December is one of the most stressful months for college students. First of all, there are exams, enough to make you go crazy. Next, a poor college student has to figure out how he/she is going to pay for Christmas presents, and how to survive family gatherings, which always have drama. We have to walk in below-freezing temperatures, and we end up spending less time outside, which is bad for our bodies since the sunlight helps us stay happy and healthy. December should be filled with holiday cheer. Since I can remember, my glamorous mother told me I must wear sparkles each day in December. Sparkles make people happy, enough said.
Now, each year, I wear some form of sparkles December 1st-31st. It is my family tradition, and it helps relieve my stress and enjoy the holidays. Although I understand this request can be very difficult, there are easy ways to add a little sparkle and flare to each outfit.
The easiest way to add sparkle every day is by painting your nails with gold, red, green or silver sparkly nail polish. The brand Sinful Colors has a variety of sparkly options and bold red colors perfect for this holiday season. Another quick way to add some shimmer is in your makeup. Buy some powder glitter, and add shine on your cheekbones or eyelids. Not only does this show your sparkle, but also it defines nice features on your face. For holiday parties, I’m looking for sparkly tops and dresses. Forever 21 has an LBD with some understated sparkles for those not looking to draw too much attention. I also am in love with these gold sparkly lace up booties by Steve Madden that are a great addition to any solid printed dress with some black tights. For going out on a Saturday night, I’m all for going big sparkles or going home. This top from Lulu’s is sparkly all over and fabulous. With a top like this, all you need are simple dark denim skinny jeans (possible cuffed) with chunky or platform closed-toe heels and a long (not layered) pendant necklace. Be fearless and have fun with fashion this season while adding a touch of sparkle here and there.
I have enjoyed this tradition over the years because it distracts me from my stress and makes me smile every day. Don’t just wear your sparkle, but show your inner sparkle as well. Be joyous, grateful and shimmer with kindness. It doesn’t cost anything to find your inner sparkle (your outer sparkle is a different story). My mother is pretty much the essence of joy, and her sharing of that joy keeps me sane around the holidays. We can all shine this holiday season by spreading and wearing holiday cheer. I challenge everyone to find your inner sparkle: be nice to people, reach out and look fabulous while doing so.