5 Reasons to Join a Sorority

by In Sorority Advice Tagged , , greek life, joining a sorority, perks of a sorority, , , sororities, , , , , sorority recruitent, , why you should join a sorority

5 Reasons to Join a Sorority

 

So maybe you’re thinking about going greek? Maybe you know nothing about sororities and just want a little information. Well I am here to help! I have been a part of my sorority, Kappa Delta going on 3 years this fall. I can honestly say without Kappa Delta I would not be the woman I am today and I probably would be failing out of college.

Greek life in general tends to get a bad rep and I’m here to change your outlook on greek life and what it really has to offer for its members.

1. Leadership

Leadership is one of the best things I think a sorority can offer its members. I myself have held 3 Appointed Officer positions which are smaller positions, but still important. I am now a part of my chapter’s council or “executive” board as some call it. I essentially am one of the 9 women who are under our president and we each hold our own job. After having so many leadership positions in Kappa Delta I have learned skills to help me in every aspect of my life. I can now talk in front a group of people larger than 150 and can talk to anyone about anything and everything. I’ve taught myself time management and organization skills that will help me in the future as well. Not only has joining a sorority inspired me to be a leader in my chapter, but I have also obtained an on campus job and plan to move up to the position of building manager soon.

2. Philanthropy

What is better than donating your time to help others? Not to much. Not only are you helping someone else feel better, but you end up gaining more from it than you probably expected. You’re able to experience hands on fundraising and events and activities that actually make a difference in someone else’s life! Each sorority has a specific philanthropy that they focus their main efforts on. For example, Kappa Delta helps to instill confidence in Girl Scouts though activities and games.

3. Academics

To join a sorority in the first place there is a minimum GPA requirement. On top of that each sorority has a set GPA that is required of its chapter’s members. Greeks have a higher GPA than the overall campus GPA, probably due to the fact that we have so many resources! In your sorority you’re bound to have someone with the same major, same classes, minor, etc. They will be there to help you with are homework, tests, and studying. Most sisters will even take the time out of their day to tutor you if needed and even create a study group. I know personally my sisters and I spend several nights a week posted  up in the library get all of our work done and studying.

4. Connections

Without Kappa Delta, or my big, I would not be working at my prestigious job on campus that is notorious for only hiring people that the current workers know. Because I was a Kappa Delta member and my big was a building manager she was able to get me in contact with her job and I was offered a position. Sisters are constantly informing the chapter about job opportunities and internships that are available. Companies contact our chapters offering positions and internship because they know how hard greeks work. Not to mention the number of alumnae from your chapter who are now successful and can hook you up with the job you’ve been dying to have.

5. It’s FUN!

You’re bound to make friends inside the sorority and out. My best friends are in my sorority and several of my other best friends are a part of other sororities. You don’t have to stop being friends with someone just because she’s in another sorority. Sororities even host fun events like mixers and date functions where you get to meet other members from other chapters on campus and make even more connections! And trust me the philanthropy events and study dates and even workshops are all fun, especially with your best friends!

 

I hope after reading this you’ve decided to go greek yourself. It doesn’t hurt to take a shot and see if it’s for you. I guarantee there is a spot for everyone in greek life you just have to find the right spot for yourself. One thing I know for sure is that greek life offers a number of opportunities that you won’t find from any other organizations on campus.

Are you planning on going greek? If you’re already greek do you have any more reasons why joining greek life in the best decision you’ll ever make? Let me know in the comments!

Have more questions about greek life in general? Feel free to e-mail at [email protected]

Lauren | Simple Southern Belle

The Best 4th of July Outfits

by In Uncategorized Tagged 4th of july, 4th of july clothes, 4th of july outfit, fourth of july, fourth of july outfit, patriotic, red white and blue, red white and blue clothes, red white and blue outfits, summer outfits 2 Comments

The Best 4th of July outfits

 

June is almost over?! How can that be possible? With June ending so soon, July is approaching mighty fast and so is the 4th of July! Hamburgers, hotdogs, fireworks, and swimming in the lake; all of my favorite past times of 4th of July. This year I’ll be heading to the beach with a few friends in hopes of catching some sun and watching some spectacular fireworks.

I like to think I’m not the only one who struggles to find a cute outfit come 4th of July and end up just throwing on a boring red v-neck with denim shorts and head out the door. However, this year I vowed to have a cute outfit (one I can take lots of pictures in). For those of you like me I’ve decided to create 3 outfits that are perfect for any and every occasion this 4th of July!

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For the Swimmers:

If your 4th of July consists of a body of water, whether it be lake, beach, pool, or pond, this outfit is perfect for you! Everyone will adore this bow bathing suit top and cute matching bottoms that just scream I love the USA. Pairing this simple outfit with a pair of distressed denim shorts, white sandals and minimal accessories really makes it perfect for a day in the water. I would even paint my nails a bright red color to be a tad more festive.

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For the Casual Night:

Whether you’re off to a local park or simply hanging out with family at your house this simple and cute outfit is great! Throw on a pair of white converse for running around with little kids or playing a game of baseball or football. Adding a few accessories can easily spice up the outfit to give it a more dressier feel.

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For the Fancy Party:

If you’re someone who spends the 4th of July at a nice dinner or country club this outfit is the perfect one for you. The blue tank dress is flowing and light so you won’t be so hot. Paired with a pair of white wedges and a few red and white accessories makes the outfit the perfect touch of patriotic without being gaudy.

 

Whether you’re spending your 4th of July at the lake, eating dinner, or at a park, enjoy it in your perfect outfit! Don’t forget how hot it might be when choosing your outfit, no one wants to be sweating all night. Have a great 4th of July everyone!

 

Lauren | Simple Southern Belle

Dorm Room Shopping 101

by In Uncategorized Tagged , , college shopping, college shopping list, , , dorm room shipping advice, dorm room shopping, dorm room shopping 101, dorm room tips, living in a dorm room

Dorm Room Shopping

Bedding, storage bins, microwave, shower caddy, shower shoes, towels, the list is never ending when it comes to dorm room shopping. With so many things to buy it’s easy to forget something and lose track. Dorm room shopping doesn’t have to be stressful, with just a few tips you’ll be smooth sailing on your way to being prepared for moving into your dorm room.

When going dorm room shopping make sure to look at different stores to get the best price for your new items! Target, Walmart, and Bed Bath and Beyond have great dorm room items each year and usually have plenty of sales too!

On to the tips!

1. Mattress Pad. Invest in a thick mattress pad for your dorm room bed, this will make all the difference and sleeping in your bed will be enjoyable and relaxing. Most dorm beds are hard and stiff making sleeping almost impossible.

2. Two Sets of Sheets. Having at least two sets of sheets will make it easy for you to wash your sheets each week. Yes I said once a week. Since you’re in a dorm room your bed turns into a couch, study area, eating table, and more so it’s important to wash your sheets frequently.

3. Huggable Hangers. Huggable Hangers are those black velvet hangers sold pretty much everywhere. These puppies will save your life in a dorm room. Closets are small so they save you more room and your clothes won’t slip off of the hangers.

4. Command Hooks/Strips. Since dorm rooms don’t allow for you to poke holes in your wall or hang hooks, command strips and hooks come in hand! They don’t leave any marks and they are pretty sturdy.

5. Pepper Spray: If you’re a girl please for your safety purchase a pepper spray to keep on your keys. At college you may be alone at times in scary situations and personally having pepper spray makes me feel slightly more comfortable in those situations.

6. Mini Fridge with a freezer. Having a mini fridge with an attached freezer is ideal. You’ll be able to have frozen meals and ice-cream and what is better than that?!

7. Rain Attire. Rain coat, rain boots, and umbrella. Buy them, you will need them and they will keep you from getting soaked on your way to an important test when there is torrential down pour outside.

8. Medicine Box: Go ahead and buy common medicine items and medical supplies and create your own emergency box. Even if you don’t use everything in there, there is bound to be someone on your hall in need of it.

When you’re shopping for your dorm room keep in mind the size of your room. You’ll more than likely be sharing a room with another person and those rooms are already tiny as it is. Talk to your roommate about big items for your room and don’t buy things you won’t need.

Stay tuned for a complete college packing list!

Have more questions about college? Feel free to e-mail me at [email protected]

Lauren | Simple Southern Belle

 

Preppy Picks: Purses

by In Uncategorized Tagged , , , , preppy clothing items, , preppy fashion, , , preppy picks, preppy pieces, preppy purses, preppy stores, purses, ,

Preppy Picks Purses

 

Love the preppy style but maybe you don’t know where to get these “preppy” things? Maybe you love the preppy style yet you don’t want to spend loads of money on one preppy piece. Rest assured today’s preppy picks are the perfect bags for the oh so coveted preppy look and there are some in every price range!

Monogrammed Lux Cross Body Clutch  If you’re trying to save a little money but you still love the preppy style, Marley Lilly has great options when it comes to bags. Their monogrammed clutch is one of my personal favorites and I use it all the time.

LL Bean Boat and Tote Bag Could these bags be any more perfect? Not only are they stylish and affordable, but you can even have your monogram put on them! I love using these types of bags for heading to the pool, lake, or even to a friend’s place.

Cedar Street Medium Harmony-Kate Spade Anything Kate Spade screams preppy, especially this bag which is the perfect every day tote. It also comes in a few different colors, one being black which would match everything.

Longchamp Le Pliage Tote A longchamp tote is the perfect preppy accessories not to mention it’s great for a girl who’s out and about from school to work and all over. It’s durable yet light and the nylon material makes it easy to clean off!

From $20 to $200, I’ve given you several options for preppy bags that will be sure to take your preppy wardrobe to the next level. Which of these bags is your favorite and do you own any of them, let me know in the comments!

 

Lauren | Simple Southern Belle

 

Staying Healthy in College (The Easy Way)

by In Uncategorized Tagged , , , , college students, , healthy in college, staying healthy, staying healthy in college

Staying Healthy in College

 

Freshman 15, none of us ever think we will be the ones to gain it, but trust me most of us do. From late nights of binge drinking to candy stops at the grocery store, it can be hard to stay healthy and on track during the school year. Luckily I have tips to keep you healthy and losing weight your freshman year and beyond!

1. Limit Your Alcohol

I’m not saying you have to drop drinking all together because I know everyone does it and it just happens. But I do recommend limiting how much you drink, how many days you drink, and what you drink. I suggest drinking beverages with fewer calories vs. beers with 100+ calories in each can. On top of that limit the amount of days you drink. If you’re chilling in your dorm room you don’t need 2-3 beers or shots, you’ll be fine without it. Save drinking for fun events, themed parties, thirsty Thursdays, etc.

2. Eat At Least One Healthy Meal a Day

Take the time to eat one wholesome meal each day. Whether it’s toast, eggs, and fruit at breakfast or grilled chicken with vegetables for dinner. Your school’s cafeteria is bound to have healthy options available so suck it up for one meal and eat something good for your body.

3. DRINK WATER!

Drinking water religiously is a great way to keep off the weight. It’s 0 calories and you won’t be filling your body with all the sugar from sodas or juices. I recommend purchasing a Brita water bottle or filter so that you can constantly fill up a water bottle and have it available to you at all times. This way you’re not wasting money over and over again buying plastic water bottles.

4. Have Healthy Snacks in Your Room

Having healthy snacks in your dorm room will make it easier for you to stay on track when it comes to eating healthy. You’ll be less likely to run to the convenience store and get snacks and candy when you’re hungry. I recommend keeping things like fruit, 100 calories snack packs, veggie sticks, crackers, etc. in your room for healthy options that are readily available.

5. WORKOUT (DUH!)

To keep the weight off during school it is important that you are working out at least 3 times a week. Grab your friends and head to your school’s gym, or do a short workout in your room, Blogilates on YouTube has great videos for short workouts when you don’t have a lot of time. I suggest walking to classes, ride your bike around campus, run up and down a set of stairs, take the stairs and not the elevator. There are plenty of options to get out and get fit so take advantage of them.

Keeping off the weight during college doesn’t have to be hard and if you start form the beginning it’ll make your life a lot easier. While everyone else is struggling to lose the weight their sophomore year you’ll already be in shape and looking good!

Lauren | Simple Southern Belle

Bid Day: What to Expect

by In Sorority Advice Tagged bid day, , , , , sorority bid day, sorority bid day what to expect, , , , , , what to expect on sorority bid day

Bid Day

 

Can you believe it?! It’s finally bid day! You’ve survived the long nights of sorority recruitment and today is your bid day! You’re probably too nervous and excited to think about anything else, trust me I was like that too! First let me say congratulations and secondly let me say that today is the day your life will change. Many people don’t understand the positive impact that sororities have on a college woman’s life, but that’s simply because they’ve never been a part of it. You’re finally going to be a part of an organization bigger than yourself! You’ll grow stronger, smarter, more confident, and positive. You’ll gain leadership skills, community experience, and time management. Welcome to the wonderful life that is sorority life!

First let me say that bid day is different at each school, so pay attention to rules, locations, times, attire, etc. for you bid day!

Most schools require all new members to meet in a central location where you will either A. Open up your bid and run to your sorority right there or B. Open your bid and run to your new sorority house. When you get to this central location meet up with the girls you made friends with during recruitment, talk and laugh to ease your nerves and blow off some time. Take groups pictures, pictures with your Rho Gamma or SRC or whatever you call them to have for memories!

You’ll probably be told to hold your card behind your back so there is no peaking and then they will blow a whistle and everyone rushes to open them at the same time. Take your time to actually read your card so that you can make sure you get the right house!

At this point you’ll probably be too excited for words and off and running towards you new home!!! YAY! Be extremely careful though! DO NOT TRIP! I promise they will love you just as much if you’re the second, third, or last girl there! I suggest finding girls you talked to during recruitment first, they’ll probably remember you and you will already have a connection. Grab your bid day goodies and head to your bid day festivities!

As for clothing I always suggest a few things so that you’ll look great in any bid day attire given to you. Denim shorts, can be any style you’d like. I personally love the new faded, ripped, and frayed ones! Wear a camisole or tank top for easy changing right on the spot. Chances are there will be boys around and that’s weird to change in front of them. Strapless bra so that you’re not worried about straps hanging out! And shoes that you can easily run in, doesn’t have to tennis shoes, just something easy for you to run to your new home in!

Lastly I suggest doing your hair and makeup because trust me you will be taking loads of pictures and you’ll look back on these forever!

Once you’ve reached your new home and you’re off to celebrate don’t forget to really soak it up. Talk to girls you’ve never spoken to, play games to interact with other people, take so many pictures you don’t know what to do with them and just put yourself out there! Bid day is meant to help you get to know all your new sisters so don’t be afraid to talk to them and ask them questions or just eat with them! They are all excited you’re there and remember they chose you!

Once again congratulations on your new home! I’m proud of you and so happy for you. Your life is about to change for the better and it all begins with today, bid day!

Good luck!

Have more sorority related questions, e-mail me at [email protected]

Lauren | Simple Southern Belle

Preparing for College the Summer Before

by In Uncategorized Tagged , , , , , college prep, college preparation, , packing for college, prepare for college, preparing for college, preparing for college the summer before

preparing for college

 

The time is here, it’s the summer before you head off to college and you couldn’t be more excited! Now is the time to sit down and prepare yourself for the change to come. Moving to college, a new town, away from friends and family can be a big change, but lucky for you I have several tips for helping you prepare for college the summer before.

1. Go to Orientation

Orientation is required at all colleges and you may or may not have already signed up for it. Make sure you’re on top of this and you’ve picked a date. I recently wrote a post all about how to survive freshman orientation that will help you make the best of your time there! Make sure you don’t miss it!

2. Get Familiar With Your School’s Websites

From the school’s main website to the online program used for class registration, and even the website used by teachers for assignments. All of them may be a tad overwhelming, but taking the time to explore them and get used to them will make all the difference come Fall.

3. Start Your College Shopping List

If you’re living in a dorm you’ll probably be picking up several new things for your room and this can be a tad daunting. I will be posting a college packing list soon so make sure to look out for that! I suggest making a master list with everything you need and picking up items a little bit at a time so you’re not overwhelmed or forgetting things.

4. Begin Packing

Do not put off packing till the last minute! Begin gathering things in an empty room or closet that you know you need to take with you to college. Be selective with the things you’re bringing because you’ll probably be sharing a room and it’ll be small.

5. Spend Time With Your Friends

Spending time with your friends is extremely important. Take every opportunity you get to hang out with them before going to college. You’ll remember just how much you miss them when you’re finally off at college so spend as much time with them as you can.

6. Contact Your New Roomie!

Yay, you’ve been assigned a roommate(s) or you’ve found the perfect roommate(s). Contact them and ask to grab lunch near the school one day, now is the perfect time to talk about room decorations, rules, hopes, and plans, etc. Really spend time getting to know them and it’ll be ten thousand times less awkward when the first day roles around. Don’t be afraid to text them, e-mail, Facebook, invite them to hang out, etc.

7. Take a Tour

Your school offers several times for tours, open houses, dorm viewings, etc. Take advantage of these and go several times. I toured my college 3 times and went to an open house. It’ll help you become familiar with the campus as well as getting excited about Fall. Take your parents, friends, grandparents, siblings, etc.

8. Visit the Area

Take the time when visiting the school to scope out the area around. Find the closest grocery store, pharmacy, gas stations, banks, etc. This will make your life easier when you’ve reached school.

9. Purchase Your Books

Teachers will begin assigning books over summer so you’ll be able to start purchasing them. I suggest using Chegg.com to purchase all of your books. You will save loads of money and it’s easy! School bookstores are notorious for scamming students into paying ridiculous prices.

10. Purchase Your New Technology Gadgets

Now is the time to invest in a new computer, tablet, phone, etc for while you’re at school. Look for sales, tax free weekends and deals for the best price. Don’t forget to use your new student ID for that nice student discount.

11. Talk to Your Parents About Important Matters

You need to talk about whether or not your car will go with you, how often you’ll be coming home, the way in which you’ll be getting home, will they be supplying you with a stipend each week for food and gas, do you need to get a job? Talk about your major, what classes you’re taking, future career options, clubs you’re interested in. The main idea is to get them involved! They’re probably just as excited as you are and want to be involved in what’s going on. Don’t be afraid to ask for their help or suggestions, that’s what they are there for.

12. Take Placements Test

Placement tests are just an easy way for you to place out of certain classes such as math, foreign language, english and so on. Take these even if they are optional. It could save you time and money! But don’t forget to study for these to brush up on your skills.

13. Apply for Student Loans/Financial Aid

Make sure that you’re taking the leap on applying for loans or financial aid so that you make sure that your funds are available come school time. Talk to your parents for this because chances are they will be required to sign things too.

14. Purchase Basic School Supplies

You’ll need a scientific calculator, pens, pencils, planner, notebooks, etc. Plan to pick these up either at school or before so you’re prepared for classes.

15. Relax

Take your time this summer and soak it all up. Spend time with those close to you, even your pets! Spend time doing things you want and relaxing.

I hope that these tips make preparing for college the summer before easier for you and make your feel more prepared and excited for the year to come. Good luck this fall!

If you have more college related questions feel free to e-mail me at [email protected]

Lauren | Simple Southern Belle

What to Wear During Sorority Rush: Preference Night

by In What To Wear Tagged bid day, greek life, , , preppy fashion, , , , sorority bid day, , , , sorority preference night, , , , what to wear during sorority rush week

What to wear pref night

 

For those of you who don’t know, preference night is the last night of sorority rush week. This night is when each sorority will share with you a part of their ritual and chapter. Focus on what each sorority is saying during this night because by the end of it you will be choosing your future home. You may cry, you may laugh, but I promise you that you will feel a connection to at least one chapter.

The night of my preference round I went in the first sorority more nervous than ever, the ceremonies were touching and I thought I knew my decision. Before walking into the next sorority, Kappa Delta, I felt calm and relaxed. As soon as I sat down to talk to a member I felt at ease. Their ceremonies began and I found my self crying in my sit as a listened to them sing Never Alone. I had goosebumps running up my arms and I felt like I finally found the place where I belonged.

Today I will share with you three more outfits to help you decide what to wear on your preference night. This night is special so most schools require a cocktail type dress or something similar. You may even be instructed to wear a black or white dress, either way pay attention to your school’s rules before choosing this outfit.

Sorority Rush Week: Preference Night Outfit

 

Outfit Number 1:

LBD (little black dresses) are a classic when it comes to preference night. They are stylish, flattering, and stunning. When choosing a black dress find one that has an element that stands out from the others. For example, this dress has a lovely lace neckline making it more feminine and delicate looking. Don’t over do a dress with big accessories, your jewelry should be kept to a minimum and simple. As for heels I suggest a pair that you are comfortable walking in and don’t hurt your feet. And please don’t wear 6 inch heels that make you look like you just came form the strip club, it’s not cute.

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Outfit Number 2:

During preference night you should not be wearing pants or rompers or shorts, dresses are the only thing I recommend wearing. Hence why I have chosen three dresses for you today! If you choose to go with a colorful dress I suggest keeping cut and fit in mind. You will want a dress that flatters your figure, not a tight fitting club dress or one with a super low cleavage line. These nude heels here are the perfect pair of heels for any outfit. Steve Madden sells a pair while stores like Target have great knock offs for a better price! Add a few accessories to spruce up a plain dress and you’re set for the night!

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Outfit Number 3:

Last but certainly not least, my favorite outfit choice. Although the neckline on this dress is lower than the other two it is still classy and simple without being trashy. If it’s too low for you, try finding a cute bandeau to throw underneath it! I paired this dress with flats for those of you who may be tall like my self or if you’re just not comfortable in heels. Just make sure your flats are broken in before this night so you won’t be left with blisters!

 

When choosing your preference dress I suggest going with a more conservative piece. These dresses can be found anywhere from Target, Nordstrom, or even a local boutique. Shop around to find the best fit and style on your body type. Don’t forget to choose comfy shoes for walking, plus you’ll be more confident if you’re not focused on your feet hurting all night!

Good luck on your preference night, only 1 more day till bid day!

Have more questions about greek life, rushing, college, or anything else? Feel free to e-mail me at [email protected]

Lauren | Simple Southern Belle

Surviving Freshman Orientation

by In Uncategorized Tagged , , , college orientation, , freshman orientaiton, freshman orientation advice, , , , surviving freshman orientation

ABEY'S

 

Freshman orientation, maybe it’s a little scary to you? Maybe you don’t want to go? Maybe you’re beyond excited? Any which way I’m going to help you survive your freshman orientation so that you can get the most out of it and walk away feeling ready for college in the fall.

Positive Attitude

Walking into freshman orientation with a positive attitude and an open mind will make all the difference. You should be excited to be starting a new chapter of your life and this is the first step! Orientation will offer a lot of resources and help so keep your eyes and ears open for important information that you don’t want to miss.

Dress Comfy

I suggest wearing comfy clothes to freshman orientation because chances are you’ll be walking all over campus and it’ll probably be hot because it’s summer. Bring a pair of tennis shoes or comfy sandals for walking in and layers so that you can cover up in cold rooms but not sweat to death outside.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions

Get used to it now, asking questions will save you in the long run, I promise. Get the help at freshman orientation while you can, whether it’s registering for classes or choosing a meal plan, you can never ask too many questions.

Get to Know Other Students

Getting to know other students is one of the biggest pieces of advice I can give to any freshman during orientation. I’m a junior in college and I’m still friends with several kids in my freshman orientation group, chances are you’ll probably have class with these kids down the road anyways! Everyone is looking to make friends and fit in so don’t be afraid to talk and joke with those around you.

Attend Every Event Possible

For most freshman orientation groups there will be several events for you to attend, these can be about greek life, philanthropy work, campus tours, academic related clubs, registration sessions, placements tests, etc. Take note of your schedule and plan accordingly, you don’t want to miss an important event that you need to attend.

Go To the Resource Fair/ Student Organizations Fair

If your school hosts a time where all student organizations are available to talk to and get to know, GO! Use this time to scope out each organization to find one you may want to join. Joining an organization is great way to meet people with common interests, not to mention it looks great on your resume!

My last and final advice is to take advantage of each and every opportunity you can while at freshman orientation, really put yourself out there and get to know people. I promise you’ll make a few friends and by the end of it you’ll probably be itching to start college in the fall!

Good luck!

Lauren | Simple Southern Belle

Go Ahead Red

by In My Outfits Tagged , beauty trend, confidence, confidently, , fashion trend, go confidently, how to be confident, kate spade, Madewell, , red lips, , target

IMG_1593Confidence, many women seek it yet few seem to have it. Confidence begins with little steps such as standing up for yourself, hanging out with who you want to, and trying out new fashion and beauty trend. Today I took a big step in my own life and decided to rock a beauty look I’ve always adored, red lips.

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Red lips, or bright lips in general, used to scare me. I was to afraid to wear them in public for fear of people judging me or making fun of me. Today I decided to give it a whirl, because I shouldn’t care what those around me think. If I like it then why not rock it?

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Although wearing red lipstick is such a little thing, it still takes loads of confidence to do, so I threw on my favorite dress from Target, no less, along with some comfy sandals and my everyday tote from Madewell.

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Partaking in photo shoots for my blog have even increased my confidence in myself and my blog. Even when people are staring at me like I’m crazy when I pose for a few pictures, none of it seems to bother me anymore. I’ve decided that I am proud of the work I am putting in for my blog and I don’t care what others think of me. Because it’s for all of you who visit my blog each day and read my posts!

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So today, I encourage you to take part in my red lip challenge. By no means do you have to wear red lipstick, but instead I ask that you take a step towards becoming more confident in yourself. Whether it’s walking with your shoulders back and head up or trying a new fashion trend. Go ahead, take a chance and I promise you won’t regret it.

Go confidently.

Lauren | Simple Southern Belle