Thursday, March 31, 2011

Tie me up!

Handbags, much like men, come in all shapes and sizes. Large, small, annoying, charming, sassy, athletic, should I go on?  One trend that is really popular right now for handbags (not men) is drawstring.

The drawstring detail is more casual then professional but it can easily go from day to night.

Deux Lux, Studded Drawstring bag, $93
This bag is in such a sweet color but edgey with the studs.  I love it!

Fossil, Camille Satchel, $98
The mix of fabrics here is gorgeous and the embroidery is super unique.

Talk about your four season, dress up or down bag! It's the definition of versatile.

I love the hardware on this bag, it's very motorcycle ready!

As you can see the drawstring bag comes in a handful of styles: bucket, tote, shoulder, etc.  I think it's a great alternative to a zipper or magnetic closure on your bag.

Be fabulous today!

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

Bangle Bracelets

Hey lovebugs!  It's humpday. Tomorrow I leave for New Orleans for a week for work, but fear not! I will keep blogging, because, well, that is how much I love you.

Today we're talking bracelets.  Bangle bracelets are always fun for Spring and Summer, they are a cheery and easy way to spice up an outfit.

This is perfect with an LBD or with jeans, naturally, it's Kate.


One of my fave designers/bloggers, Jess LC!

Forever 21, Zebra stripe bangles, $6.80
A little wild? I love it!

Belle Noel, Love Stack Bangles, $78
I really like these because they're so boho chic

Bangle bracelets can be worn with any style: preppy, boho, animal print, you name it.  They're an easy add on to any outfit!

Be fabulous today!

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

What I Scored

Hey lovebugs, 
It's rare that I shop in the non-sale section.  Unless I'm shopping for the brands I love and cherish like Kate Spade, Cole Haan, Michael Kors, etc.  I like to get some bang for my buck.  Now there are certain items that I will splurge on (mainly shoes) and one of those is multipurpose dresses.  Dresses are such a great go to item that are easy to throw on and accessorize.  


I needed to get some work dresses for my upcoming trip this week so I headed down to Macy's to do some damage.  Wanna see my scores?


MICHAEL Michael Kors Dress, Printed Sheath with Belt, $99


You know I'm going to stay under $100, and I did just that with this beautiful sheath from Michael Kors.    It's got this chic mock-croc print all over and the belt breaks it up beautifully.






AGB Dress, Dot print belted dress, $44.50
I'm obsessed with this dress.  The picture doesn't do it justice.  I plan on wearing it all four season.

Tahari Arthur Levine, Crepe Sheath, $99
The one I got at Macy's came with a thick patent leather belt, which is why I think it's more work-appropriate.  I'll wear this with a black cardi and tights.

Butter, Scoop Pump, $167 (I got with 25% promo code)
Can I tell you something? These are the most comfortable dress shoes I've ever put on my feet.  They are seriously like butter. Omg.

So how did I do? Did you like my picks?  I really like my dresses because I think they will be very versatile for work, family holidays, parties, and more.

Be fabulous today!

Monday, March 28, 2011

Feeling Fruity

You guys, it's Monday.  Major bummer.  I'm so sorry.

Sometimes when you're this bummed, you need something out of the ordinary cheery. Don't you agree?  Which is why today's post is on fruit!

Max and Chloe, Bee Charming Fruit Lariat, $55
I just love this burst of fun with jeans on the weekend!

Juicy Couture, Fruit salad convertible bag, $68
So the little orange slice zips off into a wallet! Genius!

Kate Spade, Twirl Perfume, $18
Kate's new scent is lovely with pink watermelon, blackberry, and red currant.

Modcloth, Cherry Stem Top, $30 
Understated and adorable.

Feeling fruity? These prints, patterns, and ideas are so much fun and so unexpected.  Have fun playing with them!

Be fabulous today!

Friday, March 25, 2011

Friday Foodday

You know what time it is!!! It's Friday Foodday lovebugs!

Do you have a great recipe to share? I'd love to feature it! Email me!

Homemade Samoa Girl Scout Cookies
c/o Kitchen Bellicious
Ingredients

Cookie:
  • 3/4 cup butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cups all purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • up to 2 tbsp milk
Topping:
  • 3 cups shredded coconut
  • 12-oz good-quality chewy caramels
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 3 tbsp milk
  • 8 oz. emisweet chocolate chips
Directions
In a medium bowl, whisk the flour, salt, and baking powder, set aside. In another medium bowl or the bowl of your stand mixer, cream together the butter and sugar until fluffy and smooth. Add the egg, beat, then the vanilla. Gradually add the flour mixture and mix on low speed until just blended, about 30 seconds. Roll out the dough until 1/2 inch thick. Using a round cookie cutter cut out the cookies and place on a baking sheet. To make the small circle in the middle use a clean top from a tube of toothpaste.  Bake at 350 for 10 minutes until golden brow. Set aside to cool completely.
Preheat oven to 300. Spread coconut evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet and toast 20 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes, until coconut is golden.  Set aside. Meanwhile, unwrap the caramels and place in a large microwave-safe bowl with milk and salt. Cook on high for 3-4 minutes, stopping to stir a few times to help the caramel melt. When smooth, fold in toasted coconut with a spatula.
Using the spatula spread topping on cooled cookies (reheat caramel for a few seconds in the microwave if it gets too firm to work with). While topping sets up, melt chocolate in a small bowl. Heat on high in the microwave in 45 second intervals, stirring thoroughly to prevent scorching. Dip the base of each cookie into the chocolate and place on a clean piece of parchment paper. Transfer all remaining chocolate (or melt a bit of additional chocolate, if necessary) into a piping bag or a ziplock bag with the corner snipped off and drizzle finished cookies with chocolate.
Let chocolate set completely before storing in an airtight container.

Spicy Scallion and Brie Burger
Ingredients
1 1/2 pounds ground beef
Salt and freshly ground pepper
4 ounces Brie, rind removed, cheese cut into 4 slices
1/4 cup Spicy Scallion Paste-Recipe below
Vegetable oil, for brushing
1/4 cup mayonnaise
4 hamburger buns, split
Tomato slices and lettuce, for serving
Spicy Scallion Paste
4 scallions, thinly sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 fresh hot chile, seeded and minced
1/2 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
In a small bowl, combine the scallions with the garlic, chile, lemon zest and cayenne, mashing slightly with the back of a spoon. Stir in the olive oil and salt.
Directions
Light a grill. Season the ground beef with salt and pepper and form into eight 4-inch patties that are slightly thicker in the center. Top 4 of the patties with a slice of Brie and a scant tablespoon of the scallion paste. Top with the 4 remaining patties, pinching the edges to seal.
Brush the burgers with oil and grill over high heat, turning once or twice, about 8 minutes for medium-rare meat.
Meanwhile, mix the mayonnaise with the remaining scallion paste. Grill the buns until toasted. Spread the mayonnaise on the bottoms of the buns and top with the burgers, tomatoes and lettuce. Close the burgers and serve.

Baked Potato Chips
Ingredients
1 large potato (Russet, Yukon Gold, or Sweet Potato)
Cooking spray
Salt
Directions
1- Preheat the oven to 500 degrees.
2- Using a mandolin, slice the potato into thin pieces.
3- Spray a cookie sheet with cooking spray. Lay the potatoes over the sheet evenly. Spray more cooking spray over the potatoes and sprinkle with salt.
4- Bake for 15-20 minutes, until crisp.

Be fabulous today!

It list!!

theitlist

Happy Friday folks... I hope you had a great week and an even better weekend planned!  Take some time to dive into these great links, there is so much great inspiration here!
  • mama loves papa is looking cowgirl-chic for sure, what with posing with cows and sporting some adorable cowboy boots.  I just love this look! (find mama loves papa on twitter!)
  • shen dove is rocking one of my favorite looks for spring... a maxi dress with tons of layers. Perfect for when you want to dress for spring, but still be warm! (find shen dove on twitter!)
  • the capital barbie features shimmery metallics to add to your wardrobe for spring. This little skirt is just TOO cute! (find the capital barbie on twitter!)
  • a spoonful of dish rounds up her favorite pieces from the recently launched (or re-launched) Target GO Collection.  There are SO many good pieces to choose from!
  • daily crushes brings the sunshine to you with this gorgeous dress... and a gorgeous room. Both are sure to put a smile on your face!
  • turn up the rad finds an amazing rug style that I have never seen before called the Boucherouite.  They are so lovely and unique! (find turn up the rad on twitter!)
  • good tots features one simple maternity top in three great maternity outfits. If you have pregnant friends, or are expecting yourself - check out these great looks!
  • a spot of whimsy is internet-stalking (in the friendliest way possible, of course!) the first family of fashion - The Hilfigers.   How can you not love these classic preppy looks? (find a spot of whimsy on twitter!)
  • thought and musing goes all out with a vintage leopard print jacket.  This is such a fabulous piece and she carries it off so well - very fun!
  • rosy + tart has my mouth watering with this simple tomato soup recipe. I can never turn tomato soup down! Yum! (find rosy + tart on twitter!)
  • undeniable style is rocking these long wide leg jeans so well. I am smitten with this outfit... I just love a pop of red this season! (find undeniable style on twitter!)
  • rose a la mode snagged this ultra hip straw fedora hat for spring and summer - it will look so fab on her, I just know! How would you style it? (find rose a la mode on twitter!)
  • walking around {where the sidewalk begins} has me drooling over these sherbet-esque dining room chairs. Mmmmm, who doesn't love an ice cold bowl of sherbet? (find walking around on twitter)
  • good life for less released her spring + summer 2011 looks:book - get your copy now for all of your spring shopping needs.  It's like having a personal shopper for the season! (find good life for less on twitter!)
the IT list is organized by jill of good life for less, for information on participating, click here!

Thursday, March 24, 2011

Etsy Thursday!

Everyone once and a while I like to do an Etsy post.  Feature some amazing artists and their talents!  So please enjoy!

I Screen You Screen, Love quote, $19
How about this in your bathroom or entryway? Super smile!

Black Satin Shoes, gold sequin bow shoe clips, $30
I just discovered shoe clips.  It's the cheapest way to double your shoe closet!  Clip these amazing pieces on to a pair of heels and you have a new shoe!

This simple bracelet is the perfect mix of materials, so very spring.

River of Romask, Minty Green Rose Rosette, $39
I love this color and the chiffon is so dreamy!

If you're like me you could spend hours on Etsy.  People are so crafty!  Enjoy finding the best and most unique things.

Be fabulous today!

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Laser!

On Monday I mentioned that we'd look at laser cut shoes this week.  I think they are much different then cut out heels because they are much more intricate in detail, and I think offer a totally different to look to an outfit.

Are these perfect for any dress, capri, or bf jean? I thought so too.

Calvin Klein, Pasha, $76
These are fantastic.  The details look like artwork.

CafeNoir, ballet flats, $79
These are beautiful because the pointy toe gives them a dressy flair.  

Laser cut details can be in a sandal too!

See the detail difference between these and cut outs? Which one do you prefer? 

Be fabulous today!

Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Classy Metallic

Let's talk metallics.  Sure they're easy to wear as jewelry but what about in your wardrobe?  There is a way to wear metallic without it being rock-chick.  Take a look.

Loft, Metallic Skirt, $69
I love this skirt.  The wide waist band matches the hem line and the specks of metallic make it dressy.

Modcloth, Striking Gold Skirt, $45
With black tights? You will be the best dressed girl where ever you go.

I really like how classy this blouse is with the beautiful neck line.

I. Love. These. Shoes. Boat shoe glitz? Perfect.

Metallics can be done in a non-rocker way when broken up into pieces.  Try a tweed skirt with a metallic twill or a blouse with gold embellishment.  It's the perfect way to add some glitz to to your outfit.

Be fabulous today!

Monday, March 21, 2011

Cut it out!

Morning lovebugs! How was your weekend?  Welcome to Spring, soon we will be wearing spring dresses and sandals.  But until then let's try a fun new style of shoe: the cut out.

The cut out is sexy and versatile for going out to dinner or out on the town with the girls.  Try some of these styles.

Calvin Klein, Patrish, $74
Hello delicious! There is not one thing wrong with this heel.

Kensie Girl, Natalie, $47
I'm digging the color on these, and the heel is so interesting!

7 for all mankind, Neely, $89
Hello skinny jeans? Meet Neely.


Modcloth, Ocean Allure Heel, $73
Cut out style usually means extreme heel- not so here, and that's why I love them.

So what do you think?  Alluring?  Later this week we'll look at laser-cut shoes which has a much smaller and more intricate pattern.  Cut out heels remind me of a great mod style- perfect for a color blocking outfit.

Be fabulous today! 

Friday, March 18, 2011

Friday Foodday

Don't fret lovelies! It's Friday Foodday time!

Have a wonderful weekend! As always, if you have a recipe you'd like to share- please let me know!

Low Fat Baked Onion Rings
c/o Skinny Taste
Ingredients
1 medium onion, sliced into 1/4 inch rings
2 1/4 cups low fat buttermilk
1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
1/4 cup Italian seasoned whole wheat bread crumbs
1/4 cup crushed corn flake crumbs
salt to taste 
olive oil baking spray 



Directions
Place slices of onion in a shallow dish. Pour the buttermilk over the top and let themsoak for about 1 - 2 hours, refrigerated.  Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Line baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.  Combine panko, bread crumbs and corn flakes in a large dish, season with salt.  Dip each soaked onion ring into the crumb mixture; coat well. Place rings onto two cookie sheets. Lightly spray with oil. Bake about 12 minutes or until golden brown.Serve immediately.


Shrimp Cakes
c/o Stephanie Cooks
Ingredients
1/2 pound raw shrimp, finely chopped
1/3 cup panko bread crumbs
1/2 cup cooked rice (brown or white)
2 tsp. minced garlic
2 tbsp. minced scallions
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1 1/2 tsp. chili garlic sauce
2 tsp. soy sauce
1 egg, beaten
1/2 cup bread crumbs
Olive oil

Directions
1- In a large bowl combine all of the ingredients from shrimp to egg, stirring well.
2- Refrigerate the mixture at least 30-60 minutes.
3- Shape the mixture into two-three patties. Dip the patties into the bread crumbs and set aside on a plate.
4- In a large skillet coat the bottom of the pan with a thin layer of olive oil, about 3 tbsp.
5- Heat the oil. Once it's hot, place the patties in and allow to cook 4-5 minutes over medium heat or until golden. Flip and repeat. Serve hot with the red pepper sauce.



Buffalo Chicken Pizza
c/o A Taste of Home Cooking
Ingredients
Pizza dough
1lb chicken breasts, cut into small cubes
1/2 cup Frank's hot sauce
1 tablespoon butter
2-3 scallions, chopped on a bias
Blue cheese crumbles or Marie's blue cheese dressing
Mozzarella cheese, shredded 



Directions
Preheat the oven, with the pizza stone inside, to 550 degrees (or as high as your oven will go). This can be done up to an hour before you cook the pizza. Put the Frank's and butter in a small saucepan. Add the chicken and heat over medium until the chicken is cooked through, about 5 minutes. Remove the chicken to a bowl with a slotted spoon, then boil the Frank's. Pour over the chicken and let cool.

Roll out the dough and place on a sheet of parchment paper large enough to hold the pizza, with a little extra so you have something to hold onto when you move the pizza to the stone. Top with a little mozzarella cheese. Add the blue cheese or Marie's, spread into a thin layer. Scatter a few scallions on top. Using a slotted spoon add the chicken, being careful not to put on too much of the Frank's (it will get soggy/greasy). Add just a few dashes of the Frank's here and there on the pizza, then top with more mozzarella cheese and the remaining scallions.

Remove the stone from the oven. Holding on to either side of the parchment paper, move the pizza on the stone. Put the stone back in the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese starts to brown in spots. Remove the pizza from the stone and let cool slightly before cutting.


The It List!

theitlist

Where is the month of March going? Another Friday is already upon us... take some time to be inspired by the great blogs I have rounded up today!  Happy weekend!

  • one hundred inspirations pulls together this Rachel Bilson look for less (less than $100 even!) - this is a perfectly simple look for spring and summer!
  • thought and musing takes a gloomy day and brightens it up with a bold blue top - I love how this color adds instant punch to any outfit!
  • a spot of whimsy features 'it' girl Amanda Seyfriend... it such a beautiful spotlight on such a uniquely gorgeous gal! (find a spot of whimsy on twitter!)
  • rosy + tart gives a quick tutorial (it's so easy, it's hardly a recipe) on how to roast tomatoes and it has my mouth watering for farmer's market season! (find rosy + tart on twitter!)
  • second street east shows off some great home goods she found at The Foundary - I am loving this unique little side table! Decor blogs always have such a great inside track! (find second street east on twitter!)
  • the capital barbie scopes out sweet pleats for spring and summer - and shares her ideas on how to make pleats work for you! (find the capital barbie on twitter!)
  • daily crush is loving the look of several stacked bracelets and I am too, what a fun and creative trend. She features inspiration and tips on how to get the look for yourself! (find daily crush on twitter!)
  • a spoonful of dish is inspired by Inslee Hayne's girly and chic illustrations. So cute!
  • undeniable style bought a very pretty small desk and gains inspiration on how to style it... if you are tight on space but still need a small work area, this is perfect! (find undeniable style on twitter!)
  • sweetie pie style is crushing on mini-bags... they are perfect with a sundress or shorts for spring and summer. I am loving them too! (find sweetie pie style on twitter!)
  • mama loves papa takes a vintage thrift store find and refashions it into something more current.  I 'sneaked' the before picture above... click through for the after! (find mama loves papa on twitter!)
  • keep collected is rocking the most perfect spring look in my opinion. The hair, the necklace, the jeans... I love the simple appeal.
  • shen dove style is spring-ready with a great cropped trench.  I just love trenches in any form lately and this look is amazing! (find shen dove style on twitter!)
  • walking around {where the sidewalk begins} has this pretty summer tunic on her wish list... I think it's on mine now as well. I love this for the beach or pool! (find walking around on twitter!)
  • rose a la mode sneak peeks some of her fashionable duds from the Texas Style Conference last weekend. I can't wait to hear more! (find rose a la mode on twitter!)
  • turn up the rad takes $4 Anthropologie cloth napkins (four dollars!) and turns them into throw pillows. Ta-da! I love these kinds of DIY's! (find turn up the rad on twitter!)
the it list is organized by jill of good life for less... for information on how you can be involved, click here!

Thursday, March 17, 2011

A New Color for Bags

Let's talk purses today.  But I want to be color specific.  Green.  Don't go yet! Stay with me, green purses are an awesome alternative to black or brown staples.  It matches just about everything and it give a little extra pow to your bag.


I love the olive tone of this bag.  Perfect for a weekend shopping trip.

Big Buddha, Mision clutch, $45
This is tropical and ready for Summer.

Besides the fact that you cannot beat this price- this green is super professional and easy to match.

Capri Leather, Bow Clutch, $65
The chain link strap gives a little edge to the feminine bow detail.

You see? Green is great to rotate in to your purse collection.  Be on the lookout for all different shades: evergreen, pastels, you name it!

Be fabulous today

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

Striped Dresses

Happy Hump Day lovebugs!

Are you hanging in there? Chugging along? Keep your head up because you look gorgeous today!

Today I wanted highlight a great pattern to add to your spring dress collection.  Stripes! They're an easy way to add interest to a dress without going overboard with a pattern.  Take a look.

The Limited, Green striped dress, $89
This is just gorgeous.  Reminds me of a Kate Spade dress.  Great pleating, great structure.

Olive and Oak, Front and Back Striped Dress, $35
I like the slouchiness of this dress.  Super casual.

Free People, long sleeve striped maxi, $88
Maxi dresses are all the rage again this spring, I like this one because it's not super form fitting.  

This dress is described as 'confident' I love that.  For a more casual look, I would add a belt.

Don't fear stripes! They look fantastic and they are great way to add interest to an outfit!

Be fabulous today!

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Daisy Dos!

Daisies! How cheery and light.  They are one of my favorite flowers! How about wearing them?

Kate Spade, Daisy Stud Earring, $45
Oh Kate! I love you and your fabulous earrings!

Nordstrom, Halogen Flower Applique, $40
3/4 length sleeves make this cardi perfect for spring.

Forever 21, Retro daisy skirt, $18
This skirt is beyond adorable.  Great A-line, great pattern.

Topshop, green scribble daisy, $32
Are you ready for summer when you look at this top? It's almost a piece of graffiti art! And the scalloped hem is lovely.

What are your fave florals to wear? Get ready, Spring is coming, I promise!

Be fabulous today!