Top 5

TOP

Find out the top five things that our exec board is inspired by right now.

MAXI SKIRTS

I am studying away in Washington D.C. this semester, which required me to buy a ton of cute yet professional workwear for my classes and future internship. There is always a struggle of finding affordable, appropriate options that I actually feel good wearing. Maxi skirts are one of the few items that meet these requirements. While some may consider them to be old-fashioned or conservative, I love the playful and polished aesthetic they can bring to a simple outfit. For a casual shopping trip, try dressing down a satin maxi skirt with a cropped camisole and sneakers. Pairing a knit maxi skirt with a colorful long sleeve top creates a cute look for the office that is just the right amount of work and play. There are a ton of different cuts, materials, and patterns to match any items in your closet. Even if you are covering up, you can show off your style.

- HANNAH CAMPBELL

In April of 2009, a small group of students from the University of Michigan put on the first ever production of an insanely funny musical parody based on one of the most famous franchises of all time. The musical was titled “A Very Potter Musical” and ran for only one weekend. Since then, StarKid Productions (also known as Team StarKid) has been creating hilariously written and expertly crafted musical comedies parodying other popular works as well as shows featuring original storylines. With the huge increase in popularity for Broadway musicals especially among younger generations, Team StarKid has gained a lot more attention in recent years. Unlike most professional Broadway shows, a majority of Team StarKid’s shows are available to watch outside the theater setting. The shows are free to watch on YouTube, making them extremely accessible. Not only are the comedy elements of StarKid musicals on point, but the musical aspects are big hits as well. Some of their most popular songs are on par with some of the greatest Broadway showtunes. Songs like “Kick It Up a Notch” from “Starship,” “Inevitable” from “The Guy Who Didn’t Like Musicals,” and “Happy Ending” from “Twisted” are some great ones and definitely worth checking out.

Team Starkid is a wildly creative and talented group of people who make shows that can be enjoyed by anyone. Even if you are not an avid musical watcher, I would suggest giving StarKid Productions a try. Their shows are free to watch and are a great introduction to the musical theater world for those unfamiliar. Honestly, the shows are just really fun and offer an all-around immensely enjoyable viewing experience

- ERIN FINAN

Now, everybody knows about the mini ring lights that clip onto a phone for selfies. People who were just as obsessed with them as I was will want to listen to this secret. While I wish I could get into a professional photo studio for every Instagram post and selfie, this is not at all realistic. However, my new favorite light, the Commlite CM-L50 LED Camera Video Light, has instantly enhanced my selfies to look much more professional. When I first bought this light, I was a bit skeptical because I had no idea how the light would work, but it was truly impressive. The light is incredibly convenient and portable because of the small size, and it can be thrown into a bag when running out of the house. Furthermore, the light clamps onto the back of a phone to give excellent lighting no matter the location. The Commlite CM-L50 LED Camera Video Light immediately enhances photos by creating the perfect lighting at any time of the day. I recommend this light to anyone that wants to get that perfect photo.

- CARMEN SZUKAITIS

PHOTO CREDIT: COMMLITE

SKIMS SOFT LOUNGE LONG SLIP

As I am writing this, I am sitting in the Skims dress. That is how good it is. The Skims dress is the perfect combination of comfort with a sleek design. I will admit at first I thought the Skims brand was overhyped. This was until I found myself at the Nordstroms in Seattle when I realized that all that hype was warranted. All the various shades of Skims clothing were hung up neatly in the middle of the lingerie section. The soft material hugs my curves in a way that other pieces of clothing never have. Despite how form-fitting the Skims dress is, it makes me feel so sexy and confident. The dress is perfect for hanging around the house or dressing up with a pair of heels for a great going-out look. While the $78 price tag was not pretty, this dress made me feel the purchase was worthwhile. This might be some of the best money I have ever spent.

- JULIA GREENWOOD

PHOTO CREDIT: ASHLEY OSBORN

LOLLAPALOOZA

Music has always been such a huge part of my life and along with that, live music has been even more important to me for as long as I can remember. I have been going to see my favorite artists on tour ever since I was super little, and the activity is something I have always felt super passionate about. Over the summer, I was able to go to Lollapalooza, which is a huge music festival in the middle of Chicago. This was my second time going to Lollapalooza and I do not think there will ever be a year that I do not go now because the experiences have truly been some of the greatest in my entire life. The environment in the festival is so magical and unforgettable, and the event takes place in my favorite city of all time. The festival takes place over four days in Grant Park and consists of eight stages spread out with food, merchandise, and activities. The event is absolutely worth all the hype, and I am not the type of person who enjoys being in a crowd, so that has to count for something. There is nothing better than getting to watch your favorite artists look out at a crowd of thousands of people and you get to see the “I made it” feeling on their face. Lollapalooza gives you that and it is truly magical.