Poor Girl, Pretty Girl

Over the years, vanity has managed to squeeze its way into human culture. As its hold on our current lifestyle continues to strengthen, we find ourselves focused more on clothes and cosmetics, workout plans and weight loss, health and hygiene, than we’ve ever been before. So why have we, as a species, become so obsessed with our appearance? It’s simple; looking good on the outside equals feeling good on the inside.

I know from personal experience, that even on those rare days when I wake up thinking I look decent enough for the public eye, there’s something comforting in my morning routine of cleansing, styling and applying. And you can’t forget those eighty-three dollar Steve Madden boots I’m so fond of. No, it’s not their brand name or three-inch heels that carry their appeal, but the fact that I feel both more mature and more confident when I wear them. And that, my friend, beats ratty old converse any day.  

The point is, we’ve all made our fair share of both fashion and beauty blunders, and although our family and friends told us countless times that we looked better without all that crap on our faces (or bodies or hair), we ignored them. Now, looking back on pictures of me from my freshman year with my unnaturally red locks, my raccoon-inspired eyeliner and some questionable outfits courtesy of Hot Topic, I can’t understand how I ever thought I looked good. Though it doesn’t matter, because back then, that’s what made me feel good.

So there’s the key to true beauty, confidence. Everything we do, from joining the cross-country team to swiping on some lip gloss, is just another boost of confidence.

We all want to feel beautiful, but unfortunately we don’t all have the budget. Or do we? In this blog, I’ll be revealing simple wallet-friendly secrets that will keep us looking and feeling like we’re worth a million bucks. So stay posted, girls.