Make It Up

One of the biggest parts of going back to school for me, is figuring out what my new routine will be. In the spring, I treasured my mornings of emails and coffee, getting ready at a leisurely pace. This fall, that will be more of a challenge with lots of early classes Monday-Friday. No matter my schedule, having a quick & easy make up routine is key! It takes me about 7 minutes from start to finish.

I start with my Sephora CC Cream and L'Oreal Concealer. I highly recommend going to your local Sephora for a color match. I love my CC cream because of it's easy and lightweight application plus it has SPF to help protect my skin.

Next up is my eyes. This bit changes a little bit day by day, but I have two major looks. I either go with eyeshadow + liner + mascara or skip the shadow all together. If I'm choosing the shadow route, I always apply Too Faced's Shadow Insurance. It's essential to make sure all of my eye make up stays put. I l-o-v-e my UD Naked Basics Palette. Worth every single penny! I picked up a felt tip eyeliner pen in London (similar) and it's a great way to eyeliner challenged (like me!) to get a great liquid look! I finish off my eyes by curling my lashes and a swipe of mascara.

Simple is always a great way to go when choosing makeup. This look is all neutrals and great for everyday.

What's your makeup routine look like?

Weekend Wear: Sorority Recruitment Edition

Three years ago, when I decided to sign up for sorority recruitment, I didn't know how much it would affect my life. I can happily say it was one of the best decisions I ever made and my sorority has made me a better person, among many other good things.

However, recruitment is kind of a scary process. To most, it doesn't make a lot of sense and can be very overwhelming. The last thing you want to be worried about is what you're wearing, even though that's probably your first concern after registering! To help ease your stress, I've put together some outfit formulas to help guide you. 

Note: I put these together based on my knowledge of formal recruitment at Michigan State. You may need to adapt based on your school & information from Panhellenic Council. Be sure to reach out to your recruitment guides if you have questions, they're there to help! 

You want to be sure that you are presenting yourself well, as you would to an interview. That being said, it doesn't matter how cute a top is if you're pulling at it all day! Make sure you're comfortable in the clothes you select. 

Round 1: Spirit Day 

chambray, necklace, earrings, capris, sandals

Spirit Day is one of the longest days, but it's also the most casual. Capris + a tee are your best bet. Pair them with some cute jewelry and sandals and you're good to go! Not a fan of capris? Skirts are also a great option.

Round 2: Philanthropy Day

top, skirt, earrings, bangle, wedges

Philanthropy day is a bit more dressy, but still fairly casual. A skirt paired with a blouse is a great option. You can dress up any outfit with wedges! Another good option is jeans with a blouse.

Round 3: Values Day 

top, skirt, earrings, bangle, flats
dress, necklace, ring, flats

I opted for two different combinations for values day. A blouse and skirt or a dress are both great options. Business casual is probably the best "dress code" to describe this round. LOFT has a ton of super cute pencil skirts right now that look great with a colored blouse. A dress is always an easy option, just pair it with a pair of flats for a pulled together look. 

Round 4: Preference Day

dress, heels, earrings

Preference is the most dressy - so a dress is pretty much non-negotiable. Pick a cute cocktail dress in a fun color or print. Word of caution: many sororities pick black, so you'll stand out more in a color! A simple pump and interesting but simple earrings round out this look.

Other Words of Wisdom:
Pick simple, but pretty jewelry. Go ahead & wear that statement necklace but stay away from noisy bangles. You don't want your jewelry to be a distraction to you or anyone else. I would also suggest no watches, you don't want to appear rude checking the time.

Make sure you can walk in your shoes! It's okay to opt for flats if you aren't as comfortable in heels.

Above all else, stay true to you and your style. You want to show off the best version of you!


Shop all of my selections for recruitment wear:

More House Of Harlow...

Best of luck to everyone going through recruitment this fall! Have questions about recruitment or sorority life? Leave them below!

Inviting Interiors: Seating

I'm bringing back Inviting Interiors! Today's theme: college seating. Whether you're moving into a dorm, apartment or house (or even if you've graduated) seating a critical part of any room. I've gathered some of my favorite looks and options for those of you on a budget.

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You can take inspiration from lots of places, my favorite is actual homes! Even if it's a temporary space, adding certain furniture (that's functional, too) can make it feel more like home.

Upholstered Chair | The most grown up chair on the list. For when you're feeling like you can make half an investment for a chic apartment. 

Moon Chair | I had a papasan chair as a kid & these remind me of it! The shape is perfect for curling up with a book. 

Director's Chair | The beauty of a directors chair is it's fold-ability. Buy a couple & keep them in a closet. Pull them out when you need them & they have a lot more personality than a folding chair. 

Beanbag Chair | Throwback to the 90s. A casual chair with a childhood twist. Prefer a regular bean bag?

Storage Ottoman | The perfect solution for a tiny dorm room. Storage + seating. Win win!

What's your choice for back to school seating?

P.S. It's August which means Lattes with Liv is all about Back to School! Let me know if you have any post requests!