyebrows, in the spots around both of your eyes, on your cheeks and around your mouth. After you've let the app observe your selfies, you'll get a RYNKL score—lower numbers indicate your products are doing something right, while higher numbers mean you should maybe invest in something different.

So, are your skincare products working for you?

Our favorite couple is at it again. Miley Cyrus and Liam Hemsworth have been seeing quite a lot of each other lately. And a recent report from Billboard is claiming that the couple's engagement is on again. 

While their recent reunion over the holidays sparked rumors of their romance rekindling, it was this Instagram post—with a gorgeous ring on a certain finger—that really has people freaking out.

For those of you who are hoping Miley has found her true love (again), we're right there with you. In fact, we've taken it upon ourselves to begin the wedding planning festivities. Below are a few predictions for the couple's big day.

1. Miley's dogs will be the ring bearers

Okay, we must admit this would be absolutely adorable. Miley loves her pets to pieces (and so does Liam!), so we'd honestly be surprised if there wasn't a dog or two present at the wedding. 

2. The ceremony will take place on a gorgeous Australian beach

Like the Australian guy he is, Liam has been spotted surfing quite a few times. This only leaves us guessing (and hoping) that the nuptials will take place on a tranquil beach down under. Fans of The Last Song are probably hoping the wedding occurs on the same beach where the pair filmed the Nicholas Sparks love story. Only time will tell, collegiettes. 

3. Granny Winkle will be there

We've all seen Vines of Granny Winkle, and we can't help but think she's exactly what Miley will be like as a grandma. Granny would make an amazing emcee for what we assume will be a killer wedding reception. We wouldn't be completely surprised if she helped hand out some legal marijuana edibles, too. 

4. Miley will break some boundaries with her dress

Miley's known for bending the rules of fashion, and we really doubt she'll stop doing so for her wedding. We're expecting something extremely unique, but whether the dress will be revealing or not, we aren't quite sure. Will Miley wear a wild take on a wedding dress or surprise us all with an elegant gown? We know that either way the dress will be groundbreaking and she'll definitely look gorgeous. 

5. A-list guests galore will definitely be in attendance

Between Miley's family, Liam's family and all of their A-list friends, the event will surely be a star-studded one. Without a doubt, these people will know how to party, and the celebration should be one that everyone in Hollywood will remember for quite some time. Can you imagine Thor, Katniss and Hannah Montana in the same room? *mind blown*

Whether our predictions are right or wrong, we can't wait to see the wedding pictures!

This article has been syndicated to Her Campus from Healthy Helper by Kaila Proulx, a Her Campus Blogger Network member. Read the full post here.

Homemade sweet and salty candy with lots of crunch! This Caramel Peanut Pretzel Candy is a healthy take on traditional pretzel bark. There's no added sugar, it's vegan, and can also be made gluten-free… it’s the candy snack you can feel good about munching!

Ingredients

• 1 cup pitted medjool dates (approx. 6 large)
• 1 1/2 cup +1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup almond butter (or peanut butter)
• 2 tbsp coconut oil, melted
• 3 cups gluten-free pretzel sticks, measured and then broken slightly
• 1 cup dry roasted peanuts
• 1/4 cup chocolate covered cacao nibs

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350. Place dates and 1 1/2 cups of water in a pot and bring to a boil. Boil until most water is removed. Places date and water mixture in a food processor with an additional 1/2 cup of water. Puree until smooth. Return date mixture to the pot and add almond butter and coconut oil. Heat on low until evenly combined. Remove pot from stove. In a large mixing bowl, combine pretzels, peanuts, and cacao nibs. Pour date mixture over pretzel mixture and stir until evenly coated. Spread pretzel mixture on a parchment paper lined baking sheet. Bake for 12 minutes. Remove from oven and let tray cool completely on a wire rack. Break the candy into pieces and store in an airtight bag in the refrigerator.

Read the full post here.

Showing your sweetheart how much you care about them shouldn’t be an expensive task! Here are a few sweet, creative ways that you can celebrate Valentine’s Day this year without breaking the bank.

The Gift

Whether you intend to spoil him with expensive items or not, finding the right gift for a guy can be intimidating. But it doesn’t have to be! When you hand him one of these thoughtful, personal, do-it-yourself presents, you’ll remind your guy why he cares about you so much.

Instagram Your Love

His walls are probably pretty bare (save for that “Keep Calm and Have a Beer” poster), so why not make him a photo collage to brighten up his dorm? You’ve probably Instagrammed all of your cutest couple-y moments together anyway. Follow this tutorial from a blog called A Beautiful Mess to craft your thoughtful gift. Plus, now he’ll get to show off his gorgeous girlfriend to all of his friends!

Cozy Up with a T-Shirt Pillow

You can’t exactly give your guy a Build-a-Bear to cuddle as he falls asleep (unless you want him to be relentlessly made fun of by his friends), so make him one of these instead! By following this tutorial, you can turn a t-shirt into a pillow for him to sleep with. You’ll show him that you know his interests when you use a t-shirt from his favorite band or football team, and he’ll think of you when he falls asleep each night—now that’s killing two birds with one stone.

Send a Love Letter

Between iMessage, Facebook chat and Skype dates, it’s rare for someone to receive handwritten mail in this day and age—there’s something so personal about reading something handwritten instead of skimming paragraphs in your typical Helvetica. So sit down with a pen and paper and write him a love letter! He’ll be touched that you took the time to put your feelings for him down in writing. Bonus points if you seal it with a kiss!

Give Him Some Sugar

They say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and whoever “they” are, they’re right! All you need is a heart-shaped cookie cutter, this simple sugar cookie recipe, and some red and pink icing, and you’ve got the sweetest Valentine’s Day gift a man could ask for.

The Date

Get Starry-Eyed

Get together tons of blankets and pillows, thermoses of hot chocolate, and make a romantic playlist. Then go stargazing! If he has a pick-up truck, set up camp in the bed of it; if not, bring extra blankets and pillows to lay on the ground, then curl up together in a clearing somewhere! Whether you know the names of the constellations or not won’t matter; he’ll love wrapping his arms around you to keep you warm as you stare up at the starry sky together.

Go On a Picnic

Make your man an easy, delicious meal, then go on a picnic—in the living room of your apartment (or on the floor of your dorm room)! Throw a blanket on the floor and light some candles. Then enjoy all of the fun of a picnic without braving the cold, and all of the deliciousness of a Valentine’s Day feast without spending big bucks at a restaurant!

Pamper Each Other

For a date night that he won’t soon forget, light some candles, put on some soothing music, and treat each other to massages! Following this tutorial, you can learn to relax him from his scalp to his feet. Pick up some massage lotion beforehand to make the experience even better. Make sure he returns the favor!

Have an Old-Fashioned Movie Night

While going to the movies used to be an inexpensive date-night activity, those days are long gone. So bring the nostalgic joy of dinner-and-a-movie back to life by creating a movie theater in your own living room. Put some buttery popcorn in these adorable containers and pick up some Swedish Fish and Cookie Dough Bites from your local supermarket. Then take a step up from the giant cups of soda and snag some of your guy’s favorite beer. Make it a Double Feature, choosing one action movie he’ll love and a rom-com you’ve been dying to see, then snuggle in close and enjoy the show! (Now you don’t even have to hide in the back row—you’re more than welcome to kiss from the opening credits to the closing ones!)

With these cheap and simple options at hand, Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be a trying or expensive ordeal. Pick a few and let him know you’re crazy about him without stressing yourself out too much!

If you've been keeping up with Pretty Little Liars, you probably have your own theory about Rosewood's most recent mystery.

Season 6B started five years after the girls' traumatic high school experiences. The Liars – Spencer, Hanna, Aria and Emily – were living in different cities and countries when Alison summoned them back to their hometown. Her goal: get her sister Charlotte released from the mental hospital she had been held in since it was discovered she was the mysterious A who had tortured the Liars for years. With the exception of Aria, the girls stated they no longer feel threatened by Charlotte, and she was allowed to return home. But happy endings don’t last long in Roosewood: Charlotte was found dead less than 24 hours later.

Although her death was initially presumed a suicide, the police are investigating it as a murder. The second episode included scenes that suggested Aria and Ezra may be involved in the crime, but blog, The Best PLL Theories, has a different suspect in mind: Alison.

Read More: Quiz: Which Pretty Little Liar Are You?

Since returning to Rosewood, Ali seems to have turned over a new leaf and cultivated a closer relationship with her friends than when she left them. But fans who have watched the show since the beginning will remember Ali’s manipulative behavior. Flashbacks often depict her tendency to blackmail anyone and everyone for her own personal gain, and convincing her friends to get Charlotte released shows that she may not have changed at all. The following quote from this Tumblr post explains the theory in more depth.

“[Ali] begging the liars to say 'I’m not afraid of Charlotte, release her' was all part of her plan to set them up. With all of them saying ‘release her’ and one of them saying 'I won’t feel safe with Charlotte released,' it looks like they wanted her released so one of them could kill her — the Liars not [realizing] this is how it sounds at the time of giving their speech. 'You don’t know them like I do'— Alison knew Aria would say the truth which further makes them look guilty of wanting Charlotte released to kill her as a hate for Charlotte still remains.”

PLL is known for its unexpected plot twists, so this theory could very well turn out to be true. Ali seems innocent for staying in Rosewood to take care of Charlotte while the rest of the Liars moved out of state. And she worked hard to get her released from the mental hospital, but it could all just be part of an act. Ali’s benevolence toward her estranged sister may have simply hidden the anger she harbored toward her for the years of treachery she put her through. And getting the Liars to come back home made it easier for her to blame the murder on someone else.

A hint from one of the show’s writers further fuels the theory that Ali is the killer: “Charlotte had a rose in her hand whilst dead, but you’ve seen that rose before in Ali’s house, connect the dots, there’s your clue.”

Do you believe this theory, or do you think someone else murdered Charlotte? The season’s just getting started, so tune in to all-new episodes Tuesdays at 8pm on Freeform to uncover the truth.

For those of us who like our daily workouts to take place in the great wide open, it’s hard to adjust to colder temps. But just because winter is here doesn’t mean you have to be relegated to working out in some stuffy ’ole gym. We’re helping you embrace the chill with 3 ways to dress warm while working out outdoors.

1. Warm and fuzzies

 

Lululemon activewear
lululemon.com
 

 

Aerie blue sports bra
ae.com
 

 

Activewear top
dickssportinggoods.com
 

 

Socks
target.com
 

 

WOMEN’S DENALI THERMAL EAR GEAR
thenorthface.com
 

 

Heathered Polartec Power Stretch 2 Tight
athleta.gap.com
 

 

Women’s UA SpeedForm Apollo Vent
underarmour.com
 

You pull those fleeces and puffer vests out of your closet for everyday wear in the winter. Why not incorporate them into your workout attire? Many of your favorite brands—like Lululemon and Athleta—make activewear specifically for cold weather, so take advantage of the warmth factor by scooping up some new items for your collection.

2. Joggers, a fashionista's answer to sweats

 

Betsey Johnson clothing
nordstrom.com
 

 

Forever 21 sports bra
forever21.com
 

 

on the go toque | women's hats | lululemon athletica
lululemon.com
 

 

adidas Slim Supergirl Track Pants - Black | adidas US
adidas.com
 

 

Saucony Grid Ideal Running Shoe - Womens | DSW
dsw.com
 

Newsflash: leggings aren’t the only bottoms you can work out in. Fun, printed joggers give you a bit more breathing room and a more relaxed fit so you can hit your groove with ease. You’ll be extra cozy with that cocoon hoodie and double-layer hat, too.

3. Layer up

 

Smartwool sports top
zappos.com
 

 

Jacket
thenorthface.com
 

 

SmartWool NTS Midweight Pattern Base Layer Top
sierratradingpost.com
 

 

Socks
lululemon.com
 

 

Legging
underarmour.com
 

 

Victoria s secret
victoriassecret.com
 

 

Nike Zoom Winflo 2 Lightweight Running Shoe DSW
dsw.com
 

If you haven’t yet gotten acquainted with Merino wool, allow us to introduce you. This magical fabric keeps you warm while wicking sweat away from your bod. Piling tons of pieces on—that adorable sports bra and those super comfy socks included—means you can remove or add layers as needed. Genius!

How do you stay warm while working out outdoors, collegiettes?

Shrunken jeans, too-long hems and ill-fitting closet items are some of a girl's greatest woes. But without the cash for a visit to the tailor and a (totally justified) fear of needle-wielding machinery, who can blame us for making do with less-than-ideal store-bought fits? We've got great news, collegiettes—never again will you have to sacrifice style for the lack of a sewing needle. These five easy fixes will make at-home hemming a no-brainer, leaving you with perfectly shaped and structured outfits every time.

1. Hem Tape ($1.67, Walmart)

Hem tape is a double-sided adhesive with strong lasting power and extreme ease of use. A go-to tool for both adjustments and repairs, hem tape comes in a ton of varieties and can be purchased for both temporary and permanent solutions. And the usage possibilities truly are endless. Any area a tailor could hem— such as pant legs, shirt sleeves and skirt lengths—can be altered in minutes. Just be sure to read your package for specific instructions and check out this simple go-to guide. 

2. Extenders ($9.99, Sears)

Have you ever slipped into last year's favorite jeans only to realize you've outgrown them? We have, and it's heartbreaking. Never experience that pain again, thanks to the ingenious invention of waist extenders. Fasten them to your waistband button and instantly gain an extra inch of breathing room—no tailor or dreaded denim shopping spree needed! Need some extra room elsewhere? No problem. Extenders can be found for any button-fastened bottom, as well as for bra bands!

3. Bobby Pins ($1.69, Walgreens)

If you weren't convinced that bobby pins were the universal lifesaver, you will be now. Thanks to the fashion experts over at Man Repeller, we now know that bobby pins are fool-proof tools for all of your nipping, tucking, adjusting and fastening needs. Temporarily crop a hem, keep structured lines in place—possibilities abound.

4. Fashion Tape ($5.99, Walgreens)

Anyone who's worn a strapless gown to prom knows the beautiful power of "boob tape." But there's way more behind these magic double-sided stickers than a no-slippage night of dancing. Have a button-down shirt that awkwardly bunches, leaving gaping holes between buttons? While some might make the trip to the tailor to get the shirt fitted just right, if you're anything like us, you don't have time for that. Instead, just seal down those slits by sticking on some fashion tape. Anytime you face aggravating bumps and gaps (or just want a more form-fitting feel), reach for your fashion tape for an unbelievably quick solution. 

5. Fabric Glue ($9.61, OfficeSupply.com)

If you have a bit more patience, try fabric glue on for size. Different formulas are designed for specific materials, meaning that no matter where your rip or unraveling hem exists, there'll be a glue out there to fix it. And when you're sick of repairs, use the stuff to add fun and flirty additions to any outfit—embellishments and patches can be slapped on without any need for sewing.

Believe it or not, there are plenty of stress-free (and ridiculously cheap!) alternatives to professional alterations—who knew? So if you're all about that DIY, stock up on these essentials and enjoy your new collection of long-awaited, perfectly-fitted and seamlessly mended outfits. 

Everyone loves a useful life hack, especially busy collegiettes. When you’re constantly on the go and have a tight budget, it can be difficult to look glamorous without employing some quick, money-saving tricks.

Many of us are guilty of scrolling through Pinterest in order to find clever beauty hacks to get our lashes on fleek or to achieve silky smooth skin. Unfortunately, some of the beauty “hacks” you might find online are not safe or efficient, and the following six are definitely not worth the risk. To get more insight, we spoke with Lisa O’Neill Flanagan, a Boston-based esthetician, who gave us the deets on why certain tricks are better left un-tried.

1. Curling Your Lashes with the Korean Fire Method

As the name implies, this new trend involves using fire as part of your lash curling routine. It’s become popular among women in South Korea, one of the top beauty destinations in the world, and promises to keep lashes curled and luscious all day long.

The first step is to curl your eyelashes with a regular eyelash curler before applying one or two coats of mascara. Next, you’re supposed to break the cotton portion off of a Q-tip, leaving only the stick. After starting up a lighter, the goal is to sway the Q-tip back and forth across the open flame, making sure you do not burn it in the process. To test for heat, it's recommended to place the Q-tip against your wrist to see if it’s too hot, because otherwise the high temperature can burn your lashes off. Finally, you run the heated stick horizontally up your lashes, and end with an extra coat of mascara.

The method aims to offer the same benefits of a heated lash curler, but isn’t exactly safe or practical (holding flames anywhere near the eyes or skin? No thanks). Instead, try a heated lash curler ($17, Sephora) to get similar results without worrying about burning your lashes or setting off the smoke alarm in your building.

2. Lengthening Your Lashes with Petroleum Jelly

Another trending lash trick that seems legitimate and useful involves coating your lashes with petroleum jelly to achieve extra length and body. This trick might have been circulated between various bloggers and celebs, but it turns out that it’ll do harm than good when it comes to the health of your lashes.

Petroleum jelly can be a useful eye makeup remover, but we don’t advise leaving it on your eyes for longer than necessary, since it can cause irritation. The delicate skin around your eyes needs to breathe, and when left on intentionally for a long period of time, the ingredients in petroleum jelly can clog your pores and make you more prone to infection.

“Petroleum jelly is a humectant, which is a protective barrier that draws moisture from the air and from the lower layers of skin,” says Flanagan. “It has no magic ‘growth’ properties to make lashes grow.”

If you’re looking to lengthen and grow your lashes, there are better alternatives. For extra length, incorporate a lengthening mascara such as They’re Real! Lengthening and Volumizing Mascara from Benefit Cosmetics ($24, Sephora). And to encourage lashes to grow, use a lash growth serum like the Diorshow Maximizer Lash Plumping Serum ($28.50, Violet Grey) from Dior.

3. Soaking Your Feet with Listerine and Vinegar

A Pinterest favorite, the Listerine foot soak advises that you combine a cup each of Listerine and vinegar with two cups of boiling water. The mixture is said to “reap antibacterial properties” and “exfoliate dead skins cells” according to bloggers and Pinterest users. It’s also rumored to treat athlete’s foot, calluses and other common podiatry issues.

This treatment is definitely appealing to collegiettes, since it doesn’t come at a high price tag and gives us an excuse to relax and soak our feet. It’s easy to imagine a nice Sunday night with Netflix, dark chocolate and a calming foot soak, right?

Believe it or not, we don’t recommend the Listerine foot soak. The high concentration of alcohol in the mouthwash will actually dry out your feet, and can even remove a layer of healthy skin if you’re not careful. The dye in Listerine will also color your feet blue temporarily after the soak, which isn’t exactly something you want your favorite campus cutie to see.

According to Flanagan, even if this foot soak was worthwhile, it would take more than a half hour of relaxation to gain any benefits. “To see any real effects from this treatment, you would have to soak your feet for a long time—at least eight hours,” she says. To us, no true hack should take that long!

Although we don't suggest that you try the Listerine foot soak, this doesn’t mean that you should avoid soaking your feet entirely! “Use Epsom salts instead!” suggests Flanagan. Simply mix a handful of Epsom salts into a bowl of warm water, grab a drink and the latest issue of your favorite magazine and get soaking!

Related: Beauty Hacks: What to Use When You Run Out of Your Fave Product

4. Using Cooking Spray to Make Your Manicure Dry Faster

A fresh manicure can make you feel on top of the world and ready to take on the week, but it definitely takes patience. For the most durable mani, we always recommend using a base coat, two coats of color and a top coat, but applying all of these coats and waiting for them to dry can be time consuming. Since many collegiettes know this struggle, it’s tempting to search for an easy fix to dry your nails quickly.

You may have heard about the cooking spray nail hack, in which you apply the spray to your nails in attempts to dry them faster and set the nail polish, but it actually doesn’t work as expected. This hack will allow your top coat to set quickly, but it also means that you’ll have two unset color coats underneath. As a result, your nails will still be prone to smudging, plus you’ll smell like Pam. Not the best combination!

The best remedy to make sure your manicure dries as it should is to simply give yourself plenty of time to let your nails dry. That being said, for the times when you really do need to a quick fix and a fast-dry spray, use one specifically designed for nails, such as the ULTA Professional Nail Dry spray ($2.99, ULTA).

5. Exfoliating Your Skin with Lemon and Honey to Minimize Blackheads

Yet another Pinterest beauty hack suggests that a genius way to get rid of blackheads is to apply 3 to 4 drops of honey to half a lemon, and then rub the lemon over your face. Next, you’re supposed to let this mixture sit on your face for five minutes before washing with warm water. The main goal is to exfoliate and address problem areas of the skin, while the lemon juice simultaneously “fades marks and dark spots.”

Once again, there are a few flaws in this hack. Lemons are extremely acidic, and they can do more harm than good when applied in excess to your skin. A few drops of lemon juice added to a face mask will not harm you, but using an entire half piece of lemon to scrub your face is irritation waiting to happen.

“Lemons are high in Vitamin C, which can irritate sensitive skin in large amounts. Its juice can also have a bleaching effect on the skin,” says Flanagan.

On the other hand, honey is a wonderful ingredient to include in your skincare routine. According to Flanagan, “honey is an antibacterial/microbial and also moisturizes.” And fortunately, you don't have to apply raw honey to your skin for benefits. Instead, we recommend using a face mask that includes honey for moisturization and a healthy glow. Try the Montagne Jeunesse Manuka Honey Peel-Off Mask ($1.99, ULTA) if you're looking for an effective and budget-friendly option.

A final note on the failure of this hack? Flanagan comments that “neither one of these ingredients has a chemical or physical exfoliating effect on the skin,” so Pinterest captions are false when they say the treatment is exfoliating!

6. Applying Toothpaste to a Pimple

This age-old trick has always been seen as an easy fix to dry out a pimple and clear your skin. But is it actually effective? We asked Flanagan to give us the scoop.

“Toothpaste on your irritated skin can make your skin red and more sensitive,” she says. “It also includes ingredients to whiten teeth—like peroxide—which if used on your skin can irritate your acne even more. In turn, the blemish you’re trying to heal will only take longer to go away.”

So, instead of breaking out the Colgate next time you get a pimple, reach for an acne spot treatment instead, which is specifically designed to heal your acne. We recommend the On the Spot Acne Treatment from Neutrogena ($7.99, ULTA).

Beauty tricks can save you time and money, but it’s always important to research hacks with caution. Some may be extremely beneficial, while others might be a waste of energy—or downright harmful. And hopefully, these tips will help you slay the beauty game by steering you away from advice that's overrated or ineffective. 

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, collegiettes, and you’re probably getting pretty excited—if you have a date, that is. But for you single collegiettes out there, here are a few hilarious e-cards from Someecards.com that probably express how you’re feeling about February 14 better than your standard Valentine's Day card would.

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9.

10.

At least you'll always have Someecards, right? Now that's true love.

We'd run a half marathon with this dog. [BuzzFeed]

How to wow your boss from your remote internship. [Ed2010]

Is soup the new juice? [Spoon University]

Hot guys and kittens! [YourTango]

9 things that are wrong with the college application process. [The Huffington Post]

This piglet was near-frozen, but luckily saved from the blizzard. [The Washington Post]

Turn your grades around for this semester. [USA Today]

Dropping out of high school didn't ruin my life. [xoJane]

Find your doggy doppelganger. [Newser]

Pick the best student loan repayment plan in 3 simple steps. [NerdWallet]

No matter what field you're in, the goal is always to work hard and put in your time to make it to the top. That's exactly what comedian Whitney Cummings has done—the funny lady has been on the comedy scene since the early 2000s and in the past few years has scored a special on Comedy Central, starred in a sitcom on NBC, produced 2 Broke Girls and most recently, released a special—I'm Your Girlfriend—on HBO, which aired last night. (If you missed it, you can catch it on HBO Now.) Not only that, she's done all that in a field that's dominated by men, which is no easy feat.

Cummings is largely known to be pro-women. And she does hold some traditional feminist views—she's quick to point out problems in the porn industry ("There's a menu on the side you can pick from. Girl-on-girl, college girl—there's no, 'CEO'"), is particularly passionate about birth control and women's health, and is open about her personal experiences as everything from a working woman to a woman in her thirties who's liberated by the decision to freeze her eggs. She talks about how women today are strong in their own right—"women are badasses now," she declares, and rightly so.

But as much as she supports strong, badass women, her performance in I'm Your Girlfriend implies that you have to be a certain kind of badass to be the sort of woman she supports. She talks about how all her "girlfriends now are strong, self-sufficient, have awesome jobs..." which, of course, is admirable; we certainly should be celebrating these women as role models, and encouraging young women to recognize those opportunities should be available to them. Obviously, that's not where the problem is. The problem is, the context that phrase comes in suggests that women who don't choose that path are "weak" and "submissive"—her words, not ours. Badass women come in many different forms. There are the women who become CEOs; there are those who opt to be stay-at-home moms; and there are many, many other women in between the two ends of that spectrum. Whatever your personal values, we should never be implying that one woman's choices are more valid than another's.

That's not the only instance where Cummings shuts down women whose values aren't in line with her own. She's talking about how music isn't exactly doing a good job at framing the way we talk about women, referring to lyrics by male rappers that read "Ima knock the pussy out like fight night" and "I'm gonna beat that pussy up." Yeah, we know—lyrics like that make us cringe just as much as they do you. But Cummings segues into a bit that knocks Nicki Minaj in a way that isn't entirely fair. Sure, there are valid reasons why Nicki might not be the *best* role model for women; but Cummings definitely doesn't mention any of those reasons. Instead, she claims to have been a Nicki fan until "I heard her talk." We're not really sure what this means, because she doesn't actually explain it. She goes on to call Nicki a "hypocrite" for saying male rappers don't respect her as a female rapper, yet still poses provocatively such as on her cover for "Anaconda."

"We don't respect you, because we can see your asshole," Cummings points out. "Has nothing to do with the fact that you're a woman." Except... it does. Cummings says she thinks women should be able to be "sexy, and glamorous, and feminine, and professional"—but then adds, "as you're getting dressed for your album cover, you also have to acknowledge basic human nature and neurology." As in, "men's brains are basically only designed to look for holes." This makes us a little uncomfortable—it reminds us of the outdated, anti-feminist idea that women who dress in certain ways shouldn't expect to be respected. 

It doesn't end there. Cummings sheds light on the power dynamic between men and women in relationships, specifically when it comes to money. She starts by talking about how she's gotten to a place where she's self-sufficient and making her own money—but rather than make statements that might actually be empowering for women, she reverts back to old-fashioned gender roles and says it's made her the "man in the relationship." ICYMI, it's 2016, and being the breadwinner doesn't make you "the man." 

Yes, okay—this is comedy, and yes, comedy is usually funniest when it's mildly offensive. But there's probably a better way of doing that than with overdone jokes based on outdated gender conventions and other stereotypes, like how guys with tattoos are "assholes" and how women on birth control are "sluts." Overall, is I'm Your Girlfriend worth a watch? Sure—there are some funny moments in there, and the way she talks about ex-boyfriends and the struggles of being single is just like what your best friend would probably say. But when the majority of her performance centers around women and women's issues, it's important to take note of where Cummings gets it wrong.

We've heard it again and again. When men visualize a woman's purse, they tend to describe something along the lines of Mary Poppins' magical, never-ending, possibly overstuffed handbag. Ridiculous, right? Right?

Okay, so maybe there's some truth behind the myth. Whether we're totally messy and throw everything we'd ever need into a great big pile of purse mess, or we stuff our goods in smaller, organized-by-item pouches for the neat purse look, we're probably guilty of carrying these common items around at some point or another. But hey, we like to be prepared, okay? 

1. Phone

There's no way you can expect us not to carry around our trusty cell phone. What if there's an emergency? What if we're in a socially awkward situation and need to seem cool, important, or busy?

2. Wallet

"Isn't that just a mini-purse?", they ask. "Isn't that excessive?" No. No it is not.

3. Keys

This is just another must-have. Even if it drives us crazy that we're somehow always jingling. 

4. Cash

So maybe we're broke. But even if there's none stashed in our wallet, we've definitely invested (too much?) money in whatever purse we're carrying. That counts for something, right?

5. Change

So much loose change... and probably not in our wallets, either. Parking meters are no match for us.

6. Gift/Credit Cards

We have no idea how much is left on this Starbucks gift card. But it sure feels great to do this.

7. Business Cards

We've picked these up at various networking events over the years. Will we use them? Probably not. It's the thought that counts. We're professional, alright?!

8. Receipts

These are just permanent reminders of our shopping problem. And that shirt we'll never return. 

9. Gum Wrappers

You won't catch us littering. 

10. Hand Sanitizer

Yes, we have three, and yes, two are probably unopened. But they were five for $5, and we couldn't pick just one delicious scent!

11. Tampons

Probably stashed secretively. And yet, there's somehow never enough. 

12. Hair Ties and Bobby Pins

So THAT'S where they've all gone missing to...

13. Lip Balm

A bare necessity. 

14. Mirror

Everyone needs to reflect sometimes. Or, you know, touch up their makeup.

15. Mints

...that we may have spilled everywhere.

16. Lotion

#JustGirlyThings.

17. Pens

Evil pens that create random pen marks all over our purse's lining. Which doctor's office did we steal these from? 

18. A Pharmacy

Advil, allergy medicine, birth control—we've seen it all.

19. Tissues

Trust us, you don't want to be stuck without them. And they're all clean—we're not slobs!

20. Coupons

That free Victoria's Secret panty will be ours. As long as this hasn't expired...

21. Makeup

Because last time we checked, there aren't makeup fairies IRL.

22. Perfume

Preferably in roller form. Whoops. Smells like it leaked again. 

23. Band-Aids

...in all sizes. We aren't ashamed of being prepared. Really, you just never know!

24. Headphones

...that are probably tangled. Help.

25. Snacks

Candy, an emergency granola bar, leftovers from that restaurant you just left—you name it. We go from zero to hangry real quick. 

26. Mismatched Jewelry

From when we can't even with our earrings in the club and have to take them off. See that face? "Oh, maybe that's where I left the backs of these earrings!" is what she's obviously thinking.

27. Sunglasses

For everything from avoiding getting blinded while driving to hiding our faces after a long night out. Or, you know, just for looking fabulous.

What's the craziest thing in your purse, collegiettes?

Much to my father's chagrin (I believe his exact words were "Why do you want a hole in the middle of your face?"), I decided to get my nose pierced last week. Again. This was actually the third time I've pierced my nose, and I thought it would be fun to bring you all along to debunk any myths about nose piercings (or any piercings, for that matter) being scary or painful. The truth is, if you know what to expect, it really can be a fun and enjoyable experience.

I've broken down the process so you can get a feel for what it's like to get your nose pierced, and I've included pictures from the actual piercing to help ease any fears you may have (Spoiler alert: you will not look like Carrie, covered in blood!).

Find a reputable and professional piercing studio and piercer

It's so important to find a good, clean piercing studio for your piercing. If the piercer is inexperienced or the studio seems dirty or outdated, you may have a higher risk of contracting an infection or of your body rejecting the jewelry. After scouring the annals of Yelp, I finally settled on Ancient Arts Body Piercing and Adornment, which happens to be right down the street from the Her Campus offices.

Keep in mind that many piercing studios double as tattoo parlors, so don't let that deter you from choosing an otherwise excellent piercing studio. I got my first nose piercing when I was 17 at a tattoo parlor in Rhode Island; I think my dad almost had a heart attack when he saw all of the tattoo artwork hanging on the walls, but he relaxed when he realized how professional my piercer was. By the way, like any other piercing, in almost every state you have to be 18 years old or have a parent present in order to get a piercing.

The main reason I was drawn to Ancient Arts is because the senior piercer, Matt Ronin, had received such amazing reviews. A licensed paramedic with over 25 years of body piercing experience, Matt seemed like the perfect choice.

Fill out paperwork

Any good piercing studio will scan your identification and have you fill out paperwork prior to your piercing. This paperwork will outline any risks associated with your piercing and acknowledge your consent (and your guardian's, if you're a minor). The form I filled out at Ancient Arts also asked what medications, if any, I take on a regular basis. Matt explained to me that certain medications lower your immune system and he would customize my aftercare instructions based on any medications I might be taking. No one had ever asked me that at my previous piercing experiences, and I was definitely impressed. If your piercer doesn't ask you this, offer up that information and explain why it may be important!

Pick out your jewelry

Once the paperwork is out of the way, you get to pick out your jewelry. Ancient Arts had all sorts of handmade jewelry for every part of the body, and it was fun to be able to pick what I wanted. I ended up going with a plain titanium halfdome, but Matt explained that there are tons of different options for nose piercing jewelry: "It's all titanium, so you can choose gems or a titanium halfdome or opals and all kinds of other stuff."

Prepare the piercing site

Once you've filled out paperwork and picked out your jewelry, your piercer will take you into the piercing room and get you set up. You will most likely be sitting in a reclining chair (the kind they have at the dentist) while your piercer goes in and disinfects the area to be pierced and makes sure everything is clean and sterile. Before coming anywhere near your nose, your piercer should obviously be putting on new gloves; don't be afraid to speak up if he or she doesn't!

In this photo, Matt is disinfecting my nose and feeling for any scar tissue buildup from my previous piercings. Once everything is clean, your piercer will take a surgical marker and make a dot where he or she wants the piercing to go. In my case, Matt placed the dot right over the scar from my last piercing. Your piercer should show you the placement and check that you're happy with it before proceeding. 

Expect a little pain

Now let's get into the good stuff: the actual piercing. Your piercing will most likely be done with a sterilized needle with the jewelry attached to the end so that once the needle has gone through the side of your nose and out the bottom, the jewelry will slide right into place. Matt asked me if I was ready and then told me to close my eyes while he counted down. I'm not going to lie: it hurts. I have four piercings on my earlobes and four on my cartilage, and those were nothing compared to a nose piercing: I would give it a 3.5 or 4 out of 5 on a piercing pain scale. My eyes immediately started watering (I was NOT crying...), and it definitely stings for a second, especially when your piercer twists the actual jewelry into place. 

Once the jewelry was in place, Matt cleaned up some blood around the site of the piercing and asked me how I felt (some people get woozy!). I then sat up and Matt handed me a mirror to check out my new piercing and the placement. I loved it! It's totally normal for the area around your nose to be a bit red and tender for the first few days after a piercing while your body adjusts to the jewelry, so don't worry if that happens to you.

Discuss aftercare, infection and changing your piercing

Matt sat down with me after the piercing to talk aftercare; he was very thorough and knowledgeable in his guidance. He asked me which facial cleanser I used (Aveeno Positively Radiant Brightening Cleanser, $6.39 at Ulta) and said that was okay; he then told me to gently clean around the piercing when washing my face with warm water. Past piercers have recommended Bactine Original First Aid Liquid ($5.99 at Walgreens), a first aid liquid or spray, to keep the piercing sterile and prevent infection. I spray a little Bactine on a Q-tip and go inside my nose and around the piercing to keep it clean about two to three times a day for the first two weeks, and then switch to once a day. As Matt points out, "It's easy to take care of because it's on the center of your face and you're not going to let it fail." Another tip to keep in mind is to try to avoid covering your piercing in foundation or concealer while it's healing. Otherwise, it may become infected!

If you do notice some excessive irritation or redness around your nose ring, don't immediately assume you have an infection. "A lot of people think that just because there's a reaction going on, there's an infection going on," says Matt. "Infections are hard to come by... [irritation] is often just part and parcel of the person's own body reacting to what's going on."

Matt recommended leaving my nose jewelry in for at least six weeks before changing it to make sure the piercing is fully healed. The jewelry Matt put in my nose is a J-shaped hook, so it won't come out unless I deliberately choose to remove it (the word "hook" sounds painful, but I honestly can't even feel the piercing in my nose!). I've tried to replace my nose ring myself in the past and it was a huge mistake - that's the reason my first piercing closed up. If you do want to change your piercing, definitely go to a professional. Try to go back to the piercer who pierced your nose originally, and he or she will usually switch it out for free. 

Admire the finished product

This photograph was taken about two hours after my piercing and, as you can see, the redness was almost entirely gone and it was no longer painful. The entire process only took about 30 minutes and cost $52 for the piercing and the actual jewelry, plus an additional $10 for a tip. I love the placement of the ring and I'm happy I went for the titanium halfdome rather than a gem because I think it makes the piercing a bit more subtle.

I am so happy with my nose piercing and with my experience at Ancient Arts. I felt comfortable and informed during the entire process and my piercing has healed beautifully - I feel like I've had it for ages! If you're considering getting a piercing, whether on your nose or elsewhere, keep in mind what Matt told my friend Marissa after she remarked that she didn't have any interesting piercings: "You're not boring; it's just about making whatever part of your body you choose more lively."

If you're in the Boston area and you're looking for a piercing, check out Ancient Arts Body Piercing and Adornment's website or Facebook to give them a call and find out where to stop in for a consultation or walk-in piercing. Wherever you are, and wherever you go for your piercing, keep these questions in mind to make it the best (and healthiest) experience possible!

Living on a college budget forces us collegiettes to get a little creative sometimes. We don’t always have the expenses to go out and buy a new shirt when we spill red wine on a top or get new tights when one gets a run, so we’re always looking for creative, new ways to solve our fashion problems. Luckily, HC is here to let you in on some of the easiest fashion hacks that will fix your everyday style problems and save you money.

1. Get Rid of Deodorant Stains by Rubbing the Area With the Same Fabric

Deodorant stains are a girl’s worst nightmare. Finding someone else’s deodorant marks on a shirt you see at the mall can be the kiss of death for that purchase if it’s the only one left in your size. Having them on your own clothes can be embarrassing and just plain annoying.

Luckily, the solution is so easy you’ll be amazed you never knew it before. Sally McGraw, the blogger behind style blog Already Pretty, says to “gently rub the stained area with a bit of cloth from the same garment. This will remove the mark.” No cleaning products, no special tools and no fuss necessary to fix this everyday problem! By simply rubbing it with the same texture fabric, it dislodges the deodorant and lifts the stains off of the shirt.

2. Keep the Shape of Your Tall Boots by Stuffing Them With Magazines

Tall boots are essentials for every collegiette’s wardrobe, so there comes a time after a lot of use when the shaft of the boot loses its shape. Having a slouching boot can both damage the overall look of your outfit and make it difficult to store your shoes.

The solution? “Roll up old magazines and slide them into the boots to keep them upright,” McGraw says. Stuffing the boots with magazines or newspapers has the same effect as you wearing them and will prevent them from crumpling around the ankles of the boots.

3. Put Clear Nail Polish on Runs in Your Tights

We’ve all been there: that moment of panic when you’re about to go out and you realize there’s a small run in your tights. Even tiny runs have the potential for disaster if they continue to split because it could result in leaving less to the imagination than you’d like. A large run in a pair of tights can make an outfit look immediately trashy and unprofessional.

If you see a run starting to form, don’t freak out! Dabbing some clear nail polish over it will prevent it from stretching into a rip. It essentially works as glue, solidifying the surrounding area and keeping the material from stretching even more.

4. Get Rid of Static Cling by Rubbing Dryer Sheets on Your Clothes

Wearing a dress, skirt or shirt that is prone to static cling can leave it clinging to all the wrong places. If you don’t own any static-cling-removing spray, the next best thing is to use a dryer sheet. Before you go out, rub a dryer sheet on the inside of the clothing to prevent any embarrassing clinging.

5. Get Rid of Linty Clothes With Damp Hands or Tape

Whether you have a pet that sheds or you live in a dusty dorm room, every collegiette has encountered a time when she needs to de-lint her clothing. Here’s what to do if you’re caught without a lint roller.

An easy fix for this problem is to “wet your hand with a bit of water and run [it] over your garments,” McGraw says. “It won’t work as well as a lint roller, but can remove some of the more obvious stuff.” Your hands should only be slightly damp because you don’t want soggy clothing, but having that little bit of moisture causes the lint to stick to your hands.

To get any remaining pieces, finish the job by dabbing a piece of tape over the problem area. The lint will stick to the tape like a lint roller.

6. Make Your Shoes Smell Better by Putting Them in the Freezer

Most college campuses require a lot of time on your feet, be it walking to class, working out or dancing at a party. All that time spent with your feet crammed in shoes can make the shoes start to stink, which is more than a little embarrassing.

To deal with this problem, McGraw says to “put [your shoes] in a sealed zipper bag in the freezer for a few days. This kills many common bacteria that live in shoes and cause them to smell.” Because they’re in a sealed bag, they won’t stink up your freezer.

If you don’t have access to a freezer, try stuffing the shoes with fabric softener sheets or dryer sheets. These sheets will add a good perfume to the shoes and absorb any moisture, which can cause smelly shoes.

7. Avoid Blisters From New Flats by Blow-drying Them First

Buying a new pair of flats is both exciting and terrifying. On one hand, you have a fashionable new addition to your shoe collection, but on the other hand, you know days of discomfort are soon to follow as you try to break in the new shoes.

To avoid blisters, wear thick socks and put on your flats. Grab a blow dryer and aim it at the tight areas of your shoes for a couple minutes. While they cool down, make sure to keep your socks and flats on. Try the shoes on once they’re cool, and if they’re still not loose enough, repeat the process again.

8. Avoid Tangled Jewelry by Threading Necklaces Through Straws

When you’re in a rush to get ready in the morning and need that one accessory to pull together your look, you definitely don’t have time to untangle a wad of necklaces. Throwing them in a drawer is a recipe for a colossal knot of jewelry and late arrival to class.

However, this won’t be the case if you thread your necklaces through straws. Put one half of the chain through the straw and fasten the clasp once it comes out the other end. It may look a little funny, but it’s guaranteed to leave your jewelry drawer knot-free.

9. Use White Wine to Get Rid of Red Wine Stains

Wine nights with the girls are a great way to let loose and relax—until someone spills red wine on your shirt, your couch, your rug or anything else in the vicinity. Red wine stains can cause immediate panic, but there is a go-to trick to try before you throw away your favorite shirt. Pour white wine on the red wine and dab the area with a cloth to lift off the stain. Doing so neutralizes the red color. Be careful not to rub it, because that will force the red wine into the clothing.

These unconventional fashion hacks are a surefire way to avoid fashion faux pas. They’re easy and can be done with everyday objects, so you no longer have to wear your wallet thin to replace something that can be fixed with one of these hacks. Which fashion hacks do you plan to try out, collegiettes?

Another celebrity has spoken out about the infamous lack of diversity among Academy Award nominees—something the Oscars have dealt with for years now. This time, Viola Davis voiced her concerns over the lack of people of color nominated for awards and asked us to look deeper into the issue.

Viola told Entertainment Weekly during Elle’s 6th Annual Women in Television Dinner, “The problem is not with the Oscars, the problem is with the Hollywood movie-making system.” She went on to ask a series of thought-provoking questions: “How many black films are being produced every year? How are they being distributed? The films that are being made, are the big-time producers thinking outside of the box in terms of how to cast the role? Can you cast a black woman in that role? Can you cast a black man in that role?”

The two-time Oscar nominee’s comments hit right at the issue of racial inequality that has long plagued Hollywood. She continued, “You could probably line up all the A-list black actresses out there [and] they probably don’t make what one A-list white woman makes in film. That’s the problem. You can change the Academy, but if there are no black films being produced, what is there to vote for.”

Viola’s insight begs us to think deeper into the lack of diversity within the film industry. It’s not just within the Academy Award nominees that there is a lack of representation—it is a sign of a greater problem within Hollywood itself. Viola summarized, “The Oscars are not really the issue. It’s a symptom of a much greater disease.”

Many celebrities have hinted at their decision to not attend the awards show because of the lack of diversity, and Viola was not shy to commit herself to boycotting the event either. She is just one of many celebrities who are beginning to speak up about this impending issue. The Academy Awards cannot be a real awards show if not everyone is given equal opportunity to have their great work recognized.

We all have a love/hate relationship with working out, but bringing our beauty A-game to the gym or fitness studio helps to motivate us. Here are a few hairstyles to keep your locks under control as you sweat and squat your way towards your #fitnessgoals.

Running

High Ponytail with a Chic Headband

Since running means your body is in constant motion, you’ll want your hair to stay in place. A high ponytail will keep your hair out of your face so you can focus on your pace, and adding a cute headband to your look will keep wispy hairs at bay.

Boxing

Classic French Braid

Collegiettes who love boxing know that the sport is all about complete focus. To make sure nothing gets in your way, you’ll want a hairstyle that is cute and super secure. With a French braid, you won’t have to worry about your hair swaying from side to side as you rock your jabs and uppercuts.

Yoga

Loose, Messy Top Knot

While you practice yoga, relaxation should be one of your main objectives. A loose, messy top knot won’t be too tight, so your hair will be out of your face without irritation. You will also be able to lie down without worrying about anything digging into the back of your head, since your bun will be at the top of your head. For additional comfort, secure it with a creaseless ponytail holder rather than a standard elastic.

Barre

Low Ponytail

Most barre workouts require intense coordination and discipline, so a simple low ponytail will allow you to center yourself and won’t cause your scalp any pain. As you work your core, arms and legs, your hair will be stylish and fuss-free.

Pilates

Fishtail Braid

A fishtail braid will make sure your hair stays in line with your movements. You’ll look fabulous and you’ll be able to concentrate on controlling your motions.

Of course you can style your hair in whatever way is most comfortable during your workout, but these suggestions will allow you to never worry about your hair misbehaving at the gym again!

It has been nearly 13 years since the series finale of Dawson’s Creek, and we have never been quite the same since. While the popular '90s show is no longer on the air, fans of the teen soap could have something to look forward to—there may be a reunion show on its way!

And even better? Pacey Witter himself, Joshua Jackson, is all on board with the idea. In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, the actor talked enthusiastically about the possibility of a reunion. While there has been talk of the cast reuniting before, this time around it seems like it really might happen.

Jackson and James Van Der Beek have had their own mini-reunions, so it seems like all that needs to happen is for the whole cast to get on the same page, right?

If the show does decide to film a reunion special, it’s fair to say that they would be in good company since faves like Gilmore Girls, Friends and The X-Files are filming reunions and reboots of their own.

But what about that tiny detail of Jen Lindley's demise in the series finale? Jackson has the perfect solution already in mind. "People always forget that Michelle Williams' Jen character was killed off, so they really need to figure out a way around that. I guess she could come back as a ghost, or they could do it like Dallas did and have someone wake up and find her alive in the shower 20 years later. That could work!"

Seems like he's got it all figured out. Now, about Joey and Pacey…

Are you hoping for a Dawson's Creek reunion as much as we are, collegiettes? 

We all know about the big hoorah that is Valentine’s Day, but are you familiar with the lesser-known February 13th holiday? Originating on the show Parks and Recreation, Galentine’s Day is a holiday for “ladies celebrating ladies.” We all know our gals deserve just as much (if not more) recognition as our SOs, so be sure to make the most of Galentine’s Day this year and celebrate it well!

1. Grab some brunch

Celebrate Galentine’s Day the Leslie Knope way, complete with endless waffles and whipped cream. There’s nothing BFFs love more than brunch! Pick a place and a time and celebrate the holiday the way it’s meant to be spent: with breakfast food. Can you say “bottomless mimosas”?

“One of my favorite ways to spend time with friends is Sunday brunch,” says Kendall Donohoe, a fourth-year student at Northeastern University. “It gives everyone a reason to get out of bed before noon and even people with super busy work/school schedules can come!”

2. Watch chick flicks

Nothing screams Galentine’s Day like a night in with the girls. Throw it back to your sleepover days by celebrating with a couple of your friends’ favorite flicks.

“Every year for Galentine's Day, I invite all my girlfriends over and we watch movies at my house,” says Helmi Henkin, a sophomore at the University of Alabama. “They're usually chick flicks, like Titanic, or all three High School Musical [movies]. I also provide a whole bunch of treats and candy, and my friends bring some over too, so we can sweetly snack while enjoying each other's company!”

If you’re feeling like a girls’ night in, rent a few flicks, pick up some popcorn and invite the ladies over. You can’t go wrong with a movie night!

3. Take a trip

Always wanted to do a classic best friends road trip? Well, now is your chance! If you and your gals live close to the city or another destination you've been dying to visit, pack up your suitcases and get going.

“I love the idea of taking a weekend trip to the city with friends,” says Brianna Susnak, a sophomore at Indiana University. “If your campus is close to a fun city like Chicago, Nashville, NYC or anywhere really, you could spend a day (or all of Valentine's Day weekend) doing fun things downtown like dressing up and going out to dinner, shopping, going to a concert, going out for drinks, etc.”

There’s nothing that brings people closer together than traveling! Celebrate this Galentine’s Day by planning a big trip and making the most of your weekend together.

4. Go wine tasting

Class up your Galentine’s Day by signing up for a wine tasting with your BFFs. “Treat yo’ self” to an array of wines and cheeses and spend the day catching up with your gal pals over some delicious local drinks.

No wine tastings in your area? Sign up for a bar crawl or take a tour of a local brewery. Want to make it extra special? Host your own wine tasting, providing cheeses and snacks, and ask your BFFs to bring a favorite bottle!

5. Have a sleepover

Nothing says friendship like staying up past your bedtime, eating entirely too much junk food and gossiping about your old crushes. Turn it old school this Galentine’s Day by inviting your besties over for a good, old-fashioned slumber party. Prepare some fun activities like board games or charades, pull out the old yearbook (if your high school friends are coming) and stock up on chips and popcorn!

6. Get crafty

Always wanted to make a DIY wine glass? Been thinking about painting your old coffee table? Wanting to decorate some picture frames for your dorm? Now’s the time! This Galentine’s Day, invite your friends over for a DIY craft session to check out all those Pinterest crafts you’ve been wanting to do.

7. Tell your ladies you appreciate them

When friendships come naturally, it seems out of place to vocalize how much your BFFs mean to you. But it’s always nice to take some time and tell your friends what they mean to you. Have your girls over for the night, pull out the wine and explain how much you appreciate them. It seems cheesy, but you can’t not feel great after a good heart-to-heart!

“It sounds silly, but when my friends and I get together once or twice a year, we go around in a circle and say a few things we like best about each other,” says Alex Watson, a senior at New York University. “It just reaffirms why we’re friends and makes everyone feel good about themselves and each other!”

8. Give a gift

In the wise words of Tom Haverford of Parks and Recreation, “Things are forever.” If you want to add a little more to your Galentine’s Day rendezvous, go for gifts! Show your friends how much you appreciate them with a thoughtful present to commemorate your friendship. Find that perfect gift that shows just how well you know your bestie, or take it one step further and make something yourself!

While Galentine’s Day hasn’t qualified as a federal holiday just yet, it’s still important to celebrate! We’ve been celebrating loved ones on February 14th for years, but it's time we set aside a day for our BFFs. Who's with us?

Almost 13 years ago, The Lizzie McGuire Movie graced us with Lizzie’s adorably awkward teen presence. After watching countless episodes of Lizzie McGuire on Disney Channel, feeling as though you were navigating the ups and downs of the tween/teen years with Lizzie, the time came for her to head off to Rome on a school trip with the dumb but dreamy Ethan Craft, cute and nerdy BFF Gordo and sassy “queen bee” Kate Sanders. Undeniably, our generation grew up with Lizzie and her friends. Packed with adventure, friendship and love, this movie had plenty of life lessons for us. Although Lizzie wasn’t on the popularity level of Kate Sanders, she did manage to impersonate an Italian pop star and become famous. It’s safe to say she had a few things going for her.   

1. Its okay to trip your way through life

It comes as no surprise that Lizzie is a pretty clumsy person. Hand-eye coordination doesn’t come easily to everyone and our girl knows what it’s like to trip in front of an entire crowd of people…on national television. Embarrassing doesn’t begin to cover it, but all you need to do is get back up, dust yourself off and get on with it. This really can be applied to any aspect of our lives.

2. Face your fears and reap the benefits

Lizzie is seen at the beginning of the movie singing in her shower. It wasn’t until Lizzie was thrown on stage and forced to sing that she conquered her fear of singing in front of others. The audience loved her. No matter what you love to do, don’t let the fear of failure or inadequacy stop you from pursuing your passion.

3. On that note, don’t rely on a wishing fountain to make your dreams come true

Luck alone is not going to get you places. Hard work and dedication are what will see you through.

4. Heading to a foreign country with your best friend by your side is always a good idea

Gordo and Lizzie go together like peanut butter and jelly -- as do all besties. Naturally, traveling together makes perfect sense. With your other half by your side, you’re guaranteed adventures and plenty of stories to tell when you get back.

5. But make sure to actually spend time with your best friend

Lizzie told Gordo she would hang out with him in Rome, but ended up ditching him for Paolo (not her wisest move). It's good to branch out, meet and hang with other people; just don't forget about who's always been loyal during the process.

6. Don’t take advantage of a friend’s kindness

Or ditch them for pop stars. Although Gordo could’ve come up with a better excuse, it was wrong of Lizzie to leave Gordo covering for her every time she went out to see Paolo. Especially when that resulted in Miss Ungermeyer kicking him off the trip.

7. If you have the chance to travel, take it

Don’t hesitate -- seize any and all opportunities to travel. Life is definitely not meant to be lived in one place. Think of all the sights you’ll see, the people you could meet, the things another culture can teach you, and things you may learn about yourself. You’ll gain a whole new perspective. (And if an Italian woman offers you a wheel of cheese, don’t question it. Just take it.)

8. Believe in yourself

This may sound obvious, but it’s not always an easy thing to do. If you don’t believe in yourself, who will? You need to be your own best advocate as well as push yourself to pursue your interests. Lizzie always loved to sing but never thought she was any good at it. It wasn’t until Rome that she was coerced into getting on that stage and performing and saw that she was good enough to be there.  

9. If opportunities come your way, take advantage of them

Lizzie didn’t think she’d achieve fame, impersonate a pop star or explore the eternal city on the back of a hot, Italian popstar’s moped, now did she? No matter what the opportunities are, whether they’re in your personal or professional life, you’ll never know where something could lead until you take the chance.

10. Don’t let the haters get to you

Or knock you down. Their words say a lot more about themselves than they do about you. Lizzie may have been an outfit repeater, but Kate Sanders is an outfit rememberer and that’s not somebody anyone wants to be. Enough said.

11. The right guy for you could be right under your nose

Funny, smart, trustworthy and reliable, everyone needs a Gordo in their life.  

12. Put your trust in your best friend

Not some foreign, pretty boy named Paolo who only tells lies. Gordo always had Lizzie’s back. Your best friend knows you better than anyone. They have your best interests at heart.

13. That being said, don’t trust everything a guy tells you

Girls too. No matter the gender, or their seemingly harmless motives, anyone can have a hidden agenda and it’s always good to be cautious when you’re hanging out with strangers. After all, Paolo seemed like a great guy at first -- but he proved to us that people aren’t always how they seem.

14. “The tide is high but I’m holding on”

Aside from “What Dreams are Made Of,” this was one of the best songs in the whole movie. The message is universal. Sometimes life will get you down and things will happen that make you feel out of control. Lizzie ruined her middle school graduation and definitely did not anticipate going to Rome and becoming famous. So, it’s important to keep in mind that things can and will get better.

15. Looks and popularity are not everything

A turning point for Lizzie was when she realized the things she wanted didn’t do anything to improve her happiness. You can be pretty and popular and still be unhappy. These aren’t things that will do anything for your sense of well-being and can leave you feeling empty or disappointed.

Whether it was through time spent jamming out to “What Dreams are Made Of” or reminding yourself to keep your head up through “The Tide is High” this movie taught us that if you have believe in your abilities, trust your friends as well as your own intuition, you can and will go far.