Conference Etiquette?

It's conference season and if your attending one of the many conferences this Spring, including MGCA, NGLA, and SEPC, you may run into our director, Shelly Marie! Be sure to tell her hello!!!

Here are some quick conference etiquette tips!

1. Arrive no sooner than 15 minutes earlier to a lunch/dinner meal (this is the same for business dinners).
2. What is cocktail attire? Ladies - short, elegant dress + accessories (LBD is great)! Gentleman - dart suit + dress shirt + tie or dark blazer + dress pants + tie.
3. What is business attire? Think of 'courtroom' attire. Ladies - dress pants, pumps/heels, button up shirts, blazers, cardigan sweaters, scarfs, pencil skirts hitting knee, work style dress (shift dress/wrap dress). Gentleman - khakis, button up shirts, ties.

We know it hurts, but.....

1. Everyone loves flip flops, but even 'dressy' flip flops belong on the beach; not with a dress or pants.
2. Cell phones - place on silent please.

What if....

1. I am stuck talking to a 'scholar' or someone who is 'boring?' Keep your cool. We know, it's tough. Listen, smile, and use 'I' words. 'Wow, impressive.'
2. I forget a name? It's embarrassing to re-ask a name, but saying something as 'I have met so many people today, and I am terrible with names. Could you tell me yours again?'

Safe travels!!!!!

What's in College Lifestyles (TM) Pantry????

With the weather still chilly, soup not only taste great, but it feels great!

A great soup that we found, Pacific Organic Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Soup! Great for a quick lunch in the dorm or a quick weekend meal!

Where we found it? Target, Wal-Mart, Kroger, and World Market!

Soups up!

Supportive Statements When Discussing Diet and Eating Disorders...

If you suspect that a friend or sorority sister is becoming more obsessive with dieting; and avoiding eating with you and your sisters, we encourage you to use supportive statements and avoid confrontational statements....

Avoid the following statements if your friend sorority sister is obsessive dieting or avoiding eating with you:

'That is ridiculous. You have to eat.'

Instead, state the following:

'You seem withdrawn. Is everything okay?'
'You haven't eaten with me in a while. Is everything okay?'

This way, you bring up the situation without being confrontational.

(Taken from College Lifestyles program No Number (TM) - Greeks Fight Against Eating Disorders.)

Yes, You Can Help Prevent Eating Disorders!

Make a commitment not to avoid activities (swimming and dancing) that draw attention to you!!!!!

~Adapted from Michael Levine, PhD

Body Image Tip!

Tell yourself 'I will wear clothes that are comfortable and make me feel good about myself.'

--Adapted from Michael Levine, Ph.D and Linda Smolak, Ph.D in conjunction with the National Eating Disorders Association.

We Found It!!!! Raincoat from French Connection!!!

This gorgeous rain coat from French Connection ($49.99) will transition into the rainy late winter/spring! A great sale indeed, only $49.99!

This rain coat flatters all shapes since it hits the knee and the tie waist will create a lovely siloutte!

What's New in the College Lifestyles (TM) Pantry????

Popchips!!!!!

We love these chips! Natural and 'popped!' That's right - think of these as 'popcorn chips.' Great for snacking or better yet, we found our chip for the superbowl!!!!

Available at Target and Whole Foods!!!

Happy Popping!!!

Pasta Etiquette????

Spaghetti dinners are wonderful!!! But how to we eat such a delicious meal without getting sauce on our favorite outfit?? Or worse, slurping a noodle???

When served your plate, resist temptation to use your fork and knife to cut up pasta noodles. Instead, use fork and bowl of your spoon. Twirl a decent mouthful around your fork and bring to your mouth!

Bon appetite!

A Word from the Director - What Not To Do During A Conversation?????

Our director meets interesting people now and then, and has come up with a few conversation etiquette tips. 'I have been told some secrets that will make you blush in all of 3 seconds of meeting someone. TMI!'

College Lifestyles (TM) tips on conversation etiquette tips (and our director's take on each one):

1. Speak so loudly that everyone hears you! 'One of the worst - it is so distracting when you are on a date, convention, or even at a business lunch/dinner and you can hear the entire conversation of the person at the next table. Focus changes from your table to the conversation at the next. Date over.'

2. Laugh too uproariously. 'When something is funny, laugh; but be careful about the 'fake' laugh to impress others (including a boss, date, or instructor).'

3. Tell too personal stories. 'Remember, personal story with a BFF is fine; but dinner may not be the best time. In addition, discussing a medical procedure may be normal to you, but be sensitive to others with weaker stomachs.'

4. Yawn.

5. Talk only about yourself. 'When we are nervous, yes, we tend to talk about ourselves; but include others in the conversation by asking simple, open ended questions.'

So there you have it. Classy Conversations!

The Best Way to Wear Knits! (Great find from The Limited!)

With a chill still in the air, we still want to feel warm and snuggly (even though spring and summer clothes are hitting some of our favorite stores!) Knits (as in knit sweaters, cardigans, and wraps) are our best friends throughout the remaining winter months. As spring weather approaches, look for a lighter version of the knit cardigan/sweater.

Knits are extremely easy to wear and work for class, internship, and business attire!

Tips on wearing (According to Bazaar):
1. Chunky (as the open cardigan show here from The Limited ($24.50)) - This style works great as a light coat. The most flattering fit is to wear over a pencil skirt, fitted trousers or jeans, or leggings.
2. Sweater Dress - Pair a sweater dress with tights and boots. Be aware - appropriate undergarments is a must! No VPLs please!
3. Belts - belts come in handy when wearing cardigans to work.

Your own flare:
1. Funky - pair a fitted cardigan with a ruffle or bubble dress. Button in the middle to define the waist! Top with tights and boots.
2. Business - a V-Neck sweater over a white button up shirt and trousers. Top with stud earrings.
3. J-Set - fitted V-Neck worn alone, skinny jeans tucked into boots, scarf tied around neck, hoop earrings, hair pulled back.
4. Classic/Work appropriate - dress up a crew neck knit sweater with a broach or chunky necklace.
5. Casual - boyfriend style sweater, boot cut fitted jeans, flats (dress up with heels!)
6. Romantic - pair a sweater vest with a t-neck blouse, trousers or pencil skirt!

Remember, we feel the most comfortable about ourselves when we wear clothes that fit and feel great!

Yes, You Can Help Prevent Eating Disorders!

Remember, that others pay attention to the way you talk and present yourself! And, you can make a huge difference by being a model of healthy eating and self esteem.

The National Eating Disorder Association agrees. One tip they give:

'Avoid categorizing foods as good/safe and bad/dangerous.'

Why? Well, the more that you restrict, the more you would want something. It turns into that terrible relationship with food. Enjoy food! Love food! Our body's appreciate it!

The above is the exact basis of our director's book, 'Eat Well and Be Fabulous: A Guide for the Modern Day Woman.'

College Lifestyles (TM) Director Has Successful Book Signing!

Congrats to our director, Shelly Marie, for a successful book signing for 'Eat Well and Be Fabulous: A Guide for the Modern Day Woman,' at Fitness Lady in Bossier City! At the signing, Shelly was interviewed by the Shreveport Times (Shreveport's local newspaper).

Participants were treated to a presentation from Shelly, as well as words from Owner/Director of Fitness Lady, Kedgy Larson!

A great event!

(If you missed the event or wish to order our director's great book, visit www.shellymariespeaking.com!)

Dining Etiquette - What if my Food is Way to Hot!

It happens, especially in winter. We order soup or coffee; and it is scolding hot. Our director says, 'I was eating soup from a resturant and felt the tears because the soup was so hot!'

Here's what to do if you are in that situation:

1. If you have a cold beverage around, take a quick sip.
2. If no cold beverages are around, and your getting teary eyed, you can politely remove the food with fork or spoon and place on the side of your plate.

One rule of thumb, let your food sit for a bit if you notice smoke (common with soups and coffee). Blowing on food is considered inappropriate.

These Boots Were Made for Walking!!! (How to Match Boots to My Outfits!)

Boots are great for keeping our feet warm in the winter time!!! But with all the styles that we have for boots, how do we know which boot to match to our outfits!!!

1. A High-Heel Boot - Very similar to the pump. These can be worn to an internship, business meetings, etc. If you are wearing a fitted skirt, it looks great with ribbed tights and the hem of the skirt falling one inch above the top of the boot. If you are wearing a full A-line skirt; the hem can go pass the boot. (The high-heel boot shown is from Nine West for $99.00)

2. Riding (flat heeled) boots - work better with a shorter skirt and tights. For an 'equestrian-style,' tuck your jeans in these boots!

3. Ankle boots - work with trousers, as well as A-line knit skirts with tights.

4. Slouchy boots - work with skinny jeans and long skirts.

Match your style!

1. Boho - tuck your jeans into slouch boots, ribbed turtleneck, chunky cardigan, and big sunglasses.
2. Classic - black turtleneck, dark denim, black leather boots, silver jewelry.
3. Casual - jeans tucked into flat or cowboy boots, white button up shirt, belt, hoop earrings.
4. Class style - Tunic turtleneck dress, tights, flat boots (looks great with black dress, black tights, and natural/flesh tone color boots).
5. Business Attire - Trousers, ankle boots, cardigan sweater set, stud earrings.

Good Foods Vs Bad Foods? What? Can We Just say Fun Vacuum?

Oh my goodness!!!! Look anywhere and we see these words 'This food is bad.' or 'Poision.' Give us a break!! It is more important to regonize when your body is hungry!

When we start to categoize food is when we turn into a fun-vacuum. And no one likes a fun vacuum! (Taken from 'Eat Well and Be Fabulous: A Guide for the Modern Day Woman')

The National Eating Disorder Association agrees and quotes on it's website:

'When was the last time you truly had fun dieting? Most likely you won’t remember it as a pleasurable experience. After all, it doesn’t feel so great to be getting hungry for lunch but forcing yourself to wait an extra hour. Do you remember feeling irritable?'

It continues to state...

'The first key to listening to your body is being able to detect when you are getting hungry. If you are indeed truly hungry, and not just looking for food to cure your boredom, stress, or loneliness, then it is time to refuel.'

Shame on diet books and people who teach anyone to forbid food. 'How not fabulous.'

No Numbers(TM) - What to do when Someone or a Sorority Sister is Talking Negative About Her Body??

It's bound to happen with the New Year - talk of diet and weight loss.

The 'I feel fat' quote comes up quite often in basic conversation. What can you do to be a supportive sister or friend?

First, avoid the blame game. It's quite easy to blame others, family members, media, and even ourselves on what our friend or sister may be saying. 'I heard her boyfriend call her fat,' 'I was talking about how we ate too much at that party, so now I feel bad,' 'Why doesn't she do something?' are common ways of playing the blame game on others and yourself.

Be more supportive and encourage expressing feelings in a healthy way - such as journaling, talking to one another, and artistic persuits. Remember, listening goes a very long way. 'I'm here for you.' 'I support you.' are wonderful statements, instead of 'Are you sure you want to eat that - you told me last week you started a diet, I am just looking out for your best interest.'

Encourage your friend or sister to think of what her body can do (dance, skate, ski, etc)

(Taken from College Lifestyles program No Numbers - Greeks Fight Against Eating Disorders.' )

2009 - Styles to Leave in 2008! (And the ones to bring into 2009!)

At College Lifestyles (TM), we have to agree with the styles (add we added a few more) to leave behind in 2008, as well as the ones to let you 'shine' in 2009!

Leave behind (According to Glamour!):
1. Boots with Shorts. (Kneecaps?)
2. White tights. (Nurse?)
3. Skull print scarfs (just why?)
4. Crocs (just, no)

College Lifestyles (TM) additions (for all time sake):
1. Inappropriate undergarments (VPL, VBL!).
2. The mullet.
3. Torn tights.

Embrace (According to Glamour):
1. Jeans tucked into boots.
2. Dangly earrings.
3. Black tights with a white dress.

Continue to read the complete article from Glamour!

Meet Cassie, a professional, from Eat Well and Be Fabulous: A Guide for the Modern Day Woman

'I am so sick of chicken at night, sandwiches for lunch, and pretzels for my snack. Someone is always bringing a cake to work. It's very frustrating. Just tell me what to do!'

Shelly's first encounter with Cassie. Cassie is a new professional in the city. On her own officially and can enjoy happy hour!

But....'I get so tired around 3pm. I just want to feel better and have more energy!'

Hum...Cassie, hold your head up high because you stepping on the fabulous train......(Shelly's thought!)

A Jackie-O Style LBD that Transitions from Class to Business Attire!

Jackie-O was famous for the sheath dress! Of course, in the LBD style of College Lifestyles (TM); we found this great sheath dress from The Limited ($98.00)!

What makes this dress so wonderful? It is universally flattering and can go from season to season AND casual to business attire to going out with a few small changes!

Seasonal:
Winter - Top with a black OR white fitted sweater cardigan, brightly colored scarf, black boots, and skinny black belt!
Spring - Top with a denim jacket.
Summer - Wear as is!
Fall - Top with a 3/4 sleeve blazer and scarf!

Style tips:
Class/casual - Top with a denim jacket, flats or 'cute' flip flops, hoops.
Presentation day OR Business Attire - Flesh tone pumps, graphic print shirt (wear under - go for a tie-neck blouse), studs.
Going out - Wear with metallic heels, clutch!

Other tips:
1. Wear a sweater turtleneck over the dress with tights and ankle booties!
2. In the spring, exchange black belt with a yellow or white belt!

Meet Alicia, an intern, from Eat Well and Be Fabulous: A Guide for the Modern Day Woman

Telephone rings. 'Hello, this is Shelly.'

'HELP! I have no idea how to cook for myself. I lived in a dorm and apartment and lived off cereal.'

Meet Alicia. Alicia left the world of student government and sorority life behind and traded it in for a Monday through Friday internship. A great downtown location, coffee shops on every corner, business clothes, and an empty refrigerator. (And a 500 square foot apartment).

'I have no idea what or even how to cook. I live off cereal. I don't even know how to cook chicken. Help! I am so embarrassed to have friends over, they open up the refrigerator and see a half empty carton of take out.'

Hum....could we really tell Alicia to skin a chicken? Please.....

Can Cassie cook and still have time for the internship? Survey says yes.....and she does it so 'fabulously!'

Order by visiting www.shellymariespeaking.com.

Working through an Eating Disorder When Going Back to School...

Working through an Eating Disorder has challenges when returning back to school. At College Lifestyles (TM), we are starting our No Numbers (TM) Program in which will focus on eating disorder prevention, discussion for those who are working through an eating disorder, and what to do if a loved one or sorority sister has an eating disorder.

Before packing your bags to return to campus, find a sayings, quotes, and pictures of supportive friends/family that is extremely meaningful. Build a mini-scrapbook with these quotes and pictures. Look at it when times are stressful. Have the quote on your facebook page; write it a sheet of paper and place in your wallet.

Meet Anna, a sorority leader, from Eat Well and Be Fabulous: A Guide for the Modern Day Woman

Anna is sweet as sugar, but is hiding a secret.....

Anna is a typical college 'overachiever.' She's an active member of her sorority and lives in the chapter house suite at her university. Anna's expression: 'I LIVE for coffee. I am so tired. I just walk around campus drinking coffee to wake up.'

Anna's schedule is not 9-5, it's 7am-2am. She says, 'I don't have any time to cook, and by the time I get to the dining hall, it's closed. I eat crackers constantly.'

Anna tiredness was catching up with her, all nighters were all too common. When she washed her face and realized that it wasn't mascara under her eyes, but dark circles; she decided to change!

How did she 'Radiate Fabulousness?' Flip the page.....

The Ultimate Figure Flattering Dress for Everyone! (From Banana Republic!)

All figures and body types (tall, thin, full-figured, short) look FANTASTIC in a wrap dress!!! This dress from Banana Republic ($59.00) is a classic!

The secret - tie the wrap at the smallest part of your waist for the most flattering look!

Tips for fit: Select a dress in a soft, loosely flowing fabric. Ensure that the shoulder seam hits you right at the shoulder (if it is too long, than the dress is a size too big).

Tips for wear:
1. Classic: Top this look with heels. cocktail ring, and a delicate necklace.
2. Date Worthy: Pull hair back and wear with drop earrings.
3. Casual: Top with a Denim Jacket.
4. Boho: Wear with boots, scarf, and hoop earrings.
5. Glamorous: Wear with Metallic heels and leopard clutch.

A College Lifestyles (TM) Appetizer! (Great for a Movie Night!)

Quick, easy, and delicious!!!

School is close to being back in session, and this appetizer is great for a movie night with your roommates or for a date (Valentine's Day is coming up!)! Not to mention, we won't have greasy (Shh...don't tell anyone, but it is wonderful for us! Tomatoes are high in lycopene!).

All it calls for is a tomato, mozzarella cheese (look in the deli section), and basil (look in the produce section).

1. Wash the tomatoes and basil.
2. Slice tomatoes and cheese.
3. Arrange and serve!

Yum!

Meet Whitney, a savvy co-ed, from Eat Well and Be Fabulous: A Guide for the Modern Day Woman

Eat Well and Be Fabulous: A Guide for the Modern Day Woman, follows four lifestyles....

Meet Whitney!

Fresh from graduating with honors, a cheerleader, and student council officer, Whitney's new challenge is living away from home in a dorm, 7:30 class on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday; and a 4 hour label that runs through lunch. Whitney doesn't want to spend all are money on fast food (YES!)!

Would it make sense from Whitney to buy some frozen chicken breast in her non-existent freezer at the residence hall??? Survey says no.....

After discussing with Whitney that a fast food lifestyle is NOT fabulous (who wants to spend money on that) and that the Freshman 15 does not exist, we unleashed Whitney's 'fabulousness!'

How did she do it????? The story continues in the book!

Order at www.shellymariespeaking.com

College Lifestyles (TM) Director Releases First Book! She kisses and tells!

Congrats to our director, Shelly Marie, for her release on her first book 'Eat Well and Be Fabulous: A Guide for the Modern-Day Woman.'

Want a sneak peak at the book:

‘Who doesn’t want to feel and look smashing? Not your traditional, bland diet book, this is a trend-setting, real-world guide for all women who want to feel and look sensational. Following four lifestyles, a modern-day co-ed, a sorority leader, and intern, and a professional, this book is a celebration for all sophisticated, modern women to toast eating well and feeling phenomenal!'

As our director says 'I get so tired of diet, weight loss formulas, diet pills, good and bad foods, counting calories, fat, and carbs, and all in between. I always say that diets are fun-vacuums, they suck the fun out of everything! Eat Well and Be Fabulous toast to feeling great, not avoiding food or feeling guilty about food! I wrote the book for the specific purpose of enjoying food and feeling great on the inside and outside!'

Meet, in detail, the characters of Shelly's book, Whitney, Alicia, Anna, and Cassie in future post....

To order our directors FABULOUS book, visit her website at www.shellymariespeaking.com!

Holiday Etiquette - Sending out Thank You Cards!

The holidays are over, and it's time to get back to 'real life!' Did you remember to send out thank you cards??? Thank you cards are the final touch for the holiday season!

When should you send a thank you to?
1. If you were a house guest.
2. For any gift you received.
3. For any house warming gift you received (for example, if a friend provided a dish for a party).

Keep thank you cards really simple, but always add a personal touch. A photo of the event (for example, if you all took a group photo) is a GREAT addition to the card.

Be sure when writing to card to not only discuss your gratitude, but also what made the event and/or gift so special to you!

Beat Dry Skin with a Milk Bath??? A tip from Cleopatra!

The holidays are over, and we just want to unwind before heading back to school! Unwind with a 'Cleopatra style milk bath' that beats the dry skin due to winter weather!

It's simple. Just add 1/2 cup of milk or dry milk powder to your bath. The milk acts as an exfoliant! Use a loofa to exfoliate! Want a special treat? Add a few drops of your bath oil!

Relax, school is just around the corner!!!!

Instead of Resolutions, Why Not Do Something New for 2009??

Last night, we rang in the New Year in style at College Lifestyles (TM)! While having our fun, we could not help overhear the 'resolutions' that others were saying. Most folks said the dreaded expression 'Lose Weight' or 'Diet'

We BOO Resolutions. At College Lifestyles (TM), we encouraged individuals to do something new AND set goals for success, instead of resolutions.

Examples of something new include:
1. Say something positive about your body daily.
2. Start a new hobby.
3. Write daily in a journal.
4. Reconnect with old friends.
5. Build a scrapbook of your positive accomplishments of 2008 and continue into 2009.
6. Volunteer.

Set Goals:
1. What are you looking to accomplish AND how will you accomplish. Since we work with students, most will say 'Pass my class!' List how you will do this. Maybe study 30 minutes daily or read 10 pages a day. What are your goals?

Happy Goal Setting!