Hey, collegiettes™! Two weeks ago, many of you returned from the warmth of Hawaii, Cabo San Lucas, Palm Springs, or even down South, to the dreadful cold of Eugene. Have no fear! Within a few short weeks, you can expect to see the flowers in full bloom, the leaves grown back, and those fantastic Eugene barbeques begin all over again—but that does not mean that the rain has said goodbye yet.
In spite of the rain, how do you look springtime beautiful? Here are some of my favorite tips and tricks to looking great in this weather.
Ballerina bun updos. Even if you accidentally forget your umbrella at home, this quick and easy updo that eliminates static will keep you from cringing when you step outside. It takes minutes to achieve this easygoing hairstyle with just a few simple steps, and you don’t even need a hairbrush. Run your fingers through your hair, and pull it back to the center of the back of your head, securing it with a ponytail holder. Twist the hair around the ponytail knot until it circles in on itself, and pin it into place with bobby pins. For finishing touches, use some light hold hairspray, and you are ready to face the inevitable Eugene rain. I feel confident wearing a ballerina bun at least once a week knowing that my hair will not cause me problems.
Waterproof mascara. There is nothing worse than walking into class with mascara running down your face. One way to prevent this is by simply using waterproof mascara. My personal favorite is Maybelline New York XXL Extensions® Waterproof Mascara, which is only $5 at our local Safeway on E. 18th Ave. I have been using this mascara for four years, and it always gives me long luxurious lashes. It is quick and easy to take off unlike many other waterproof types of mascara. After using this mascara, you will never have to worry about those embarrassing moments again.
Leave liquid foundations behind and use powder instead. Many women do not realize that liquid foundation is more likely to smudge off in the rain. However, powder foundation blends in with your skin and does not lose its hold even in the rain. My personal favorite is The Balm Cosmetics Sexy Mama anti-shine translucent powder, at only $19. This powder looks fresh and natural and contains oil-absorbing spheres that help to remove that dreaded shine. I have been using this product for a year in place of my other foundations and will never go back. A great place to purchase your newest powder foundation is Face It! located on E. 5th Ave. in downtown Eugene. Although the store is small, you can find anything you need cosmetics-wise, and if you feel unsure, do not hesitate to ask the friendly staff for a little extra help.
Stylish trench coats. There is nothing cuter than a stylish rain jacket that helps to protect you from the rain and makes you feel confident and sexy. Eugene has several boutiques that carry vintage and modern trench coats for everyone’s style. The most popular colors are beige, black, and red because they are classic and will never fail you across all four seasons. My personal favorite stores to look for trench coats are DELUXE on Willamette, Buffalo Exchange on E. 5th Avenue, Due Donne Boutique on Coburg Road, and Macy’s at Valley River Center. Although springtime is here and the warm weather is soon to come, there is no reason that a woman should not have a stylish trench coat that will inevitably end up lasting her a lifetime.
Lose the ugly sneakers, and pick up a pair of leather boots or Wellies. Sneakers have a tendency to soak up water, and there is nothing worse than your feet squeaking from drenched socks. Leather boots and Wellies are the perfect solution for rainy days. Not only are they fashionable, but they also keep your feet nice and dry. Wellies are just a fancy name for those old rain boots that have been collecting dust in the back of your closet, so pull them out because they are the newest fashion accessories for rainy spring days. Wellies can range in price from $25 to over $200, depending on your preference. Leather boots are just as fashionable and, although they are more expensive than Wellies, they are also higher quality and will often times last longer if you take care of them correctly. Either way, you cannot go wrong and will be turning heads in no time.
With these five simple tips and tricks, you will always look your best as we wait out the rain and look forward to the sunshine.