Pleasantly Peasant

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| Top | Jeans | Shoes |

Fall is finally here which means it’s time to pull out the jeans, the long sleeve tops, and those cute booties you’ve been saving for the cold weather! Walking to class the past few days has been hard for me considering it’s so cold when I leave for class, but when I’m done it gets warmer by the afternoon! Not to mention some of my classrooms are freezing and some already have the heat on!

For this very reason I’ve chosen this peasant top several times for class. With the detailed sleeves it’s enough to keep you warm on your walk to class in the morning, but doesn’t make you hot once the sun is out in the afternoon. The back of this top is very open so if you’re not comfortable showing this much skin add a simple nude tank top underneath!

I paired this beautiful top with my all time favorite jeans. American Eagle jeans have the best fit, color, and styles. They’re flattering, comfy, and easy to take care of too, which is why I always wear them! I threw on my trusty brown booties to give this outfit a more simple fall look!

Make sure to follow LilyLulus on Instagram at @lilylulusboutique to order more cute items like this top! Use code SB15 at the checkout to get 15% off your order!

What is your go to fall item, let me know in the comments!

Lauren | Simple Southern Belle

 

10 Things No One Told Me About College

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College can be a rough time for anyone and if you don’t have any family members that went college before you, you might not know what to expect once you get there. And if you’re anything like me you probably are reading this blog post because you want to be prepared and you’re excited for college! So let’s jump into 10 things no one told me about college.

 

1. People dress up for tailgates (at least in the south): Now I live in the south and have my whole life and one thing I failed to realize was that everyone dresses up, I’m talking rompers and dresses, for football games! Lord knows why we do this, but it’s something I’ve grown to love!

2. EVERYONE drinks coffee, well except me: Coffee seems to be the only thing that really keeps a college student sane. Coming from someone who doesn’t like coffee there are times I really wish I did so that I could manage to stay up late and write a paper or finish a project!

3. Pulling all-nighters are a thing and they happen at least 2-3 times a semester: Chances are even if you are a planner and don’t procrastinate you’ll still pull an all nighter at some point in your college career. Just the sheer fact that you are taking so many classes with each there long list of tasks and assignments sometimes things all pile up at once and your only decision is to stay up all night and do it! If this happens at least take the time to watch the sunrise, it’s gorgeous.
4. Not everyone parties/drinks: Yeah there are those stereotypical frat parties and house parties that people go to, but not everyone does! Freshman year it’s fun to go to just for the simple reason of meeting people, but beyond freshman year a lot of people crack down and don’t party as much.
5. You need to maintain a good GPA even your freshman year: Don’t fool yourself into thinking this one semester of bad grades won’t hurt you because it can have an impact on your overall GPA.
6. You actually have to go to classes: Even if your teacher doesn’t take attendance you still need to go. You’ll miss out on valuable information or even a pop quiz.
7. You’ll have endless opportunities to make friends: From sporting events, parties, organizations, free campus events, classes, work and more there are numerous ways in which you can meet people and make friends, so don’t worry!
8. It’s normal to sit alone during lunch, it’s not like high school: No one will care that you’re sitting alone at lunch because you’re in between classes and no one else could meet up with you. Don’t worry, it’s normal.
9. Freshmen boys suck: For the most part, they are immature and not looking for relationships. They want to get out and have some fun and meet some people. Don’t get me wrong there are some who are interested in relationships and nice guys just beware of the bad boys.
10. You’ll have more acquaintances than friends: Yes you’ll make plenty of friends, but not all of them will stay that way. You’ll find your close knit group of people and then have plenty of other acquaintances. It’s also normal so don’t worry.
I hope these 10 things no one told me about college can help you all become prepared for your time at college. Just remember to keep an open mind about anything and everything and ignore the stereotypes and you’ll find that by the time you’ve graduated you’ve had the best four years of your life.
P.S If you aren’t already make sure you head on over to YouTube and subscribe to my main channel where I put out new videos every week!
Lauren | Simple Southern Belle

Getting Along With Your Roommate

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So you’re in college and you’ve been faced with living with another human who you may or may not know for a whole year. That might be a little daunting to some or exciting to others. Not only are you living with this person for so long, but you’re also stuck in a tiny dorm room and sharing all of your personal space. So how do you deal with that? Well here are my tips to help you get along with your roommate this year or any year!

 

Step 1: Greet your roommate, get to know the basic facts about her. Where is she from? What’s she majoring in, etc.

Step 2: Talk about rules and expectations for your shared space. Are guests allowed? Do things need to be kept clean? Do you need to ask to borrow something? Depending on how close or not close your relationship is with roommate will depend on how strict your rules are.

Step 3: Talk about your class schedules. Does she have an 8am class and you only have afternoon classes? Will you need to respect that fact that she needs to sleep early and vice versa?

Step 4: Invite your roomie anywhere and everywhere. Grab lunch, go shopping, get groceries, see a movie, join a club, go to the gym. The list of things are endless and there are so many great ways to get to know your roomie and really make that special connection.

Step 5: Be respectful. You really can’t go wrong here. Respect your roommates space, time, guests, things, and pretty much anything and this will hopefully keep you from any problems.

 

So what happens if you do have a fight?

Step 1: CONFRONT them. Don’t talk behind their back and ignore them, ask them upfront what’s wrong apologize and own up to any mistakes. It can’t get fixed until someone apologizes.

Step 2: Forgive and forget. If you truly want to remain friends and not have an awkward time as a roomie just learn to forgive and move on. Things will happen and now is the time to be the big person!

 

Having to share a room with a stranger can be tough, and even sharing a room with someone you know can really test your friendship. Just remember these simple steps and you and roommate will be on the way to the picture perfect relationship and hopefully no issues the whole year!

 

Have more specific questions? Comment them down below!

Lauren | Simple Southern Belle

How to Choose the Perfect Big

 

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What’s better than bid day? That’s right big-little reveal. It’s the one thing that every new member in a sorority looks forward to from the start. Everyone is itching for that perfect big-little relationship, you know the ones you see all over Pinterest and Totalsororitymove.com. Well I’m here to help y’all find YOUR perfect big, whether you’re someone looking for the perfect person to have some fun with or someone that helps you push yourself in ways you wouldn’t imagine.

One of the best ways to pick a big is to really ask your self these questions, it helps to narrow down your decisions and really help you choose the type of big you need in your life.

1. What do you want to get out of a big?
     A mentor, friend, someone to push you to do fun things, someone to help you get involved, someone to study with?
2. Do you have anything in common?
     Does she have the same major? Are you from the same city? Do you both love a certain sport?
3. Has she been kind to you and not pushy or rude? Will she treat you with respect?
      You want a big who isn’t going to make your life miserable. You’d hopefully want someone upbeat and positive!
4. Is she someone who talks behind others back or is she sweet and supportive?
       To really get a feel for this hang out with her one on one and with her group of friends, this will be a great way to really see how she truly is.
5. Will she be there for you when you’re upset?
       One of the most important things a big can do for you is be there for you and support you with whatever you do.
6. Will she tear you down for a bad decision or help you make a better one next time?
       Everyone makes mistakes, everybody has those days (comment if you understood that reference) seriously though, a true big would be there for you and help you get over anything whether you made an awful mistake or not.
7. Can you see yourself going to her for advice and help?
       Try to reach out to her before you decide and ask her for advice on things. Boys, school, work, anything at all and see how she responds.
8. Do you like her whole family, g-big, gg-big, twin?
        This is something not a lot of people think about, but you’ll want to try and hang out with her family too and make sure you click with them as well!
9. Will she help you become a better version of yourself?
         A big is there as a mentor and someone you can look up to. Without my big I doubt I’d be where I am now. She’s been the one to push me to try leadership positions, study for tests and quizzes when I really didn’t want to, and even cheer up after a few boy incidents.
A big can make a world’s difference when it comes to your time in your sorority. She’s someone who should not only inspire you, but should be there for you and mentor you every step of the way. Words can’t even begin to describe the love and appreciation I have for my own big and I hope my little would think I was even half the big that mine was for me. Which is why I want you all to find the best big out there for you! She should be someone to lift you up and never tear you down, and make you feel like you’re never alone.
Lauren | Simple Southern Belle
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Backpack Essentials

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College can be a tad confusing when you’re a freshman. You don’t know what all you will need for a class and how long you’ll be away from your dorm, should you bring money, snacks, clothes, headphones? The list is never ending and after a while your backpack ends up stuffed to the brim and your shoulders are left sore and aching from carrying the weight of everything in your bag. With that being said I thought I’d share my backpack essentials so you know exactly what to pack in your bag without overloading it and hurting your self!

1. Sturdy backpack/bag
     The first and most important backpack essential is a sturdy backpack. Mine is a North Face Recon and I’ve had it for 3 years and it’s still going strong. It’s comfy, has lots of pockets, and it’s black so it never goes out of style.
2. Laptop

     I always recommend taking a laptop to your classes, it’s easy to take notes in, study with between classes, or watch Netflix when you have a break! Mine is a Macbook Pro 13 in.
3. Notebooks
     My personal favorite for taking notes in class or rewriting typed notes is 5 star notebooks. They are great quality and perfect for class time. I even use Moleskin notebooks for daily task reminders, writing random ideas or jotting down thoughts or doodling.
4. Folders
     I suggest having one folder for each of your classes to keep your syllabus, loose papers, scantrons, etc. so that you can grab it and run out the door and head to class.
5. Pencil Pouch
     A pencil pouch is extremely important when trying to keep all your supplies organized. Mine is from Vera Bradley, but several stores have them. This makes finding a pencil or pen easy and quick in class!
6. Pencils/pens
     Steadtler, these are my favorite pens. They are colorful, thin, and write so smoothly. I use them in every class to help things stand out in my notes and for color coding my planner.
7. Chargers
     What’s worse than being at school and your phone dies? Not much, to keep this from happening keep an extra phone charger in your backpack and don’t forget your computer charger too!
8. Headphones
     Headphones are perfect for listening to music while heading to class, watching Netflix (in between  class not during of course) and even listening to assignments and videos for your classes.
9. Wallet and keys
     These two are pretty obvious, you’ll need your keys to drive to class or get into your room after class, you may need your student ID to get lunch in between classes and your wallet for other personal reasons.
10. Snacks/gum/water
     I am one of those people who always has snacks in class. I find it hard to focus when you’re hungry in class, so having a few snack options is always a smart idea. Also don’t forget to stay hydrated in class and drink up your water!
I hope that by me sharing my backpack essentials you’ll be able to prepare your self and feel ready for your next day of classes. I always suggest packing your backpack the night before classes so you’re not rushing in the morning to find what you need and so you don’t forget anything important.
What’s one thing you always have in your backpack? Let me know in the comments!
P.S Have you checked out my YouTube channel yet? I’ve been posting weekly and have several new videos coming soon!
Lauren | Simple Southern Belle

Game Day

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Dress | Booties | Crossbody | Watch

Game day is here and I can’t help but love this adorable garnet colored dress. From the ruffled back to the gorgeous color and flowy style it’s perfect for tailgating and football games. Usually I’d pair it with a pair of cowgirl boots but today I decided to show you all the versatility of the dress and pair it with my favorite booties, a black cross body purse and my favorite Kate Spade watch.

Keeping it simple makes this outfit casual and fun, but it can easily be dressed up for a fancier occasion. I never understood the concept of dressing up for southern football games, but I sure do love it anyways. I look forward to throwing on this cute dress on Saturday mornings and heading out to tailgate with my friends and root on my school’s team!

What do you like to wear on game days? Let me know in the comments!

Lauren | Simple Southern Belle

Transition Rompers

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Romper | Booties | Necklace

There is nothing I love more than a comfortable and stylish romper. Which is why I just can’t get enough of this romper from Beth-A-Belle. Their store never ceases to amaze me and every item is great quality. My favorite part about this romper is the fact that it can go from day to night with just a quick change in accessories!

Speaking of accessories, I decided to pair it with a long drop necklace which adds a bit of edginess to the look. It’s enough to spice it up without being too much with the print of the romper. Lastly I added in my trusty brown ankle booties which I adore. They are comfortable, cute, and just dress up any outfit!

Whether you’re having a night out on the town with the girls or you’re just feeling fancier that day, this romper and outfit is a look I know everyone will love. Something about it just makes me feel confident and excited to show it off to everyone, maybe it’s the playful cut of the romper or maybe its the edginess of the necklace either way you’ll be sure to see me in this romper all the time now!

What is your favorite piece of this outfit? Let me know in the comments!

Lauren | Simple Southern Belle

College Necessities

As most of you know I’m heading into my third year of college and if there is one thing I’ve learned over my 2 full years of college it’s what things truly are necessities. So I’ve decided to share with y’all my must have things for a college kid. Ranging from accessories, clothes, and even room decor!

 

 

  1. IMG_9483_2A comfy and stylish bed. There is nothing I love more than coming home from a long day of classes and jumping up onto my comfy bed and taking a nap. As you can see I love having an array of pillows to decorate. My bedding is first from Target and it is part of the Shabby Chic collection. The first pillow on the left is from Daisy Do Designs and it’s monogrammed, doesn’t get much better than that does it?! It’s cute to add a pop of color to your bed and it’s so chic. Next I had an Ikea pillow with a leaf design which is so soft! As you can see above my bed I have this adorable monogrammed wooden cut out. You can find one just like it at SarasCuts. It’s an awesome accent piece to add to your wall and it’s just plain adorable.

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2. Tumbler. I need to have a tumbler with me at all times. I love me some water and I have to drink it constantly. So having a cute cup to carry it around in is essential. And if you’re a coffee drinker it’s even better because it will keep your drink warm during class! You can find the one I have at Properly Southern  it’s the cutest thing ever!

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3. Notepads galore. I use notepads and sticky notes every day. From writing to do list to jotting down a few quick lots. It’s easy to have a few on hand to write anything at quick notice.

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4. Comfy Shorts. If you’ve been going to college for a while you’ll understand when I say everyone wears shorts and a t-shirt to class. Not many people dress up. So I found these adorable monogrammed running shorts from Properly Southern. They are my school’s colors too so they are perfect for game days or just wearing around campus.

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5. Cork boards. Having these little cork boards has been a great way to post things above my desk where I can see them to when I’m doing homework or working on a test. I have a few upcoming class dates and assignments and even a few sorority tasks I had to get done. Mine are from Target!

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6. Something fun! I love theses new Marble stickers for computers, there is something so sleek and exciting about them. You can find some from Marble Decals which is where mine is from. I get so many compliments on this all the time because of how original it is! Adding something exciting like this to your laptop could be a great incentive to study or go to the library to show it off!

 

 

Although these things may seem slightly random, all of them are my personal college necessities that I think are important to surviving college. College can be tough if you don’t equip yourself with the right tools and tricks to get by which is why I had to share my necessities with you all!

What are some of your must have things for college? Let me know in the comments!

Lauren | Simple Southern Belle

Being A Leader in Your Sorority

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One thing I’ve always encouraged and pushed people to do is to get involved and take on a leadership role in their sorority or organization. I believe it’s  an awesome way to learn useful skills that you’ll need when you’re in the adult world working. After taking on several smaller positions in my chapter I decided to run for a council position, where I am now our Vice President of Membership Education. With this title comes a lot of responsibility, hard work, and long days, but in the end it’s made me a strong leader, sister, woman, and student. So now I’m going to tell you why YOU should be a leader in your sorority.

 

What You Should Know:

Holding a leadership position can first be a big time commitment, depending on the position that is. Smaller positions are better for those of you who want to take the initiative and be involved while still having time for other things.

There will be criticism, and you will probably get stressed out and upset at some point, but don’t let that ruin it for you! You’re making a difference in your chapter and you can’t always please everyone! So smile and move on because one persons opinion doesn’t mean everything and you’re probably doing a killer job anyways!

You will have to sacrifice some things. By this I mean sleep, time with your boyfriend, and some times just free time. Honestly it can be tough to turn all these things down when you have a huge task at hand, but once you see the results it’s totally worth it.

 

How To Do It:

So you’ve decided you can handle the stress and task now let’s get into how you go about being a leader. Most sororities have several smaller positions and large ones as well! So take it from me and start somewhere small. I took on three small positions my freshman year in Kappa Delta. It was a great way to learn what areas I wanted to really work in and I met a ton of sisters and learned a lot about my leadership style.

After holding smaller positions and doing them successfully run for a larger position for example a council seat or executive position. All sororities have this and they are the main women in charge of large portions of the chapters events, PR, membership, finances, and more!

Maybe you want to hold a position on your Panhllenic council, make sure to have some experience under your belt and know that you’ll have enough time!

At some point you may have to give a speech for why you should be chosen, my tips for those are to stand up tall, speak loudly and with confidence, and plan your speech ahead of time and practice practice practice. People love strong confident people to be leaders of their organization! Just believe in yourself!

Talk to girls who hold large positions and get to know their duties, tasks, and how things work. This will be a great way to figure out which position is for you!

Get involved where ever you can! That’s being a leader!

 

How to Manage Your Time:

With being a leader comes meetings, scheduling, events, planning, and more and it’s crucial to plan out your days and time efficiently so everything is getting done. You’ve probably heard this a thousand times but don’t procrastinate. The sooner you start on your project or event planning the smoother it will go!

Keep a planner with all of your dates and times and schedule in time for planning or anything that deals with your leadership position duties!

Make time for fun things though too!

 

 

Overall being a leader in a sorority will teach you a lot about your self and what type of person you truly are. In turn you’ll also learn a lot about others. Just remember that as a leader people are looking to you for answers and have expectations so be the best role model and figure for them and you’ll do an awesome job! Don’t forget to be confident in your self and get involved in however you can. You don’t always have to have a title to be a leader.

Have more tips you want to include, leave them in the comments below!

Lauren | Simple Southern Belle

Babydolls and Summer Whites

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Top (on sale) | Jeans | Necklace | Shoes

Summer is coming to an end so I couldn’t help but wear this shirt just a few more times! What I love most about this shirt is how comfortable and flowy it is! It’s easy to toss on with a pair of jeans and head out the door, while still looking great! I’ll also bet that you’ll catch me wearing this on game days too because it’s perfect for dressing up for tailgates!

I decided to pair it with a simple but stylish gold necklace from Rose Water Designs, every time I wear it I get constant compliments. It’s such a unique piece no one else has!

Lastly I added a pair of denim jeans from Lucky Brand along with my favorite sandals from Lucky Leaf on Etsy, they are hand painted Lilly Pulitzer inspired sandals! HOW CUTE! Even my mom is obsessed with these and can’t get enough of them!

For 20% of this top at checkout add coupon code “SimpleSouthernBelle” !

What was your favorite piece from the outfit, let me know in the comments!

Lauren | Simple Southern Belle