Thursday, January 27, 2011

Blogger Highlight: The Oatmeal

In the past year and a half, Matthew Inman's cartoon take on absurd life moments, also known as The Oatmeal, has catapulted from relative unknown to Internet comic staple. The Oatmeal is a collection of comics and quizzes that poke fun at the silly, life truths that we all know and ignore. His wry, often spastic comics are a fun way to procrastinate online. Here are a few of my favorites...




Remember when we were all forced to learn cursive in elementary school? Whatever became of all that penmanship practice...

Are you guilty of doling out one of these?

What you actually sound like... and it's not pretty!


In case you were wondering, why oatmeal?, Inman joked in a recent interview with Mashable, "My comic has no recurring characters though, so rather than trying to name it something like BisonMeatPorkDesignButterflyPoopiesBigJokesLOL.com, I just called it 'The Oatmeal.'"


If you love his comics, check out his new book, 5 Very Good Reasons to Punch a Dolphin in the Mouth (and Other Useful Guides). For more Oatmeal fun, find more comics and quizzes here.
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Wednesday, January 26, 2011

Valentine's Day Gift Ideas

My earliest memories of Valentine's Day are from elementary school, where everyone in class was required to give out those cheesy Disney cards to each person. (I always chose one of the Disney princesses!). We'd spend an hour of class walking to and from desks, industriously leaving Valentine's Day cards at each. Some even got candy taped to their cards, a universal "You're cool" or "I like you". But now that we are a bit older, Valentine's Day doesn't seem as simple as those days. Choosing the right gift can feel impossible. Do I go with the romantic, cuddly approach or something a little more useful? To get you started, here are some of my favorite Valentine's Day ideas:



Instead of the usual photo frame, try a photo cube instead and display more then 1 favorite memory


Dog tags, the anti-jewelry!
With the tagline, "Gifts that Make You Smile," BoldLoft is the place for the most adorable gifts. Check out this pillowcase set from their "You're Irresistible" collection

To achieve the sappier "AWWW!" reaction, consider creating a personalized book of all the reasons why you love your special someone
For something a little less Valentine's Day-ish, play up your sweetie's love of football and get customized NFL M&Ms, with the team's logo and colors

For those who love fun, random gifts (or who are just really into Monopoly!), try Loveopoly! Personalize it with your own photos and memories
Monogramming something practical, such as a money clip, is a less lovely-dovey approach that is useful but still intimate. Definitely a top pick for more the more pragmatic! 

Share your top Valentine's Day gift ideas below!

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Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Spring 2011 Fashion Trends

Spring is here! Well, sort of. It may be snow, rain, and slush for most people, but Fashion Week is underway around the world. Here is your first, exclusive look at some of the leading Spring 2011 trends gracing the runway:

Long Skirts
Elegant, dramatic

White Out
Modern, minimalist

Denim
1970s-inspired, wide leg

Sportswear
Tracksuits to wet suits

Bright Colors
Mismatch, color blocks

Sheer
Flowing, ephemeral

New York Fashion Week is slated for February 9-17. Who's ready to shed these static-cling wools for spring fashions!
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Monday, January 24, 2011

Who is Your Best Friendship Match?

There's been a lot of buzz lately about the zodiac signs changing. Simply put (aside from the scientific jargon), Ophiuchus is supposedly the new, 13th zodiac sign, covering November 30-December 17. Whether you believe in this new group of 13 signs or the good ol' trusty 12, it's always fun to check out what your sign could mean for you! This article from Yahoo! Shine recaps who your most compatible zodiac friends are and the traits that stand out. Here are the highlights:


Aries
Symbol: Ram | Ruling Planet: Mars
Arians have a fiery temperament and are natural leaders, drawing solidarity and strength from its ruling planet, Mars. While they seek variety in friendship, they also can get offended easily. One has to remain interesting constantly, or risk getting dumped by an Arian for boring attitudes! Nevertheless, Aries friends are supportive and help their friend achieve their goals, especially in career matters. They make friends easily and are fiercely loyal.


They have good astrological compatibility with: Gemini, Aquarius, Leo, and Sagittarius


Taurus
Symbol: Bull | Ruling Planet: Venus
As one of the earth signs, Taureans are excellent advice-givers and are great at helping those in distress. Friendships are steady and can usually stand the test of time; when they call you their best friend, they generally mean it! However, one should be careful not to arouse jealousy in Taureans - they can be possessive when it comes to relationships.


They have good astrological compatibility with: Pisces, Cancer, Virgo, and Capricorn


Gemini
Symbol: Twins | Ruling Planet: Mercury
Known for their sociable nature, Geminis make lots of friends. They are sympathetic listeners and help defuse tensions with humor. Able to bond well with different kinds of people, Geminis value diversity in their friendships. To maintain a close relationship with a Gemini, get to know her on an intellectual level. Appeal to their love for new ideas and your friendship will grow.


They have good astrological compatibility with: Aries, Leo, Libra and Aquarius


Cancer
Symbol: Crab | Ruling Planet: Moon
Cancerians are supportive by nature, but do not make friends easily because they are very selective with their friendships. But if you make the cut, they make very loyal friends unless their trust is betrayed,that is. Cancerians are also shy, tending to wait for friendship to occur rather than take initiative.


They have good astrological compatibility with: Taurus, Virgo, Scorpio and Pisces


Leo
Symbol: Lion | Ruling Planet: Sun
Leos are known for their aggressive, dynamic, and idealist natures. Like Arians, they have a fiery temperament. While they love to be the center of attention, making friends with Leos is very difficult. They have a sensitive ego and try to have one-to-one close friendships over friendships with many. They do not like to see their friends outshine them.


They have good astrological compatibility with: Gemini, Libra, Aries, and Sagittarius


Virgo
Symbol: Virgin | Ruling Planet: Mercury
Virgos by nature are shy and lack self-confidence. Therefore, establishing friendship becomes difficult for them. They are not in the habit of frequently changing friends. Virgos are good, trustworthy friends, great at giving advice. They are there to help you out in crisis situations.


They have good astrological compatibility with: Cancer, Scorpio, Taurus, and Capricorn


Libra:
Symbol: Scales | Ruling Planet: Venus
Librans have an aggressive and dynamic personality. They have a flair for leadership and attract many friends due to their social nature. Reflective of their symbol, Librans make good counselors because they are able to weigh the pros and cons of things. They are also great debators and can be found at parties and other social gatherings. Finally, Librans are the most fashionable of the bunch.


They have good astrological compatibility with: Leo, Sagittarius, Gemini and Aquarius


Scorpio
Symbol: Scorpion | Ruling Planet: Mars
Secretive and reflective, Scorpios keep a few close friends. They are known for their wisdom and are in demand for their guidance. Like its symbol, the scorpion, Scorpios have a bitter sting and can be one's worst enemy if offended. Scorpios are not interested in keeping to many friends but they remain true and loyal to those who are able to establish a long-term friendship with them.


They have good astrological compatibility with: Virgo, Capricorn, Cancer, and Pisces


Sagittarius
Symbol: Archer | Ruling Planet: Jupiter
Sagittarians are excellent communicators and have a dynamic and idealist nature. They are open-minded types who are perfect for travelling with and other adventurous activities. Sagittarians are also in the habit of making quick friendships and love to make friends from all over. They are highly considerate and charming in their mannerisms. To attract a Sagittarian, appeal to their adventurous side.


They have good astrological compatibility with: Libra, Aquarius, Aries, and Leo


Capricorn
Symbol: Goat | Ruling Planet: Saturn
Capricorns have profound leadership quality. They are loyal and caring friends, preferring stable and long-term friendships. At times, Capricorns can behave more like one's parent, rather than friend. Always devoted to friendship, they will be there to help a friend out. 


They have good astrological compatibility with: Scorpio, Pisces, Taurus, and Virgo


Aquarius
Symbol: Water Bearer | Ruling Planet: Saturn
Aggressive and skilled organizers, Aquarians believe in mass friendships. But this makes it very difficult for them to make close friendships with anyone. They love their freedom and often times believe that friendships will take away from their freedom. But if you appeal to their intellectual side, you will develop a good friendship with Aquarians. 


They have good astrological compatibility with: Sagittarius, Aries, Gemini, and Libra


Pisces
Symbol: Two Fishes | Ruling Planet: Jupiter
Pisces are secretive and strategic types. They are attracted to less fortunate people, not because of pity, but because of their sensitive and sympathetic nature. They make excellent listeners and careful analyzers. Pisceans make the most caring friends who can be trusted under any situation. 


They have good astrological compatibility with: Capricorn, Taurus, Cancer, and Scorpio


So what if you (or your friend) are the new sign, Ophiuchus? We'll just have to wait and see! What's your sign?
;)
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Friday, January 21, 2011

Golden Globes Fashion Fails and Successes

The 68th annual Golden Globes was earlier this week, and like any other award show, it's really more about who was wearing what than the actual awards! This year featured a variety of gorgeous, rich colors, from emerald to a palette of pinks. There were some who dazzled while others were just a turn off. Let's look at some of BFF's top picks for fashion hits... and fails.


WIN: Amy Adams
Adams is totally gorgeous in this blue Marchesa gown. The intricate detailing on the bodice is to die for!


FAIL: Diane Kruger
80s flashback, anyone? A usually chic beauty icon, Kruger baffles us in this bright fuchsia ruffle dress by Christian Lacroix. With enormous neckline pleats and a huge bowtie at the waist, this is a bright pink, retro NO


WIN: Catherine Zeta-Jones
Akin to her signature regal glamorous style, Zeta-Jones is absolutely gorgeous in emerald, which complements her brunette tresses perfectly. This strapless Monique Lhuillier gown is a definite hit!


FAIL: Michelle Williams
This evening version of a sundress by Valentino is not working for me! The see-through fabric, strange flowers, and bland color, not to mention how frumpy it drapes on Williams, are disastrous. Very unfortunate for the Blue Valentine star


WIN: Amber Riley
The Glee star literally sparkled in this one-shouldered belted dress. Love the curve-hugging transition to a beautiful train at the end!


FAIL: Helena Bonham Carter
Rainbow splotches and mismatching shoes... what's going on! While Carter was nominated for Best Supporting Actress in The King's Speech, this clashing Vivienne Westwood get-up is winning her a spot on "Worst Dressed" lists!


WIN: Natalie Portman
This mom-to-be is glowing in this delicate pink strapless gown by Viktor & Rolf. Portman, who nabbed the Best Actress award for her chilling role in Black Swan, is a stunning example of elegance and grace


FAIL: Cameron Diaz
Basic satin red dress with awful short sleeves and plain black peep toes = bo-ring! Diaz disappoints in such a plain, average dress, unfit for the Golden Globes. Unfortunately, this is average at best


BFF'ers, what do you think our Golden Globes fashion rundown? Tell us your thoughts!
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Thursday, January 20, 2011

Blogger Highlight: Fig+Sage

Hola BFF'ers! Per our weekly "Blogger Highlight" series, we here at BFF are super excited to share this week's blog, Fig+Sage. Run by sisters, Stancie and Erin, from California (holla!), Fig+Sage is one of the top eco-friendly lifestyle blogs out there.


I know what many of you are thinking... "Eco-friendly" and "green living" are just code words for "tree-hugging hippies". Or maybe "Buying everything organic is too expensive for me." But with Fig+Sage, these sisters are showing readers that buying products that are natural and low-impact on the environment is absolutely doable and great for health and the planet! Without breaking the bank.


Fig+Sage features awesome, informative reviews of makeup and bath products out there in the market, like BECAUSE Body Care seen above. Eco-chic!

Their fashion finds highlight lesser-known eco-friendly brands, like Naya Shoes pictured above

You can also find a rich array of home products, from bedding to desserts to water bottles (a la Vapur BPA-Free Anti-Bottles pictured above)

Even moms who are interested in organic, eco-friendly clothes and toys for their kids, can find something at Fig+Sage


The great thing about Fig+Sage is that all of the products featured are personally tested and researched by Stancie and Erin. They take green consumerism and living environmentally consciously away from intimidating and shows us that you can stay stylish and on a budget when transitioning to a more eco-friendly lifestyle. Check out their fabulous finds and rave reviews on Fig+Sage here.

Stay fab (and eco-chic) guys 
;)
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Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Winter Craft: DIY Snowglobe

Taken from our favorite site, Celebrations, learn how you can make these awesome DIY snowglobes. They can be used as cute party favors, a cool homemade gift, or just to add some element to your room. Check out the video below:

DIY Snowglobes! from Jordan Reid on Vimeo.

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Tuesday, January 18, 2011

Camilla Supports the Troops!

Joining fellow entertainers, America Ferrara and Jason Derulo, actress Camilla Belle is the latest famous fan of the “One 4 You, One 4 Me” bracelets, which give civilians a way to connect with U.S. troops. “I have pride for my country,” says the star in a PSA video in support of the BFF bracelets, a joint initiative by the American Freedom Foundation (AFF) and BFF Entertainment. Donning one of the minimalist leather bands, Belle explains, “It’s a symbol of my support for friends of the military serving our country.” Each of the bands comes engraved with a unique number, and when you register a specific bracelet, its matching pair is sent to an active military serviceman overseas, who you can connect with through the AFF’s online community. To read more of this article and to view Camilla's PSA, please visit: People.com

;)
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Monday, January 17, 2011

Biffles,

Do we have some news for you! Last week we told you all about the Hello Kitty collection at Sephora, well makeup fans, feast your eyes on MAC's newest collection: Wonder Woman. "Just when the fate of the world is careening toward disaster, cue theme music! It’s Wonder Woman! She Kicks Sass! Her mission: Collaborate with M∙A∙C to fight the supervillains of the world – criminally outdated colour, evil, un-dimensional skin finish, the disasters that drain drama – with that famous spin, a double-cuff of her wicked wrist bracelets and shazam!".

Here's a sneak peak and what is to come. The line launches on February 10th and will be available for a limited time only:





For more photos, visit nitro:licious.com. Will you be purchasing the Wonder Woman collection from MAC when it comes out?
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Friday, January 14, 2011

5 Mood Boosters

One of our most beloved sites, Teen Diaries, recently posted 5 ways to help boost your mood. Check out what they said below and let us know what you think:

SPEAK YOUR MIND: Ever heard the saying, “a closed mouth never gets fed”? Well it’s true. Being assertive is often difficult for teens because for most of your life, you’ve been told to “speak only when spoken to”. But in order to build self-confidence, this old way of thinking has to be modified. So when you want something, be respectful and speak up. You might actually get what you want!


EAT BREAKFAST: It’s not at the top of your priority list while rushing to get ready for school, but grabbing a quick bite will prevent grumpiness and help you perform better in class. It will also nix dizzy spells and hunger headaches that could land you in the nurse’s office.

DO LESS: Even the most ambitious person needs to take a break sometimes. School, sports, internet surfing, texting, homework, and phone calls can send your brain into overdrive. Just take time to do nothing.

EXERCISE: This tip may seem like more of a chore than a mood booster, but you have to get that way of thinking out of your noggin. Exercise has been proven by many experts to be the number one secret in getting happy fast. A single workout of cardio, yoga, pilates, or playing basketball with friends relieves stress by releasing feel-good endorphins.

MAKE SOMEONE SMILE: Our favorite tip of the bunch. Instead of staring at a classmates awesome necklace, tell her how cool it looks. Your compliment will make her smile, and her thank you will in turn make you happy.
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Thursday, January 13, 2011

Blogger Highlight: Gertie's New Blog for Better Sewing

A seamstress with a passion for all things retro, Gertie is sharing with many of her fans her process as she attempts to create the 14 fashions illustrated in one of her favorite 1950's sewing books, "Vogue's New Book for Better Sewing". Gertie's New Blog for Better Sewing is a sewing-maven's dream. Not only does it offer an insider's look to her ongoing project, but the site also contains tutorials, tips, inspiration, and lots of spiriting discussions about sewing.

Do you like to sew? If the answer is yes, what are some pieces you have created or altered?

;)
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Wednesday, January 12, 2011

New Trend Alert!: Denim

Denim is a definite must have of the new Spring/Summer 2011 season as denim is not only comfortable but also exudes style. So take a peek at what you should be looking for when it comes to denim for the new season!

The last season was all about skinny and boyfriend jeans but this new season brings a little bit more variety when it comes to denim. Go for artful denim which features different embroidery or colors to add some spice to the denim. Acid washes are also in and look amazing, especially if paired with different color fashion items.

Mix and match different styles and go for an all denim outfit for a bold look, or go subtle but choosing to mix and match different fabrics with your denim! Pay attention to details and you will most definitely end-up looking “smashing” in your new hot denim outfit. Enjoy!
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Tuesday, January 11, 2011

Get to Know: Lucy Hale

With the popularity of the hit ABC Family show, "Pretty Little Liars" on the rise, you will be seeing actress Lucy Hale's face everywhere. Hale first appeared on the reality show American Juniors in 2003. She was part of the vocal quintet formed with the top 5 finishers. This was followed by guest roles on shows such as Drake & Josh, Ned's Declassified School Survival Guide, The O.C., and How I Met Your Mother. She appeared in two episodes of the Disney show Wizards of Waverly Place.

According to Teen Vogue: "Lucy Hale positively swears she's not a typical Hollywood actress. 'I've only been living here for a few years. I never thought about acting when I lived in Memphis—actually, pretty much the opposite. I wanted to be a singer,' Lucy reveals. 'Someone randomly suggested I audition for a few things. I thought, Why not? And I got a role on [Nickelodeon's] Drake & Josh. It was literally just a sentence, but I was so excited to be an actress.'"

Apart from playing her role as A on Pretty Little Liars, some of her favorite hobbies includes listening to music. Lucy loves Lady Antebellum, and one of her favorite singers is Taylor Swift. Next up for Lucy is Scream 4, due out in April, in which she appears alongside a cavalcade of fellow It girls: Emma Roberts, Shenae Grimes, and Aimee Teegarden. Will you check it out? Let us know!

;)



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Monday, January 10, 2011

Music Monday: Mike Posner

With his hit single, "Cooler Than Me" hitting the airwaves, Mike Posner is definitely someone to look out for. 31 Minutes to Takeoff, his debut album, was released on August 10, 2010. The first single from the album, "Cooler Than Me", climbed the Billboard Hot 100 to reach No. 6. If you haven't heard it yet, check out the video below:

 

What are some of your favorites tunes? Let us know below!
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Friday, January 7, 2011

How to Keep in Tip-Top Shape

When we think of exercise or keeping fit, we tend to see it as a tremendous task. Keeping healthy is so important to the well-being of ourselves, especially as we get older. So to make this "task" turn into some fun, we've gathered a few fun ways that you are your BFF can stay healthy and fit.

1. Belt it out Baby
You don’t have to be a superstar to enjoy the benefits of singing. Singing increases oxygen flow, which does wonders for your skin and immune system, as well as your brain! You can sing in the shower in the morning or along with your ipod.

2. Write in a blog
Writing down thoughts and feelings about things in your life, can have amazing affects on your immune system. It sounds crazy, but through honest blogging, you are able to more effectively solve problems in daily life. With less worry, you have less stress, which results in a stronger immune system. While blogging, you can write anything you want. And don't worry about privacy, many blogging sites such as Blogspot, offer settings in which you can either keep your posts public, private, or allow only a number of certain people to read.

3. Laugh
No one will disagree that everything gets better when you’re able to just forget your problems and LAUGH. If this seems easier said than done, then bring the laughter to you. Watch funny movies or spend more time with the friends that make you laugh. Let’s face it, laughter just makes you feel good.


4. Eat more often
There is so much pressure out there to watch what you eat. Skipping meals isn’t just ineffective for losing weight, it can be dangerous. Even if you shed a few pounds by eating less, your body goes into starvation mode, which in turn slows down your metabolism, which isn’t exactly an easy thing to bounce back from. Food should be thought of as fuel for your day. Before you go out, just grab a handful of something. Eating five small meals a day can keep your energy up and help you accomplish more in a day than you thought possible.


Some Quick and Healthy Snack: Fudge Pops, Tropicana Fruit Juice Bars, apples (plain or with reduced fat peanut butter), Oranges, Frozen bananas or strawberries, Baby Carrots (plain or with low fat ranch dip).

5. Kick it with your friends
By surrounding yourself with people that share your interests, latest crush, and deepest darkest secrets, you may be pleased to know that you are also significantly reducing stress and increasing endorphins. Not only is that essential in health, but for personal happiness as well.

6. Shake that booty!
Now when I say dance, I’m talking, “let it all hang out”, Napoleon Dynamite style! By turning on some music and finding your beat (understandably not the same for everyone), you’re not only forgetting all about the embarrassing things you did today, you’re going all out and embracing all your flaws while still getting a great cardio workout.

7. Do something you love
When you participate in the things you love, you are re-energizing not only your body, but also your creative aptitude. You alert your senses and decrease your stress and worry, which helps you maintain a healthy outlook on life. This can be anything you like, such as scrap-booking, painting, reading, and any hands on activity that you enjoy that engages your imagination.

Got some tips to share? Tell us with a comment below!

;)
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Thursday, January 6, 2011

Blogger Highlight: Nitrolicious


Looking for a site that always has the latest scoop on fashion, beauty, and trends? Well look no further. A personal favorite of mine, Nitrolicious is a blog written by Wendy Lam in which she shares with you everything fashion. What’s so great about this particular blog is its diversity. Covering a unique blend of street style, high style, and lifestyle, founder Wendy Lam has created a casual, playful and highly intimate voice which draws in a diverse readership. You can also receive inspiration from this blog, as Wendy usually showcases her daily looks. Check it out and tell us what you think. 


Got another blog in mind that you think we should feature for next week’s Blogger Highlight? Let us know by dropping a line below.

;)
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Wednesday, January 5, 2011

Beauty News: Hello Kitty at Sephora

Calling all Hello Kitty lovers! I definitely have some inside scoop for you that could make you go insane. Beginning in Mid-January (final date has yet to be released), make-up haven, Sephora, will launch a limited edition Hello Kitty line in all of their stores. The makeup and accessories are truly one of a kind, but enough of me talking about it. Check out the visuals below and tell us what you think. Will you be buying this collection?






Thanks to temptalia for the great photos. If you'd like to see more photos from the Hello Kitty collection, be sure to visit their site.

;)
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Tuesday, January 4, 2011

Big Shows = Big Season

January marks the beginning of many new shows and many new seasons of our favorite shows. There's so many that it is definitely hard to keep track! But don't worry, we've got ya covered. Here are some of our picks for some tune-in worthy premieres. Be sure to tell us what you think by dropping a line below!

Pretty Little Liars - This super-addicting show premiers tonight on ABC Family at 7:58PM EST. In case you haven't heard of it, here's the basic synopsis: One year ago, Alison, the Queen Bee of their group, disappeared and the girls swore they'd never tell what really happened that night. They thought their secrets would bond them together, but just the opposite is true. Then again, who's to say what the truth is in Rosewood. It seems everyone in town is lying about something.

 
Greek -  Greek, an original series by creator Patrick Sean Smith, is a dramedy set at fictitious Cyprus-Rhodes University, which focuses on the social minefield that is the Greek system. Catch it on ABC Family, right after Pretty Little Liars, at 9PM EST.


Degrassi - We agree, this show definitely goes there. After Degrassi hit the boiling point this summer, a strict new discipline code hovers over all -- but draconian rules and dress codes won't stop the drama. At a high school turned upside-down, you can expect the unexpected... from everyone. Be sure to check it out on Teen Nick.

;)
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