Looks to Ring in the New Year in Style

Let's face it, girls. When it comes to the holidays, sometimes it can be tough to pick out the perfect outfit. (Especially without breaking the bank!) But that's why I'm here to help. If you're looking for a little outfit inspiration for New Year's, then look no further. I've picked out three outfits, each with their own unique style, for whatever plans you have to ring in the New Year. The holiday season calls for lots of metallics, sequins, and all things shiny and sparkly. That's just what these outfits deliver, in varying degrees of course. Plus, each of the items in these outfits is $50 or less. (Sounds good already, right?) So here are my three outfit picks to start your year off right:

1. Outfit #1: Casual Chic

Oxblood Sweater ($27), Boyfriend Jeans ($30), Chelsea Boots ($40), Tote ($33), Hat ($49), Layered Necklace ($35)

If you plan to chill at home with your family or just hang out with a few friends for New Year's, then this is the ideal outfit for you. The whole idea is to look chic and to be comfortable while doing so. (Isn't that our ultimate struggle anyway?) An oversized oxblood sweater paired with some boyfriend jeans is a great match on their own. But add some Chelsea boots (a personal favorite), a cute hat, and some matching accessories, and your cozy evening look is complete. 

2. Outfit #2: Subtle Shimmer

Sequined Top ($25), Leather Pants ($35), Heels ($20), Nail Polish ($15), Clutch ($50)

Let’s say you want to stand out at the party you're going to, without looking like a Christmas tree topper. Well, as the title suggests, this ensemble will add a subtle amount of shimmer without going overboard. I've chosen this amazing sequined top from H&M, which serves as the focal point for this outfit. Then I added some leather pants for an edgy look, along with nude heels to balance all the colors going on. The clutch and nail polish add an extra pop to the look, too. When you're wearing this outfit, you're sure to be the "shining star" of the party. (Pun intended.)

3. Outfit #3: Festive & Fab

Dress ($48), Booties ($45), Clutch ($38), Earrings ($28)

This is another look to try if you're heading out to a party on New Year's. If you're not big on leather pants, then you can never go wrong with a dress. This halter dress is a gorgeous metallic color; perfect for this time of year. I paired it with some peep-toe booties, and a sequined clutch. I also chose statement earrings, which polish off the look. Who says you can't look festive and chic at the same time?

So whether you plan on dressing up for a glamorous party or just for hanging with friends and family for New Year's, I hope these three outfits sparked your creativity. For whatever you plan on doing on New Year's: have fun, be safe, and be sure to look fabulous while doing it. 

-Alyssa 

Holiday Gift Guide: Your Best Friend

Necklaces

With the stacking of simple necklaces being a bigger deal than usual this fall/winter, finding jewelry to match the trend and everyone on my gift list will be more than easy. It’s simple, it’s fashionable, it’s fun, and it won’t break the bank, depending on where you go. 

I recommend: Dogeared, Inc. products found here

Headphones

So I'm pretty sure we can all agree that one of the worst feelings in life is realizing your headphones are broken as you step onto the CTA Red Line on your way to class; it makes for a pretty silent twenty-five minute train ride. My philosophy is that no one can have too many pairs of headphones—in the ear, over the ear, black, rainbow, no design, neon, whatever. I am personally have over six pairs of headphones and honestly a good deal at Target is about to raise that number.

Turntable

I will acknowledge that getting your friend a turntable is a powerful friendship decision, but I promise you that there are cheap, portable, good quality turntables that will rock your friend’s world, and indirectly your own (did someone say party??). 

I recommend: Urban Outfitters record players found here

Journal

Ever since my 11th grade English teacher made his final exam be that each of his students turn in a journal of their thoughts, I have been a firm believer in writing about everything you experience. Whether you sat in bed and watched reruns of Gilmore Girls or signed up for the Peace Corps, you’ll want to remember the things you did while you were young and living in a city like Chicago. 

I recommend: Take a trip to Art Effect (or go to their website here) 

Private by Giancarlo Giammetti

A collection of images by Mr. Giametti and his partner, Valentino, Private is practically twelve pound book full of images that I personally could only dream of. From Italy in the 1970’s to intimate photos of celebrities like Elizabeth Taylor, the tens of thousands of images in this book are phenomenal. 

Grow a Santa

The only commentary I have on this gift is WHO WOULDN’T WANT TO GROW A SANTA?

I recommend: Check out Amazon, they're everywhere on that crazy internet machine

Hubba Bubba Bubble Gum and Lip Smackers

Everyone loves a good throwback to the early 2000’s, and who wouldn’t know that more than your best friend? That circle of gum that would never end and always turned your mouth incredibly blue is iconic. That Lip Smacker that was Doctor Pepper flavored changed your life, whether you want to admit it or not. 

I recommend: Claire's, always

The Comforter Bubble Bar

It makes purple bubbles; it smells like blackcurrant candy. This bubble bar is one of the highest rated products of Lush out there. That being said, I will also recommend the mint julep lip scrub until the day I die.

I recommend: Checking out Lush's website here

Flash Tattoos

At the heart and soul of Flash Tattoos is the beach. Lasting approximately 5 days, these temporary tattoos are (obviously) non-toxic and can be applied with just a little bit of water, just like the temporary tattoos you got when you were five. Primarily black, gold, and/or silver, these tats are incredibly fashionable and are relevant year round, not just when you’re standing in the ocean. Also, this would probably be the ideal way to get matching tattoos with your best friend without, ya know, needles and a lifelong commitment. 

I recommend: Taking a look at all the options on Flash's website here

Candles

I have yet to meet someone who has a strong dislike for candles. Therefore, they are a perfect gift. If you want to put a personal touch on gifting a candle, create one!

I recommend: Go to Waxman Candles right here in Chicago. All made in the United States, they’ve been around since 1970 and really know their stuff. Check them out here

Not That Kind of Girl by Lena Dunham

So I casually am obsessed with Lena Dunham (also her boyfriend) and I think it would be a beautiful thing to have everyone and their sister read her book if they haven’t already. I know all my closest friends have read Not That Kind of Girl and absolutely LOVED it.

I recommend: Get your friend (if she hasn’t read them yet) Rookie Yearbook 3 and Amy Poehler’s Yes Please

Cookie in a Jar

THESE ARE SO CONVENIENT AND CUTE AND CRAFTY. 

I recommend: Heading to your local grocery store, getting all ingredients to make a batch of cookies, getting a mason jar from your local thrifting store (wash it thoroughly) and then pour the proper measurements of ingredients into said jar. It's so cheap; it's wonderful. 

Fig + Yarrow Sea Scrub

Created by salts of the Dead Sea, this scrub can be used from the neck and down to help exfoliate and detoxify skin. It feels amazing, and smells how I would imagine heaven (or at least a spa) to smell like. 

I recommend: Finding it here

Happy holidays!

-Leah

Hollywood Film Awards Red Carpet

This past Friday, the 2014 Hollywood Film Awards took place in Los Angeles, California. This year marks the first year for the show to be televised. Most of the awards are given to the recipients for movies that have not been in theaters yet, or for ones that are just being released. The mission of the Hollywood Film Awards is to begin the official launch of the award season. 

That being said, here are some red carpet highlights:

Kiera Knightly, Amanda Steele, Jenna Dewan, Tian Jing

Shailene Woodley, Emily Ratajokowski, Hilary Swank, Kristen Stewart

-Kristin