Do you ever find yourself shrugging your shoulders and settling on the "boys will be boys" conclusion? Real Live College Guy Andy is here to show you that mature men do (in fact) exist. He has an uncanny ability to sort out the good guys from the bad apples and is here to bring you the best in college love advice.

I started seeing this guy when we got back from winter break and we've been hooking up and going on casual dates, but we haven't had a DTR talk yet to discuss what we are. It seems like are official but we haven't officially had a talk, and I have no idea if he considers me his girlfriend or not. How should I approach V-Day? Should I get him something? If so, what's an appropriate gift to get him since he's not really my boyfriend yet? And should I bring up doing something on V-Day, or wait for him to, or what? - Ambiguous at St. Ambrose

Ambiguous,

We've all been in your situation where you have someone you feel exclusive with but have yet to officially DTR. In your specific case, the worst thing you can do is overreact and fret about it. So why fret? Either it goes poorly and you laugh about it down the line or it goes well and you end up with this guy long-term and look back at the awkward date fondly.

With that said, in your situation, the guy should have the cojones to bring up V-Day plans. Waiting for him to bring it up will allow you to tell where things stand.  If the holiday passes without him mentioning anything of it (and subsequently no date with you on that day), then he clearly doesn't have the same emotional attachment to the relationship that you have. And if that ends up the case, then you can either move on or express your anger and hope he comes up with a brilliant apology. So don't even mention in it, just wait for him to notice (or not notice).

Now, you might be thinking what would happen if you bring up Valentine's Day plans with the guy. Personally, you don't find out as much in that situation. If he agrees, he may do so just begrudgingly since you brought it up and he doesn't want to upset you. Or if he says he's busy, that will just leave you confused.

As for the gift-giving portion of your question, (if it wasn't obvious from what I've said above) do not buy him anything. Even if he brings up plans, don't get him anything. If he gets you something, act surprised and do something nice for him in return. I'm pretty confident that will be enough to reciprocate in his eyes. On the flip side, I imagine it would be pretty uncomfortable if you got something for him and he didn't get you anything in return. If you have to question whether or not to get something, the safe choice is to simply not.

Valentine's Day is the cause of more stress than it deserves. It can be an opportunity for a very romantic date but you shouldn't let it preoccupy your mind. Maybe he has a surprise planned for you on that day and doesn't want to talk about it just to tease you. Guys can get weird ideas like that sometimes. We're certainly not perfect. Most of us aren't as suave as Lucas Scott on One Tree Hill. And even Lucas had some relationship brain farts from time to time.

A neuroscience and economics major is about to go on a date at Vanderbilt University. She dresses up for the evening and does not sleep with the young man who took her out. A couple of hours later, her date hands her a drink and she blacks out. Unconscious, she is carried away by three football players and her date. The man she went on a date with, Brandon Vandenburg, hands condoms out to his fellow football players and explains that he can’t have sex with her because he’s too high on cocaine. His team members gang rape her. One of the men, Cory Batey, urinates on her. She wakes up the next morning and can’t remember the attack. Rumors swirl on campus about what happened that night, but she is given no answers until the police come to her much later.

This is a nightmare situation, but one that, on January 27th, resulted in consequences for the woman’s attackers. Brandon Vandenburg and Cory Batey, both of whom were kicked off the football team and expelled from Vanderbilt after footage was released of the two of them dragging the unconscious victim into a dorm room, were found guilty of aggravated rape and face between 15 and 80 years in prison after a 12 day long trial. 

Unfortunately, this kind of conclusion to a rape on college campuses is rare; according to a study conducted by the Justice Department, 80 percent of campus rapes went unreported between 1995 and 2013, 13 percent more than in the general population.

The defense largely rested upon the idea that Vandenburg and Batey were so inebriated that they couldn’t make rational decisions. Batey explained on the witness stand during the trial, “I was just drunk out of my mind” and that “this is something I would never do in my right state of mind. I’m just sorry.” Batey’s lawyer even went so far as to attribute the assault to the university’s party and hookup culture rather than to his client’s actions.

While hearing Batey testify, according to USA Today, the victim “appeared to vomit at one point.” She also “cried quietly throughout the trial.”

The argument that the assault was caused by alcohol did not sway the jury after they were shown footage that taken of the players photographing the unconscious victim and carrying her into a dorm room. In addition to this, three of the attackers recorded the assault on their cell phones. They later attempted to erase the cell phone footage.

To make the case even more disturbing, witnesses reported that they saw the victim partially naked in the hallway. According to testimony, five Vanderbilt athletes saw the victim and recognized that she was in distress, but they did not step forward to help.  Some witnesses report that they knew the victim was being attacked, but none of the witnesses tried to help her, possibly a result of a disturbing psychological phenomenon, the Bystander Effect.

According to the New York Times, Vanderbilt students fall into two camps about the attack: either that Vanderbilt “is not the sort of place where such things happen, or they happen everywhere—and either way, no one should point a finger at Vanderbilt.” Vanderbilt is currently under investigation by the Department of Education’s Office of Civil Rights because of how the university has handled other sexual assault cases, along with approximately 100 other college and universities.

Vanderbilt University referred the footage of the attackers dragging the victim into a dorm room to the police. The university also expelled the attackers significantly before the trial. Vanderbilt released a statement that they will continue “comprehensive ongoing efforts to raise awareness of the importance of every Vanderbilt student intervening when another student is at risk or in distress.”

The victim, whose identity has not been released as a survivor of sexual violence, has since graduated from Vanderbilt, and is now pursuing her PhD in neuroscience, and has been proclaimed by Vanderbilt’s vice chancellor of academic affairs, Beth Fortune, to be “forceful and brave.” She has spoken out, saying, “I want to remind other victims of sexual violence: You are not alone. You are not to blame.”

If you have survived sexual assault, reach out. Call 1-800-656-HOPE, the Sexual Assault Hotline, to talk to a trained counselor. Get in touch with your residence advisor or the counseling or health centers on your campus—they know what to do, and how to help.

We can argue that diversity has been lacking in Hollywood lately, especially after hearing of this year's Oscar nominations, but it seems as if Disney might be an exception. Company executives announced today that it would be introducing the franchise's first Latina princess next year on the Disney Junior show, Sofia The First.

Elena of Avalor, described by Disney as a "confident and compassionate teenager," will make her on-screen debut on Sofia The First, but will end up starring on her own spin-off series. According to the company's press release, Avalor is set to be an "enchanted fairytale kingdom inspired by diverse Latin cultures and folklore." 

E! reports that the series will revolve around Elena's task of ruling her entire kingdom. And in typical Disney princess fashion, she'll have a trusty entourage by her side, which includes a wizard-in-training named Mateo and a flying creature named Skylar.

Though only time will tell how successful Elena of Avalor may be, one thing is for sure: the Disney princesses have come a long way since the days of Snow White and Cinderella. The Princess and the Frog, which starred Tiana, the first African-American Disney princess, was a big box office success back in 2009. And just this past October, Disney unveiled Moana Waialiki, a Polynesian princess who will taking the big screen by storm in late 2016 in her own feature length film. 

What’s not to love about whimsical Kate Spade designs at a lower price point? We certainly can’t think of anything. Two years ago, the beloved New York City based brand brought us Kate Spade Saturday, answering our prayers for a more collegiette budget-friendly line. But today, the brand announced that they will be closing the online shop and 19 store locations before July 2015. Though we've seen the recent closure of many of brands we once knew and loved, we certainly didn't see this one coming.

Kate Spade Saturday channels a more casual, weekend vibe (as its name suggests) with bright colors and easy breezy clothes. The “Design A Weekender” feature on the website allows the jetsetters among us to create a custom versatile on-the-go bag. The brand also collaborated with New Balance, producing adorable sneakers worthy of a modern Sporty Spice. They even collaborated with artisans in their On Purpose project to enrich a community in Rwanda and create a collection of unique, beaded accessories.

With everything from hipster tech accessories to bright and preppy shift dresses, Kate Spade Saturday is a collegiette’s dream line. Luckily, the parent brand says the aesthetic of the line will be integrated into Kate Spade products, but we haven't heard yet whether the same attractive prices will follow. The brand has cited a "new business model" as the reason for the closure of Saturday and its menswear label, Jack Spade (which will, however, still be sold online). In the meantime, don’t get sidetracked by your homework or your latest DIY project—get online or head to the closest store and snatch up a chambray jumpsuit or a personalized tote because this may just be your last chance!

If you’re a fan of The Office and 30 Rock, you’ll love the newest series coming to Netflix this March. Tina Fey and Robert Carlock have once again teamed up to bring you Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, a series about a young girl who escapes from a cult and starts a new life in New York City. With Tina Fey writing and producing the show, this fun comedy is guaranteed to make you laugh. Check out the top five reasons why we can't wait for the series premiere!

1. Ellie Kemper is too adorable

You may know her from The Office and Bridesmaids, but Ellie Kemper brings a whole new level of adorable quirkiness to the character Kimmy Schmidt. Her bubbly personality will be portrayed perfectly by this new character, as Fey described: "She's optimistic. She's sunny, but strong." We can't wait to see Kemper's career really take off with this new comedy. 

2. There'll be a mini 30 Rock reunion (kind of)

Jane Krakowski is back—but not as the self-obsessed actress Jenna Maroney. In this series she plays an upper-class mother who hires Kimmy as her nanny. Tituss Burgess aka "D'Fwan," another 30 Rock alum, will appear as an aspiring singer and the Kemper's new roommate. With these two cast as main characters, we can only hope Kenneth (Jack McBrayer), Tracey (Tracey Morgan) and Fey herself will make their own cameos. 

3.  It's already been renewed for Season 2

You don't have to worry about binge watching the entire first series and getting attached to the characters with the threat of never finding out what happens in the end. The show has already been given a two season order for Netflix. It was originally set to premiere for NBC, but now we can watch every episode back to back without suffering through long waits in between.

4. It features a new kind of female lead

Tina Fey is known for creating strong, funny and relatable female characters, and Kimmy is no exception. While she may not have the self-deprecating humor of Liz Lemon, her innocence is endearing and her positive outlook on creating a new life is inspiring. She may be 15 years behind everyone else (you would be too after living with an underground cult), but she still mangages to bring strength and kindness to others.

5.  The trailer is hilarious

The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt trailer is laugh-out-loud funny. We get a sneak peek of Kimmy's new adventures in the city, which range from having the freedom to eat candy for dinner to being catcalled for the first time. Unfortunately we have to wait until March 6th to see the show, but in the meantime, you'll have to settle for watching the trailer below... on repeat, of course!

From trivial matters like leaving the toilet seat up at your apartment to bigger issues like flirting with other people at parties, quarreling with your other half is inevitable. When emotions run high, things can take a turn for the worse and build up to the question of if you should just let go of the relationship. But not all conflict has to be destructive –there’s actually a productive way work to through it! We spoke with Heidi Nguyen, a marriage and family therapist, to understand the steps you need to follow to resolve a conflict with your SO — without having to shout or have your mascara run down your face.

Step 1: Consider the timing

First, you have to decide if the issue is worth confronting at all. In relationships, you often have to pick your battles.

Nguyen says to ask yourself, “Is it more important to have [this] relationship, or is it more important to be right?” If you think there’s a possibility of a loving, fulfilling relationship, and you want that, then make the choice to resolve the conflict.

Before you communicate your concerns to your SO, consider your mood and the atmosphere you and your SO are in. “Don’t wait until you are really fed up with the situation and about to explode,” Nguyen says. Bring it up in a calm, private conversation. If you’re at a party with a bunch of your friends and your SO, that’s not the best time to bring it up. Instead, try broaching the subject during a one-on-one dinner or on a walk.

Step 2: Keep your emotions in check

Nguyen says the first thing to do at the sign of a fight is calm down. “Take a time-out, take a deep breath – something to keep your emotions in check,” she says. Our natural tendency is to scream, attack and defend our own position, but if you want to productively resolve a conflict, you must take a step back and refrain from letting your emotions cloud your perception of the situation.

When you feel anxiety, anger or frustration taking over, Nguyen does not suggest walking away. “Walking away and not saying anything will lead the other person feeling rejected,” she says. “[Tell your SO] you just need time to calm down.” If tensions are too high and you walk away, give your SO the heads up and tell them you need to clear your head before you continue the conversation – be specific about how much time you’ll need.

Step 3: Emphasize your needs and view the conflict objectively

Once you’ve calmed down, Nguyen says to consider your SO’s point of view while also owning your needs. “Rationally think about the goal, then approach communication in a way that’s consistent with that goal,” she says.

Let’s say your goal is to have a more romantic relationship. It’s your birthday, and you’re waiting for your other half to arrive at the restaurant where you two will have a celebratory dinner. He shows up empty-handed, and you’re extremely hurt that he didn’t bring a birthday gift for you.

Though you’re internally upset, Nguyen says the best thing to do is take a deep breath and greet him how you normally would. Don’t let your anger influence you to cancel the date and storm off – that would mean you’re acting solely on emotions, which will hinder productive resolution.

After you’ve calmed down, casually bring up the fact that he didn’t meet your romantic needs. From there, Nguyen stresses that “your goal is to inquire – not tear him down, attack him or belittle him – whether he wants to work on being more romantic so that you can have a fulfilling relationship.”

It could be that you were raised to believe that sentimental gifts display love, or that in all your past relationships, that was your way of feeling loved. Whatever the reasoning behind your need is, express it to your SO. You could say, “I would’ve felt so loved and cared for if I got flowers from you on my birthday.” Use statements that begin with “I” such as, “I feel like...” or, “I think that...” That way, your SO will have an opportunity to respond or agree with your feelings. Chances are, Nguyen says, he will respond positively to your honesty.

Step 4: Find common ground

“With communication, the goal is to either accommodate him or for him to accommodate your needs. If that isn’t working out and [you] both get emotionally charged up again, then the goal is to agree to disagree,” Nguyen says.

Nguyen says that being able to agree to disagree depends on the situation. “If it’s a belief, like religion—he’s Catholic and you’re Buddhist—you can agree to disagree,” she says. “But if the situation is personally affecting the relationship, like there’s another girl involved, then [agreeing to disagree] is unrealistic. It would be like living with an elephant in the room.”

Nguyen urges to take into consideration your SO’s concerns, needs and perspectives within the context of the conflict. Find common ground, and then, if possible, compromise.

To sort the compromise, you have to be open and honest, but most importantly, you have to communicate. “Don’t interrupt; let each other talk, listen for the other’s perspective,” Nguyen says. “Then, wait until the person finishes to respond. Even go as far as to reflect back [what they said].” By repeating your SO’s words to him or her, you’re sending a signal that he or she is being heard, and it gives your partner a chance to repeat him or herself in case your interpretation of what he or she said isn’t accurate.

“If we put thought into what the goal is, there’s a way we can get it,” Nguyen says. “But if your emotions get in the way and you’re not mindful of the goal, [the result] usually comes out destructively.”

Nguyen believes that it’s not a confrontation so much as it is a discussion or a communication: bringing a conflict to attention so that it can be resolved.

Knowing how to handle a conflict with your SO can tremendously benefit your relationship. Don’t forget, collegiettes: Conflict doesn’t have to be confrontational! And, most importantly, don’t let your emotions take control of the situation. Breathe in, breathe out and work it out!

It’s Friday night, which means one thing: You’re going out. You’ve waited all week for this, and you're so pumped to have a crazy, memorable night at your favorite bar. But we all know alcohol has the tendency to impair our judgment, so sometimes our expectations don’t exactly match reality.

Expectation: Before you go out, you'll spend at least an hour pregaming (with cute cocktails you found on Pinterest) so you’re just the right amount of buzzed by the time you get to the bar.

Reality: You have approximately 20 minutes to shower, put on makeup and drink, so you end up ripping gross vodka shots way quicker than you should. And then you almost get turned away from the bar because you stumble up to the door.

Expectation: A bar is an exclusive privilege for you and all your upperclassmen friends, and your horizontal license proves it. You can’t wait to be around your awesome 21-year-old+ peers.

Reality: Sloppy drunk freshmen are everywhere and no upperclassmen are to be seen. Man, they really need to get stricter about fakes.

Expectation: Your makeup that you meticulously put on will stay perfect the whole night and everyone will LOVE your adorable-yet-sexy outfit.

Reality: When you go into the bar bathroom, you realize your mascara is running, your lipstick is smudged and there’s beer spilled on your shirt. Good thing it's dark in here?

Expectation: Being the social butterfly that you are, you can’t wait to meet a bunch of new people while you’re out. Who knows, maybe you’ll hit it off with a hot guy/potential hook-up!

Reality: You only interact with the group you came with because they’re more fun than everyone else. Plus, making friends takes effort, and drunk you doesn’t feel like it.

Expectation: Some guy will catch your eye across the room and offer to buy you one (or three) drinks throughout the course of the night. Chivalry is so not dead.

Reality: You can’t even get your guy friends to buy you a drink, so you end up spending all your cash on cranberry vodkas. For yourself.

Expectation: You’ll immediately make friends with the bartender, and the next time you go to pay for a drink, he’ll give you a free round for you and your friends.

Reality: The bartender doesn’t even acknowledge your existence at the packed bar and then overcharges you for a weak cocktail that he half spills as he gives it to you.

Expectation: The DJ will play all your favorite songs so you can dance and sing the night away.

Reality: DJ [insert ridiculous name here] is a fan of weird remixes and a lot of techno. It’s fine to dance to for a while before you realize that the playlist is on repeat.

Expectation: You and your girls will tear up the dance floor showing off all your flawless moves that will impress everyone watching.

Reality: The “dance floor,” aka the small, empty space crammed with people, isn’t big enough to breathe in, let alone dance in, so you resort to swaying in place to avoid the sweaty couple making out right next to you.

Expectation: As you leave the bar, you and your friends recount all the night's funny moments. When you get home, you dutifully drink enough water and wake up sans hangover the next morning.

Reality: In an attempt to redeem your mediocre night, you immediately call for delivery pizza as you leave the bar, eat said pizza and pass out before you drink any water, leaving with you a pounding headache the next day.

Expectation: You have the best night ever and can’t wait to do it again next weekend.

Reality: You had a so-so night out and you’ll probably do it all over again next weekend.

For many, Valentine's Day is a series of tribulations... stemming from what you should wear. How much red is too much red? Will my date think I'm overdressed? How am I not going to freeze?! But thanks to some inspiration from some of our favorite celebrities, dressing up for the occasion (or dressing down!) doesn't have to be an entirely lost cause. Here are some of our favorite V-Day inspired looks from some of the most fashionable celebs out there!

1. Taylor Swift

Seamed Short Sleeve Dress - ($37.50) Neiman Marcus Last Call 
Thin Silver Belt - ($11.99) Eddie Bauer 
Betsey Johnson T-Strap Heels - ($69.95) Onlineshoes.com

Taylor Swift is a beacon of classiness, so if you're going out to a fancy restaurant this Valentine's Day, channel Taylor's radiant red look with a flowy but tailored dress, a thin rose gold or silver belt and these dainty strappy sandals by Betsey Johnson! It's your best bet if you want all eyes on you!

2. Kristin Cavallari

Texture Marled Drape Blouse - ($68) Topshop
Double Pockets Pure Color Shorts - ($17.39) Chic Nova
Large Plaque Stretch Belt - ($19.97) Calvin Klein Outlet
Charles by Charles David Pact Pumps - ($39.60) Nordstrom Rack

Kristin Cavallari totally rocks this flirty yet sophisticated ensemble. The champagne-colored blouse perfectly balances out the bold and beautiful deep raspberry silk shorts. So if your V-Day plans this year entail a night out to a bar with the ladies, or even a hot date, prepare to dazzle with this outfit. If you're spending the holiday in a colder region where shorts aren't exactly weather permitting, this look would still look great with black tights underneath!

3. Reese Witherspoon

Bamboo Black Flats - ($19.99) Beyond the Rack
Planet Black Wool Sweater - ($32.95) House of Fraser
Jenni Kayne Floral Print Mini Skirt - ($75) The Real Real
Women's Dome Satchel - ($34.99) Target

If you have no plans for the day, but still want to be a bit festive, try a girly look like the one Reese has accomplished here. The floral red skirt adds a nice pop of red, but isn't overdone thanks to the simple black sweater and pointy-toed flats. You can even look this amazing doing errands too!

4. Zooey Dechanel

Heart Print Dress - ($39.90) Yes Style 
Panorama Heels - ($32.22) ASOS

If Valentine's Day is one of those holidays where you like to go all out (whether you're single or not!), follow in the fashion footseps of Zooey Deschanel from her appearance on SNL. Though we couldn't pin point her exact empire mini dress, we found a similar version that will do more than just foot the bill. The longer sleeves of this Yes Style frock make it more seasonally appropriate, plus the ruffle at the bottom with cause it to flare out. 

5. Emma Stone

Striped Heart Roundneck Sweater - ($44.99) at Saks Off 5th 
Evie Low Rise Super Skinny Jeans - ($35) Boohoo
Campus Tour Guide Coat - ($53.99) ModCloth
Rolled Brim Knit Beanie - ($6.90) Forever 21
Faux Leather Backpack - ($39.95) Sole Society
Steve Madden Rustina - (Now $159.98) Steve Madden

If there's one celebrity we look up to most in terms of street style, it very well may be Emma Stone. She always looks so casually cool and put together! If you want to embrace the heart-filled holiday, but in an understated way, slip on a graphic tee or sweater like this Saks Outlet one under what you might normally wear to class—it'll definitely add a bit of personality to your everyday outfit.

6. Rachel Bilson

Red Floral Cotton Blouse - ($12.83) Romwe
Drapey Pant - ($59.50) J.Crew Factory
Danielle Nicole Faux-Leather Envelope Clutch - ($38) Neiman Marcus
DV Dolce Vita Leopard Platform Pumps - ($69.95) DSW

When it comes to fashion, Rachel Bilson is another person we look up to regularly. This style queen spared no expense when it came to looking bold at this red carpet event! If your day plans for the big day include an internship or job, play up the hues of red with a pair of tailored trousers and a floral blouse. If you're feeling extra daring, pair the outfit with an animal print heel, like Bilson did here!

Tell us collegiettes, which outfit do you plan on trying?

As it gets closer to Valentine’s Day, your class notes are starting to look more and more like a brainstorm of potential gifts that you can get your Valentine for that special day. You want to be romantic and thoughtful but not too cliché. Stuck? Here are some creative Valentine’s Day gifts that are even sweeter than the box of chocolates he’s probably going to get you.

1. Let him be a model for the day

If your guy loves the camera, Valentine’s day is the perfect excuse to hire a professional photographer to shoot couples photos.

Can’t afford a professional? Ask around your campus, or look on Craigslist, to see if there are any student photographers who are willing to do it for free or at a discounted price. Ask to see portfolios—you’ll be amazed at how talented some amateur photographers can be.

Make it a fun day, posing at places that hold special memories of your relationship (in his car where you had your first kiss, or the park where you had a picnic for your birthday). It can be as romantic, serious or silly as you want. You can even recreate iconic photos of famous couples, such as Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt in Mr. and Mrs. Smith, Bonnie and Clyde on the run, John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s nonviolent protest, or Kate Middleton and Prince William’s wedding, to name a few.

2. Get cartoonified

If you like the idea of couples pictures but want something different, how about a caricature of you and your guy? It will be cute to see the two of you in cartoon form. You don’t even have to be present while it is being drawn, just provide the artist with a photo of the two of you (you might have to send more than one) so that he or she can work on it ahead of time.

Search to see if there are any caricature artists in your area. If there aren’t any, many artists are willing to take orders from across the country and even internationally, so check their websites. 

3. Put together a special presentation

Tell him how much he means to you in the form of an online presentation (kind of like an online scrapbook). It can include videos (either of the two of you together, or of you speaking to directly him), pictures of good times, your song and special messages filled with memories. When you’ve put it all together, sit him down and present it to him. You can also do this in PowerPoint form or on Prezi.

If you have more time to spend, you can do it in the form of a website. When presenting it to him, simply drop the link on his Facebook wall if you want to make it public, or send it to him privately.

4. Take him on a trip (without actually going anywhere)

His dream vacation might be expensive and far away, so why not bring his desired destination to him? Get creative! If he wants to visit France, set your room up like a little Parisian café and create menus in French! If he’s pining for a day in Puerto Vallarta sun, serve some Mexican food and decorate the place like a Mexican resort. If he wants to stroll through Rome, have some Italian music playing in the background before you pop in a Rome-centric movie (“To Rome With Love,” anyone?). It might not be the real thing, but he’ll appreciate the thought and effort. Plus, there’s nowhere your imagination can’t take you.

5. Arrange a personal scavenger hunt

Send him running around campus or (if you want to make it grander) all over the city! The first clue should lead him to a location, which will have a task and a clue that will lead him to another place with a task and a clue (and so on) until he reaches the final destination. Make the destinations places where you shared good memories, or places that you’ve talked about.

Be as creative as you want with the clues. If your guy likes to solve riddles, spend some time coming up with tricky hints that will get him thinking. If he’s more of a visual person, take a photo of the destination, edit it so that it is blurred or distorted in some way, and send it to his phone. 

Ask him to do things that are specific to your relationship. For example, if you met at a school football game, get him to take a photo with one of the players; or if you had a fun date at the local sushi place, get him to bring back a pair of chopsticks from the restaurant. The more personal the tasks, the more fun it will be!

6. Give him a massage

If you’re both up for a quiet night in, he’ll definitely appreciate a nice back rub. Dim the lights, light some candles, put on some relaxing music and put those fingers to work! If you don’t know how to give a massage, thankfully, there’s the “For Dummies” guide. If you want, you can even purchase some nice massage oils from places like The Body Shop to enhance the experience.

And of course, when you’re done, don’t be afraid to ask for one in return!

7. Create a personalized word puzzle

Does he like to solve puzzles? Make him a word puzzle! The Discovery Education site has a free puzzlemaker where you can create word searches, crosswords, letter tiles, cryptograms and more.

If you’re making a crossword, make the clues and answers specific to your relationship:

• “Where were we when we first met?”
• “I got this for you for your birthday last year.”
• “What is my favourite feature of yours?”
• “Which movie did we see three times in theatres?”

8. Make him Valentine’s fortune cookies

Valentine’s fortune cookies (recipe here) can come with your own predictions of your future together (such as: “I see many days of happiness together”), or just insert sweet messages (“Be my Valentine?”). You can even put coupons inside that he can redeem for future dates (“One night we can watch the movie of your choice,” or “A meal at your favorite restaurant, on me.”). There are no rules for the Valentine’s fortune cookie, so do whatever your heart (and whatever you think his heart) desires.

This week, the President and First Lady stopped in Saudi Arabia to pay their respects as Saudis mourned the loss of King Abdullah.

The U.S.'s relationship with the predominantly Muslim country has invited significant criticism, especially considering that Saudi Arabia has one of the worst human rights records; just a day before Obama's arrival, the country hosted a public beheading.

The President defended the "complicated relationship," highlighting the benefit Saudi Arabia provides U.S. as a strategic ally. As The Economist described in May last year, the countries'"close alliance dates to the end of the second world war, when an ailing Franklin Roosevelt met Saudi Arabia’s founding king, Abdul Aziz, aboard the cruiser Quincy in the Suez Canal. Then, and for decades after, the equation was simple: America would provide security, the Saudis oil."

But the latest controversy has little to do with the relationship between the two countries.

Instead, this "scandal" involves First Lady Michelle Obama, who did not veil her hair when meeting with public Saudi Arabian government officials. While many of the representatives shook the Commander-in-Chief's hand, only the country's new president did more than acknowledge Michelle with a short nod.

According toThe Washington Post, Twitter went up in storm following the funeral, and "more than 1,500 tweets using the hashtag #ميشيل_أوباما_سفور (roughly, #Michelle_Obama_unveiled) were sent Tuesday, many of which criticized the first lady."

The event represents an important balance between religious tolerance and Western feminism. Many have argued Michelle's choice to not cover her hair insults Muslim tradition, while others have called her decision a symbol of women's rights.

Michelle has covered her hair during other visits in the past, such as on a recent trip to Indonesia. But Saudi law only asks foreigners to wear loose-fitting clothing; it does not mandate that women who visit wear veils.

So which is it? Is her lack of veil causing a bigger stir than it's worth? Or is this a significant symbol that we should be talking more about?

The day of love is just a heartbeat away, and it’s the perfect excuse to get glam in the name of romance. Whether you’re in a relationship or single and ready to mingle, fall in love with these five makeup looks that will have you looking and feeling like a heartthrob this Valentine’s Day.

1. Get your class act together

Cupid’s a classy guy, so pulling out a chic, classic look composed of red lips and a fresh face will be just the thing to convince him to pull out that bow on Valentine’s Day. Sharifah Juliana, a makeup artist and beauty expert, offers advice for how to achieve this look.

Juliana suggests starting off with beautiful skin, so keep yours fresh and flawless with a primer like Smashbox’s Photo Finish Foundation Primer ($36) followed by foundation and concealer. Try Juliana’s favorite, Make Up For Ever HD Invisible Cover Foundation ($42) and Concealer ($29). Next, make your features pop by highlighting and contouring with the NARS Contour Blush Duo ($42).

Now the fun really begins!

“We all know it's all about the lashes when you want to get your flirt on,” Juliana says. “My favorite [falsies are] LASHFIX by Color Secrets ($3.99). They’re handmade and 100 percent Remy hair and so beautiful and soft and give you lashes for days without looking heavy.”

Remy hair, which is considered to be the finest quality of human hair, will be just the thing to frame those pretty windows to your soul.

Dust a touch of rosy color on your cheeks (Juliana suggests the NARS Blush in Orgasm [$30]), then swipe on some MAC Lipstick in Ruby Woo ($16) for a perfect red lip, and you’ll be giving movie stars a run for their money.

2. Wear your heart on your lips

They don’t call it the Cupid’s bow for nothing! Complement your lips’ natural shape with a cute heart design. This is perfect for the Valentine’s Day enthusiast who wants to make a statement and spread some love around.

First, use a lip pencil like Sephora’s Retractable Waterproof Lip Liner ($13) in The Red to draw a heart outline on your lips so that the heart looks whole when you close your mouth. (Pro tip: No need to draw outside the lines with this one! This heart should fit fully on your natural lips.) Fill it in with the lip pencil. Then whip out a tube of lipstick like L’Oréal’s Colour Riche Lipcolour in British Red ($8.95) to fill in the heart one more time. If you want to mix things up, don’t be afraid to try out other colors like bright pinks and orangey reds. Check out this tutorial from xoVain for step-by-step instructions on how to perfect this gorgeous pout!

3. Make your mauve

Pretty in purple is the new pretty in pink. The color mauve is making a splash in cosmetics this spring, so jump on the trend early with a romantic light mauve eye shadow that will make heads swivel!

“This look is great for the beginner who wants a pop of color without fuss,” Juliana says. “Starting as usual with flawless skin, the focus here is on a simple wash color on the eye; no contouring is needed.”

Sonia Kashuk’s Monochrome Eye Quad in Textured Mauve ($13.69) is the perfect pick for this job, especially for the hazel- or green-eyed romantics out there who want their eyes to really pop. Apply the shadow lightly onto your eyelids for a more subtle color or more opaquely to make a bold statement.

“Lightly brush a similar color on the apples of the cheeks, apply a few strokes of your favorite mascara and dab the lips with a pretty gloss such as Stila's Lip Glaze ($22),” Juliana says.

4. Hold your smolder

Chocolate is the answer to everything – even to what makeup to wear for Valentine’s Day. Give a nod to the oh-so-delicious sweets with a smoldering bronze smoky eye. It works for every eye color! Plus, this style is long lasting and will keep you looking your best all day.

First, apply a soft sweep of medium bronze or taupe shadow over your eyelids and along the bottom lash line. Layer a deeper bronze like MAC’s Eye Shadow in Bronze ($16) over the outer third of the lid and lower lash line. Add a dab of gold using L’Oréal’s Infallible 24 HR Eye Shadow in Eternal Sunshine ($7.99) to the middle of your upper lid and then line your eyes with a coppery brown eye pencil like Urban Decay’s 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in Smog ($20). Put on a couple of coats of your favorite black mascara, and voila!

But wait – this look wouldn’t be complete without some gorgeous lips. Luckily, celebrity makeup artist Stella Kae has the perfect solution.

“I love looks that involve lip stain so you can kiss without making a mess!” Kae says. “Try tarte’s LipSurgence matte lip tint in fiery ($24) with a bronze smoky eye.” This bright pop of color is the perfect contrast to the more neutral-colored smoky eye, and the two shades will complement each other just like strawberries and chocolate.

Whether you’re hanging out with your bae or staying in with your girlfriends, this look will keep you looking fabulous all day and all night.

5. Bare your soul (and face)

You could also ditch all the drama this year in favor of a minimal, clean look. In fact, this is Kae’s favorite style! Try going for a dewy skin, a full brow and a neutral matte lip. Kae suggests lightly applying Glossier’s Perfecting Skin Tint ($26) for a fresh, barely-there look. To complete this simple but put-together makeup look, swipe on some nude lipstick like NARS’ Satin Lipstick in Honolulu Honey ($26). Embrace your natural beauty this Valentine’s Day! You know your significant other and your friends absolutely love you just the way you are.

Whether you’re looking to do a little something for yourself or catch a special someone’s eye on Valentine’s Day, snatch up the chance to kiss and makeup with these heart-stopping styles this February 14. Who knows, maybe you won’t be the only one falling in love with these looks!

One of the best things about a semester abroad is—aside from the super-cool Instagram shots—being able to pick up cool pieces you wouldn’t find stateside. Experiencing FOMO yet? We just might have the perfect solution for you.

Inspired by the Turkish artisans who craft beautiful silver-plated jewelry by hand using methods passed down for generations, Gypsy Jonana founder Johanna Schneider started her line of unique, handmade jewelry. Three readers will win a $150 shopping spree to pick out their favorites from the collection! Like antiques straight from the Ottoman and Egyptian empires, these handcrafted beauties are made of unpolished silver for a one-of-a-kind, organic vibe. Pick up statement necklaces, dangling earrings and so much more—just be sure to have stories of your far-away travels prepared when your friends ask you just where you discovered such a hard-to-find piece.

Enter below now for your chance to win one of 3 shopping sprees—worth $150 each!

If you’ve been shoe shopping recently, you might have noticed that the price tags for leather footwear have gone up. Don’t blame this on corporate greed or the fashion gods who you're convinced are out to get you. The reason for this increase in price is due to a cattle shortage in the U.S.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, leather prices have gone up 2.8 percent in the past year. Until 2013, the United States had been the largest producer of fine cattle hide for many years. Whether it’s due to the droughts in areas cattle are bred or the high cost of cattle feed, raising cows is now an endeavor that some farmers can no longer afford. At the lowest number of cattle since 1973, genuine U.S. cow hides are not only becoming much more rare, but also much more expensive.

A luxury pair of boots that would have cost you $600 two years ago would cost you around $616.80 today. That difference in price might not matter to the people with well-paying jobs, but for us collegiettes, that’s a good amount of money that we’d rather see in our bank accounts.

Now is the perfect time to look into some vegan leather and other faux options when it comes to footwear. These non-leather options have actually decreased by 2 percent in the past year. Or, if you're looking for the real deal, check out some of your local vintage shops for a pre-loved pair that will surely be easier on the wallet!

Now is the time for budget-conscious collegiettes with expensive taste to celebrate: cult-favorite brand Reformation just debuted its new lower-priced line—Obvious—for spring, and it’s just as on point as you’d expect. Reformation, which is known for its earth-conscious-yet-still-insanely-chic pieces, has been a favorite amongst fashion editors, bloggers and celebrities for some time now, but the main line isn’t exactly what a collegiette on a budget would call affordable. Luckily, Obvious has the same retro vibes and cool-girl pieces as its big sister does—and everything is under $178. Get ready to start wishing away the snow and slush (though there are some pieces you can wear now!), and keep scrolling to see what pieces we’ll be dying to wear this spring!

1. Mars Dress ($78)

It’s no secret that the fashion world has been showing some major leopard print love lately—after all, a certain creative director of J. Crew even called it a neutral once! What better way to keep the leopard game going strong into spring with a chic '60s-esque A-line dress?

2. Susan Skirt ($88)

After a winter of being bundled up in greys and blacks, the thing we’re all most looking forward to about spring is finally getting to show a little bit of leg in a bright pop of color – and this skirt does the trick perfectly!

3. Distressed Denim Shirt ($68)

If you’ve been on the hunt for the perfect denim shirt (a total wardrobe staple), look no further! Obvious’s take on the classic is perfectly oversized, with just the right amount of distressing.

4. Keppel Coat ($178)

While a lot of Obvious’s pieces are definitely ones to save for spring, this faux shearling coat is one you can wear right away! We love the pretty powder pink color and classic faux shearling lining, which makes it the perfect investment piece. Reformation’s website calls it “pretty much your new boyfriend.” Need we say more?

5. Shelley Top ($78)

French girl style obsessives, get excited: this navy and red striped turtleneck tee is the answer to your prayers. Wear it as the perfect layering piece now and by itself when the spring weather hits.

6. Andy Dress ($98)

Reformation’s main line is known mostly for its elegant, flowy dresses, and Obvious definitely didn’t disappoint in that department. Proof: the Andy dress is sexy and bohemian while still having an elegant and polished look.

7. Academy Dress ($138)

Found: the perfect dress for your Valentine’s Day night out. We love the slinky silhouette and old Hollywood glamour look of this dress; perfect for when you want to feel a little fancy.

Obvious has us seriously dreaming about our spring wardrobes. What pieces are you coveting from the new line, collegiettes?

So you’re single this year and you can’t seem to avoid the sickeningly sweet couples, no matter where you go. If you’re hoping to avoid the surge of PDA during Valentine’s Day and you don’t know what to do, fear not! You don’t have to mope around your room, doing homework if you don’t have a date. Instead of sulking alone and weeping into your pillow, throw a party for you and your single girlfriends and get your Anti-Valentine’s Day on!

1. Break out the anti-romance tunes to belt at the top of your lungs (& make a music video!)

It’s time to make a playlist of the best anti-love anthems on your iTunes. What’s better than sing-shouting “We are NEVER EVER EVER getting back together!” with your girlfriends? If you’re willing to take it one step further, why not direct and star in your own music video featuring one of the songs? Here’s a list of some songs that you can get creative with:

• “How To Be A Heartbreaker” by Marina and The Diamonds
• “Blank Space” by Taylor Swift
• “So What” by Pink
• “Somebody That I Used To Know” by Gotye
• “Me Myself and I” by Beyonce
• “Lips Are Movin” by Meghan Trainor
• “Since U Been Gone” by Kelly Clarkson
• “Gives You Hell” by All American Rejects
• “So Yesterday” by Hilary Duff
• “Part of Me” by Katy Perry
• “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” by Taylor Swift
• “Don’t Call Me Baby” by Kreesha Turner
• “Knock Em Out” by Lily Allen
• “Stronger” by Britney Spears
• “Black Widow” by Iggy Azalea
• “7 Things” by Miley Cyrus
• “Fighter” by Christina Aguilera
• “Forget You” by Cee Lo Green

2. Spam your Facebook page with anti-love quote statuses and anti-love memes

While everyone is posting lovey-dovey statuses about unconditional, never-ending love, and Instagramming cutesy couples pictures or photos of their fancy dinners, bouquets of roses and expensive chocolates, why not counter those posts with some Anti-Valentine’s day equivalents? 

That’s right, bring out the anti-love quotes for your statuses. A quick Google search can lead to a trove of bitter-yet-funny quotes that you can post to your liking:

• “Love hurts but so does getting hit by a car. I’d rather go with the car.” - Anonymous
• “I think I’ll go anti-love. Really. Who wants butterflies in your stomach and your heart skipping beats? That can’t be safe.” - Anonymous
• “They say love is in the air, so I hold my breath until my face turn purple.” - Lil Wayne (“HYFR”)
• “If you think you’re in love, run your head into a brick wall. It’ll hurt a lot less in the end.” - Anonymous
• “I got your love letters, corrected the grammar, and sent them back. It’s true. Romance is dead.” - Fall Out Boy (“The Music Or The Misery”)

If that’s not enough, find some anti-love memes to sprinkle a little Anti-Valentine’s spirit onto your friends’ timelines:

“One night stand, that’s all the storage space I’ll need.”

“I’m going to spend Valentine’s Day...with my Xbox 360.”

3. Create and destroy a heart-shaped piñata

It’s time to get crafty. Fill it up with whatever you like (candy and chocolate never hurt, as long as they're not Valentine’s products!), or fill it up with nothing at all. You have to take out that aggression somehow; why not with a good old-fashioned beating? After all, hearts were made to be broken.

4. Punch up a storm

Speaking of aggression, why not kick and punch it away? Instead of laying in bed, being haunted by the ghosts of Valentine’s past, get on your feet and get moving! While your loved-up friends are out eating fancy dinners and indulging in chocolates, why not work up a sweat and burn some calories? There are some good kickboxing workout videos worth checking out on YouTube.

5. Grade your exes

You’re used to being evaluated but for this special night, you’re the one that will be doing the evaluating! Get your girls together and (not only complain about your exes but) grade your exes! Did he put his friends before you? Did he have any bad habits that annoyed you?

Go on then, start writing that on his report card!

Here are some subject/category suggestions:

• Looks
• Personality
• Creativity
• Intelligence
• Humor
• Extra comments

Once you’re done, share the results with your friends and see if they agree. After all, what’s the point of a get-together if you can’t trash your exes?

How are you planning to spend Anti-Valentine’s day?

Jennifer Lawrence has been quite forthcoming about her love of reality shows, so we weren’t exactly surprised when Kim Kardashian revealed in a recent interview with The Sun how starstruck the starlet got when meeting the Keeping Up With the Kardashians diva. “We said, ‘Hi’ and walked into the elevator and as the doors were closing, she screamed across the lobby, ‘I love your show!’” Kim revealed. We all have our guilty pleasures, but we’re convinced J. Law has much more compelling things to excite her.

1. Her Oscar

She’s already been nominated for three Oscars and won the Best Actress statuette at only 24 years old. Impressive!

2. Her boyfriend

Dating Gwyneth Paltrow’s ex is something to brag about if you ask us. Chris Martin may not be the most high-profile SO, but he’s definitely achieved his rockstar label with his band, Coldplay.

3. Her gumption

We loved Jennifer long before her nude photos were leaked, but her response to her haters only made us adore her even more. We know we can always count on her to speak her mind!

4. Her starring role in a mega-franchise

Ever heard of The Hunger Games? What about Katniss Everdeen? J. Law’s star-making turn in the dystopian flicks may be coming to an end later this year, but she should never forget she’ll always be our Mockingjay.

5. Her lip locks with a roster of hotties

Liam Hemsworth, Josh Hutcherson, Bradley Cooper, Amy Adams. No, this isn’t a list of the most attractive people in Hollywood. Well, it kind of is, but it’s also a list of people Jennifer has had the pleasure of smooching.

6. Her much cooler celeb encounters

Remember when she was just so adorably excited to meet Jack Nicholson after the Oscars? That type of encounter we can condone, but as much as we love (and keep up with!) the Kardashians, Kim K. just doesn't measure up to meeting this major movie icon.

7. Her role model status

Pretty much every twentysomething wants to be her, so we think that should be enough to keep her ecstatic for a while.

Do you think J. Law’s reaction to Kim K. makes sense or are you baffled that the Kardashians left her starstruck? 

It's that time of year again. Think jerseys, cheese balls, and an American pasttime that goes all the way back to 1967. Sure, it might seem a little ridiculous to the rest of the world how crazy we get for this sport. But what can we say, it's a tradition: family and friends gather around the television, stuff their faces full of the worst junk food imaginable, and pretend that they're interested in a sport that nine times out of 10 they don't even understand. Yet no tradition coming out of the Super Bowl is greater than the commercials. For one night we are treated to the funniest, sweetest, and most creative commercials of the year. It would be impossible to mention all of them here, so we're attempting to narrow it down to the top ten most memorable Super Bowl commercials of all time. 

10. "All aboard the 5G train!" - Best Buy 2011

This one gets on the list simply because it is so ridiculous and silly that it ends up actually being extremely hilarious. Poking fun at Ozzy's lack of eloquence, it compares the replacement of Osbourne with a fresh, floppy-haired, tattoo-free Justin Bieber to the deal Best Buy was giving their customers to allow them to trade in their old phones for a new one. Even if you didn't catch the so-called "Bieber fever," you can appreciate Justin's attempt to poke fun at himself at the end of the ad. 

9. "Fashionista Daddy" - Doritos 2013

The reason we picked this ad over all the other Doritos greats (and there were many to choose from) was the fact that it managed to be hilarious while also providing a great example of good parenting. While the father has a tantalizing incentive in the form of a jumbo bag of Doritos, he still chooses a dress-up date with his daughter over football with the guys. And when they decide to make an appearance, things only get better from there. Funny, but also an awesome PSA on how to ace at being a dad—well played, Doritos!

8. "Larry Bird v. Michael Jordan" - McDonald's 1993

Whatever opinions you have about McDonald's, its food, and its business practices, this was a great piece of advertising. The king of hoops himself gets challenged to what essentially is a long game of HORSE (you guys remember HORSE, right?!) by another basketball legend, Larry Bird. The prize is a Big Mac, but rather than have the product take the spotlight, the ad instead chooses to focus on these guys' insane b-ball skills. They're so well matched that neither one can seem to beat the other, resulting in the ending shot of the two planning to sink a point off the top of Chicago's iconic John Hancock Tower. Plus you can't beat the groovy nineties hip-hop jam playing in the background. Oh how it takes us back...

7. "Terry Tate" - Reebok 2003

Many of us may not be old enough to remember this one, but it was an extremely popular ad at the time, and would inspire many similar spots to come. This one will especially appeal to anyone who currently holds or has ever held an office job. Not much to say, except that we know that this would be one epic way to brighten up the dullness of corporate America! 

6. "Puppy Love" - Budweiser 2014

When this aired last year, it took social media by storm—just one year later it's racked up over 55 million hits on YouTube! A poignant tale of an unlikely relationship between a young pup and a Budweiser Clydesdale, it manages to combine all the best tearjerker elements into one chick flick package: true love, animals, and happy endings. Have some tissues ready for this one, collegiettes!

5. "Brotherhood" - Budweiser 2013

Another Budweiser spot takes the number 5 spot, and the reason this one is different and better than its predecessor is that it skillfully managed to tug at the heartstrings without being overly mushy. Whether it was Fleetwood Mac's "Landslide" playing softly in the background, the extremely attractive man, or the tearful reunion at the end, this one really got the waterworks going. Perhaps its because at heart its a simple tale of parenting, child-raising, and that awful melancholy feeling parents feel when the kid finally flies the coop. We just know after watching this you're probably going to call your parents as soon as humanly possible—you're welcome, parents.

4. "9-11" - Budweiser 2002

Yet another Budweiser creation enters our list, but unlike #6 and #5, this one has nothing to do with adorable animals or cute love stories. Instead, it is a heartwrenching tribute to a city which, at the time, had barely managed to catch its breath after the tragic events of September 11. Why this ad was so special, and deserves our respect, was that Budweiser specifically decided to air it only once during the entire Super Bowl telecast, so as to not benefit financially from it. If that's not the most amazing thing you ever heard (since when do big companies act human?) then take a look at the halftime performance which aired during that same game. One thing is for sure: for a nation still in mourning, football helped us come together and if only for a brief moment, forget our troubles. 

3. "Mean Joe" - Coke 1979 

The reason that this commercial, which aired well over 30 years ago, continues to rank high in Super Bowl history is because at its heart it's the ultimate dream for anybody who's ever been a fan. Whether you worship an athlete, a singer, an actress, or even a political leader, you have no doubt fantasized about the possibility of meeting them in person. We can only hope it goes as well for you as it did for this kid, whose generous offering of his ice cold Coke softened even "mean" Joe Greene's heart. 

2. "The Force" - Volkswagen 2011

Cute kid and mega Star Wars references? You can't beat a winning combination like that, and it appeared to work for Volkswagen: the commercial currently has over 61 million views on YouTube and counting. Plus, no one can deny that at one point or another, we've all attempted to "use the force." Adorable and very funny, this is going to be a future classic.

1."1984" - Apple 1984

There was no doubt as to which ad would take the number one spot. As iconic as it is powerful in its message, Apple burst out of the gates with this preview of their latest product (at the time), the Macintosh computer. That's right—the mammoth-sized box computer that is now no doubt collecting dust in your attic as we speak was once cutting edge technology. What was so amazing about this commercial was its ability to use inspiration from George Orwell's classic novel "1984" without patronizing it. We have the late visionary Steve Jobs to thank for that, and we can only hope that this continues to live on for many generations to come.

We can't wait to see what this year's commercials bring!

It’s hard to look at a recipe board on Pinterest without being overwhelmed by a new trend: chia seeds. But what exactly are these seeds, and why are they so healthy?

Chia seeds are so beneficial due to their richness of fiber, omega-3 fats, protein, vitamins and minerals. Fiber not only helps you have regular bowel movements, but it also helps control overeating. Omega-3 fats are fats you definitely don’t want to cut out—not only does your body need these, they also help to prevent and control some diseases. Protein is essential to many functions including growth and immunity.

Since chia seeds are so nutrient-dense, they pack an energy-boosting power. Aztec warriors even ate chia seeds to give themselves energy! It was rumored that a spoonful of chia could sustain the warriors for 24 hours.

More recently, chia seeds have been a popular superfood. They have been linked to weight loss, cardiovascular health and other health benefits. Chia seeds have also become a versatile ingredient as they can be added easily to classic recipes. Check out these delicious chia seed recipes!

1. Vanilla Chia Pudding

This vanilla chia pudding is the perfect breakfast! Add your own personal flair by adding your favorite fruit and toppings.

Recipe from iFOODreal

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup almond milk, unsweetened (vanilla)
• 2-3 teaspoons maple syrup or honey
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 3-4 tablespoons chia seeds
• Nuts, berries, fruit, coconut flakes for topping

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients (except the toppings) to a Mason jar or any container with a tight lid.
2. Shake or stir the container.
3. Refrigerate for at least six hours or overnight.
4. When ready to eat, stir and top with favorite toppings.

2. Nutella Coconut Chia Seed Smoothie

You can’t beat health and Nutella in one recipe. If you’d rather have a pudding instead of a smoothie, just stop after you add the coconut and serve!

Recipe from Hello Luvvy

Ingredients:

• 1 cup almond milk
• 1/6 cup chia seeds
• 1/8 cup shredded coconut
• 1 tablespoon Nutella
• 1/4 tablespoon vanilla
• Handful of raspberries
• 1 banana
• Ice

Instructions:

1. Set out Nutella until it’s at room temperature.
2. Combine Nutella, almond milk, chia seeds, coconut and vanilla.
3. Shake vigorously in a Mason jar or container.
4. Refrigerate for at least four hours.
5. Add coconut.
6. Using a blender, combine the above with raspberries, banana and ice.
7. Mix and enjoy!

3. Chia Peanut Butter Protein Balls

These chia peanut butter balls taste like dessert but are actually an excellent source of protein. Eat these after a workout to avoid sore muscles the next morning! You can substitute the vegan protein powder for your protein powder of choice. The chunky peanut butter can also be replaced with smooth peanut butter.

Recipe from Vegan Family Recipes

Ingredients:

• 6 dates
• 1 scoop natural raw vegan protein powder
• 4 tablespoons crunchy and natural peanut butter
• 2 teaspoons chia seeds (ground)

Instructions:

1. Pulse all ingredients together in a food processor.
2. Roll into 10 tablespoon-sized balls.
3. Store in refrigerator.

4. Lemon Chia Seed Muffins

These lemon chia seed muffins are perfect for fans of poppy-seed muffins. The chia seeds give these sweet and tart treats an extra boost of fiber, protein and omega-3 fatty acids!

Recipe from Something Swanky

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• 1/2 cup milk
• 4 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 package lemon flavored instant pudding mix

Instructions:

1. Cream together the butter, sugar, eggs and lemon extract or zest until creamy.
2. Mix in remaining ingredients until smooth.
3. Distribute batter evenly among muffin tin cups (about 15).
4. Bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes.

5. Banana Chia Bread

This moist banana chia bread makes the perfect snack or breakfast! Add a tablespoon of cinnamon to the dough if you’re looking for some more flavor.

Recipe from Savy Naturalista

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cup flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 2 tablespoons whipped butter, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/3 cup chia seeds
• 2 large bananas (smashed)
• 1/2 cup almond milk

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a medium loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix butter, egg, banana and sugar.
3. In a medium bowl, add flour, salt, baking powder and mix until combined.
4. Slowly add flour mixture and milk to wet ingredients, alternating until incorporated.
5. Fold in chia seeds.
6. Place batter in loaf pan and place in the oven for 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

6. Mango Chia Popsicles

These mango chia popsicles are the perfect sweet but healthy treat. With three ingredients, they’re also easy to make! The only hard part of this recipe is having the patience to wait until the pops are frozen before digging in.

Recipe from Jelly Toast

Ingredients:

• 3 cups mango, chopped (about two large mangos)
• 10 ounces coconut water
• 1 1/2 tablespoons chia seeds

Instructions:

1. Place mango and coconut water into blender and blend until smooth.
2. Stir in chia seeds.
3. Pour mixture into 10 3-ounce popsicle molds and place a wooden stick into each.
4. Freeze until frozen (at least six hours).

7. Chia Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies

These chia oatmeal cookies are the perfect breakfast or snack. Made with no added sugar, dairy or eggs, they are great for those with many dietary restrictions and can easily be made gluten free when made with gluten-free oats!

Recipe from Eating Bird Food

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1/4 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk
• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 3/4 cup old fashioned oats
• 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/4 cup chopped dates
• 1/4 cup dark chocolate chunks or carob chips
• 1 tablespoon creamy almond butter
• Large pinch of cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. In a small bowl, stir together the chia seeds and almond milk and let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes, or until the chia seeds have created a nice, gel-like consistency.
3. Pour the chia seed gel into a medium-sized mixing bowl and add in the mashed bananas, oats, coconut, almond butter and cinnamon until well combined.
4. Gently stir in the dates and chocolate chunks.
5. Scoop out dough (about 1-2 tablespoons worth) onto a baking stone or a greased cookie sheet and use a fork to press the dough down a little to make more of a cookie shape. You should get about 15 cookies.
6. Place in oven and bake for 17 to 20 minutes, or until the bottom of the cookies have browned a tiny bit.

These recipes aren’t just healthy—they’re also delicious! Check out the health section of your grocery store and grab a pack of chia seeds. With all of the benefits, it’s worth giving one (or two, or all) of these chia seed recipes a try!

Plus size model and blogger Tess Munster recently became the first woman over a size 20 to be signed by a major modeling company—in this case Milk Management—and needless to say, we’re ecstatic. But if you’re one of those people who thinks plus size ladies have been an active proponent of the modeling world for years now, you’re only partly right.

Sure, the public has been relentlessly discussing the size of models lately. What was once the ideal of female beauty—think Twiggy or Kate Moss—came under fire when photoshopped versus original, unretouched pictures of celebrities and models alike surfaced. As self-image became a touchier topic, the unrealistic expectations young girls placed on themselves to look the way women in retouched photos did promptedsome change. Since then there’s been a movement for healthier, more diverse body types in the modeling industry, but maybe not to as much avail as many think.

We absolutely applaud companies like Aerie and Dove that have vowed to show us real, often unretouched varieties of women in their ad campaigns. It’s beyond inspiring to see giants such as these declaring their support of a healthier body image for all women and eliciting confidence in those who need a little nudge to love their physiques.

We’re also completely onboard with plus size models like Crystal Renn, who overcame an eating disorder to become a beautifully, curvy size 12. But, if you’re thinking that a lot of average-sized (and not plus-size) women wear a 12, you’re completely right. And Crystal has even admitted to being photoshopped to look fuller.

While we appreciate the steps that have been taken in the past few years to represent more body types in the modeling industry, we still have a long way to go. And we think signing an actual plus size model like Tess to a major agency is a wonderful start. Though we’re not saying that Kate’s size zero and Crystal’s size 12 don’t represent real body types, we’re begging for a larger quantity of ladies in all shapes and sizes!

Are you as thrilled as we are to see Tess signed to Milk Management, collegiettes?

Taylor Swift, the country singer turned media mogul/style icon/pop star has taken her career in another fascinating direction—exclusive owner of words. The 25-year-old first made waves when she pulled her albums from music streaming sites such as Spotify in the name of art. Now, she's trademarked several phrases from her album, 1989.

Swift has said that her goal is to protect the integrity of the album and respect for the artist. And we'd be able to understand that, if the phrases weren’t so... well, generic. So the next time you want to write a pop song or put a catchy phrase on anything from a T-shirt to a temporary tattoo (yes, she gets that specific), be sure to avoid these lyrics:

1. “Party like it’s 1989”

2. “Cause we never go out of style”

3. “Could show you incredible things”

4. “Nice to meet you. Where you been?”

5. “This sick beat”

Voxreported that the reasoning behind trademarking these lyrics is to prevent others from using her phrases for marketing reasons or financial gain. And the trademarks certainly don't leave anything out—don't even try to customize hosiery, tanning products, potpourri or Christmas stockings—lest you want to endure Taylor's wrath. Though we understand the motive, we're just not sure these are the phrases she should have picked—it feels like a bit of an opportunity missed, if you ask us.