If your family is anything like mine, you got a sizeable amount of cash for Christmas (or at least you will get some cash when you return that tacky sweater your grandmother gave you). So, in the interest of keeping the female MSU student body fashionable in 2010, I recommend that you spend your Christmas cash by buying one (or all) of my three fashion musts for the new year.
First, a disclaimer-this article dabbles in health and beauty. I know, not my usual area of expertise, but as health and beauty are the beloved sisters of fashion, I feel they have earned their place in my new year top three.
1. A Chi flat iron:
Your hair style can make or break your fashion statement. In the same way a good hair style can improve your look, a bad hair style can ruin even the best ensemble. That being said, you need the right tools to achieve the optimal look.
Many of you probably already have a flat iron. Those non-Chi users reading this may be wondering, why Chi? Let me assure you, they are simply the best. If you have ever used a Chi before, you know this to be true.
In my experience (as a woman with horribly frizzy hair), a Chi flat iron will get your hair straighter quicker and give you a little inspiration to get out of bed a little earlier and fix your hair (that’s the case with me, anyway).
Now, a Chi is a pretty hefty investment, the cheapest model running you at least $60 online, but it’s worth it. A Chi is a quality product that will last a long time. If you get a cheaper model of flat iron, sure, you’ll save a few bucks in the moment, but you’ll need a new one faster. Invest. You won’t regret it.
2. “Nina” perfume by Nina Ricci:
I became obsessed with perfume when I got to college. In high school, I wore it some, but since college hit, I’d be willing to say I’ve worn at least a spritz a day for three and a half years.
It’s because of my obsession with perfume that “Nina” made the top three. “Nina” has a fruity/floral scent. The scent is delightfully enchanting. I know many people love this scent. I just checked Sephora’s Web site, and “Nina” has a five (out of five) star rating! It even comes in an adorable apple-shaped bottle.
Now, I must say this when you’re buying perfume. Always smell it first. Never order blindly online. I love fruity/floral smells, but that doesn’t suit everyone. If it sounds like something you’d like, try it out. I love it.
As far as perfume goes, “Nina” is priced about average. You’re looking at around $50 for a 1.7 ounce bottle.
3. A J.Crew cardigan:
If you keep up with my articles, you know I rave about cardigans. They are fabulous investment pieces because they are versatile. This time of year, they are especially nice. It’s unusually cold outside currently, but as spring starts rolling around, a cardigan will come in handy. I’ve got two to recommend.
The first is called the “Jackie cardigan.” You can currently get select colors of the “Jackie cardigan” from J.Crew.
Jackie is a simple cardigan. It’d look great paired with a patterned top or dress. Nothing fancy, very versatile. For $30, that’s a steal.
If you’re looking for something a little more fancy, I recommend the “Merino rose corsage cardigan.” As its name suggests, Merino has slight frills and a little fabric rose on the collar. It’s a little dressier than Jackie. Merino would be great paired with a solid shirt and dark jeans or khakis.
Merino is a little more expensive, on sale for $60. If it’s in your budget, you should check it out. I recently bought one and love it.
As an added bonus, J.Crew’s sale is currently 20 percent off the already marked down prices! Online, just enter EXTRA20 as a promo code when you checkout.
Whether you decide to invest in a cardigan, “Nina” or a Chi, you won’t regret this use of your Christmas cash! Treat yourself to some fashion (and/or health and beauty) in the new year.
Jennifer Puhr is a senior majoring in Communication. She can be contacted at [email protected].