It may be summer, and the temperatures may or may not have us sweating to death the minute we step outside, but we can’t help but dream of what we’ll be wearing this fall. One of the pieces we’re already dying to wear during fashion’s favorite season this year? Sweaters. Whether chunky or tissue thin, turtlenecks or cardigans, the cozy sweater is one of the many reasons we’re kind of ready to just skip August and dive into September. Check out what we’ll be buying now and wearing later!

1. Tie Back Cardigan ($69 at Nordstrom)

This sweater has all the Elle Woods vibes you’ve been wanting, but takes the coziness factor new levels. 

2. Fleece Knit Dolman Cardigan ($19.90 at Forever 21)

Sweaters have never looked so elegant and effortless—this nude fleece sweater is total proof that sweater doesn’t necessarily have to mean bulky.

3. Rehab Clothing Sweater ($16 at Tobi)

800x1200.jpg

The prepster look is about to get really cool this fall—give this classic V-neck an edge by pairing it with leather leggings and ankle boots.

4. Fuzzy Knit Hooded Sweater ($32.99 at Forever 21)

Part fur jacket and part cardigan, this sweater is basically the most snuggly thing we’ve ever laid eyes on.

5. Ribbed Knit Tunic ($12.90 at Forever 21)

That dress-over-pants trend that’s been everywhere this summer? We plan to keep it going strong into fall this year, starting with this tunic worn over jeans and topped with dainty jewelry.

6. Purl-Knit Sweater ($17.99 at H&M)

hmprod.jpeg

If you’re a spring- and summer-loving fashionista at heart, the fall season doesn’t mean your pastels can’t see the light of day for the next six months! This oversized, pale pink sweater is the ultimate anti-fall sweater.  

7. Sweater with Lace Details ($29.99 at H&M)

Want the look of autumn layers without the bulk? This lace-trim sweater will be a must-have this fall. We’re obsessed with the way the delicate detail adds a feminine touch. 

8. Maddie Cutout Cropped Sweater ($49 at Urban Outfitters)

The cut out trend is still going strong, so combine the look with a crop top sweater and you're all set for fall.  

9. Corset Pullover Sweater ($59 at Urban Outfitters)

The corset details at the waist are the perfect touch. It turns a loosely-fitting sweater into a stylish top that hugs your curves. 

What are you most looking forward to about fall fashion, collegiettes?

In case you were in need of a sign that Tinder is good for something other than awful pickup lines and fuckboys, the couple who went viral on Twitter after flirting via Tinder for over three (!!!) years, finally met in real life - and it will give you hope for dating apps.

Kent State University students Michelle Arendas and Josh Avsec matched on Tinder three years ago, and began a hilarious back-and-forth of replying to each others' messages weeks and even months late with excuses like, "Sorry, I was in the shower." (Lol.) Even though they went to the same school, they never actually met over the course of the whole thing - until now.

The couple appeared on Good Morning America on Tuesday, where they met for the first time. (A next-level first date am I right?) Before meeting, they were interviewed on either side of the wall to figure out if they had anything in common. (FYI, they both love Netflix-bingeing The Office, because who doesn't?) From there, they were also asked the v pressing question of why they never decided to meet.

"I was committed to my joke,” Michelle told GMA. “I loved the fact that we had a similar sense of humor, so I was not going to be the one who gave in and gave up that great joke we had." Fair point, but three years you guys? Really?

When the show finally allowed them to meet, it was nothing short of adorable, obviously. Their next date? Tinder is sending them to Maui to finally give them the opportunity to get to know each other - and TBH my faith in dating apps has been entirely renewed.

There’s nothing like the feel of picking out notebooks, folders, journals and planners for a brand-new school year, and this year’s shopping haul just got even better because we’re teaming up with Erin Condren to help customize your back to school supplies! We know you’re a busy collegiate that sets trends & achieves goals and you need something functional & fashionable to get ahead! Use the coupon code HERCAMPUS15 to get 15 percent off your purchase, and shop these trendy organizational products. Stylish gear starts here!

1. Coiled LifePlanner™

This planner is the ultimate canvas for customizing and organizing your life. Choose your own cover design & personalize it with your name, initials or class subject, and pick your favorite page layout for the most stylish (and organized!) school year yet.

2. Hardbound LifePlanner™

Every girl on the go needs a planner that can keep up with her busy schedule. This LifePlanner™ in a brand new hardbound look comes with unique design themes, a weekly calendars and 18-months of space to plan your way to success. The best part? You can personalize your name in sparkling metallic! This is a must-have for any college woman looking to inspire and simplify.

3. Laundry Bag

Laundry can feel like one of the worst chores of the week, but with Erin Condren it doesn’t have to be. This bold, fun bag will brighten your laundry trips and have you looking forward to doing it all over again. Plus, how cute would this be in your room?!

4. Dual Tip Markers

Whether you’re taking an exam or sketching in your notes, a dual tip marker is the flexible necessity to keep in your school bag. Time to take your penmanship skills to the next level! 

5. Hardbound Notebook

A notebook is a key classroom essential, but whoever said those college-ruled pages had to be drab instead of fab? This hardbound notebook by Erin Condren is the stylish upgrade your school supplies need. Complete with colorful hues and a page-marking ribbon, studying just got so much cuter.  

6. Jot Your Thought Journal 

Having a journal nearby at all times is important for finding inspiration throughout the day. With the Jot Your Thought Journal you’ll always have a fashionable tool handy to write down memos and plan your next big success. 

7. Designer Pocket Folders

If you’re lacking in storage, you’re lacking in organizational potential! These full-sized folders are essential for keeping track of classwork and important documents. Stay organized, and do it in style with these head-turning folders. 

8. 3 Ring Binder

Graduating high school doesn't mean you should ditch the good ol’ 3 ring binder! Update your look with a stunning binder from Erin Condren, and set the tone for group projects and assignments. 

9. Reversible Quote Calendar

Your walls need love, too! Clipboards & calendars are sure to help you cross off even your most daunting to-dos. Plus, this calendar offers the most in customization and décor opportunities, thanks to the inspiring quote displayed on the reverse side.

It’s clear, the best way to stylize your life is to shop Erin Condren, plus so much more on ErinCondren.com Remember to use the HERCAMPUS15 coupon code and get ready for ALL the customization opportunities waiting for you! Have the best school year yet, collegiettes!

Until recently, I’d been using the same straightening brush since I was 13. It was a huge, clunky iron I bought from a salon, but it was the only thing that mildly worked on my thick, curly hair. When I first started straightening in my teens, I thought the iron was revolutionary. But once college hit, I stopped using it altogether (except for special occasions) because I didn’t have 40 extra minutes in the morning to dedicate to straightening my hair.

Once I heard about the DAFNI Hair Straightening Ceramic Brush, I knew my hair routine was going to change.

The brush is a unique creation by Sharon Rabi, and utilizes a ceramic coating, which means the DAFNI can act just like a regular brush. It heats up to 365 degrees in less than a minute, and lets you straighten larger chunks of hair than you can with an iron. Obviously, I had to try this game changing creation.

My experience

As advertised, the brush was incredibly easy to use since literally all I had to do was brush my hair. Here are my before, middle and after pictures:

The brush saved a ton of time. Because my hair is thick and curly, it would take 40 minutes to get my hair straight with my old iron, and my bathroom would be covered in steam from the burning hair. The DAFNI straightened my whole head in about 15 minutes, and at the end of it I wasn’t an overheated mess like before. For people with thinner, easier to manage hair I’m sure the experience would be even faster. My hair even felt soft, and actually healthier and stronger after I was finished using it.

One fun other thing to mention: this brush is so safe. I have scars on my ears and neck from burning myself with my old straightener. The bristle tips of this brush I could press against my skin and only feel a slight warmth because of the ceramic coating. The safety made styling and getting to my deep roots easy because I wasn’t afraid of burning myself.

Styling tips

These are a few tricks that have worked for me while using my DAFNI:

• Brush your hair slowly how you would with a normal straightener. Just because it’s a brush doesn’t mean you have to brush through quickly. It’s definitely more effective when brushed slowly.
• Separate your hair into at least 4 different sections for a really close straighten at your roots.
• Brush your hair before straightening, because the DAFNI isn’t great at getting out tangles.
• Take it with you everywhere. It may not be the DAFNI go, but it’s portable and great to bring on vacation!

From the scrunchie and choker revival to brown lipstick making a serious comeback, it seems like the world just can't let go of the '90s! It was a great decade, and it was made even more magical by Lisa Frank. I remember spending hours tracing over images of cute, neon tigers and unicorns in my Lisa Frank coloring book. Ah, what a simpler time. Now, Lisa Frank is making Millennials jump for joy all over again with the brand new Target pajama collection. 

The 10 piece line offers bright nightgowns, as well as short and tee sets, all available in sizes XS - 2X. Check out some super cute highlights from the collection: 

Women's Lisa Frank Tee & Shorts Pajamas Set ($17.99 at Target) 

Yes, unicorns and rainbows!!

Women's Lisa Frank Sleep Shirt ($14.99 at Target)

Happy dolphins are my favorite. 

Women's Plus Size Lisa Frank Sleep Shirt ($16.99 at Target)

Perfect for sleepovers! You better hop on over to your nearest Targét, because these Lisa Frank styles are going fast.

You’re a few weeks into your freshman year of college and a certain campus cutie has caught your eye in class. But you’ve never had a college relationship, and you know it’s so different than high school. There isn’t a Sadie Hawkins dance for you to make your move, and you don’t spend a full school day in the same building with him five days a week. So, how do you start a relationship in college? How do couples make it work? What should you expect? Read on to learn how college relationships are different than high school ones.

You’ll have more to learn about each other

College is different than high school in that the people you meet won’t know a lot about your past. You probably haven’t met your new boyfriend’s parents yet and you have no idea who his friends are from home. “It was really hard for me to accept that my boyfriend had ‘another life’ at home,” says Emily from Indiana University. “I wanted to be a part of it, and eventually I was, but it was a struggle at first to hear about all these people and things I had no idea about.”

You can have sleepovers together

For most girls in high school, it probably would have been impossible to have a sleepover with her boyfriend. Now that you’re in college, you can have a sleepover with your guy as many nights as you want! There aren’t any parents around to say no and no one is checking in on you at night. “My boyfriend and I have sleepovers a few times a week,” says Jill from University of Denver. “It’s not a big deal in college, and I love being able to see him at the end of my day.”

You might have roommate tension

No matter how much your roommate likes your boyfriend, she probably doesn’t like him as much as you do (let’s hope!). The fact is, she might get annoyed if he’s over every day and night, and that’s something you have to consider. In high school, there was no one else around when your boyfriend came over. Now, remember to check with your roommate before you have your boyfriend over for an extended period of time.

You’ll have to prioritize

bigstock-Funny-Girl-Student-With-Glasse-61039466.jpg

Like in high school, you’ll have to find a balance of spending time with your boyfriend, your friends, in outside activities, and on your schoolwork. Your friends will want to spend time with you just as much as your boyfriend does so you’ll have to find the time. School will be a demand, too—college is all about balance.

You’ll have more freedom

You make your own schedule in college, and choosing how to spend your time is completely up to you. If you want to ditch a class to spend time with your boyfriend, you probably won’t have to answer to anyone about it. If you decide to stay in one night and cuddle with your guy, that’s okay. College is all about freedom—you can spend as little or as much time with your man. “My mom used to nag me whenever I would spend a few consecutive days in a row with my high school boyfriend,” says Katrina from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. “It was so annoying. Now I can do whatever I want—no one is monitoring my time!”

You might have to do your relationship long-distance

Most likely, your new boyfriend isn’t from your hometown so during school breaks and summers you’ll have to be long-distance. The two most challenging periods will be winter and summer breaks since they’re the longest. “I hate the time apart from my boyfriend during breaks,” says Rachel from the University of Missouri. “We always plan trips to see each other at least once to make the time apart more manageable.”

You’ll have to compromise

In high school, you probably had to take turns paying for dates or switch off visiting each other’s houses. And it’s the same in college—all relationships take compromise. “Me and my boyfriend try to take turns hanging out with each other’s friends since we don’t have the same friend group at school,” says Liz from the University of Missouri. “It takes some getting used to but it’s good to be there for each other.”

In order to maximize your college relationship experience, here are a few tips and tricks:

• Be open to new experiences: there are plenty of chances to try new things and put yourself out there in college. It’ll be a great way to meet guys or bond with your new boyfriend.
• Keep reminders of the past: have photos handy and memories to share with your new boyfriend so he can feel connected to who you were before college
• Stay grounded: don’t let your new relationship rule your college experience. Try to make new friends and get your GPA up as high as possible.
• Keep separate identities: There are plenty of chances in college for the two of you to spend time together, but don’t always take them. Hang out with friends and do things separately—you’ll be closer for it in the end!
• Make your own memories together: Do fun things that you can only do in college like tailgate all day before a huge home football game, spend an entire night together studying in the library, or play hooky from class (as long as they don’t take attendance and you can get the notes from someone later!) so that you can sleep in.

Every relationship you’ll ever have will be different than the one you had before it, regardless of whether it was in high school or in college. What you have to remember is that despite the differences, there are a few things that are important in every relationship, like trust, commitment, honesty, and compatibility. Find someone in college who shares your same values, and you won’t ever have to make a big change from high school to college. Grow and learn together – but most of all, remember to have fun, collegiettes!

*Some names have been changed.

UPDATE:

Both the Pentagon and Republican Senator John McCain have issued statements regarding President Trump's tweets on Wednesday morning. Pentagon spokesperson Jeff Davis wrote, "We refer all questions about the President’s statements to the White House. We will continue to work closely with the White House to address the new guidance provided by the Commander-in-Chief on transgender individuals serving the military. We will provide revised guidance to the Department [of Defense] in the near future."

"The Department of Defense has already decided to allow currently-serving transgender individuals to stay in the military, and many are serving honorably today,"wrote McCain, who is the Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee. "Any American who meets current medical and readiness standards should be allowed to continue serving. There is no reason to force service members who are able to fight, train, and deploy to leave the military—regardless of their gender identity." He added that this was ""yet another example of why major policy announcements should not be made via Twitter."

ORIGINAL STORY:

Trump turned to Twitter (because where else would he share important news?) on Wednesday morning and made the startling announcement that transgender Americans will no longer be allowed to serve in the U.S. Military "in any capacity." He tweeted, "After consultation with my Generals and military experts, please be advised that the United States Government will not accept or allow Transgender individuals to serve in any capacity in the U.S. Military. Our military must be focused on decisive and overwhelming victory and cannot be burdened with the tremendous medical costs and disruption that transgender in the military would entail. Thank you."

Just last summer then-Secretary of Defense Ash Carter announced transgender individuals were welcome to openly serve in the armed forces. In his announcement, he also wrote, "service members may no longer be involuntarily separated, discharged or denied reenlistment solely on the basis of gender identity"—though that no longer seems to be the case. Carter included a year-long delay in his plan to allow the Pentagon to examine it and prepare, but the day before its implementation deadline, Trump-appointed Defense Secretary Jim Mattis approved an additional six-month delay to assess whether the policy decision would affect "the lethality" of America's military. Now it seems Carter's plan will not be implemented at all, with Trump citing prohibitive financial burden despite a study commissioned by the Defense Department that projected "minimal likely impact" of transgender healthcare costs.

After Trump already didn't recognize Pride Month in June and rescinded a law that allowed students to use school bathrooms that corresponded with their gender identity, this latest decision has many speculating that his June 2016 tweet, "Thank you to the LGBT community! I will fight for you while Hillary brings in more people that will threaten your freedoms and beliefs," was a little less than genuine.

Many across the nation are appalled by this announcement and took to social media to express their outrage and criticize Trump.

Fashion bloggers and BFFLs Gabi Fresh and Nicolette Mason have just caused a tidal wave in the fashion sphere with the launch of Premme, their bold, trend-conscious plus size line. According to Nicolette and Gabi, the brand was "born out of a love of fashion and our frustration with it," leading them to pave the way for a size-inclusive brand designed to make people look good, and "feel good AF." 

So far, Premme has jumped onto the scene with a 15-piece summer collection full of trendy pieces, summertime staples and a couple reimagined classics. 

Pearl Set Wrap Top ($35 at Premme) + Pearl Sweat Shorts ($55 at Premme) 

Feminist AF Denim Jacket ($89 at Premme) 

Striped Tie-Front Jumpsuit ($79 at Premme) 

Not surprisingly, the collection is selling out just after its first day! If you're quick enough though, you can still get your fashion fix at Premme.com.

Tuesday night was a big night for the Trump administration's attempt at health care reform, with yet another version of the Better Care Reconciliation Act (aka the Republicans' new health care bill) up for a Senate vote after months of debate (and other failed votes). Republican Senator John McCain, who was diagnosed with brain cancer last week, traveled 2,300 miles from Arizona to participate in the Senate vote just nine days after he'd undergone surgery. Trump appeared optimistic that the senator's return would be the tipping point the new healthcare bill needed to pass, tweeting, "Thank you for coming to D.C. for such a vital vote. Congrats to all Rep. We can now deliver grt healthcare to all Americans!"

However, as the night went on, it became clear that McCain did not agree that the bill would result in "grt healthcare," and neither did over half the Senate. (Protesters shouting "kill the bill" from the Senate gallery, who were removed by police, also seemed to be skeptical about the proposed law's benefits.)

Before the Senate even voted on whether to pass the bill, they first had to vote on whether to continue talking about it at all—and the vote came down to a tie-break, requiring a vote from Vice President Mike Pence. Not exactly a resounding endorsement. Pence voted "yes," to continue debate, allowing the bill to proceed by a 51-50 margin. While McCain also voted "yes," he then took the floor for a 15-minute speech that held nothing back. "All we’ve managed to do is make more popular a policy that wasn’t very popular when we started trying to get rid of it," he said. "I voted for the motion to proceed to allow debate to continue and amendments to be offered. I will not vote for the bill as it is today. It’s a shell of a bill right now. We all know that."

Apparently, his feelings were shared. The bill failed to pass the Senate, with nine Republicans breaking ranks to deliver a 43-57 vote that missed the 60-vote cutoff for approval by a long shot. Now it seems as though the easiest path forward in passing any kind of health care reform would be with a "skinny repeal"—a pared-down version of the bill that simply repeals a few aspects of the Affordable Care Act, but not all of it. Though no official new bill has been drafted, The WashingtonPost reports it would probably abolish three aspects of the ACA: the requirement that most Americans be insured, the requirement that employers with over 50 employees provide health insurance, and a medical devices tax that helped fund other initiatives of the bill. 

While the "skinny repeal" might be able to garner enough Senate support to actually pass (as a similar bill did in 2015 before then-President Obama vetoed it), it doesn't do much to fulfill Republicans' seven-year campaign promise to repeal Obamacare—a promise that never included the word "skinny."

Of all the style and beauty choices you make daily, piercing is one of the most personal decisions and comes with a million factors. Some people have a low pain threshold or hate needles, and others are chronic sufferers of buyer's remorse when it comes to a t-shirt, much less a hole in your body. If you're in a more conservative industry like finance, piercings might be frowned upon in the workplace or even hurt your chances of landing that dream internship. Maybe you already have three or four piercings and just aren't sure whether you want to commit to another. Luckily, there's a non-permanent jewelry trend for all of the above. Whether you're wavering over whether to get an orbital piercing, or just want to add a little edginess to your look for the night, these simple and chic ear cuffs are the perfect solution. It's a consequence-free experiment with a new style that you just might fall in love with. 

You can take this jewelry on and off without the hassle of a high-maintenance healing period or permanent hole in your body—and as a bonus, they look so real that no one will be the wiser. So if the cuff doesn't quite suit your internship's office dress code, just stick it in your pocket for a few hours and then slip it back on for a night out with the girls. This trendy jewelry accessory is a delicate and feminine way to dress up a basic tee and jeans, and will make any outfit look more polished. Plus, they're unique and unexpected—and a great way to shake up your look if you feel stuck in a style rut.

You can wear the ear cuffs solo, pair them with simple studs, or go all out to let your ear bling take center stage. Browse #EarParty on Instagram for inspiration—just be prepared to get sucked in for a few hours scrolling through all the beautiful photos. 

Maison Miru's selection of oh-so-chic ear cuffs are the perfect way to test out this new trend. Whether you love sparkle or prefer to keep your accessories a little more simple, their range of ear cuff styles offers something for everyone. Best of all, they're all under $40, a major steal for bargain-savvy collegiettes. The company is even stylist-approved! They've been featured several times on celebrity stylist Rachel Zoe's The Zoe Report. Their beautiful ear cuffs below might just tempt you to try out the trendy new style—no piercing gun or needles necessary.

Maison Miru Infinite Ear Cuff, $39

Maison Miru Eternity Ear Cuff, $34

Maison Miru Double Eternity Ear Cuff, $39

Maison Miru Classic Chain Ear Cuff, $34

Maison Miru Classic Ear Cuff, $29 (model seen here with two)

Attorney General Jeff Sessions recused himself from the Russia investigation FOUR MONTHS AGO, but President Trump is actually still mad about it. So much for forgive and forget, huh?

According to CNN, Trump spent Tuesday's news conference targeting the Attorney General. "I am disappointed in the attorney general. He should not have recused himself," Trump said. "If he was going to recuse himself, he should have told me prior to taking office and I would have quite simply picked someone else." 

The president hasn't said whether he wants to fire Sessions. But seriously, Trump, if you're going to complain that much without offering a solution, isn't this just gossip? 

I'd say yes, based on the subtweets he fired off Tuesday and Wednesday morning.

Trump had previously brought up Sessions in a tweet on Monday, when he wrote, "So why aren't the Committees and investigators, and of course our beleaguered A.G., looking into Crooked Hillarys crimes & Russia relations?"

This isn't the first time POTUS has tried to sabotage other people involved in this investigation...*cough* Comey *cough*. But hopefully it will be the last. Sessions recused himself because of his involvement in Trump's campaign, showing loyalty to the law. But Trump only sees this as disloyalty to the Trump family.

The release of Descendants 2 seemed like everything fans were hoping for. Thirteen million viewers tuned in for the Disney Channel movie's premiere last Friday. But afterwards, fans found out about a cut scene which showed a long-awaited kiss between Harry Hook, the son of Captain Hook played by Thomas Doherty, and Gil, Gaston's son played by Dylan Playfair. Thanks to Instagram posts from both actors, fans now know the scene was filmed and they're asking Disney why it wasn’t in the movie.

Viewers expressed their sadness about the deleted scene in Instagram comments as well as on Twitter. It's unfortunate that Disney cut the scene when there are already so few LGBTQ+ characters on television, much less on Disney Channel.

In the Descendants 2 book, Harry and Gil's kiss makes the cut. Many fans knew this about the book series and were expecting the scene to be in the movie. So why wasn't it? There's no clear answer at this point, but according to Refinery29, Descendants 3 is a possibility, so maybe we'll see a kiss between the two then.

While we wait for Disney's next move, at least we have photographic evidence of the kiss to remind us that Harry and Gil's love is alive.

Welcome to college! Now that you’re all settled in your dorm, you’ve probably realized there’s quite a bit you forgot to pack. Don’t worry, we’re here to remind you of the essentials you’ve forgotten. Even better––all these items can be purchased at IKEA, so you only need to make one stop online or in store to complete your dream dorm.

1. Hanging shoe organizer
   You’re moved in, but your closet is full and you’ve run out of places to keep your shoes and other small things. What’s a girl to do?! Add the SKUBB hanging shoe organizer to your last-minute shopping list for instantly more bedroom storage. It has 16 pockets able to hold anything from shoes to scarves to jewelry, which will definitely come in handy this year.
2. Noticeboard
   
   Whether you’re leaving a note for your roommate or just want a place to put up pictures of friends from home, a noticeboard is crucial for completing your dorm look. This VÄGGIS noticeboard hangs horizontally or vertically, so it’s perfect for adapting to your small space.
3. Laundry basket
   You’re probably asking yourself how you could forget something so essential, but we know in the haze of college move-in that anything can slip your mind. The FLYLLEN laundry basket is flexible and airy, which means it’s easy to store in your closet or fit compactly under your bed. Plus, the neutral blue color is sure to blend with any dorm decor!'
4. Throw blanket
   

   A throw blanket is the perfect cozy necessity to make your dorm room feel like home. With the GURLI throwyou can snuggle up after a long day of class and keep yourself extra warm when winter comes around. Definitely add this throw to your last-minute list!

5. Storage boxes
   Now that you’re settled, you realize dorm rooms aren’t known for their roominess. If you’ve run out of space in your closet and drawers, pick up a storage box to hold the rest. The TJENA box with lidis a great compliment to your décor, or go with the SAMLA storage box series for something that fits conspicuously under your bed and protects your items from dust. Lucky for you, IKEA has tons of storage boxes to fit your every need.
6. Decorative postersYou were so busy packing all your back to school essentials that you forgot the fun part: decorations! The true mark of a designer-worthy dorm are the chic posters upping the quality of your space. We recommend this stunning TRILLING poster set to totally take your room to the next level. 
7. Curtains
   By now, you’ve learned that dorm life doesn’t come with a ton of privacy. By adding these VIVAN curtainsyou’ll spruce up your space while also adding an extra layer of privacy. We’ll say that’s a double win.
8. Coffee and tea maker
   Caffeine is the key to surviving the college hustle. Having the UPPHETTA coffee and tea maker/] in your room will help you rally for everything from a long day of class to sorority rush week. A must for your last-minute list? Definitely.
9. Laptop stand
   

   Already tired of studying in the library or common room? Add the SVARTÅSEN laptop stand to your shopping list and bring this easy, adaptable work surface to your dorm room. Writing a paper from bed? Yes please!

10. Backpack
    
     

    The last thing you need to be completely college ready is a backpack. TheFÖRENKLA Backpack is packed with storage, and is sturdy enough to take you from a full day of class to off-campus with friends.

Once you pick up these last-minute essentials from IKEA, you’ll be living the best dorm life possible. Welcome to your new home, collegiettes!

​

The biggest television controversy of the summer has surrounded Bachelor in Paradise. ICYMI, contestants Corinne Olympios and DeMario Jackson were involved in a sexual misconduct investigation, which found no evidence of misconduct. While the two did not return to continue filming after production resumed, they have both agreed to attend a reunion special.

There are still a lot of unanswered questions about what actually happened in Paradise, but we might finally get answers when Corinne and DeMario sit down for an interview with Bachelor in Paradise host Chris Harrison.

At the filming of The Bachelorette's Men Tell All special last week, Harrison teased Entertainment Tonight with details about the interview. “I don’t think it’ll be just part of the [BiP] reunion show. I’m going to sit down with DeMario and Corinne as part of a sit-down talk with the two of them."

Harrison went on to talk about the controversy surrounding the reality stars, which caused production to shut down. “First and foremost, I think a lot of people—some people on social media reached out and said we were tone deaf,” he explained. “And I need people to step back a little bit, wait and watch. All will be explained. Trust me. Have I left you guys hanging before in 16 years? No.”

"I need people to understand this was not a black-and-white, cut-and-dry issue," Chris continued. "It’s really—there’s a lot of layers to it. It was very confusing. I went through it and it was confusing. So, trust me. It needs to all play out.”

Bachelorette contestant Dean Unglert, who will appear on the new season of BiP, chimed in. “[BiP] did kind of glorify [the scandal] a little bit and build it up a little bit, but I don’t know,” he said. “The time on Paradise spent wasn’t really focused on the scandal from a cast member perspective. And I’m sure that the show will handle it applicably from there. So, I won’t put too much weight into it.”

No news yet on when Corinne and DeMario's interview will air, but Bachelor in Paradise premieres August 14.

To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before by Jenny Han is set to become the next biggest chick flick because your fave YA novel is finally being made into a movie. Awesomeness Films recently announced some of the film's core cast members, including X-Men: Apocalypse actress Lana Condor and Sex and the City actor John Corbett. Directed by Susan Johnson and written by Sofia Alvarez, the highly-anticipated movie has already begun filming in Vancouver.

On Friday, Han shared a note with her Twitter followers announcing the movie.

For those of you who've never read the novel (which I wholeheartedly recommend!), To All the Boys is far from average. Sixteen-year-old Lara Jean Covey (Condor) has a major problem: She's written love letters over the years to every guy she's liked and kept the letters stashed in a box at home. The box goes missing and each of the letters ends up in the hands of a boy Lara Jean formerly had feelings for. It's a whole mess, but damn is it charming.

Alongside Corbett, who'll play Lara Jean’s father, Anna Cathcart of Descendants 2 will take on the role of Lara Jean's younger sister, Kitty. The Fosters' Noah Centineo will play Peter, a popular boy who receives one of Lara Jean’s love letters, and Israel Broussard from Happy Death Day will be Lara Jean’s crush, Josh.

Pretty Little Liars actress Janel Parrish has also secured a role in the film as Lara Jean’s older sister, Margot. The Covey sisters have already bonded—Parrish tweeted this pic earlier this week. Too cute!

The Song girls have also gotten sushi together.

Jenny Han has expressed her support for Condor’s casting as Lara Jean because of her Asian ethnicity. And in an email to Seventeen.com, Han wrote, “Janel was a fan favorite on Pretty Little Liars and I feel so lucky to have her—not only as an actress but as a person."

"She is definitely the big sis of the group and every time I saw her interact with Lana and Anna, she was so lovely and generous with her time and her experience as an Asian American woman in the film industry,” Han said. “It's so important to have mentors, people who you can go to for advice, who know how to navigate the waters. I can already tell that Janel will be that for Lana and Anna."

Jenny also shared a super cute photo of Lara Jean and Peter.

Can we just have a release date already??

Today’s been a pretty uncomfortable day, but alas, it just keeps getting worse. Rapper Rick Ross made some controversial statements that you have to hear for yourself to believe. Entertainment Weeklyreports that in a recent interview with Power 105.1 FM's Breakfast Club, Ross explained why he doesn’t sign female rappers to his label, Maybach Music Group. He says it’s because he “would end up f--king” them. Disgusting. 

“You know, I never did it because I always thought, like, ‘I would end up f--king a female rapper and f--king the business up,” Ross said. “I’m so focused on my business. Just gotta be honest with you. You know, she looking good. I’m spending so much money on her photo shoots. I gotta f--k a couple times.”

He later asked Breakfast Club cohost Angela Yee to show him her legs, reports Refinery29. Ross's representative has not responded to inquiries about his conduct and comments, but Twitter sure has.

You can watch the whole interview here, but keep in mind that this isn’t the first time Ross has sparked controversy. According to ABC News, he's previously plead no contest to charges of assault, gun violence, marijuana possession and kidnapping. 

Moreover, according to the New York Daily News, Reebok ended their relationship with Ross after he released "U.E.O.N.O," a song that encourages date rape. "Put Molly all up in her champagne, she ain't even know it, I took her home and I enjoyed that, she ain't even know it," he rapped in the song. While Ross did issue a formal apology for the song after thousands of people signed a petition, it doesn’t look like he’s changed much four years later.

Leaders in the industry should help rather than disparage women. Music should unite, not divide. Today, more than ever before, we need all the unity we can get. And it starts with not seeing women purely as sexual objects. 

The release of JAY-Z’s latest album, 4:44, was just as controversial as it was inspirational. The rapper confessed about cheating on Beyoncé and asked for forgiveness from both her and their children. A little less meaningful was his reasoning behind the title. In an interview with iHeartRadio, JAY-Z said the title of the album came out of the blue. “I woke up, literally, at 4:44 in the morning, 4:44 a.m., to write this song. So it became the title of the album and everything.”

But what if there’s another reason? Get ready because it’s pretty wild.

Let’s go back to 2014, before Donald Trump became President and Beyoncé had released Lemonade. You'll probably remember Beyoncé’s younger sis Solange Knowles and JAY-Z's Met Gala elevator fight, which TMZ published video footage of. There’s no shortage of rumors about why this throwdown happened—just check out #WhatJayZSaidtoSolange if you’re interested.

But how does it relate to 4:44? PEOPLE reports that one Twitter user pointed out the hotel that houses the infamous elevator has an address of 444 West 13th Street. 444.

I'm shook, too. Nonetheless, this story might be a bit of stretch. According to Slate, only the rooftop bar—not the Standard hotel—has an address that includes 444. At the same time, I can’t help but admit this fan theory is a lot more interesting than JAY-Z’s 4:44 a.m. story.

Instagram can be great for social purposes — but it’s also the perfect place for companies and influencers to market clothes, gadgets and even health products. Your favorite celebrity may be advertising that a certain tea made them lose 10 pounds, but not all of these products live up to their miracle-making promises.

1.  Flat Tummy Tea

From the Kardashians to Snooki, it seems like the best diet trick in the celebrity world is Flat Tummy Tea. Whether they’re posing with it right before they go to bed or after their workout, this product has flooded people’s Instagram accounts.

“They contain ingredients with diuretic and laxative properties. Diuretics and laxatives are not bad for you, if you need them,” says Summer Meister, a registered nurse and nurse extern at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. “So the teas can basically dehydrate you throughout the day while they are working to get rid of your water weight. Furthermore, water weight is exactly what it sounds like: water. You will not be really losing any weight by using these teas.”

It would be great if simply drinking a tea could help everyone lose weight, but old-fashioned healthy eating and exercise may be the best alternative for your body.

2. Weight loss supplements

Progress pictures are a big part of the Instagram fitness communityand can be a great source of inspiration for those looking to lose weight or tone up. But when these progress pictures come with a blurb thanking a supplement or vitamin, you should do your research.

Taylor Denning, an EMT and physical therapist aide, says, “Honestly, some of the products are dehydrating supplements, which most people do not understand. Doing them too much or too often could result in your body going into hypovolemic shock, essentially sending your body into a low blood volume shock by dehydration.” 

If a weight loss supplement or a miracle vitamin seems like it might be legitimate, look up the ingredients and search for honest reviews.

Related: 4 Reasons Why You Aren't Seeing Fitness Results Yet

3. Waist trainers

You may have seenthese waist cinching devices sported by the Kardashians. The girdle-like wraps come in different forms — some lace up or Velcro — and they promise to give you the ultimate hourglass figure.

“Avoid trends that you see celebrities doing. More often than not, they are being paid a nice chunk of money to post five times about something they could care less about,” says Denning.

Literally sucking in your stomach with a piece of fabric may seem like the perfect way to get fit, however, you should use your intuition. Some fitness and health trends may work and be the answer to your concerns, but you should act like a skeptic whenever it comes to something that’s supposed to change your body.

4. Protein World Slender Blender

Protein shakes can be a good thing, that’s why so many people are a fan of them before and after the gym. However, the fitness community on Instagram has taken a certain liking to Protein World’s Slender Blender, which isn’t the same one your gym crush is drinking before their intense workout.

“While this one in particular does contain many vitamins and minerals, it is a meal replacement shake. When adding milk as instructed, it is higher in calories than advertised,” says Meister. “It’s always important to consider that meal replacement shakes are in a way a crash/fad diet. Most, including this one, contain high levels of caffeine which is not recommended for long periods of time.”

Not all protein shakes are bad. Do your research to find a brand that is good for the type of lifestyle you lead and one that won’t have scary long-term side effects.

5. Hair vitamins

Long hair, don’t care, right? Gummies like Sugar Bear Hair vitamins and Hair Burst vitamins seem to be the trick to luscious locks, but they really aren’t anything special.

“While the vitamins found in Sugar Bear Hair vitamins are known to help hair growth, you would probably get the same effect by taking biotin or a normal multivitamin for a cheaper price,” says Meister.

With an influencer’s coupon code, you may think you are saving big bucks, but you can save by finding a drug store alternative.

As for Hair Bursts, it seems like they are also just trendy vitamins. Meister says, “The problem is, it does not seem like it could be used as a multivitamin like Sugar Bear could. So if the ingredients don’t end up helping your hair, you’re basically wasting your money. It’s also important to note that if you eat a well-rounded and healthy diet, you can naturally get the vitamins you need for stronger, healthier hair.”

Put your credit card away for now and check out your local drugstore’s vitamin aisle to find these hair-growth solutions.

Instagram is a great place to get inspired, but not the place to take the advice of strangers. If you are interested in a health trend, do your best to find honest reviews and research the product. It will save you money, time and grief!

With the release of this year’s Common App essays on the horizon, you’re probably already thinking about the upcoming deadlines. The beginning of November usually marks the first round of application due dates. If you’re a little late to the application scene, it’s really important to distinguish between early decision and early action applications. Typically, early decision is a binding contract, meaning if the school accepts you, then you’re obligated to go. Early action, however, is just an earlier version of regular decision, and there’s no binding contract involved. If you’re unsure whether early decision is right for you, consider the following signs that you’re probably not ready for this possibly life-altering commitment.

1. The financial situation makes you nervous

No matter what kind of background you come from, financial aid can be a touchy subject for your family. The sky-high price tag of a single college semester is enough to drop a school from your application list. One of the stipulations of submitting an application by any deadline is you won’t know the financial aid package until you’re accepted.  

Becca Segel, a sophomore at Case Western Reserve University, believes that you should be wary of the monetary gamble you’re taking by applying early decision. “You don’t want to bind yourself to a school because you could also bind yourself to a certain financial plan,” she says.  “It’s possible another school would’ve offered you more money, but you’re already bound to the first school.” If you’re having second thoughts because of tuition, it’s probably best to talk to your family or college counselor before applying early decision. Money is a crucial part of the college experience, especially with the possibility of future debt accumulation. Part-time jobs, loans, and scholarships can affect the financial aid you’re stuck with if you apply early decision.

2. You’re strongly considering other schools

It’s completely possible to be in love with multiple schools, but you can’t apply to more than one for early decision. You should, however, apply to other schools via regular decision if you don’t get accepted to your early decision school.

Zaynah Javed, a freshman at the University of California, Berkeley, advises that your early decision school should rise above all the rest. “I was going through this when applying to colleges,” she says. “One sign for me was that I wasn’t absolutely in LOVE with the school. I’m naturally more logical, so I saw it as a way to increase my chances. But this was a bad way of looking at it since I came to realize that the college I wanted to apply early decision to wasn’t one I had no reservations about.”

You wouldn’t want to regret being forced to go to a school you weren’t ecstatic about attending. You’ll want to be proud of your alma mater the rest of your life. Please don’t be the student that roots for the other team at home sporting events. Chances are you’ll want to transfer if you’re cheating on your own school.

Related: What to Do if You Regret Applying Early Decision

3. It just doesn’t feel 100 percent right

Every decision in life requires at least some thought. Whether you’re deciding between desserts or colleges, you should weigh all possible choices. Casey Mullins, a sophomore at Stanford University, believes that listening to your intuition is a good way to decide if applying early decision is the best option. “I’d say that when making decisions about college, you’ve got to trust your gut,” she says. “If you find yourself constantly second guessing or questioning the school you’re thinking of applying early decision to, consider that it might be your subconscious telling you it’s not quite right,” she says. “I think the school you apply to early decision should be your first choice. It should be the place you’d never want to turn down.”

Even if you’re a strictly logical person, you should be completely comfortable with signing a binding contract. If you’re not, you might want to ponder the decision longer. Complete assurance is a sign you’re ready to commit. Anything but a good feeling should set off warning bells in your head that applying early decision isn’t the best idea.  

4. You’re going to start the application really late

Depending on your planning habits and your schedule, you could end up starting an early decision application three days before the deadline. Before you try and write 3,000 words in one night, think about the last-minute stress you’ll feel. Dr. Bari Norman, a certified educational planner and co-founder and president of Expert Admissions, advises against turning a college application into a spur-of-the-moment decision. “In an ideal world, you don’t make decisions at the very last moment. Deadlines lead us to make decisions quickly, but it’s always important to give yourself a cushion,” she says. “The only thing you can do to deal with the stress of feeling under the gun is to try your best to prepare. Be authentic to avoid feeling jittery while pressing the submit button.”

If you don’t think you can showcase your best self in your early decision application, it might be better to apply regular decision instead. While it’s difficult to finish an application only a few days before the deadline, polishing the writing portions is even more tedious.  You may skip this part altogether and miss silly typos that could come across as careless, costing you an acceptance.  

5. You’re applying for the wrong reasons

College admission often morphs into a high-pressure competition among friends and family members. For magnet high schools, an early decision acceptance is like a medal of honor. Students strive to be that top achiever that gets into all eight Ivy League schools, or really, any school they perceive to be elite. Applying early decision is a way to up increase your chances. Schools will sometimes accept more students in the first round because the applicant pool is smaller.

Kayley Miller, a sophomore at Stanford University, believes that parents should be supportive but not controlling in the college application process. “I think having an extra layer of pressure from my parents would’ve made me second guess myself,” she says. “I knew where I wanted my early decision application to go and was lucky to have parents who allowed me to send it there.”

Friends and significant others tend to also sway unsure minds when it comes to college applications. If you’re only applying early decision to a school because your best friend is dying to go there, please think twice about pressing the submit button. You may grow apart in during college or just not like the school as much as they do. Your own happiness and success should be the most important, not anybody else’s.  

Applying to college is stressful enough, but when you factor in binding deadlines, the stakes are raised even higher. If you’re considering applying to a school early decision, it’s really important to think about all possible outcomes and whether or not you’re okay with all of them. We want you to celebrate college acceptances without the burden of a million “What if?” questions zooming around in your mind. If any of these signs speak to you, take it as a reminder to think twice about hitting that final submission button.

By now, you’ve started compiling that ever-growing back to college shopping list and searching for all sorts of items online to compliment your personal style. Moving to college is a big step, and it’s also a chance to reinvent your new space and school supplies! So why settle for boring, basic gear when you could have the best products that show off your authenticity?

eBay is the only shopping destination for collegiettes who value their individuality and want products that scream "me." With everything from chic dorm decor to the latest in college fashion, eBay truly has everything a girl could need. Here are just a few of our favorite essentials! 

1. Twin XL Sheets 
   Beautiful bedding is the key decor staple that ties a room together, so make sure to pick sheets you’ll love all year long! From colorful geometric patterns to neutral, soft hues, eBay has endless sheet options so you can truly customize your space to fit your personality.
2. Laundry Hamper
   Laundry in your dorm usually mean dealing with communal, coin-operated machines, so a cute laundry basket makes this tedious chore ~so~ much more fun. eBay’s huge selection of hampers offers options for both aesthetic and productivity. Plus, who ever said you couldn’t incorporate personal style into your laundry routine?!
3. String Lights
   
   We’re all about that ambiance! Find the perfect lighting style to transform your bedroom into a reading nook or relaxing getaway from class. eBay’s dorm lighting options starts at just $5.99, so you can choose from Himalayan rock salt lamps, geometric floor lamps, white string lights and more to give your dorm or apartment that homey feel.
4. Mandala Tapestry
   Are you even a college student if you don’t have a tapestry hanging on your wall? Seriously, this is a must-have not only because it brightens up a plain dorm, but is a huge statement piece for showing others your personality. Your friends will love looking at your mandala tapestry whenever they hang out in your room! 
5. On-Trend Backpack
   Your college backpack will compliment your look every day when you go to class, so make sure to choose a bag that’s as authentic as you are! eBay has a huge selection of top brands from Herschel Supply Co. to JanSport to Toms, and you’re sure to find something to fit your needs. The only struggle? Picking just one when ALL the options are ridiculously cute!
6. Sports Apparel
   
   One of the best parts of college is the amazing sporting events. When you go back to college with eBay, you can narrow down your product search to your specific university. Talk about customization! Shop for cute NCAA apparel, and get a jump on representing your college’s team. Whether it’s a glittery Gators t-shirt or a South Carolina spirit jersey, there’s nothing like heading to the stadium in your college colors, chanting your school songs and enjoying a cheesy soft pretzel.
7. Jeans for every occasion
   Ripped, boyfriend, skinny, bootcut or flare—the world is your oyster. There’s no need to go to a department store for jeans when you can shop your favorite brands on eBay! Versatile jeans are a must for class, sorority socials and casual days at your internship, so find the perfect pair to highlight your personal style.
8. Keurig
   ​If there’s one thing you’ll learn in college, it’s that coffee is your best friend. Save some cash by skipping the Starbucks line, and instead, invest in Keurig! Not only can you brew various drink sizes, but the Keurig also creates a lot more than coffee if you’re a tea or cocoa lover. eBay has endless options so you can find the right price and look to compliment your lifestyle.
9. Apple Laptop
   
   If you’re looking for a college laptop, then eBay’s the place. You can search by family (like Air or Pro), release year, screen size, memory, hard drive capacity and condition. All those custom searches make it easy to find a laptop customized for you! From watching Netflix to writing a paper, eBay is the best place to find Apple offerings.
10. Headband Headphones
    
    College dorms aren’t known for being the quietest of places, which means a pair of headphones is a must for some noise-cancelling privacy and also for enhancing your look. Jamming to your favorite playlist just got that much more stylish, and so did listening back to important lectures or podcast for class! Plus, 80 percent of eBay’s items are new and 87 percent are Buy It Now (which means you don’t need to bid and can get it right away!) guarantees the best tech shopping experience.

Clearly, eBay really does have it all. Nowhere else will you be given such diversity in your back to college shopping experience, and the chance to pick from a range of products that truly highlight your authentic self. Happy shopping, collegiettes!