Six seasonal must-haves

Meral Kathwari Staff Writer

According to Punxsutawney Phil, Pennsylvania’s weather-predicting groundhog, we’re in for another six weeks of winter. Here are a few things that might help you stave off the winter blues and push through to spring.

Bright colors:

Just because it’s not spring yet doesn’t mean you shouldn’t dress like it – color wise, of course. Bright colors will stand out exceedingly well against the dingy gray backdrop of dirty snow.

Mara Hoffman, a New-York-based designer, has a hobo-chic, ready-to-wear clothing line that features bright and colorful patterns on everything from sweaters and dresses to bathing suits and cropped tops.

Exfoliating cleansers:

Exfoliators are necessary in the battle against winter-dried skin. They help to scrub off all the little flakes that pop up on your face. If you’re looking to splurge on yourself, try True Nature Botanicals’ new Exfoliating Cleanser, which is made with a mushroom extract that is ideal for all skin types. This cleanser costs $48, but if you’re looking for a cheaper option, pick up an exfoliating face wash from CVS. Keep in mind, though, that the smaller the exfoliating beads, the gentler the product is on your skin. It is not essential to exfoliate the gentle skin of your face every day.

Face and body cleansing wipes:

As spring approaches, students may find themselves hitting the gym more often. If you want to get in a quick workout in between classes these kind of wipes are essential. Mio Clean Slate Swipes are a great example of body wipes, as they were named one of the Top Get-Fit gifts for the 2014 Holiday Gift Guide by Self. A package of 25 costs $33. They smell of cucumber and are twice the size of normal facial wipes. They help cleanse the entire body quickly while eliminating any sweat and smell leftover from your workout.

“Funny Girl” by Nick Hornby:

Nick Hornby is the acclaimed author of “About a Boy” and “A Long Way Down.” The author-turned-screenplay-writer is known for his funny sense of humor and moving stories.

His new book, “Funny Girl,” hit stores Feb. 3 and should be put on your 2015 reading list. The story follows the young star of a sitcom in the 1960s. It is a great book to read when you’re curled up on your couch on a snowy day.

Apple Pay:

It’s no fun trying to pull a credit card out of a wallet when your hands are bundled up in thick gloves.

The good news is that there isn’t a waiting list for the iPhone 6 anymore, and with the new Apple Pay application, your phone can replace your wallet. Using an iPhone to pay at a store can be simple and secure.

This app is automatically available on all the new phones, and only requires your credit card information to activate. You can secure your cards with a screen lock and ‘remote-wipe’ capabilities. As long as the store accepts this form of a payment, you can scan the app and make your purchase without even taking out your wallet.

Evernote:

This free app is a notebook, planner and organizer all in one. Just because it’s February doesn’t mean it’s time to give up on your New Year’s Resolutions – if your goal was to start getting more organized, this is exactly what you’ll need.

Evernote has the capacity to keep all your notes in separate online notebooks. The system is backed up to your email so you can reach the notes from anywhere. It can also work as an agenda, reminding you of appointments that you set.

You can use Evernote on your phone and laptop.