Spring Break Prep

The tan

Fake it till you make it. I have NO qualms with self-tanning. It's completely safe and the quickest way to get that glow. I have used the Jergen's Natural Glow lotion for several years now and I absolutely love the gradual tan I get. It's super easy to apply to! The Sally Hansen wipes are a bit trickier to use, but I think it's the fastest at delivering even and tanned skin

Beach body

I know I've already gone on and on about how awesome Blogilaties work outs are, but if you lost count, here I am saying "heck yes, these workouts are the best" for the 100th time." I've linked three favorites down below that I do straight from the comfort of my dorm room with no equipment required.

Perfect Leg Workout
Body Slimming Workout
Six Minutes to Sexy Arms

The Spring Break Outfit (for future reference, SBO)

I don't know why, but I always feel like I have to purchase THE spring break outfit. The outfit that is the epitome of how I want my vacation to be - relaxed, fun, and bright! This year, I'm leaning towards a fun romper from RiffRaff. 

The music

(picture from last spring break in Boca Raton, FL...can't wait to be here again! Top is from a local boutique, shorts are from Target, and necklace is from Forever 21.)

The music is really up to you, but if you're like me I like to create playlists for vacations. Cameron will be coming to Florida with me and I know he really likes Tropical House music. I'm lame and had to look up the exact definition on wikipedia, but basically it was pioneered by an Australian DJ and just has a very "under the sea" tune to it. I always tell him it reminds me of Sea World. This sounds perfect for driving along the beach or laying out by the pool.
Listen to:
Kygo
Alex Adaire
Thomas Jack

The beach read

Thanks to one of my lovely blogging pals, Seersucker Sass I have heard amazing things about The Divorce Papers by Susan Rieger. And we both agree the White Girl Problems books are hilarious reads.

The fun, new recipe to try

I plan on trying this healthy green apple energizer by following this easy recipe from Tried and Tasty.

I cannot believe spring break is almost here! (Arkansas is kinda weird and we take our break the last week of March but STILL) I'll be visiting family in the Sunshine state and I could not be more excited. Stay safe on your spring break journeys and I hope you have a great time no matter where you go!

X,


Cristina

7 Reasons Why You Should Be at Target Right Now

Here's a fun post for Friday... 7 reasons why it's totally acceptable for you to head to Target even though you've already been twice this week...or something like that :)

1. New swimsuits

It's that time of year again. Swimsuit season can be scary - you'll hear the ever popular phrases "I look like Casper" and "my body is def not ready" as you scan the aisles. These suits are worth it though. I already picked out 30 that I want. And hey, it's great motivation to do a few planks.

2. Seasonal-neutral dollar aisle

With Valentines Day over, the $1 section isn't a graveyard of sparkly hearts anymore which is a great way to find some new things that you probably don't need ("But they're $1!"). Pens, magnets, decorative buckets - don't know what you'd use it for? That's ok, you'll probably get it anyway. 

3. Sweaters on sale

The swimsuits and cover ups now dominate most of the clothing section, so the cute sweaters and cardis are needing to be cleared out. I can help with that! At a lower price, you can get some great pieces for less.

4. Spring cleaning

This may just be a coincidence, but I feel like my Target had SO many organizational goodies from trash cans to storage bins in stock. This is great for me as I think of what I'll need for my house next year and maybe what I can do to better my room now.

5. All the Easter candy I gave up for Lent

Make a mental note of what you're hoping the Easter bunny brings and stay strong, baby girl.

6. For some reason...movies (?)

Maybe it's because the Oscars brought to light new movies we should be binge watching. Maybe it's because when Fifty Shades comes out on DVD they are going to need a lot of room for all the copies. Or maybe it's some crazy, beautiful coincidence. I found lots of great movies for $5.

7. The CUTEST stuff for your place next year

I'm moving off campus into a town home with two of my friends next year (What....Cristina "off" Campus?) and we have started looking at how we want to decorate. I went to Target and proceeded to blow up their phones with snapchats of bright and colorful decor. 

And a final reason to be completely Target-obsessed...

Mark your calendars for April 19th! Lilly for Target will be available online and in stores - what a dream come true! 

Sign up for an email reminder about the collection here.

I am WAY TOO EXCITED. No joke - text me if you want to go fangirl with me. 

That being said, have an amazing weekend and contact me if you find anything amazing at Target by adding me on Google+ here!

X,

Cristina

Drugstore Makeup Dupes

A dorm room girl with designer taste needs to get the best for the best price. Today I'm sharing some of my favorite drugstore makeup dupes with ya'll.

I did some research for the best drugstore bronzer. This NYC bronze in "Fire Island Tan" is a perfect dupe for the ever popular NARS' "Laguna". I've only had it a few days, and I'm in love.

The best replacement for a Clinique Chubby Stick is a Revlon Just Bitten stick! 

I have yet to try Mabelline's Age Rewind eraser, but I've heard from several beauty gurus that it works better than most high-end under eye concealers. 

Elf's eyebrow gel is just $1 - a real winner. 

I have used the Almay Clear Complexion concealer since I was 13. It was the first product my mom ever bought for me to try, and since then I've been in love. It's so lightweight and blends flawlessly; I would pick it over Smashbox any day. I'm in the shade "light", but during tan summers I move to "light-medium". 

Save some money for textbooks, Chipotle dinners, and spring break trips with these drugstore dupes!
Also, be sure to follow me here on Pinterest! I pin lots of beauty dupes to my "Beauty" board.

X,

Cristina

How I Survived Winter: Campus Edition

I believe that if I write enough end-of-winter posts, spring will hurry up and get here! The snow day we had was a lot of fun, but now I am (like I've said multiple times) ready for shorts and sandals. I asked my reps what got them through their winters on campus:

"The main things that have gotten me through this winter are my Burts Bees Chapstick, Einstein Bros Hot Mocha coffee, my scarves and fuzzy tall socks." 

Katie, Stephen F. Austin

"This is a parka or 'stadium jacket' in the soccer world. The pockets are lined with fleece and the jacket keeps out wind, rain, and snow."
Kylie, Midwestern State University

(Cristina on Campus tip #62: If you are a frequent customer at Einsteins, consider purchasing a travel coffee mug. With this, you'll just pay a little over a dollar for your coffee fix.) 

"My eos products helped me a ton this winter! I have the pomegranate raspberry lip balm to help with my chapped lips and the cucumber hand lotion to help with my dry hands. I keep both in my backpack and purse at all times!" 

Clarisa, University of Arkansas

"This winter my main 'best friends' have been my Uggs - they never fail to keep my toes toasty - and my Patagonia pullover I got for 30% off." 

Rebecca, University of Arkansas 

(Lewis and Clark has some amazing sales, ya'll)

"Vaseline chapstick - it never dries out my lips - and moisturizer from Mary Kay because my skin gets dry....and lots of fuzzy socks." 

Caroline, Cy Fair High School

"Baby oil gets me through the dry winter months! As weird as that sounds! Put it on right after you shower (I do this at night) for maximum effect! No more itchy skin!" 

Angela, University of Alabama

"The things that have gotten me through this winter are obviously my winter coat, but also a positive mindset that I could handle it. Every time I walk outside and the wind hits my face I try to tell myself I love it! ...When you are planning on being in the cold for a long time put latex gloves on under your gloves as they keep the heat in! Another thing I have learned is that Chapstick and lots of lotion is a necessity..." Selena, University of Wisconsin

"I use my favorite Christmas present, my men's Patagonia. I just throw it on over my clothes and run out the door." Anders, Ole Miss

As for me, I love Aveeno moisturizer for dry skin, my rose salve from Bath and Body Works, and drinking lots of hot tea.

"Growing" Strong

This post has been long in the making.

From the age of 3 to 17 I had to tie my hair back in a ponytail for dance and even twist it up in a slicked back bun for recitals and competitions. Going for a cute bob or a choppy cut was out of the question for quite some time. When I stopped competitive dance at the end of my junior year of high school, it was time for a visit to the hair salon. 

Don't get me wrong, I really did like the way my hair looked after 11 inches came off. But it was only fun for a couple days and then I wanted it all back. I groaned getting out of bed because there was no wearing it natural like I used to. It had to be blow dried and straightened. If an outfit would have looked cute with an up-do, I was out of luck. Beachy waves were a thing of the past. I'll admit, I regretted it. This isn't the case for everyone, some people love having short hair! Honestly, I think it's really cute and fun. If that's your thing - you go, girl. (Or guy....man bun appreciation right here.) 

So if you randomly decided to chop your hair off and are now wanting to grow it out, this is your moment. 

How to grow your hair out: (These steps are very similar to ones found on the internet because that's where I went to when I realized I desperately wanted my hair back and was crying while eating lots of chocolate)

1. Limit yourself to heat only once a week

I would only straighten/curl my hair once a week. On the other days, I would attempt no-heat hairstyles. My favorites were messy buns (with 313296853 bobby pins), twisting the front part back in a french braid, and adding a fun headband or wrap. 

2. Use that weird horse shampoo

YES it works. And it's very inexpensive. And while you're at Walgreens you can buy yet another nail polish you really don't need. 

3. Put weird things in your hair and be sure to Snapchat your contact list about it

(pssst...add me on SC: cristina_m24

My favorite thing to use was a mixture of olive oil and egg yolk. I would put it on once a week and vine the whole thing. You can also buy a hair mask. I suggest fdla;gj;ajgia 

4. Yeah, you actually should get a trim

Go to the salon, stress that you are trying to grow your hair and need a trim for the dead ends and watch your hairdresser like a hawk so that "dead ends" doesn't turn into "here's your new pixie cut". This is the only time it is socially acceptable for you to be picky and OCD. She'll understand. Hair is very personal.

5. Up your hat game

It is very harmful to repeatedly expose your hair to harsh sun, especially when trying to get it as healthy as possible for growth. I wear a hat when tanning or hanging by the pool to not only protect me skin but my hair as well. A polo hat is a great summer accessory, but I also love a good Fraternity collection cap or a floppy sunhat from Versona. 

6. Become a mermaid

I feel like every other post I mention the benefits of water, but really...drink up! 

7. Get some vitamins

Tweet from one of my favorite Youtubers, Meghan Rienks. Vitamins are totally a food group! I took Biotin supplements when I was growing out my hair. I'm convinced that stuff is magic. 

8. Have patience

It's been a year and a half since I cut my hair. Now, I did keep cutting it once it got to a medium length because I was into that for a while, but it still would have taken me about 9 months to a year to get where I am today. I do want to grow it out a little bit more, but I'm pretty happy with the progress.  I hope this helps! 

Enjoy the awkward selfies of me.. #ss #allsmiles #livelaughlove #hairgrowth #tt #whatamidoing

X,

Cristina

Winter Favorites

The groundhog may have said "6 more weeks of winter", but I plan to start looking in the direction of warmer weather and sandals. As I begin to break in some new pieces for spring in the realms of beauty and fashion, I want to acknowledge my winter favorites. Despite the initial culture shock, I had fun experiencing temperatures below 40 and even seeing a bit of snow on campus.

1. Winter whites

I don't know who's  in charge of these fashion rules, but I am so glad white was ruled a "do" for this season. I loved my white cable knit and wearing my white beanie- definitely something I want to stick for next year. 

2. TRESemme Climate Control shampoo and conditioner

I noticed my hair started misbehaving when the temperature started dropping, so I switched up my hair care routine and bought these babies. I was left with soft and manageable hair. These will also be great for the summer humidity.

3. Minimal accessories

I love brightly-colored bib necklaces to pair with my summer dresses and I can never seem to stop buying anything large and sparkly. In winter, I need something that will look good with an oversized peacoat and chunky scarves. I found that simple rings and long necklaces worked best, and Forever 21 had my back.

4. Booties

I decided I preferred booties to riding boots this year. My 5'2 frame works better with added height and a smoother silhouette. After falling in love with these from Versona, I frequently checked their stock and they always had adorable pairs for such a great price - I'll be back for more! 

5. Urban Decay's shadow "sin"

This shadow became my go-to. It was pigmented enough to show up on skin tones a bit paler due to the winter season and brought a great amount of color to amp up a look. 

It's funny how I typed this during a snow day at school! It's been real, but I'm ready for tanning and smoothies...

X,

Cristina 

#RiffraffLove

Sale Alert!

Not just a sale...it's Riffraff's 6th birthday! 

I have been blessed with Riffraff Fayetteville in my backyard, so I had to go celebrate with them today. It was awesome ya'll - a photo booth, cake, discount cards, and special guest appearances by Beyonce and Kate Middleton. 

I needed something for the ever-anticipated spring season, so I got this (super soft) striped tee and a brilliant statement ring. 

There's still time to celebrate! Shop some of my favorites like Head over Heels collection or the Charlie Southern tees. And if you're in the Fayetteville area, Riffraff is "going up on a Thursday" till 7pm!

X,

Cristina

That's What Makes You Beautiful

I was tagged on Instagram to do the "20 beautiful women" challenge. I thought I'd incorporate it through Cristina on Campus and share some lovely ladies I've been introduced to through the blogging network. This way, you can see for yourself all the little bits of inspiration they give me through their blogs and everyday life (click names to visit links!)

Katey McFarland of Chronicles of Frivolity

I have loved reading Chronicles of Frivolity since before I even thought to start my own blog. I look up to Katey in many different ways, and her peppy pops of color on my Instagram feed are my favorite things to see. She also has such a beautiful heart and has such a deep desire to know and love Christ. She just got engaged, so if you're reading this Katey, congrats and I know you'll look amazing (as always) on your big day!

Alexandria Eisenhardt of The College Lifestylist 

I’ve enjoyed watching this girl grow in the blog world. Like me, she is a college girl with a love for the simpler things in life like a great cup of coffee or perfectly organized school supplies. She also is quite the entrepenuer with her website designer. I love how her pictures are always little snippets of what she's doing just then - it makes me feel like we are sitting down together getting some Chipotle and talking about class!

Lauren Vandiver from Vandi Fair

I adore her and her blog. She definitely takes the cake for the most whimsical and fun style in my book. I really love seeing her eye-catching outfits stick out in my feed. She's just a great reminder to me that fashion is fun and a great way to express yourself. Also, I think I'm a bit impartial towards Texas bloggers...heehee. (Another recently engaged blogger...congrats, girl!)

Amanda Gott of A. Nicole Style and @gottigetsfit 

Fitness coach and style guru - I swear this girl does it all and I am so glad she does because I love it! Most of what I've learned in terms of living a fit lifestyle has come from Amanda or sources she's pointed me towards. Such an inspirational young lady and friend. 

Graciela from Miss Graciela

I love this girl's blog! I have only just started reading it, but I already love learning more about her through it. She really pours her heart into what she writes. And thank you for tagging me for the 20 beautiful women!

Rachel Martin from Seashells and Sparkles 

Again, so much love and respect towards other college bloggers. It is definitely not easy all the time, so I love that Rachel recently posted some time management tips up on her blog. She's always thinking of creative ways to brighten the day and share a good duck face. 

Seersucker Sass 

I have followed Seersucker Sass since before I even thought of having a blog. I just love how down to earth and "on point" she is! I enjoy hearing about her work life as well as her personal life to really have something to strive for when I go out into the big girl world. She truly gets creative with her posts and strives to deliver exactly what the population of twenty-something-latte-connoisseurs are looking for in terms of fashion, advice, and lifestyle.

Sami Mast from The Classic Brunette

Sami's blog just makes me smile as soon as I pull it up. Her passion for what she writes just radiates out. I think it is so awesome that she includes tips and tidbits on traveling in her posts. I just love getting to see what she dreams up next for her adorable site.

Marissa Lace - Youtube

Shoutout to Marissa for favoriting my tweet about me watching her videos and cracking up laughing while in the gym. Awkward but worth it. I could probably write an 10-page paper on why I love this Youtuber, but I'll keep it short and say that she is hilarious, gorgeous, and inspirational. Watching her "Get Ready With Me's" and vlogs make me smile bigger than if I had a giant heart-shaped pizza.

Meghan Rienks - Youtube

Meghan is one of my favorite Youtubers. I love watching her videos while I'm on the elliptical or sipping tea just like she loves to do. She is so real. I think everyone has a lot of different meanings for that word. I'm not just saying she wouldn't bail on a lunch date with me or forget to give me back my straightener - she delivers such enlightening messages through her channel. And at the same time, she shows you how to have voluminous waves and a perfect complexion. Much love for this girl.

Cambria Joy - Youtube

SO much love for Breelovesbeauty. Another very grounded young lady who shares her passion with the Internet in such a beautiful way. I love doing her bible study videos or watching her cooking tutorials. I've learned so much from a few simple 4 to 22 min videos of hers and I can't help but share with everyone my love and respect for such a light.

Erika Vaughn - @liltinyrika on IG, megaposi.tumblr.com

Erika is bomb. She goes to my church back in my hometown and I don't think she realizes what an impact she has had on me in the past couple months. Erika started a positive blog on Tumblr and also posts positive pictures and messages on her Twitter and Instagram. There will never be a day that I don't like hearing "You're just a little bean sprout, keep on growin!"

Blogilaties Cassey Ho 

If you have not done one of the Blogilaties workouts I've been raving about on my blog lately, then you need to click right here please and thanks! Cassey Ho is just this adorable package of good energy and I love that I can access her fitness and health videos each and every day. I could go on and on about her fitness calendars and Instagram challenges, but I'll just let you readers see for yourself. I love learning from someone who has grown to understand what true beauty is and desires to share that with as many as she can.

Dana Mannarino of Pink Champagne Problems

Dana was one of the first bloggers to notice my little cookie cutter blog when it first started. She started following and then mentioned me on Twitter complimenting my blog and I squealed for about 10 minutes. I admire her and her brand so much; I can't get enough of her cute and casual looks she posts! She's another inspiration for me when I get out into the working world. 

Sadie of Sadie Down South

Well, duh, she's my partner in crime! Sadie is my favorite southern belle and tanning buddy. The best way I could describe her as someone who hasn't had the pleasure to meet her is that she is that person that you can just automatically connect with. I couldn't be more blessed to have her as a friend, and starting our blogs together made the process so fun and special. 

My other favorite beautiful women would be my 3 sisters Maddie, Clara, and Caroline, my mom Susan, and Angmom :)

I hope everyone is having a great week! Thank you to all who are inspirations and lights in my life! 

X,

Cristina