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This Spring Break Survival Kit Is #InstagramGoals

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Spring break is almost here, and while you may have your travel and relaxation plans pinned down, there’s still one more thing left on your to-do list. What’s that you ask? Making your break Instagrammable AF, of course! Whether you’re rejuvenating at home or soaking in the sand and sun, filling your feed with photo-worthy moments is obviously high priority. How else would you update your followers on your v exciting, v aesthetically pleasing lifestyle?


Thanks to our gorgeous partners, one lucky babe will win the ultimate spring break survival kit, complete with the following gifts:

For more info on how to use these products and take your Insta to the next level, read our spring break guide here. And hey, if your spring break plans include wearing sweats and never making contact with the outside world, at least you’ll have some survival kit goodies to pamper with!

This Spring Break Survival Kit Is #InstagramGoals


Adam Rippon & Mirai Nagasu Have Matching Tattoos, Because What Are Besties For?

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Olympic figure skaters Adam Rippon and Mirai Nagasu are besties, and it turns out that they have a special token to signify that bond: matching tattoos.

According to Popsugar, the two Olympians were devastated when they didn’t make the U.S. Winter Olympics team four years ago, and were eating In-N-Out burgers and watching the Sochi Opening Ceremony when Rippon brought up the idea of getting matching tattoos.

“We sat on the roof,” Rippon told Yahoo Sports at the 2018 Winter Olympics. “And we were just kind of talking, we weren’t even watching the Olympics. We were just kind of crying a little bit, and eating [In-N-Out] double-doubles and animal-style fries.”

“We were sitting up there, and we were laying back, we looked up at the sky and the stars, and we had a long talk. I remember telling her, ‘I’m so grateful you’re my friend,'” Rippon added.

It was that night that Rippon brought up getting matching tattoos. Rippon told Nagasu that she could choose the design for their friendship tattoos.

“After everything that we went through four years ago, I said, ‘I want to have a matching tattoo with you,'” Rippon recalled. “You pick what it is, and I’ll get whatever you want.”

According to Popsugar, the two friends were joking about getting the Abercrombie moose, but ultimately decided on a different design.

“Finally, she found this little symbol and it's a circle with two lines through it, and it's a glyph that means power,” Rippon told the reporter.

Rippon’s tattoo is on his inner thigh near his kneecap, and Nagasu’s is on her wrist. Rippon, who told Yahoo Sports that he has “seven or nine” tattoos, got his tattoo done in white ink to match the rest of his tattoos, and Nagasu did the same.

“It’s something really personal between me and her,” Rippon said. “There’s been a lot of ups and downs since then. To be here now, especially with her of all people, is crazy.”

This is the ultimate sign of friendship, and it’s so adorable to see Rippon gush over his friendship with Nagasu. We’ll definitely be cheering for these two Olympians at the Winter Olympics, and cheering their friendship on after the closing ceremony.

FBI Director Wray Gave New Information That Contradicts the White House on the Porter Investigation

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FBI Director Chris Wray gave new information on Tuesday to the Senate Intelligence Committee, and it directly contradicts the timeline that the White House offered regarding the departure of White House Staff Secretary Rob Porter’s departure, ABC News reports. Porter was accused of domestic abuse by two of his ex-wives.

Wray, according to NBC News, told the Senate Intelligence Committee that the FBI completed the background investigation on Porter “in late July.” Wray also told the committee that the FBI responded the White House’s request for follow-up information in November, but ultimately closed the file in January.

“We administratively closed the file in January, and then earlier this month we received some additional information and we passed that on as well,” Wray told the committee.

The timeline appeared to contradict the White House’s narrative.

Wray told the committee on Tuesday that the FBI had concluded during its investigation that Porter’s past made him ineligible for a full security clearance, meaning that he wouldn't have a multi-year security clearance, ABC News reports. Porter, however, continued to work at the White House under a temporary security clearance.

White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders told reporters on Monday, “This is a process that doesn't operate within the White House. It's handled by our law enforcement and intelligence community and we support that process. It's the same process that's been used for decades and for previous administrations and we're relying on that process at this point.” She also added that the White House “had not received any specific papers regarding the completion of that background check.”

In a press briefing on Tuesday, Sanders said that the investigation was “ongoing,” adding that the White House Personnel Security Office had received information about Porter from the FBI last year, but it had not yet given a final recommendation to the White House on Porter’s security clearance, NBC News reports.

“The White House Personnel Security Office, staffed by career officials, received information last year in what they considered to be the final background investigation in November. But they had not made a final recommendation for adjudication to the White House, because the process was still ongoing when Rob Porter resigned,” Sanders said.

Deputy White House Press Secretary Raj Shah told reporters last Thursday, which was Porter’s last day at the White House, that Porter’s background investigation was still ongoing with the FBI, NBC News reports.

According to ABC News, the FBI Director’s testimony to the Senate Intelligence Committee undermines the White House’s defense of Porter, especially Shah’s statement last Thursday that it would have been premature to make a final decision on Porter’s security clearance when the investigation was still ongoing.

It can take several months to receive clearance, but the president has the authority to grant clearance to his staff members while the FBI investigates. According to NBC News, there are currently 30 to 40 White House officials operating under interim security clearances, including President Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner.

The 20 Stages of Valentine's Day, As Told by Single Ladies

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Valentine's Day is all candy hearts, Cupid and PDA — at least, if you ask taken people (and really, aren't they the worst kind?). Let's get real: Valentine's Day is WAY more than nomming on chocolates and asking yourself how you got so lucky to be in love. Want the real story? Ask a single girl. These are the true stages of Valentine's Day, as told by single ladies (the ones who really get what's going on here).

1. Spring semester starts off so well — you're finally back on campus with the girls, single and *~~loving it~~*

2. Seriously, there's never been a better time to be single in the history of ever.You don't even realize you're being lulled into a false sense of security!

3. And then suddenly you start seeing pink and red hearts in CVS, and the Internet is blowing up about #ValentinesDay.

Are we really going to do this now?

4. You're really good at hiding your thoughts on the matter.

JK, you couldn't keep quiet if your life depended on it.

5. At first, your confidence pumps into overdrive. Who needs love anyway? You've got your friends, Nutella and most importantly, Netflix.

6. …But then you realize everyone is making plans for the big day. Best of all? They won't stop talking about it.

7. When they do finally take a breath, they ask you how you're feeling.

And you're like, I'm sorry, I didn't realize I was coming down with a serious case of Single-itis. Thanks for checking on me every five minutes, guys! Super helpful!

8. You start to question everything.Will you be single forever? Is it a bad sign that you love looking at cat pictures? WHAT DOES IT MEAN?!

9. Why does this holiday even exist?!

10. You decide it's time to take action. It's Friday night, and time is running out— the hunt for your Valentine is on.

11. There are like 50 bajillion PDA couples in your way all night.

Don't they know this bar is for singles only?!

12. FINALLY you spot some gorgeous beauty across the room. Now that's the V-Day candy you were looking for!

13. …But then they speak.

Oh, right — that's why you wanted to be single in the first place, duh.

14. The big day arrives. Valentine's Day is here!

Singles Awareness Day has never been so real.

15. But wait it's not too late to celebrate Galentine's Day! Okay so that was supposed to be yesterday, but you were busy hunting valentines, obviously.

16. What's so wrong with friends, Nutella and Netflix anyway? TBH that sounds WAY better than romance, candlelight and uncomfortably tight date dresses.

17. You and your fellow single besties proceed to watch chick flick after chick flick.

Why didn't you think of this before?!

18. You're also defying all stereotypes by not eating Ben & Jerry's, so you're definitely in the clear… LOL JK you've eaten a whole pint #sorrynotsorry.

19. You remember that tomorrow is just another day a day when you can look at cat pictures again without feeling an impending sense of doom. And they're so freaking cute!

THEY'RE JUST SO FLUFFY WHY COULDN'T THEY BE YOUR VALENTINES?!

20. And then the realization hits: It'll be another year before happy couples can show off again. Tomorrow, your single lady reign begins again!

HC Wake-Up Call: Shaun White Scores 3rd Olympic Halfpipe Title, Second Judge Blocks Trump from Ending DACA Program & AG Jeff Sessions Makes Reference to Anglo-American Heritage of Law Enforcement

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Good morning, Her Campus! With a break-neck news cycle, there is no possible way for you to stay on top of every story that comes across your feeds—we’re all only human, after all.

But, life comes at you fast. So grab a cup of coffee and settle in for this quick and dirty guide to stories you might’ve been sleeping on (like, literally. It’s early.)

Snowboarder Superstar Shaun White Takes the Gold

Shaun White, a snowboarder legend, scored his third Olympic halfpipe title, and third overall gold medal, ABC News reports. He is now the third American male to win a gold medal at three separate Winter Olympics, and his win marks the 100th overall gold medal for Team USA at the Winter Olympics.

When talking about if he knew he would perform well and win, White said, “I honestly knew I had it,” White said. “I knew I had to put it down.”

After snowboarding rising star Ayumu Hirano had snatched the lead from White’s hand during the halfpipe final, White’s Olympic legacy was at risk. But White delivered, performing flawless tricks, like back-to-back 1440s, which according to ABC News, White has never landed in any competition prior to the finals.

White ended up scoring a 97.75, more than two points ahead of Hirano and six points ahead of Australian snowboarder Scotty James, ABC News reports.

White ended the 2014 Winter Olympics in disappointment when he came in fourth place, and also had a crash in New Zealand last fall that required surgery, but he came back to take the gold.

“What can I say? I won the Olympics,” White said. “Three gold medals. I was just hoping they'd give it to me. I was pretty sure I put it down but it took a little while. Just trying not to make eye contact with the judges.”

While rising stars like Hirano are ready to challenge White, it looks like they can’t take him down just yet.

Another Judge Blocks President Trump From Ending DACA

A second U.S. judge has blocked President Trump’s decision to end DACA, the program meant to protect immigrants brought to the United States as children from being deported, NBC News reports.  

U.S. District Judge Nicholas Garaufis in Brooklyn ruled that DACA cannot end in March like planned.

Garaufis said that the Trump administration could eventually phase out DACA, but the reasoning that it provided last year for ending the program was too arbitrary and could not stand, NBC News reports.

The judge ordered that the government process requests for DACA status, as well as renewal requests, as it would have prior to its announcement that it would end the program.   

The Supreme Court is to announce on Friday if it will take up the Trump administration’s appeal of a San Francisco ruling in which a judge ruled that DACA must stay in place while litigation over the decision to end the program unfolds, NBC News reports.

AG Jeff Sessions Makes Reference to Anglo-American Heritage of Law Enforcement

Attorney General Jeff Sessions, veering from a prepared speech, said to a group of sheriffs from around the country that “the office of sheriff is a critical part of the Anglo-American heritage of law enforcement,” The Washington Post reports.

The comment immediately drew outrage from members of Congress and the NAACP, which said that the comment was “racially tinged” and “should give all people reason to worry.”

According to The Post, the phrase has been said before by other officials and refers to the legal heritage shared by the United States and England.

However, the comment drew outrage primarily because Sessions is a former Republican senator from Alabama who faced questions about race throughout his political career.

Allegations regarding racially charged comments cost Sessions a judgeship in the 1980s, according to The Post, and civil rights groups have claimed that Sessions may be racially insensitive, especially since he has rolled back Obama-era policies that were meant to reform criminal justice.

The NAACP said this was just the latest of Sessions’ derogatory remarks and called it “an unfortunate yet consistent aspect of the language coming out of the Department of Justice under his tenure.”

What to look out for…

BoxLunch has a brand new “Mulan” collection, and it most definitely brings honor to us all.

'Get Out' Is Returning To Select Theaters Nationwide For Free On Presidents' Day

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Jordan Peele, Get Out's writer and director, has said before that the film isn't meant to be viewed at home. "If you don't see it with the theater energy, you'll miss the full intended experience," Peele tweeted. So if you missed the opportunity to catch Get Out in theaters, you may have another chance.

Peele and Universal Pictures announced on Tuesday that 55 AMC theaters across the country will offer free screenings of the film on Monday, February 19 — a.k.a. Presidents' Day. 

"When Jordan approached us about a way to thank fans one year after the release of Get Out, we thought a Presidents' Day screening during Black History Month would be a wonderful way to commemorate the film's impact,"said Jim Orr, Universal Pictures' president of distribution. "The success of his stunning vision would not have been possible without the audience's passion for both Get Out's groundbreaking storytelling and its deft use of art as society's mirror." 

Peele can be seen in a new Twitter video, explaining that both he and Universal Pictures wanted to "give something back" to fans. He reiterated the importance of seeing the film in theaters rather than anywhere else. "It's all about that theatrical experience," he said. 

"Enjoy it with other people. Get ready to use your voices. I don't care if you've seen it one time, two times, three times, if you bring somebody who's never seen it and you watch them watch it— whatever!" Peele said. 

Visit GetOutOneYearLater.com to see if a theater near you is participating. 

A Utah Elementary School Is In Trouble For Holding A Dance Where Students Can't Say 'No' To Dance Requests

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An elementary school in Utah is in trouble with parents after kids were told they couldn’t turn down another student's dance request during the Valentine’s Day dance.

Local news station KSTU reports that Kanesville Elementary School in Ogden, Utah, holds a Valentine’s Day dance every year for the sixth graders. While this seems normal, a rule has been made public that if someone is asked to dance, they have to say yes. One mother, Natalie Richard, told KSTU that after her daughter said she couldn’t say "no" at the dance, she went to both the teacher and the principal to learn more.

“He basically just said they’ve had this dance set up this way for a long time and they’ve never had any concern before,” Richard said to KSTU about the principal’s response. She then said that kids are getting the wrong message and they need to learn about rejection — accepting it and doing it.

The Weber School District sent a statement to CNN about how the dance works. Lane Findlay, community relations specialist, said the policy is meant to be inclusive and promote kindness towards other students. Attendance is voluntary, but strongly encouraged by the school, and Findlay described in the statement how students are asked to fill out cards before the dance with the names of classmates they want to dance with, half girls and half boys.

“If there are students that are uncomfortable or have a problem with another student, that’s certainly something that can be addressed with that student and parents,” said Findlay to KSTU. However, because of the policy coming to light, it is being changed.

“We are re-examining the procedures surrounding these dances and will make any necessary changes to promote a positive environment where all students feel included and empowered in their choices,” the statement to CNN said. After talking to the principal, Richard said to KSTU that permission slips will also be sent out to parents with the instructions given to students.

In the wake of the #MeToo movement and teaching children they have control over their own bodies, it is important to remember that while we should be kind to others and respect their boundaries; we should also remember how some messages can be internalized in the wrong way.

A Man Is Dead After Reportedly Breaking Into A YouTuber Couple's Home With A Weapon

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Christopher Giles reportedly drove 11 hours from New Mexico to break into the Austin, Texas home of YouTube stars Gavin Free and Meg Turney with the “intent to cause harm to someone who resides there,” according to the Albuquerque Journal

Free and Turney have about a million followers between Instagram and YouTube. KVUE reported that Giles had developed an infatuation with Turney overtime, which led to building resentment for her boyfriend. The YouTube stars were awakened by a gunshot and breaking glass at around 4 a.m., so they called the police and hid in the master bedroom closet.

 University of Texas Associate Professor and expert on social media and psychology, Dr. Angeline Close Scheinbaum, told KVUE that this situation seems to fit the definition of parasocial interaction.

“It's when a real consumer, a real person has a relationship that's real to them, but the kicker is it's not normal at all because it's one sided."

NY Daily News writes that the home’s security footage captured Giles with a gun searching for the couple. When he couldn’t find them, he left. When police arrived, Giles was backing out of the couple’s driveway when the police heard another gunshot. Giles is believed to have died from a self-inflicted gun shot wound.

In an affidavit obtained by the Albuquerque Journal, a detective wrote, “Based upon the known circumstances and investigative findings, your affiant is led to believe that evidence related to the planned burglary and homicides of Megan Turney and Gavin Free will be found.”

Free and Turney are unharmed, according to NY Daily News, and have since posted an update to their fans via Free's Twitter. 

(Photo Credit: Cover)


11 Sephora Hacks That Every College Girl Needs to Know

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Most of us love our makeup, but the cost begins to add up after a while. From snatching up the newest matte lip, to updating your mascara, lookin' good doesn't come cheap. But there are tricks to getting the most out of your dollar. So we gathered some helpful tips to help you get all you can out of the wonderful world of Sephora. We're revealing the immense, unhidden rewards on the Sephora Beauty Insider site alongside some insider tricks straight from the mouths of Sephora-lovers themselves—you will definitely want to take notes. 

1. Become a Beauty Insider

The Beauty Insider program is the rewards program for Sephora stores, where you earn points on everything you buy and get sweet rewards. You can get free makeovers, take some free classes and even get free stuff on your birthday. This is a definite first step to getting all you can from Sephora.

2. Birthday goodies

You will for sure want to go in for some b-day love during your birthday month. Claire Biggerstaff, sophomore at Davidson College, says that “if you come in on your birthday, you get a really cool grab bag of several high end product samples for free (I got 2 Nars Lip Crayons in mine)!”  Nothing like a little pampering on your special day.

3. Sign up for a free class in your area

Every Beauty Insider can take advantages of local classes on topics ranging from contouring and highlighting, to how to do your brows, to skincare solutions. So definitely get in on as many of these as you have time for. You too can become a beauty expert.

4. Use your points like a boss

Another way to use your Beauty Insider Account with finesse is to look at your points like they are an investment into something amazing, rather than simply a way to get free stuff. Here are few ways to grow your points and get something that will be worth the wait.

Related article: 8 Sephora Brands You Don’t Know (But Should)

5. Save up

Boston University junior, Savanna Takakoli, says that “[w]hen it comes to points, people are usually tempted to spend them on the monthly sample-sized products that can cost up to 100 points. What people don't know is that Sephora sometimes partners with other companies (especially around the holidays) to offer point-redeemable gifts like a trip to Paris, private nighttime makeup classes in the store, or lunch with a prominent clothing designer. Unless you're in love with a product, I recommend not spending your points on the smaller monthly items.” Let’s face it, saving up has always a good idea and now you know a little some of what you can do with what you save if you are patient. 

6. Be patient

Not everyone knows, but in the sales world, prices fluctuate.  What is regularly priced this week, may be on sale next week. Savanna reiterates that “it's really important that you don't throw all your money at a hot new product. Chances are, that limited edition Urban Decay palette is going to be on sale in a few months.” Yet another reason patience is a virtue. 

7. Buy gift sets

It’s a pretty well-known fact that often, when you bundle things you get a sweeter deal than when you purchase singular items. This is why it is super smart to buy gift sets because they are basically a bundle of the products you love at an already-discounted price. Even better if you can get them free with your points. Savannah recommends “buying gift sets from your favorite brands,” such as the Fresh line or Bumble and Bumble—both current rewards that you can get from 500-750 points, “as opposed to individual products. You get a lot more for your money and they usually all go on sale around the holidays so they're great if you're on a budget.” Saving has never been so sweet.  Now, for more free stuff…

8. Samples, samples, samples

Perhaps one of the sweetest perks of this store is its samples! As possibly the leading beauty giant in the world, Sephora expects clients to find their perfect products simply by trying things out with the help of trained experts. Claire says, “I would highly recommend asking employees if they can offer any samples. It’s a great way to try a product you might not have heard of before, and they’re free!”

Polli Guerrero, a Texas AMU alumna, encourages not to “buy travel sized samples, get a free one from an employee. Even skincare and  fragrances you can sample most of the time. Just ask! If there's a certain product you wanna try (like an expensive foundation you're not sure about) ask them for a sample. Or you can say things like ‘I really want to try some new charcoal masks, do you have any I can sample?’ Or ‘can I try some of these Murad products?’ They're also supposed to give you three samples automatically when checking out. If they don't, just ask for them. Sometimes they're busy or they forget." 

Don’t be afraid to ask if you really want to try something or more than one thing. Here’s to finding your perfect match.

9. Try the Sephora brand

Sephora has their “own brand of makeup, brushes, and skin care. They have a lot of good dupes for more expensive products, and their sheet masks are the BOMB,” Polli says.  Now, if you’re wondering what a dupe is, Claire Biggerstaff says it is “basically just a cheaper (and just as well performing) alternative to a more expensive product of the same type. A couple of other [dupe brand] examples would be “NYX Hydra Touch Primer ($14) instead of Smashbox’s Photo Finish Hydrating Primer ($42), E.L.F.’s Blush in Pinched ($3) instead of NARS Blush in Orgasm ($30), and Maybelline’s The Blushed Nudes Eye Palette ($10) instead of Urban Decay’s Naked 3 Palette ($54).” 

10. Take advantage of slower hours

Stephanie Huynh, a freshman at Lehigh University found that if you head in on a weekday when things are less busy “[t]he workers are much more willing to assist you. They helped me find the best face wash I've ever used. In case you're wondering, it's Korres Greek Yoghurt Foaming Cleanser. It's great for super sensitive skin.” This is also the perfect time to sample to your heart’s content.

11. Follow on social media

Follow Sephora on social media channels to get even more discounts, since they post occasional coupons on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Also, their social media is a great place to check out new products and get a feel for what you might want to try out in the future and to hear some sweet advice from the founder. 

So, whether you are a Sephora fanatic or you are just now getting into using makeup and want to find the best products for you, I hope you find these hints helpful as you dive into the world of your own beauty.  Go on with your beautiful self.

Paris Hilton Released A New Single Today — Here's What Was Happening In Pop Culture When She First Dropped An Album

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With another Valentine’s Day upon us, we finally get the excuse to lay in bed and eat chocolate truffles for hours on end completely guilt-free. If you’re looking for a new jam to add to your celebratory playlist, Paris Hilton released a catchy single, appropriate titled “I Need You,” just in time for the romantic holiday.

It has been twelve years since the release of her self-titled debut album that left the world wanting more from the heiress. The first single off the album, “Stars Are Blind," peaked at number 18 in June 2006 and reached the top 20 in eight other countries that year. 

So, what else was happening in pop culture?

1. Beyoncé embraced her solo career and released “Irreplaceable”

After performing with Destiny’s Child for more than 15 years, Queen B released one of her most iconic hits following the group’s disbandment in mid-2005.

2. Alexis Bledel and Milo Ventimiglia decided to called it quits


Gilmore Girls brought them together and kept them that way for more than four years. We’re definitely all still sobbing as we binge watch it on Netflix for the fifth time.

3. Justin Timberlake literally brought “SexyBack”

His latest performance during Halftime at the Superbowl this month had us reminiscing about the good old glory days of his first number-one single on the Billboard Hot 100.

4. High School Musical debuted on Disney Channel and changed lives forever


Do you feel old yet? Watching Troy and Gabriella soar and fly at least once a year will keep you from realizing just how many years have passed since the movie’s making.

5. Taylor Swift entered the music world and never looked back

Dedicated Swifties everywhere probably remember the first time they heard “Tim McGraw” on the radio. Seven albums and countless awards later, and we’re still jamming hard.

There's a Powerful Political Message Behind the Dress in Michelle Obama's Official White House Portrait

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The Obama family has undoubtedly left a positive legacy on this country that will be difficult to compete with, but luckily they haven't fallen out of the spotlight just yet. Barack and Michelle's official White House portraits were recently unveiled, and our kween Michelle's portrait is as unique, innovative and powerful as you would expect. Artist Amy Sherald painted the Former First Lady sitting in an outstanding statement dress designed by Milly co-Founder and creative director Michelle Smith, and the messaging here goes deeper than you can imagine. The dress came inspired by a similar gown from Smith's spring 2017 collection, highlighting chic geometric stripes complemented by a halter neckline – totally something we could imagine Michelle Obama wearing on a typical day. What the image and dress bring is an overall modern addition to the collection of presidential portraits, and also political significancy that continues the urgency of the Obama's time in office. 

 

DESIGNING THE DRESS ❤️ Many of you have asked to see the original sketch I created of Mrs. Obama's portrait dress. Here she is! If you scroll the carousel you will also see a runway image of the MILLY dress which inspired my creation for Mrs. Obama’s custom-made dress. One of the greatest rewards of being a fashion designer is when an idea comes to life. I love the entire process- from the original idea in my head, to sketching it out on paper in 2 dimensions, then creating a drape of the sketch in three dimensions, then creating a paper pattern from that drape, cutting the dress in the real fabric, sewing it up and then letting that baby out into the world, and seeing it on a person! This went waaaaay beyond that! This one ended up on the former First Lady! Mrs Obama wearing MILLY for her official portrait is the ultimate honor...She's such an intelligent, warm, genuinely beautiful person inside and out. I cannot wait to take my kids to the @smithsoniannpg to see @asherald 's beautiful painting, and I hope they will one day take their children. And their grand children. And their great-grandchildren! It feels amazing and humbling to be a tiny part of the beautiful Obama legacy. Thank you @michelleobama @asherald and @meredithkoop ❤️❤️❤️xoxo @michelleunzipped #obamaportrait

A post shared by MILLY Michelle Smith (@milly) on

Original sketch of Michelle Obama's portrait dress – Michelle Smith / Instagram

Fun fact: These are the first-ever White House portraits to be painted by African-American artists. And, according to The Washington Post, the original Milly runway gown the dress derived from was inspired by Michelle Smith's “desire for equality, equality in human rights, racial equality, LGBTQ equality.” We love that – in traditional Michelle Obama style – even her immortalized dress and portrait will be embedded with significance and political messaging. 

Amy Sherald also commented on her interpretationof the dress during the unveiling. “Milly’s design also resembles the inspired quilt masterpieces made by the women of Gee’s Bend, a small remote black community in Alabama where they compose quilts in geometries that transform clothes and fabric remnants into masterpieces.” 

We lowkey miss Mrs. Obama every freaking day, but we're so glad this portrait is around to reign supreme and prove that her influence extends beyond her time in the White House. The Obama fam has always been breaking boundaries and influencing change, and this is just another testament to that fact.

Mary-Kate & Ashley Olsen Gave NYFW Attendees Healing Crystals, Obviously

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New York Fashion Week never ceases to surprise me. From daring fashion to spotting Cardi B and Anna Wintour rubbing shoulders in the crowd, anything can happen. Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen took this in stride and surprised guests of their fall 2018 show in the best way possible (and ICYMI, they have their own label called "The Row"). Instead of throwing out the typical gifts, the former child stars treated guests to a little ~zen~. According toThe Cut, attendees witnessed not just crystal-inspired fashion, but were also gifted healing crystals themselves. 

First, derived from the crystal’s neutral tones and unique shapes, models dodged through crystal-esque sculptures as they sported shades of cream, grey and muted green.

 

Can the next Winter be here already? // The Row Fall 2018 via @cupro_

A post shared by Nadine R. Baltazar (@nadinebaltazar) on

 

@therow Fall 2018.

A post shared by Mariam Zumbadze (@mariamzumbadze) on

Meanwhile, the crowd found some of their own crystal magic with black tourmaline and clear quartz! The twins were also sure to inform any healing newbies of how to treat their new crystals, encouraging them to “cover and soak in salt water for 24 hours.” This practice, according to The Hoodwitch is “intended to cleanse the stone of its stored energies, both good and bad, which can be released again by the stone at any time and once it becomes loaded with energy.” Just FYI, it's v important to cleanse the crystals so that you can put your own intentions onto them. 

Image via Stella Bugbee / Instagram

Honestly, I’m not sure if I’m now more inclined to go out and buy healing crystals, or if I should save up to stock my closet with all of this gorgeous clothing. Either way, I'm happy to see the Olsen gals rocking fashion week with such a unique gift set.

Header Image: Mary-Kate & Ashley Olsen / The Row

John Mayer Crediting His Perfect Skin to Loneliness Is Such a Valentine's Day Mood 

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Apparently there’s good news for those of us who are single on Valentine’s Day (and every other day of the year). As recently discovered by John Mayer, our single status could be the key to flawless skin. In an Instagram story posted on Monday, Mayer revealed that his buttery smooth skin is so flawless because he doesn’t love anyone. “I don’t smoke and I don’t drink anymore and I don’t go out in the sun and I don’t eat and I don’t love anybody,” he explains in his video.

Clearly, this is going high up on our Valentine's Day mood board. While Mayer’s age-defying dermis could be the product of his loveless life because it can be difficult to find that special someone when you have a racist past, it also helps that he has an expensive skincare routine. According to The Cut, his daily routine includes Natural Bissé Diamond Life Infusion cream, Diamond Extreme EyecreamC+C Vitamin Complex and Diamond Mist to help amplify his clear complexion. I'm jealous AF about all those products.

For real though, although John Mayer’s loneliness might not be able to take all of the credit for his smooth skin, he still might be onto something. After all, relationships can be stressful. Even if you aren’t in a relationship and you’re just stuck in that awkward pre-DTR limbo, dealing with fuckboys is enough to put the calmest person under some serious mental pressure. Not only can stress give you mental fatigue, it can also stress out your pores in the form of stress pimples. While Teen Vogue explains that there are several ways to clear up your stress breakouts, the best way is just to eliminate any excessive stress from your life. So kick those emotionally detached men out of your inbox, and live your glorious life with clear skin. Thanks for the V-Day inspo, John.

At Least One Person Is Dead & Up To 20 Reportedly Injured After A Shooting At A Florida High School

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The Broward Sheriff office confirmed that they were responding to reports of a shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School near Parkland, Florida early on Wednesday afternoon where there were reports of an unknown number of victims and a shooter still at large.

The Miami Herald reported around 4 p.m. on Wednesday that Margate Fire Chief Dan Booker confirmed his department was responding to a mass casualty incident with at least one death and more than 20 injured. Although he said he couldn't confirm how many were shot and how many were injured or killed. CNBC reports that a suspect, reportedly a man wearing a burgundy shirt, was taken into custody by authorities shortly before 4 p.m.

Sen. Bill Nelson of Florida also said there were "a number of fatalities" in an interview with MSNBC Wednesday afternoon.

According to reports from the Sun-Sentinel, a spokesperson for the Broward School District said that staff and students were alerted to a "code red" lock down around dismissal time (2:40 p.m.) after gun shots were heard.

Coral Springs police also tweeted that the area surrounding the school was locked down and discouraged people from attempting to get to the school. 

According to CNN affiliate WSVN, students at Stoneman thought that the gunshots were initially part of a prank or that it was part of a fire drill. 

“We all thought it was a fire drill because we had one previously today,” one student told WSVN “And we thought it was so no one was that nervous, but then word started going around that it was shots and not just like something else, everyone just started running towards the canal.”

Gun safety advocacy group Everytown for Gun Safety cited this as the 18th school shooting in 2018 alone in a tweet Wednesday afternoon.

Her Campus will continue to update this story as more develops.

A 'Number Of Fatalities'& Up To 14 People Reportedly Injured After A Shooting At A Florida High School

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The Broward Sheriff office confirmed that they were responding to reports of a shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School near Parkland, Florida early on Wednesday afternoon where there were reports of an unknown number of victims and a shooter still at large.

The Miami Herald reported around 4 p.m. on Wednesday that Margate Fire Chief Dan Booker confirmed his department was responding to a mass casualty incident with at least one death and more than 14 injured. Although he said he couldn't confirm how many were shot and how many were injured or killed. CNBC reported that a suspect, reportedly a man wearing a burgundy shirt, was taken into custody by authorities shortly before 4 p.m. The Miami Herald reported that the suspect had been identified as former student, 19-year-old Nicolas de Jesus Cruz.

Sen. Bill Nelson of Florida also said there were "a number of fatalities" in an interview with MSNBC Wednesday afternoon.

According to reports from the Sun-Sentinel, a spokesperson for the Broward School District said that staff and students were alerted to a "code red" lock down around dismissal time (2:40 p.m.) after gun shots were heard.

Coral Springs police also tweeted that the area surrounding the school was locked down and discouraged people from attempting to get to the school. 

According to CNN affiliate WSVN, students at Stoneman thought that the gunshots were initially part of a prank or that it was part of a fire drill. 

“We all thought it was a fire drill because we had one previously today,” one student told WSVN “And we thought it was so no one was that nervous, but then word started going around that it was shots and not just like something else, everyone just started running towards the canal.”

Gun safety advocacy group Everytown for Gun Safety cited this as the 18th school shooting in 2018 alone in a tweet Wednesday afternoon.

Update 4:35 p.m. EST:  The Broward Sheriff's office tweeted that there were "at least 14 victims" who were being treated at Broward Health Medical Center and Broward Health North hospital.

The Sheriff's office also said via Twitter that "The shooter was not a current student."

Her Campus will continue to update this story as more develops.


Trump Says His Food Stamps Program Would Be Like 'Blue Apron'& Food Advocates Are Angry As Hell 

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The Trump Administration released a proposed budget on Monday that would gut SNAP benefits by $17.2 billion in 2019, which is roughly 22 percent of the program’s total cost, according to NBC News.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), funded through tax payer dollars, assists low-income families by giving them a monthly food allowance — what's commonly known as food stamps.

The food stamp program assists more than 16 million households and director of the Office of Management and Budget, Mick Mulvaney told reporters that under the proposed plan, half of SNAP recipients will have half of their benefits go toward a food delivery box, called America’s Harvest Box.

Mulvaney said, “What we do is propose that, for folks who are on food stamps — part, not all — part of their benefits come in the actual sort of — and I don't want to steal somebody's copyright — but a Blue Apron-type program where you actually receive the food instead of receive the cash.”

Proponents of the plan have argued that all food placed in the box would be American grown and Sonny Perdue, the agriculture secretary said, “It maintains the same level of food value as SNAP participants currently receive, provides states flexibility in administering the program, and is responsible to the taxpayers.”

The program would also allow states to determine what food they distribute within the program.

However, Democratic lawmakers are boldly denouncing the plan and Representative Jim McGovern of Massachusetts tweeted, “This sounds like something from the Great Depression, not 2018" and took issue with the lack of fresh produce that would be available to recipients.

Representative Barbra Lee of California said she raised her children on food stamps and has stated the idea is offensive. She tweeted, “As a single mother who relied on food stamps to help feed my boys, I can’t overstate how offensive this proposal is…Low-income families need more access to fresh produce & healthy foods, not less.”

The new plan will limit food choices for recipients and cut funding, which ultimately strips recipients of what little resources they already have. 

Chloe Kim Tweeted While Competing In The Olympics & It Was Truly Inspirational 

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In case you’ve been living under a rock, the 2018 Winter Olympic Games have been underway, and the athletes competing have been nothing short of inspirational.

On Tuesday, 17-year old Chloe Kim captured first place in the women’s halfpipe producing the greatest run in Olympic history, according to The Telegraph. But what might be more amazing is what Kim did during her runs.

In true millennial style, Kim pulled out her phone in between her runs and tweeted, “Could be down for ice cream.” (Another Twitter user, of course, clocked her for tweeting by asking "Aren't you competing right now?" to which she replied "yes..."

And the following day, during her runs, tweeted, “Wish I finished my breakfast sandwich but my stubborn self decided not to and now I’m getting hangry.”  She then placed her headphones back in her ears and performed a gold medal-worthy performance.

What might be even more impressive was her overall score of 98.25 which was barely rivaled by a second-place finish by China’s Jiayu Liu at 89.75.

Kim, daughter of a South Korean immigrant, was introduced to the sport when her dad took her along as a decoy in hopes to get her mother to learn how to board, according to The Washington Post. One day on the slopes and Kim knew she had found her passion.

Kim’s emotional medal ceremony at the 2018 Winter Games and outstanding performance shows she’s far from normal, even her Twitter suggests otherwise. 

The Obama's Valentine's Day Posts Are Always Romantic AF & This Year They Totally Didn't Disappoint

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Today is Valentine's Day. It's probably pretty hard to miss that since drugstores and your weekly Target runs have been infiltrated by candy hearts, splashes pink, red, purple and white on everything and large displays of cards, bags and teddy bears for well over a month. Your Instagram/Facebook/Twitter feeds are filled to the brim with posts of precious love stories or bitter, joyful or sad single posts. This could either make one truly happy or easily annoyed.

But I think there's one thing everyone can agree on this Valentine's Day: The sweet, sweet love between Michelle and Barack Obama gets us every time.

Yes, like they do every year, they put their love on display for all of the world to see (and envy!).

First, there was Barack's post, simple and tooth-rotteningly sweet he shared a photo of himself and Michelle writing "you make every day and every place better." 

Not to be outdone, Michelle went the extra mile and tweeted out a sweet message of her own (with a nice little surprise at the end).

According to The Verge, the playlist Michelle curated in honor of Bo is an eclectic mix of tracks that illuminate Michelle's true affections for her husband.

The playlist, titled "Forever Mine" has tracks like "Can't Get Enough of Your Love, Babe" by Barry White, "At Last" by Etta James, which holds a special place in the couple's hearts as they danced to Beyonce's rendition during his inauguration ball, "I Found You" by Alabama Shakes, "Until the End of Time" by Justin Timberlake, which he recently performed as part of his Super Bowl halftime show, "Maggie May" by Rod Stewart and so many more.

The track-list shows that the Obamas have diverse and bangin' taste in music. There are classics, pop, hip hop, R&B and even some EDM. And, of course, no playlist complete without Rihanna —which I'm glad Michelle understood.

If nothing else has you swooning this Valentine's Day, take a look at this playlist Michelle has curated for Barack as you scroll through a Google image gallery of their finest moments together. Which basically means all of their moments together because they are the epitome of love and adoration and the definition of what a strong, healthy and successful marriage looks like.

Congratulations on your love, Michelle and Barack. When will you release your book on love so the rest of us can be as happy as you two are?

(Happy Valentine's Day, everyone! Remember candy will be on sale tomorrow!)

Trump's Lawyer Claimed That He Personally Paid Stormy Daniels $130,000 & That It Had Nothing To Do With The Alleged Affair

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After the Wall Street Journalreported that President Donald Trump had allegedly previously had an affair with adult film star Stormy Daniels (whose real name is Stephanie Clifford) in 2006 after meeting at a celeb golf outing, the White House fervently denied that any such encounter occurred.

However, Michael Cohen, one of many personal lawyers to Trump, admitted that a month before the 2016 election, he paid Clifford a lump sum of $130,000, according to a report from The New York Times on Wednesday.

In a statement to the Times, Cohen admitted to making the payment but said he will not disclose the reasoning as to why the star was paid such a large sum in the first place.

ABC News reports Cohen as saying, "Neither the Trump Organization nor the Trump campaign was a party to the transaction with Ms. Clifford, and neither reimbursed me for the payment, either directly or indirectly."

It seems rather bizarre that one of Trump's lawyers would randomly, for unspecified reasons, decide to quietly give Daniels $130,000 a month before the election.  He goes on to say that the payment was "lawful" and "was not a campaign contribution or a campaign expenditure by anyone."

While Clifford had previously candidly discussed details of the alleged affair, she most recently (as of the end of January) denied that it had occurred at all, perthe Washington Post.

Though Cohen maintains that the payment was a private transaction, the legal concerns aren't soothed just yet. As Paul S. Ryan, vice president of litigation and policy at Common Cause, said in a statement to Vox: “Any payment by a person such as Cohen on behalf of or in consultation with a candidate to influence an election is an in-kind ‘contribution’ to the candidate under campaign finance law subject to a $2,700 limit and disclosure requirements,” he said. “Questions about the payment and the circumstances behind it must be answered and they must be answered under oath."

7 Celebrity-Approved Brands You Can Actually Afford

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Celebrity style inspo is every collegiette’s favorite way to refresh her wardrobe and that Instagram envy can be very real. But dressing like your favorite starlet on a college girl budget isn’t the easiest thing to pull off. That’s why we’ve done the hard work for you. Here are seven celebrity-approved brands that will keep your IG feed looking sharp and still leave you with enough funds to binge on chicken nuggets. Plus, since a lot of these brands are up and coming you’ll have all your besties wondering where you found your unique new pieces.

1. Tee Ink

This laid back new Australian brand is making waves and Miley Cyrus is playing in them. The swimwear line caught the singer’s attention and she looked stellar in this white bikini at the beach  The brand offers high quality fabrics and styles for both men and women all while keeping the prices accessible to the everyday Miley fan. If you’re looking for a refresh for your spring wardrobe try infusing some Australian cool into your style with this fun brand.

2. I.am.gia

 

GIA| @fengfan_x wears the Cobain overalls in check | Online Now | #IAMGIA

A post shared by I.AM.GIA (@i.am.gia.thelabel) on

This overnight fashion success story gained popularity on social media after style icons and all-around cool girls showed off some of their pieces on the streets last year. It has gained a cult following among celebrities including the likes of Kaia Gerber, Jordyn Woods and Bella Hadid . The best part? Nothing is priced over $200, so you can stay chic and on budget. The Australian label is always changing up their fashions, but they give off a street style vibe that adds flavor to any closet. There’s still one question though: who is Gia?

3. Meshki

Superstar model Ashley Graham has had a record year and her style is a huge part of her success. But, Ashley isn’t afraid to go back to basics and Meshki is the perfect brand for the job. The model showed off her curves in the minimalist Australian label wearing a simple all-white crop top and matching skirt. You’d never guess the whole look cost under $100 and that’s just how Ashley wants it. Style gang Hailey Baldwin, Kylie Jenner, and Taylor Swift have all rocked Meshki styles as well.

4. Pretty Little Thing

Channel your inner VS Angel with this fun and flirty brand. Stella Maxwell approves and has been spotted in some stylish pieces by the feminine label. Looking runway ready as always. Victoria Justice is another supporter of the brand and showed off in a sequin minidress. But, you don’t have to make a supermodel’s salary to get the look. The site has many affordable and chic options for the college girl budget. The amazing fit and girly styles are perfect for almost any occasion.

5. K/lab

Chanel Iman’s edgy style can be hard to copy when you’re working with limited funds, but even the star can appreciate a good deal when she sees one. This stylish and sleek brand has great deals on everything from dresses for a night out, to jackets for a day in the city. The brand gives off a ‘90s vibe that’s totally on trend with the latest runway fads. You’d never guess it’s carried in Kohl’s!

6. Perverse Sunglasses

Easy on the eyes and the wallet, this fun brand is full of color and style! Toni Ko, founder of NYX Cosmetics is bringing her affordable high-quality products to the sunglass industry with her latest business venture. And celebrities are already loving the brand. The likes of Jessica Alba, Queen Bey, Rosie Huntington Whiteley and Gigi Hadid have all been spotted rocking this popular new brand. The look is all about fast fashion for sunglasses and the Perverse website is updated all the time with new styles, so you can look hot off the runway without having to sacrifice books for looks.

7. Adornmonde

This brand’s website is a treasure chest of trinkets with flair and Hollywood has taken notice. Kendall Jenner, Lily Collins and Emily Ratajkowski are all fans of the site’s ever-changing styles. They’ve got everything from mix-and-match stackable rings to eye-catching hoop earrings. Plus, the killer styles also come at killer prices. Accessorize to your heart’s content without the stress of crazy high prices.

These brands will definitely bring a dose of high fashion to your closet and who doesn’t need a little celeb style in their life? Some of these are great for picking out multiple pieces while others work for getting that one key piece you need to complete a look. Channel your favorite superstar and give one a try. And you won’t go over budget doing it either!

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