Theme Party Thursday - Issue 06. - Luau

Here's my take on the classic Hawaiian Luau party.  You can use your floral dress for the party as well as for a cute summer to fall transition outfit!

The Dress

Flower Clip - Necklace - Flip Flops - Sun Glasses

Jacket - Belt - Boots - Necklace - Ring

<3Jay

Deck Out Your Dorm - Issue 05. - What to coordinate with your roommate

There are some things that you just don't need 2 of in your dorm room.  This is why you should decide with your roommate who brings what when it comes to certain things.  Here's a quick list of things that need to be discussed.

1. TV/DVD Player: Having 2 TVs in your room is kind of silly.  Chances are that you and your roommate wont have the same schedule so you wont often be watching TV at the same time.  If you're concerned about missing your favorite shows when your roommate is watching TV and you don't have a DVR in your dorm, buy an old school VCR (remember those!?).  You can get one for really cheap and you can use it to record all of your favorite shows.

A small flat screen is sleek and small for tight spaces.

2. Refrigerator: A mini fridge, even though it's mini, is one of the biggest things that will be in your room.  That being said, you definitely don't need 2 of them!  Make sure you divide up the space inside the fridge so that you both get equal amounts of storage.  Some important things to keep in the fridge:  water, frozen dinners and an ice pack!

You can get a mini-fridge Here for $69!  Gotta love Walmart.

3. Microwave: All microwaves do the same job, so you really don't need to have 2.  How often will you BOTH need to microwave popcorn at the same exact time?  One is enough.

Nothing fancy, this will do.  Only $54!

Some other things that you might want to share are a rug, printer, drying rack, or a bookshelf.

<3Jay

Interview Series - Issue 03. - Mary

Interview with incoming freshman, Mary

GGGFCollege: What made you choose the college you will be attending in the fall? 

Mary: I wanted to go away to school without being too far from family.  My aunt lives [near the school].

GGGFCollege: What do you think will be your number one dorm essential?

Mary: My laptop.

GGGFCollege: Have you decided on a major?  If so, how did you choose it?

Mary: Education; I've always wanted to be a teacher.

GGGFCollege: What kinds of clubs would you like to join when you get to school?

Mary: Art clubs or singing clubs.

GGGFCollege: What will you be wearing on your first day of class?

Mary: Maybe a sundress?

GGGFCollege: Do you have a favorite fashion trend for this fall?

Mary: Nah, I just wear the same stuff.

GGGFCollege: What is your favorite blog post so far and do you have any suggestions?

Mary: I like the post about the cliche posters!

Here's a sweet and classic back to school look inspired by Mary!

Dress - Denim Jacket - Shoes - Bag - Hair Clip - Necklace

<3Jay

PS: Still interested in being interviewed?  Email me at GGGFCollege@gmail.com !!

Quick Tip of the Day!

Tired of searching on a normal search engine for college help and tips?  Try searching for what you are thinking about on YouTube.  This will allow you to see and watch exactly what you're looking for.  Everything from dorm organization to school fashion can be found in video form.

A lot of YouTube gurus record Back To School Series to help fashionable girls like you prepare for school.  My favorite so far: honeyflower3.  Check out her latest videos for dorm and back to school fashion advise!

Happy YouTubing! 

<3Jay

How To Dress Up a Men's College T-Shirt

I love showing my college pride at campus events!  Often in college bookstores, the men's T-shirts are much cheaper than the women's fitted T-shirts.  Find a men's shirt that is the closest to your size and try some of these tips to help "girly it up."

Skirt - Boots - Bracelets - Necklace - Belt

Oxford - Capris - Shoes - Necklace - Headband

Blazer - Shorts - Shoes - Ring - Earrings

Try it out!  I bet you'll look fabulous!

<3Jay

Interview Series - Issue 02 - Penni

Interview with college senior, Penni

GGGFCollege: What is your name and what year are you in college?  

Penni: My name is Penni and I'm starting my senior year, wow

GGGFCollege: What is your major and what made you choose it? 

Penni: My major is psych, because there is nothing more interesting to me than people and the wacky things they do.  I love my major, to a nerdy obsessive degree, and I think that's the way to do it. :)

GGGFCollege: What is your favorite dorm room organization tip? 

Penni: My room is always a mess, hah--this is something I'm still working on!  But one that that I  try to do is look around and see where the clutter is accumulating, and then figure out a way to make that space more streamlined.  For example, I would always leave all my makeup scattered on top of the dresser by my mirror, so I got a cheap office supplies organizer like this so I could throw my stuff on the dresser, and still keep it organized and looking neat.  Also, a shoe hanger is a life saver!  You can get skinny ones to put in the closet like this or a bigger one to go over the back of a door like this.

GGGFCollege: What would you say is the dorm room item that most girls forget to pack with them?  

Penni: Basic cleaning supplies! When I moved in, I didn't have paper towels or garbage bags or spray cleaner.  I wanted to clean my room (who knows who lived there last year...!) before moving all my stuff in, and we had to run to Target before I could even start unpacking.  However, if you're planning on buying big things (rugs, lamps, etc) wait until you get to campus and can see the room--it will be easier to move, especially if you live far away, and you'll have a better feel of what things will fit and flatter the room.

GGGFCollege: What will you be wearing on your first day back to classes/what did you wear on your first day of class? 

Penni: I like to look classy and sophisticated, without looking like I'm trying too hard!  I also have an office job that I go to right before or after class a lot, so I need to make sure I wear things that are appropriate for that environment too.  Not too sure what I'll be wearing yet, but I tend to favor dark, fitted jeans, and then something bright and flirty on the top...I love this top.

GGGFCollege: What kind of clubs are you involved in on campus?  

Penni: I'm the president of my school's chapter of Amnesty International, which is an organization that advocates for victims of human rights abuses, in the US and around the world.  It's a great organization and I'm so proud to be affiliated with it.  It's easy to get into the "campus bubble" where it feels like the most important thing on the planet is your GPA and if that guy is gonna call back, so I like to make sure I keep myself grounded in the real world, and remind myself the world is bigger than me, and bigger than my campus.   I also participate in Psych Undergrad Council, which is a group for (duh) psych majors--it's a good way to meet professors on a little less formal basis, to see what kind of research the faculty is doing, and connect and get advice from other majors.

GGGFCollege: Any last advise for incoming freshman?  

Penni: Try everything you can!  Especially your freshman year, just try to experience as much as you can.  If your roommate invites you to a party, go! Go to your hall events, drag a couple friends along to interest meetings of clubs you're interested in, just try to say yes (within reason) to everything you can.  Don't make any assumptions about who your friends will be or where you'll meet them, because you never know. And smile at everyone! :)

Here's an outfit inspired by Penni's back to school look!

Top - Jeans - Shoes - Bag - Earrings - Necklace

<3Jay

Goodbye Until Sunday

I'm going on vacation until Sunday!  Unfortunately, I won't be able to post anything new until then.  Talk to you girls soon and thank you for all the support!

<3Jay

Deck Out Your Dorm - Issue 04 - How to make your room the "hang out room"

Ever wonder how some rooms become "the hang out room" and others do not?  Here are some tips to make your dorm room as inviting as possible!  The more traffic you have coming in and out of the room, the more friends you will make at school.

01.  Try to keep it clean and clutter free.  Rooms with too much going on are very intimidating.  Try to make things stream lined and neat so that guests feel comfortable.

02.  Add some extra seating to your room.  Whether it be a bean bag chair, a butterfly chair or even a storage ottoman, places to sit make your room more inviting!

03.  Try using some different lighting to spice up your space.  If people walk by and see really cool lighting, such as different colored bulbs, they will be drawn to come in.  Just make sure you check your dorm room handbook for lighting restrictions.

04.  Get a candy bowl.  Enough said.

05.  Purchase some new DVDs of old TV series or fun movies.  Hosting movie nights is so fun to do and people love going to them.

06.  If you're in the mood to hang out, keep your door open or leave a note on the door to let others know what you're up to. 

Hope some of these tips help you make new friends!  

<3Jay

Interview Series - Issue 01. - Shannon

Interview with incoming freshman, Shannon.

GGGFCollege: What made you choose the college you will be attending in the fall? 

Shannon: - Money: My school offered me the most in scholarships and grants

- Students: The current students at the school all really loved it

- Classes: The classes I saw had four and fifteen students in them.

- Alumni: At my school, the alumni is very involved, which goes with the students loving the school.  If they all love it that much to come back every year for football games and hold events for entering freshmen, there's something special about the school.

GGGFCollege: What do you think will be your number one dorm essential?

Shannon: My butterfly chair that I'm bringing from home.  It's the comfiest chair I own; I can study, read, and use my laptop comfortably in it.

GGGFCollege: Have you decided on a major?  If so, how did you choose it?

Shannon: English major, Music minor.  I love these two subjects more than anything in the world and, even though some people think it's difficult to find a job with them, I know that it's possible - they're just not jobs that everyone knows about.

GGGFCollege: What kinds of clubs would you like to join when you get to school?

Shannon: Maybe choirs?  I'm not sure yet.

GGGFCollege: What will you be wearing on your first day of class?

Shannon: Probably just go naked.  If not, shorts and a [high school] t-shirt.  I predict that I won't be dressing up for classes, ever.  I'm already planning on going to Joyce Leslie to buy yoga pants and plain t-shirts so I can just be comfy.

GGGFCollege: Do you have a favorite fashion trend for this fall?

Shannon: I love high waisted skirts.  They're so great for hiding mah belly...  For real, though, they look good on everyone and they're so comfy.

GGGFCollege: What is your favorite blog post so far and do you have any suggestions?

Shannon: Any blog where you talk about how to reuse one outfit, like the birthday party dress or the 80s party.  Recycling outfits is the best :) 

Here's an outfit I put together inspired by Shannon's first day of classes outfit!

Shirt - Shorts & Belt - Necklace - Shoes - Bag

Get inspired by Shannon and stay casual, yet cute for class!

<3Jay

Theme Party Thursday - Issue 05. - Highlighter Party

It's been brought to my attention that there has been a new spin put onto the classic white/whiteout party. At a Highlighter Party, guests wear cheap white t-shirts and draw on each other with highlighters under a black light. As ridiculous as it sounds, this actually may be pretty fun. Since you can't really reuse a drawn on t-shirt, I've thought of an alternative; check it out!

Shirt

Skirt - Shoes - Bracelets

Sewing Machine

For information on how to make a t-shirt pillow, visit this link.

<3jay

Let's Get Physical

Although you will be extremely busy with classes, homework and clubs, it is important to stay healthy and fit at school.  I found myself eating a lot of junk food on the go on campus and I knew that I needed to start working out.  Colleges offer a lot of programs and classes to help people stay healthy.  Here are some ways to exercise at school!

1.   Group Fitness Classes

Colleges often offer group fitness classes that can be very beneficial and fun.  Some classes offered at my school are Zumba, Yoga and Pilates.  Ask a friend to go with you to a class; I'm sure some company would make working out a lot more fun!

2.   Intramural Sports

If you like to play sports but don't consider yourself an athlete you should try intramurals!  Intramurals allow students to play sports against each other in a non-competitive way.  They are not as demanding as regular sports teams and I've heard that they are really fun.  

3.   Dance Classes for Credit

Some colleges have a dance program within the school.  If your schedule allows for it, try taking a beginner tap, jazz or modern dance class.  Not only will this force you to exercise every week, but if you try your best it can boost your GPA! 

Hopefully some of these tips will help you stay healthy while you're away at school!

<3Jay

What Should I Wear? - Issue 04. - Campus Job Interviews

If you're looking for a job on campus, you need to make sure you look presentable when going on your interview.  A lot of colleges have job fairs in the beginning of the semester where you can meet employers and sign up to be interviewed.  Make sure you look your best with some of these outfit ideas!  I've used a lot of purple because it's a color that makes you stand out but still looks very sophisticated when worn the right way.

Shirt - Pencil Skirt - Shoes - Necklace 

Dress - Sweater - Shoes - Bangles - Hair Pin

Dress - Shoes - Watch - Earings

<3Jay

PS: If you're still interested in being interviewed for my interview series, email GGGFCollege@gmail.com!

Your 15 Minutes of Fame!

Would you like to be interviewed and featured on The Girly Girl's Guide for College?  Now is your chance!  Email me at GGGFCollege@gmail.com and let me know you're interested. 

To be considered you must

1. Be 18 years or older

2. Be entering college in the fall OR have already been in college.

3. Be willing to share information about your college experience (college name will be kept private).

Again, the address is GGGFCollege@gmail.com

Hope to hear from you!

<3Jay

Deck Out Your Dorm - Issue 03. - Bedtime

It's hard to make the transition from your bed at home to your bed at school.  Hopefully, some of these tips will help you sleep tight in your dorm room bed!

1. Extra Long Sheets : Dorm room beds are always a little bit longer than the average bed.  When shopping for comforters or sheets, make sure you pick up ones that say Twin XL.

2. Mattress Cover : Let me be honest with you: dorm room beds are NOT very comfortable.  Investing in a good mattress cover/pad would be very beneficial.  A good cover can get pricy, but it is a really great investment to make.  Make sure you get a Twin XL size!

3. Sleep Mask : You are most likely going to have a room mate your first year.  Since you will have different schedules, a sleep mask is very necessary.  If you want to go to sleep and your room mate wants the lights on to study, a sleep mask will become very useful.  Try to find one that is cushioned for extra comfort.

4. Arm Chair Pillow : When you want to relax but also have to read for class, an arm chair pillow is very good to have.  They're really comfortable and they give you a lot of support for when you're reading your text books.  Try to find one with pockets on the side; it's great storage for your cell phone!

5. Bed Risers : Although these wont help you sleep, they will be very helpful when you are organizing your room.  They add a lot of extra space under your bed for you to keep a lot of your things.  Some beds in dorms are raisable, but I suggest getting some risers just incase!

<3Jay

Sororities 101

Hey girls.  I really wanted to make a post about sororities but since I am not in one I didn't feel as if I were qualified to give you guys tips.  While browsing youtube, I stumbled across a video that gives you a simplified overview of greek life and different sorority terminology.

This video was provide by Beauty Guru and college student Angela AKA Honeyflower3.  She provides beauty and fashion tips (along with occasional college information) to girls across the nation.  If I were you, I would subscribe to her channel!  She's great!

Enjoy the video!  If you have any other sorority questions, message Honeyflower3 on youtube!




<3Jay

Theme Party Thursday - Issue 04. - Birthday Party

Today is my birthday!  My birthday doesn't fall within the school year, but if it did I would want to have a big party with all of my friends on campus.  At your birthday party, you want to be the center of attention so make sure your outfit will really stand out.  Also, as always, make sure you can reuse your dress!

Dress

Shoes - Headband

Tights - Belt - Shirt - Earrings - Shoes

Like what you see? Let me know by emailing GGGFCollege@gmail.com!

<3Jay

Yay for Backpacks!

When I went to college for the first time I had a really cute Nine West tote bag that I was excited to carry my books in.  On my first walk to class, I realized that I made a big mistake; my shoulder was hurting so badly!  Though oversized totes may be cute, they can really hurt you.  Investing in a good (and stylish) backpack is a really great idea.  Backpacks may have been "dorky" in high school but in college they are a must have.  They allow you to equally distribute the weight of your books and laptop onto both shoulders.   Here are some really cute backpacks from ebags.com!

Pink & Plaid - Purchase - High Sierra

Bright & Basic - Purchase - Jansport

Fancy & Floral - Purchase - LeSportsac

(My Favorite One!)

Fun & Funky - Purchase - Dakine

Do you agree that backpacks are much better than tote bags?  Let me know in the comments or by emailing GGGFCollege@gmail.com!

<3Jay

Theme Party Thursday - Issue 03. - White Out Party

I have yet to be invited to a white out party, but they seem like a lot of fun.  If you don't know what that is, it's a party where everyone wears all white (kind of self explanatory).  For some added fun, some people like to add black lights for a special effect.  As always, you can reuse the one staple item for another occasion.

<3 Jay

Shower Savvy

A big thing to get used to while at school is showering in a public bathroom.  For this, you will need a shower tote or caddy.  They can be found at a lot of different stores such as Target or Walmart.  The only thing you need to keep in mind is the size.  Make sure the tote you pick out can hold the following things comfortably. 

• Soap/Body Wash
• Shampoo
• Conditioner 
• Razor and Shaving Cream
• Toothbrush and Toothpaste
• Facial Cleanser 
• Other Misc. Bath Items.

Here are some cute ones I picked out.  Click below the picture to purchase it.

Buy at Bed Bath and Beyond

Buy at Walmart

Buy at Amazon.com

Another public bathroom MUST HAVE is a good pair of rubber flip flops to shower in.  You do not want to be standing in a public shower barefoot.  Just trust me on this one.  Also, don't buy expensive ones.  You can get really cute ones at a really low price. www.oldnavy.com  has a really great selection.

<3Jay

What Should I Wear? - Issue 03. - Move in Day

First off, thank you to all of my loyal viewers who have made this blog a success!  I've reached over 500 views in the past few days and I'm so thankful for everyone of them.  While talking to friends, I've found out that the most popular issue is "What Should I Wear" so I decided to do more of them!  If you have any suggestions for topics, please let me know in the comments. 

Anyway, move in day is one of the most anticipated days for all college kids.  I was so excited to meet my roommate and to see what the dorm looked like.  So, obviously you want to look cute right?  You also DEFINITELY want to stay comfortable and cool because moving in can be strenuous.  Most importantly, make sure you wear comfortable shoes!  Try some of the combinations I've put together here.

Shirt  -  Shorts  -  Shoes  -  Glasses

Shirt  -  Shorts  -  Flip Flops  -  Necklace

Shirt  -  Shorts  -  Shoes  -  Belt

How do you like them?  Interested in what I wore on move in day?  I've tried to recreate the outfit here:

These aren't the exact pieces, but it's very close!  All of my clothes were purchased at MAXRave.

Hope you enjoyed! <3Jay

5 Pieces of Paperwork You Shouldn't Forget!

Here are some important documents that you should definitely bring with you when you go away to school.  Let's just say that I forgot to bring 4/5 of these and had to have them mailed to me from home! Oops!

1. Social Security Card: If you are planning to apply for a job when you are at school, you will need to show your SS Card and drivers license in order to be able to work.  You should find a safe hiding spot for this in your room and make sure you don't lose it! 
2. Passport: This can be used in place of your SS Card when applying for a job.  It's also great to have if you go to school close to the border of Canada or Mexico.  For example, a lot of schools in Upstate New York have buses that take day trips to Niagara Falls. 
3. AP/IB Scores: Your school should already have record of the college credits you've received by taking AP/IB or college credit courses in high school; however, if your college ends up not having this information on record, having these files with you can save you a lot of trouble.  I was able to place out of 3 classes because of my AP classes!  It was awesome.
4. Health Insurance Cards: If you happen to get sick when you are at school, your health insurance cards are vital.  They will allow you to visit medical centers and get medicine.  Some health insurance companies require 2 different cards: one for doctors visits and one for getting medicine.  Make sure you have both!
5. Instruction Manuals: You might have had your printer for years, but if something were to go wrong you would definitely want to refer to the instructions!  I had a folder in my desk where I kept all miscellaneous instruction manuals.  It really helped me a lot.

Did I forget anything?  Hope this was helpful!

<3Jay