Love for Others, Not Just Yourself

Attention, Attention! We have a problem! There is a deficiency in L-O-V-E. It’s time to talk about the lack of love and concern for those around us. I mean, I just don’t feel it! There is really a selfishness that needs to end ASAP. I’m starting to see a stinginess amongst the youth that is really bothering me. As an individual with family all over the world (I am Nigerian, Ghanaian, and Lebanese) I know that my world does not exist completely within the borders of America. When I was 16, I went to London and realized that American history was not the history of the world. Not only my immediate family, but the news as well, made fun of how ignorant Americans were and still are.

There are so many luxuries that we take for granted and even complain about because our eyes have not seen the struggle of third world countries. There are plenty of things that we can do inside and outside of our community and country to start the improvement of our global community. We should start helping others out of the kindness of our hearts. The You-Owe-Me Syndrome needs to seize to exist! Whether it’s something as small as listening to a friend in need or grand as going abroad and helping in Haiti, we need to stop complaining and start acknowledging the world outside of yourself. Instead of writing a person off because of their flaws, how about search for their attributes and accentuate those?

I want us to begin to change who we are and who we want to see ourselves as. Ladies, leave your mark on this world as someone that positively impacted that impoverished Ugandan girl suffering from AIDS or the Haitian family struck by the earthquake, instead of the girl who only thinks of herself. So here’s what I say we do:

• Get a Journal: Monitor yourself. Write down what you are happy to have. Write down what you wish you had and hadn’t done in the day. It’s so easy to overlook the simple things in life that make us so blessed to be in America.
• Do Community Service: Don’t do this because it’s mandatory. Do it because people that are far less privileged need this. It will make them happy knowing that youth care about them.
• Help Abroad: There are several organizations that allow students to travel abroad to do community service projects. Hopefully, I’ll be going to Belize this winter to help in an orphanage.
• Read the News: This can be boring and depressing sometimes, but you guys need to start hearing the reality of the world and even find out about causes you can help change.
• Join a Club: If there is a cause that you are passionate about, there may be a club in your school that has it. If not, make one! My high school didn’t have a Black Student Association, so my best friends started one and we began helping out our community.
  

When I do these things, I know people are happy, but I also am happier. See if this brings a bit more happiness in your life. Here’s a quote to leave with you guys…

"The impersonal hand of government can never replace the helping hand of a neighbor." ~Hubert H. Humphrey




-- Rebecca Matey
Brownstone Intern

Struggling with Stereotypes

Unfortunatly, stereotypes run rampant in the African-American community. I know you have heard the terms oreo, square, hood rat and ghetto girl, just to name a few, but I could honestly go on listing examples of derogatory ways we describe classmates, co-workers and sometimes friends. Stereotypes will always be around but as a teenager, stereotypes can have a negative affect on the way you perceive yourself and the people in your community.

One of the most dominant stereotypes is the ghetto girl. This is a stereotype that constantly appears, whether it’s in the media, at school or in our neighborhoods. In the media, especially on reality shows, we see just about any young black woman categorized as ghetto or hood. But what exactly makes her ghetto? Is it the boisterous voice, the creative choice of clothing or just because they live in a certain area? It irritates me that in our society, everything that is negative or broken is classified as ghetto. When people use the word ghetto are they also insinuating that a girl who may be strong, independent and driven is someone who is broken and cannot accomplish anything just because of the color of their skin or where they are from?

We can’t just blame people who are outside of our community for perpetuating these stereotypes because we often do it to ourselves. Have you ever heard the term oreo? Not the cookie, but the stereotype that some one is black on the outside and white on the inside. This is something I struggled with a lot growing up. I grew up in a black neighborhood, but attended predominately white schools. Often, I spoke and dressed differently than my neighborhood peers because of the schools I attended. I was very involved in my community, so I often found myself being told I was “acting white” or that I was an oreo because of my choice to use proper English instead of everyday slang. It’s hard to know that someone thinks you are any less black because of your adaptation into your surroundings.

The most important thing to remember when faced with stereotypes is to know who you are and know how to defend yourself. No, I am not saying defense as in getting into a fight with anyone who classifies you into a stereotype. However, it is important to challenge that person on what they are saying. You hear a peer say, “Ugh, that girl is so ghetto.” Ask what makes her that way and why they choose to use that terminology. Be the advocate within your peer group to stop the stereotyping or at least the one trying to help figure out why it is being used. Many times we use certain language because it’s pleasing to the crowd we are in and we just want to fit it. As you transition out of high school, you will learn that fitting into the crowd is not always the best option for you and that standing up for what you believe in is actually a more comfortable position to be in. No one enjoys the negative wrath of stereotyping , so remember to pay attention to what you say and how you say it.

-- Martine Rouzan
Brownstone Team

The Not So Sexy Side of Sex

The number of African American teenagers (ages 13 to 19) who are sexually active is, as always, concerning to our community. Adolescent pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) among Black teenagers are higher than any other community, including Hispanics and Whites. This is the not so sexy side to sex. We all know someone under the age of 20 who has either gotten pregnant or has contracted an STD. You may think that you're invincible and somehow exempt from this reality, but this is the same attitude that actually makes us more vulnerable to becoming pregnant or infected. Before learning the hard way, take a look at some helpful prevention tips…

Get Tested

If you have already started having sexual intercourse GET TESTED, even if it was only one time. You can never be too sure and you can’t always trust your partner. One of the most common STD’s among women is human papillomavirus (HPV), a virus that only females can be tested for. So, if a guy has it, he has no way of knowing if he’s putting your life at risk. Getting tested also means that you can get treated. Many STDs are treatable and/or can be managed, so it’s important to be proactive and see your gynecologist regularly. It may be uncomfortable guessing whether or not you may have something, but there’s way more comfort in knowing for sure!

Birth Control

The best birth control is not having sex at all. BUT, if you’re past that, there are plenty of birth control options that can help in preventing pregnancy and diseases. There are condoms (including female condoms), oral birth control and lots of other options that will help you be more responsible if you are choosing to engage in sexual activities.

Community

If you know someone who you think is going down a dangerous path, help them! Let them know about resources that are out there. We are a community and our actions do affect our lives in some way. Help yourself, and help others because it will make a positive impact!

Resources

• Black Women’s Health
• Planned Parenthood-Los Angeles
• Free Clinics
• Aids Walk Los Angeles 2010
  
  

--Kyle Holland
Brownstone Team

Roadmap to True Beauty

As I was cleaning my room the other day, I decided to watch some On Demand music videos to break the monotony of the task. I skimmed through my video choices and decided on Ciara’s “Ride.” I turned the volume up and watched her intently as she sang, "I market it so goooodd, they can't wait to try-y-y-y me." Her long black weave looked flawless, her six pack was amazing, and her legs went on for days. I made a mental note to cut down on my spending for the month so I could afford to buy a pack of 20" Indian hair, hit the gym 7 (maybe even 8) days a week, and master her body roll in time for my best friend’s upcoming party. I had a long way to go!

Later on in the day, I got in my car and turned on the radio. The lyrics, “My chick bad, my chick hood, my chick do things that your chick wish she could” streamed through my radio. I love this beat! As I was dancing in my car I started to think, do I know how to do things some other girl wishes she could? Should I be able to do things some other girl wishes she could? Hmmm that must be why I don’t have a boyfriend, there aren't enough girls who envy me for being able to do the things they wish they could.

Have you ever had days like this? Where everywhere you look and everything you see seems to confirm the fact that as a girl, your worth is determined by your looks and your sexuality? Days where it seems that the only thing boys are interested in is how long your hair is, how tight your body is, and how provocatively you can dance? It is so easy to get caught up in the standard of beauty and the intense sexuality that popular culture and music portray. I mean let’s face it, it’s fun to get all dressed up and dance to lyrics like “drop down low and sweep the floor with it.” But that’s all it should be, fun! Think of these songs as mere entertainment, not a guideline on how to become a desired and beautiful girl.

So if physical appearance and sexuality don’t define a truly beautiful girl, what does?

-Her Heart
A girl with a beautiful heart is kind and thoughtful. She has an innate joy about her that makes people want to be around her. She is giving and, although she loves to pamper herself, she always finds a way to help out others.

-Her Spirit
A girl with a beautiful spirit prefers to think of the glass as half full rather than half empty. She is optimistic and enjoys the subtle humor of everyday life. She loves to laugh and takes pleasure in knowing that no matter what happens in her life, it all happens for a reason.

-Her Mind
A girl with a beautiful mind is eager to learn and open to new experiences. She is ambitious with goals for her future that she is determined to achieve. She is investigative and loves to find out new information. She doesn’t let anyone think for her and is not afraid to speak her mind.

Is it bad to want to feel pretty? Absolutely not! Is it OK to want to switch up your style, add an extra piece to your hair, or work on your fitness? Of course! The problem comes when the entirety of your energy is based on how you look and how closely your look matches the popular standard of beauty. By no means is it wrong to dance with your friends and sing a long to silly lyrics. Problems do arise, however, when every lyric from every song is taken to heart, and you start to believe that your worth is associated with how well you can "pop lock and drop it." Looks are only skin deep, but your true beauty comes from your heart, your spirit, and your mind. You, my lovely readers, are beautiful :)



-- Karissa Allen
Guest Blogger

Meet our newest guest blogger, Karissa! Karissa Allen is a graduate from the University of Southern California. She works in Operations for Smashbox Cosmetics, and hopes to return to school for her MBA within the next few years. She currently resides in Los Angeles, CA.

Take the Lead: Key Steps to Obtaining a Leadership Role

School is officially in session and I know you’re ready to get back into the groove of extra-curricular activities. Whether it’s cheer, drama club or ASB, involvement in these organizations make some of the best memories. Obtaining a leadership role in your club of choice is a guaranteed way to get the most out of your experience as a member. You may already have a passion for your organization, but becoming a leader will give you a new found respect for it and all its behind the scenes functions. Leadership opens up more opportunities for growth and success, but getting there might be a new challenge in itself.

If you are debating a leadership position, remember the most important quality is to know yourself and what you are good at. Take some time to write down your strengths. If you’re stumped, don’t be afraid to consult your friends, family and even your school counselors. Sometimes others can see qualities in us that we don’t even realize we have. Discovering these strengths will help you to decide what roles are best for you to pursue.

Once you have decided on a position to pursue, make a plan. As a freshman you will not be ready to become Student Body President, but that should not prevent you from working towards your ultimate goal. Talk to current members of the organization and set up time to shadow them. Also, look for opportunities at your experience level, such as a class representative. Once you have reached your goal, don’t forget how you were helped, and offer advice to younger students with interest. It is always rewarding to pay it forward!

What if you want to get involved, but nothing sparks your interest? Well, start your own organization. If your middle school had an Environmental Club, why not bring it over to high school? After all, you have the prior experience and there are always others with similar interests. Involvement doesn’t just have to be at school. Community or church organizations may be more of your preference, so go with your heart!

Also remember, don’t get discouraged if you are new on campus. You might be a freshman or maybe a junior who has transferred schools, but that doesn’t mean your prior experience has vanished. Every great leader takes a few risks from time to time, so don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Having a fresh leader in the organization can sometimes be a welcomed change. An outsider looking in can always make observations and suggestions on improvements.

The decision to become a leader on campus will reap many rewards. Colleges look for well rounded candidates, and the extent of your involvement at school will help them to recognize you as someone they want. Leadership roles will give you the opportunity to learn how to work with different types of people, delegate tasks and master the art of time management between your school work, social life and leadership responsibilities. If you are applying for your first job or internship, sometimes school is the only experience you have. Showcasing the skills you learned while leading the volleyball team to the championships or planning your prom while staying within budget will show express your potential.

Most importantly, leadership builds character by challenging you with difficult situations and rewarding you with accomplishments. As you transition from high school to college and even on to the work force, you will find that leadership will transform from an option into a prerequisite for success. Get moving in the right direction now and you will thank yourself later.

--Martine Rouzan
Brownstone Team

Faces of Color Hit the Runway at Fashion Week

Ladies, as I waltz through my apartment, I am singing ‘It’s the most wonderful time of the year!’ I hope you know what I’m talking about. Fashion Week! Designers, models, & make-up! It’s just absolutely beautiful. What I’m even happier to see is the plethora of African American designers and models that are being showcased this year. I want you guys to get a feel of the growing number of African Americans in the fashion industry. There used to be a time (and sometime’s still is) when magazines would go front to back without having one single African American model in the issue. Now, there are far more models and designers that have broken barriers, and continue to do so. Many of us only know Alek Wek, Chanel Iman, Tyra Banks, and Naomi Campbell as the faces of black models. Now the industry has far more models, and this year is showing so many more models of color (I’m so excited!). The fashion/modeling industry is very hard to break into, but if you want it, go for it!

Along with models there are designers, such as Rachel Roy, Tracy Reese, & Maya Lake of Boxing Kitten. These ladies have really set the bar for creativity within the African American fashion community. Below you’ll see a bit of the beautiful fashion these ladies have delivered for us to really take inspiration from.

Rachel Roy: A California native, Rachel Roy was once an intern for Rocawear working her way from the mailroom all the way up to becoming Creative Director. In Fall 2004, she established her own line, Rachel Roy, which has flourished and has been worn by Keke Palmer and even Michelle Obama.

Maya Lake: A self-taught designer, Maya Lake has made her mark in the fashion world with vibrant African prints. Seen especially on Solange Knowles, Maya’s work has displayed traditional prints with modern cuts. She has been the most enjoyable designer I’ve seen in a long time!

Tracy Reese: A graduate from Parsons School of Design, Tracy Reese is a fan of intricate prints and impeccable detail. This woman shows the world eclectic pieces and features several African American Models to showcase her work.

Sadly, Fashion Week is ending soon, but African American designers and models are here to stay and some of you young women will also make an impact on the fashion world. Style.com is a great place to check out what tons of designers doing. Like our junior correspondent, Jamiah said, we don’t need magazines or designers dictating what we should wear, and these ladies have definitely set themselves apart from the rest of the pack. Trends still exist, so why not be ahead of the fall trends and forecast what’s to come in the spring? Fashion is a wonderful expression of self, and you guys should all venture out in expressing who you are, not through labels, but through your presentation of prints, colors, and textures. In the end, do it for you, not to impress anyone.

-- Rebecca Matey
Brownstone Intern

SPECIAL EDITION: Happy 1 Year Anniversary Brownstone!

Happy Birthday Brownstone! Today marks our 1 year blogaversary. I can’t believe that a year has gone by already! My baby is growing up so fast...lol. We’re accomplished so much this year. I don’t think you understand how much hard work has gone into this blog! So much planning (a year and a half) went into the actual launch of the site. It’s amazing to see how much Brownstone has grown and to see it slowly maturing into such an amazing resource for you our readers.

Her Story. In my very first post, I introduced Brownstone as a new blog that would empower young African-American girls of color. After growing up with magazines like Teen People and Seventeen that I loved reading, but couldn’t really see myself in; I had a dream to create an outlet that not only represented the interests of black teens but would also serve as voice for your generation. Like our tagline says, it’s about your story, the journey you are taking into womanhood, and the legacy you are creating.

From hair to beauty to relationships, we understand that as girls we may go through the same issues, but as young black women our struggles are different. And rather than ignore that, we choose to acknowledge it! In addition, we strive to highlight the successes of black women. There are so many negative stereotypes in the media regarding black women that we want to empower young girls with positive images and stories of what black woman really can do!

Hopefully by now you have an understanding of my story and why Brownstone is so important. I hope that you will be inspired to share your story with us too, so that we can help each other along our journeys.

Her Journey. Many times, I’ve heard the saying “It's about the journey, not the destination.” I think that I finally get it now that I’ve been actively working on Brownstone for 2 years. Creating and managing a blog is not easy! But when you think about it...nothing worth having is. A lot of time has gone into recruiting writers and thinking of content that is appealing to you girls. Some days have been great and others not so much. But rather than focusing on the long term goals for this project, which is to ultimately turn Brownstone into an online magazine, I’m learning to take the growth of Brownstone day by day. It’s very crucial that we do this right! I’ve seen so many black publications (with similar goals to Brownstone) come and go. Brownstone is here for the long run, so I don’t mind taking my time if that means being known nationally in the future. At the end of the day I’m thankful to say that we’re still here! I’m so proud of what our little blog is becoming :)

In year one, I’ve been most excited about our Brownstone Women’s Spotlight (BWS) that is featured at the end of each month. We introduced BWS back in February as we honored Black History Month. Our goal has been to feature everyday women to show that you don’t have to be a celebrity to be successful. We’ve highlighted some pretty amazing women from Kristin Jones, the White House intern to Nicole Gray, an up and coming sheriff. In addition, recently we’ve had several jr correspondents from Berkeley High School report on popular youth trends in fashion. I’m so excited to see teens interested in writing for Brownstone and hope that more will follow.

Her Legacy. Brownstone is just a piece of the legacy that I want to leave behind. We hope that you have enjoyed the stories we’re shared so far and we look forward to what is to come. Brownstone was created for you, so we definitely want to hear more from our readers in the future. Don’t be afraid to share with us what you like and dislike. Believe me our feelings won’t be hurt! We have a lot to look forward to in the upcoming year: more jr correspondent reporting, exciting features and a NEW website. As Brownstone continues to grow, I hope that a brighter light will shine on the stories of our journeys that will one day become our legacy.

Special Thanks. I personally would like to thank my team of writers: Kyle, Martine, Brittany, and Rebecca. You ladies have been a tremendous help to me over the past year! A special shout out to guest bloggers Nyvia and Chevonne, who have both added a unique point of view to the site. And of course, I would like to acknowledge our other guest bloggers and jr correspondents who have stepped in to make this dream of mine a reality. Thanks to my friends and family who have offered their support and advice. A special thanks to Myshell Tabu who designed the Brownstone logo. Stay tuned...the best is yet to come!

Cheers to Brownstone and many more years of telling “Her Story. Her Journey. Her Legacy.”

-- Tymika Morrison
Brownstone Team

Rock Any Trend This Season!

No one wants to be told what to do! Even as teenagers, we struggle with following authority. But yet and still we can accept the fact that someone, such as magazines and fashion blogs, are telling us what trends we should or shouldn’t wear. As teenagers we also already struggle with body image and confidence, so we really don’t need someone to tell us what we need to wear just because it’s in style. I’m not saying that trends are bad and that we shouldn’t keep up with this era’s fashion but we shouldn’t get too consumed with trends that we loose our own individuality. Yes, it feels good to know that you are wearing something that is stylish and is in for the season but it really should all come down to you. (what you like to wear, what makes you feel confident etc) So, this school year and fall season, let's focus on ourselves and developing our own style. And feel confident doing it, as well as incorporating some trends.

The hottest trend that will never go out of style is CONFIDENCE. When a person has confidence they can rock any style and trend and feel good wearing it too. This is something everyone should have and always keep because confidence will always and forever be “in” no matter what season or era it is. As young ladies, we always want to be in style and look good for each season but the most important element of style, besides confidence, is being an individual, as well as choosing clothes that fit our body type. The reason for this is there are trends out there that might be in that 1.) Don't fit your body type 2.) Don’t make you feel confident or 3.) Don’t make you feel comfortable. Therefore it's important to incorporate your own individual style. For example, what you personally like and what makes you feel good/comfortable in with trends that are in this season. So instead of throwing out your favorite t-shirt or old type dyed jeans, incorporate some seasonal trends with them. That way you can keep your favorite piece of clothing and style, while feeling confident as well as being stylish. This is a way for you to keep your individuality instead of getting lost in the cycle of trends. I think that everyone should find that piece of clothing or type of clothing that they like as well as make them feel confident.

Another element of style is to choose trends that you can rock year round. If you choose trends that go with what you already have in closet and you can wear them year round you are less likely to go out and buy trend after trend after trend. Because it’s a constant cycle, that would probably never stay the same. Here are some fall trends (yes, they follow all the style tips I included) that I believe every high school student or young adult should have:

1. Army - The army style is back this fall. I have noticed that a lot of high school students are rocking the army green style jackets as well the cargo pants in army green and cargo colors. This type of style can be worn year round. You can wear the army green with shorts or skirts for summer with sandals or flats, or with worn out jeans for winter. In the fall with boots, as well as spring floral for spring. There are even army style peacoats that can be worn through to fall, winter and spring seasons.

2. Oxfords - This old school trend is coming back these shoes can be worn with just about anything, from shorts to jeans and slacks. I definitely recommend these, they pull any outfit together. Get them in a neutral color such as black or camel colored, to fit right into your wardrobe.

3. Rugged Boots - This is definitely an optional style that not everyone may be comfortable wearing. But these are a transitional shoe that can be worn in the fall and winter with your summer dresses and shorts. These shoes are more casual and laid back even though they have a more edgier feel with them.

4. Scarves - Scarves come in all sorts of lengths, colors and sizes so there are ones out there for everyone’s style. These are always in season and can be worn with anything really and all year round also.

5. Destroyed Denim - This style is still in. If you don’t feel comfortable showing the bare skin that some jeans do show, you can wear nice patterned tights or leggings. This would also be good for the cold fall and winter season.

6. Lace - Lace has become huge in the last year or so, as well as floral. Being that the fall season is coming up lace tights would be more in than lace shirts. But you can make lace for any season. For the fall season you can take your summer shorts or dresses and wear them with lace tights and some sort of closed toe shoe like boots. If you don’t feel comfortable showing skin, which some tights or shirts or dresses do show, you can layer on a darker colored shirt or pair of plain tights underneath it creates a nice contrast also.

These are just some trends, I am quite sure that there are more. But in order to wear any trends we need to have confidence and make sure that we feel comfortable going out and wearing these trends. We should incorporate our own style with trends to make them into our own. So, this school year and this fall season ask yourself, "What do I like to wear? What style of clothing makes me feel confident? What’s going to make me stand out this school year?" Because the hottest trends of all are confidence and individuality. And these trends are always going to be around.

--Jamiah Lashay (Berkeley High School, Age 16)

Jr Correspondent

Back to School Fashion for the Fall

So the new school year has kicked off and you want to look brand new. So of course you go shopping, but for what? Here are some things that you can use to help you complete the style that you are trying to go for. Whether it’s the boho, vintage, edgy, or preppy look you’re going for, these trends will be sure to help you complete it.

CARDIGANS: These will help you create whatever look you're going for. Fill your closet up with these because when you feel like you have nothing to wear you can throw on some skinny jeans a white tank and a solid color cardigan for a simple and cute look. If you want to look a bit more edgy look for cardigans with prints on them. For example, I have a cheetah cardigan I wear when I want to look more edgy. Or maybe you can try a cardigan with zebra stripes. Speaking of stripes any cardigan with stripes can help create a preppy look, especially if you pair it with a button up shirt. If you want to go for the vintage look then you should look for cardigans that are looser on you, and that don’t stop at your hip. Look for them to maybe stop around your thighs.

Solid colored cardis + plain shirts

Cheetah = edgy

Boho look

Preppy or vintage

JEANS: People underestimate what a good pair of jeans can do to an outfit. Today most people are really getting into bleached jeans. These type of jeans are really cute, but be careful not to do too much with it by pairing it up with a really glamorous shirt. You should probably wear these type of jeans with a shirt with a simple pattern on them. A V-neck always works as well as the classic striped shirts. These types of jeans really work out well if you’re going for the edgy look. If you want to appear more vintage you can try really waitsed jeans, these look cute when you wear a cropped shirt, which are also getting really popular. You can also put on a pair of ripped jeans and converse shoes when you feel like you’re going for comfort, because as plain as it sounds, it’s cute and trendy.

JEAN JACKETS: these are wonderful for any style; they go with anything you wear. Dresses, jeans, skirts ANYTHING!! And depending on what you wear it with or what shade of color it is you can make wear for any style.

Urban

Girly

Boho

Bleached Jeans

ACCESSORIES: Girls love their accessories! Why? Because they make the outfit. For all who want to go for the boho look, a head band around your head is the way to go. Today there are all type of head bands with patterns on them. A cute new way to wear them is by putting them over your bangs. However if you trying to reach the preppy look, you can push the head band all the way back. Hats are always cute and best worn when having a bad hair day. Earrings with feathers are in today. Peacock feathers have been a big thing these days. When you wear them with a cardigan or loose shorts you can achieve the boho look.

Headbands

Peacock Feathers

Hats

SHOES: Today many girls are wearing sandals and that is perfect if you want to look more girly. If you want to achieve the boho look, you should look for sandals that are brown or tan, instead of really bright sandals because that would give you a more edgier look or you can try some bright converse, or black boots. Moccasins are the way to go if you want to look more preppy or if you want to look more boho. Shoes at Urban Outfitters have a really good selection of sandals and two toned shoes, as well as oxfords which are getting really popular to wear. Especially if you want to look more edgy.

Converses = girly or edgy (depending on color)

Sandals = edgy or girly

Mocassins = preppy

Here is basically what you need to look more….PREPPY: A colored striped shirt, button down. Make it loose so that you don’t look so uptight. A bright solid color button down, like blue or pink. A fitted, plaid shirt. Look for shirts that have print but not too much like small floral or vertical stripes. Plain skinny jeans, like white or grey and blue. Oxfords, or simple sandals for shoes, and as for accessories you should go with simple pieces like hoop earrings or gold studs.

BOHO: Flowers, fill your closet up with floral, dresses, shirts, skirts. A cute outfit is to tuck in a floral shirt into some khaki shorts or high waisted jeans. You should have the shirt be a little baggy so that it flows over a little. Bleached jeans are always cute with a flowy top Load up with accessories, gold bangles, BIG earrings with feathers on them like the peacock feathers.

EDGY: Printed tees, V-necks, black skinny jeans and ripped jeans is basically all you need to create an edgy look. You could put on hats like beanies or fadoras to look more urban and edgy. Fancy prints like cheetah or zebra cardigans make a big statement, pair it up with a darker colored V-neck (not black) like burgundy, or mustard yellow. Cardigans with stripes also look cute, not just to look edgy but for any style.

So now that you have these essentials you can mix and match whatever style you want to make your look you want for the school year.




-- Shakti Lewis (Berkeley High, Age 16)
Jr Correspondent

Home, Sweet Dorm Room

Moving into a dorm for the first time means you’ll be starting with a clean slate. Granted, it’s a pretty small cube-shaped clean slate, but it’ll be your home away from home for a while, so make it your own. Here are some tips and ideas for decorating your dorm room:

For starters, you’ll need storage, storage, storage. Like I said, your dorm room won’t be all that grand, and you’ll likely be sharing the space with another person and all of your things. Having enough storage for your stuff will be important.

Blue storage ottoman -$19.99 also at Bed Bath & Beyond

Each piece in the Fushia closet storage set - $9.99 at Bed Bath & Beyond

Plastic Sterilite Cart - $38.99 at Target

Shelving is also a good idea for storing books, DVDs, picture frames, snacks, etc.

5-Shelf bookshelf - $29.99 at Bed Bath & Beyond

Blue cube storage unit - $19.99 at Bed Bath & Beyond

Blue shelf tote - $14.99 each at Target

Green shelf tote - $14.99 each at Target

There are endless options for sheets and comforter combinations for your bed. Just be sure to get the extra-long twin sized sheets + comforter and you’re good to go. The full “bed in a bag” may be a good option if you want to just get it all knocked out with one purchase.

Jasmine Bed in a Bag - $59.99 at Target

Purple Bed in a Bag - $79.99 at Bed Bath & Beyond

You can also mix and match with separates and accessories.

2 Brown throw pillows - $19.99 for both at Target

Floral blanket - $29.99 at Target

Orange body pillow - $9.99 at Bed Bath & Beyond

Wamsutta X-Long twin sheet sets - $29.99 at Bed Bath & Beyond

Rugs also add a nice accent to your dorm room. You may want to go with something a bit more neutral in color so it has more chance of matching both you and your roommate’s styles.

Cream rug - $19.99 at Target

Checkered rug - $39.99 at Bed Bath & Beyond

Floor lamps are a good way to get brighter or softer lighting (since the actual light in the dorms can sometimes be strong fluorescents, or either too dim). Also, desk lamps are a good idea for the late night study sessions (which will happen. Get ready!).

Black & White Table Lamp - $16.99 at Target

2-head Floor Lamp - $19.99 at Target

5-head Pink Floor Lamp - $34.99 at Target

Yellow Desk Lamp - $9.99 at Target

Comfortable chairs for when you want to watch TV or have company. Butterfly chairs are a good option because they can easily be folded and put away when you don’t necessarily need them.

Black round butterfly chair - $29.99 at Target

Pink butterfly chair - $29.99 at Target

Curtains are always great to add warmth color to the décor. [Just be sure to check your college or university's policies on what you can use on the dorm walls. Some don’t allow nails or screws (or even tape) so that the wall damage is left to a minimum. Be sure you know what you can and can’t use before you mount anything.]

Turquoise clear curtains - $19.99 at Target

Crimson curtains - $24.99 at Bed Bath & Beyond

Zebra print curtains - $16.99 at Target

And, lastly, here are some miscellaneous decoration and organization ideas.

You may not have a full-length mirror in your room, so a door mirror is a good option.

Door mirror - $14.99 at Target

French Memo Boards are awesome to post up pictures, post cards, mail, and whatever else tickles your fancy. It’s a bit more sophisticated than a corkboard, but serves the same purpose.

French Memo Board - $14.99 at Bed Bath & Beyond

Door Beads add a little flair to your entryway.

Door beads - $19.99 at Target

Always convenient are the 3M Command hooks. I used them all through college in dorms and off-campus apartments. Those hooks must have about ten million different uses. Keep ‘em handy.

3M Command hooks - $3.49 at Target

I hope this post gave you all some ideas on decorating and organizing your dorm rooms. Have an awesome school year!

-- Chevonne Collins
Guest Blogger