Today is Dumb, Here's Some Fashion

As you may or may not know I hate Halloween. It's a feeling that was passed on from my mother with the idea that spending money on an outfit never to be worn again is just not something I can get behind. And yes, I'm aware I'm in the minority. So, instead of showing off costume options, here are some great orange pieces that can be worn after today. Oh and if you really need a costume, here's my dog Norman dressed up.

Stella and Dot, Olivia Bib Necklace, $59

Great details that differentiate this necklace from the standard J Crew bauble.

Nordstrom, Pleoine Dot Pullover, $40

Orange hearts? Yes please.

Gap, Eversoft Cardigan, $39

A simple and timeless relaxed cardigan.

Urban Outfitters, Cooperative Scallop Peplum Dress, $39

I'm obsessed with this dress. Sassy with a tiny peek-a-boo and it comes in a slew of colors.

Happy Halloween to those with more imagination than me. 

Be fabulous today!

Put a Pin in It

Jewelry always expresses your personality. It's your opportunity to show off your bling, your understated locket, or your antique bracelet. But it's a pin or brooch that I think really tell a story. A pin is a special type of accessory that really stands out and pulls an outfit together without taking over.

Nordstrom, Cara Beaded Pin, $18

What really attracted me to this pin was the color combination. Perfect for fall with touches of olive, blue and oxblood. Oh and the price.

Ann Taylor, Large Flower Pin, $45

This is a versatile one in my opinion. I'd use this with a ponytail, on a denim jacket, on an LBD, or tied around a belt. Major impact but goes with everything.

Modcloth, Chic Silhouette Pin in Flair, $17

This California-based designer uses recycled books to create her pieces. Talk about a conversation piece.

Macy's, Betsey Johnson Brooch Set, $35

Oh hello adorable! Wear these cuties together or separately, either way, very Zooey Deschanel.

A brooch is a great way to add a memorable piece to your outfit. Have fun with it.

Be fabulous today!

Walk the Panel

We all know leather is huge this season. Leather shoulder details, leather jackets, even leather pants. Don't worry we'll get there with the last one. Today I thought we would start slowly and look at some leather panel pants. Let's get our feet wet ladies.

Shopbob, Black Denim Paneled Skinny Jeans, $89

 I like this option because the jean has a bit more structure than your standard legging.

Lord and Taylor, J Cooper Ponte Riding Pant with Faux Leather Panels, $54

These are adorable! The equestrian flair is so sexy in leather!

Wyatt, Black Stretch Faux Leather Side Panel Leggings, $59

Originally $109 these leggings are easy to dress up with a silk button down and some bling.

Bloomingdale's, Aqua Pants Moto Cross Faux Leather Combo, $68

And a blue option, because why not?

Leather panel pants are a great way to ease into the full on leather pant trend. Pair these bottoms with a blazer for work or a denim jacket for girls night out.

Be fabulous today!

Quite Quilted

It's my favorite time of year. Fall. It's tights, light coats, and corduroys weather. One of my go to coats this time of year is the quilted jacket. You don't have to be super preppy to pull this off, it comes in a variety of styles. Of course the ultimate is this one. The Burberry Hertiage Jacket. I'm not sure if you have $600 lying around, but I don't so here are some other great options.

Dorothy Perkins, Petite Navy Quilted Jacket, $69

A nice zipper and a faux-sheep skin collar make this jacket stand out from the crowd.

Jessica Simpson, Double breasted quilted puffer, $74

How about this emerald green? Also comes in burgundy.

Old Navy, Quilted Barn Jacket, $59

I like the diamond pattern quilt on this coat. Also available in white and navy.

Lands End, Quilted insulator jacket, $89

I saved my favorite for last. This beautiful orange lightweight jacket is also water resistant and has PolarThin technology.

Quilted doesn't have to mean monograms and pearls, find a color and a style that best represents you!

Be fabulous today!

Friday Foodday

Happy Friday! Here are my favorite recipes for the week.

Northern Spy
c/o Serious Eats

Ingredients
Rub a lemon wedge around the rim of a cocktail glass, then dip the rim in a saucer of cinnamon sugar; shake off excess and chill. Pour ingredients into a cocktail shaker, fill with ice and shake well for 10 seconds and strain into prepared glasses

• 
  

Directions

• 2 ounces applejack
• 1 ounce fresh apple cider
• 1/2 ounce fresh lemon juice
• 1/4-1/2 ounce apricot brandy, to taste
• Optional: Top the drink with a splash of champagne.

Stuffed Pepper Soup

c/o Skinny Taste

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked brown rice
• 1 lb 95% lean ground beef
• 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1 cup finely diced onion
• 3 cloves garlic, chopped
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) cans petite diced tomatoes
• 1 3/4 cups tomato sauce
• 2 cups reduced sodium, fat-free chicken broth
• 1/2 tsp dried marjoram
• salt and fresh pepper to taste

Directions

In a large pot or dutch oven, brown ground meat on high heat and season with salt.Drain fat if any, reduce heat to medium-low, then add peppers, onions and garlic.Cook about 5 minutes on low heat.

Add tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, marjoram and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and simmer on low heat for 30 minutes. Serve about 1 1/3 cups of soup in each bowl and top with 1/2 cup cooked brown rice.

Makes about 9 1/2 cups.

Easy Snickerdoodles

c/o Stephanie Cooks

Ingredients

1 package yellow cake mix
2 large eggs
1/4 cup vegetable oil
3 tbsp sugar
1 tsp cinnamon

Directions

1- Preheat the oven to 350.
2- In a large bowl combine the cake mix, eggs, and oil. Stir until well combined.
3- Mix together the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
4- Using the cookie batter, roll 1 tbsp balls of dough. Then roll the balls in the cinnamon sugar mix.
5- Place on lined cookie sheets and bake for 8-9 minutes.

Buffalo Solider

As it's getting colder, I tend to lean towards warmer fabrics and patterns. The pattern option may seem odd but think about it. Plaids, fair isle, you get the idea. So today let's look at some great buffalo plaid options that are great stock up pieces for the colder weather.

Bloomingdale's, Voyager Buffalo Check, $98

How cozy does this look? I could wear this all winter. Dress it up with baubles and dress it down with a tee. I LOVE it.

Madwell, Penfield Chatham Buffalo Plaid, $80

Is this shirt a little spendy? Yes.  But you're paying for quality. The Massachusetts-based Penfield brand is a great investment. You'll have this shirt for a very long time.

Banana Republic, Buffalo Plaid Mini, $79

This is a great option to wear with booties, as the model shows. Make sure to buy the correct size. No one likes a stretched out plaid mini. Don't look at the number ladies, get the one that fits.

Free People, We The Free Vintage Printed Thermal, $58
I'm not sure why the model is staring at us like that but her thermal is sure to be warm and comfy this winter.

A simple buffalo plaid is a solid option for the colder weather, glam it up with pearls or keep it woodsy with some boots and jeans.

Be fabulous today!

Saddle Up

Happy humpday! Hey, speaking of camels (stay with me) how about we talk saddle bags (segue of the season there guys).

Zara, Messenger bag with metal corners, $79

The structure of this crossbody is very unique. I love the hardware and the understated stitching.

Forever 21, Classic Saddle Crossbody, $18

A quiet bag that works with blazers or leggings.

Asos, Saddle Bag Crossbody, $44

Had to throw in a gold metallic option.

Levi's, Leather Saddle Bag, $68

A simple lipstick red bag is perfect for weekends.

Saddle bags are a great smaller option for fall and winter. You can find them in textures, colors, and shapes to fit your style.

Be fabulous today!

I'm So Full

Sometimes when I want to feel feminine I put away the ribbons and the headbands, and dig out a big beautiful full a-line skirt. There is something intriguing about the volume and the need to do twirls is, well, understandable.

Asos, Scuba Midi Skirt with Buckle, $41

See what I mean? Lipstick red, lots of movement. Just lovely.

Modcloth, Essential Elegance Skirt, $69

A bright shade of green that will stand up to some layering. Try a graphic sweater with a patterned oxford underneath.

Shabby Apple, Stewart Skirt, $62

A simple gray with a removable sash so you can swap out your belts as you wish.

Nordstrom, ASTR Faux Leather Midi Skirt, $72

OK I may have saved the best for last. Check out this leather stunner.

So do a couple twirls and feel like a lady in these full midlength skirts.

Be fabulous today!

On The Wedge of Glory

Happy Monday! I thought the exclamation point would help, but it's not. #realtalk. I think what we need is some shoes. Oxfords are a great option for fall because they look adorable with pants or minis. Today we're going to spice things up a bit and look at oxford wedges.

Dr. Scholl's, Cate, $89

I mean, really. Picture this, a cord mini, tights, a cable knit sweater and a puffer vest. Hello. 

Modcloth, On the Wingtip Wedge, $42

An nice simple gray that you can dress up or pair with skinny jeans.

Loft, Evonne Lace Up Oxford Wedges, $89

As Loft puts it 'part buttoned-up, part vixen'. Also comes in jet black.

DSW, Restricted Lark Wedge Pump, $53

Super girly with a great platform means extra height with extra comfort.

How amazing are these taller versions of the boys style? I love the sassiness with the utility of the lace and wedge.

Be fabulous today!

Friday Foodday

Happy Friday! Here are my favorite recipes this week.

The Clifton Heights
c/o The Five O'Clock Blog

Ingredients

2 ounces Buffalo Trace

3/4 ounce Martini & Rossi sweet vermouth

2 dashes Angostura Bitters

1 ounce pineapple juice, preferably freshly squeezed

Maraschino cherry, to garnish

Directions

Combine all ingredients in an ice-filled cocktail shaker. Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Add garnish if so desired.

Fried Apple Pancakes

c/o The Baker Chick

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or 1/2 cup whole wheat pastry flour and 1/2 white)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 Tablespoon canola oil
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 2 large tart apples, cut into whole slices.
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Directions

For the apples

1. In a large saucepan on medium-high heat melt the butter. Add the brown sugar and cinnamon and stir to combine. Add the apple slices and stir with the butter mixture to coat the apples well. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, depending on thickness, until apples are soft but not fully cooked.
2. Remove from the pan and set aside.
For the pancakes:
3. In a large bowl, stir together the dry ingredients, add the wet ingredients and whisk to combine.
4. Butter or spray a large skillet over medium heat. Pour out a 1/4 cup measurer of batter ( don't fit too many on the pan at once as they spread when you add the apples.) Place one apple slice on each pancake. Cook until bubbles form and pancake is golden brown when you check it. Flip and repeat! Serve with warm maple syrup.

Scallop Fried Rice

c/o Great Eats with Pete's

Ingredients

1 1/2 tablespoon fish sauce

1 tsp rice vinegar

1 tsp sugar

1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

Canola Oil

1 pound scallops

Salt

Pepper

1 tablespoon ginger, minced or grated

1 carrot, minced

1 shallot, minced

2 cups cook white rice, cold

1 egg, lightly beaten

Splash of soy sauce (optional)

2 tablespoons cilantro, minced

Directions

Combine fish sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Mix to combine and set aside.

Salt and pepper the scallops. On a large non-stick skillet over high heat, heat oil. Add the scallops until browned on both sides. Remove from pan and set aside.

Heat more oil in the same skillet. Add the carrots, ginger and shallots. Cook, for 3-4 minutes, until the carrots have softened. Add in the rice and fish sauce mixture. Cook until heated through, constantly stirring. Add the egg and scallops. Mix until combine and heated through. Add in the splash of soy sauce, stir to combine. Stir in cilantro.

Touchdown!

Earlier this summer we looked at baseball tees for everyday wear. Now it's football season and one trend that I love making into the mainstream is the varsity jacket. It's a great layering piece for fall or winter.

Members Only, Varsity Jacket, $54

Check out this cozy jacket. Great hood, simple pockets an overall win.

Forever 21, Faux Leather Sleeve Varsity Jacket, $24

A bright red would look great with black jeans.

Dorothy Perkins, Gray Varsity Jacket, $35

100% cotton means this jacket is like wearing your favorite sweatshirt.

Macy's, Tommy Hilfiger Quilted Varsity Jacket, $79

And now something a touch fancier, preppier. I'm loving this quilted version from Tommy.

Varsity jackets are a fun and casual way to bridge the chillier evening coat before the winter coats come out.

Be fabulous today!

Black Tie Very Optional

Tuxedo pants are a huge trend this year. It's a great play on menswear that allows us to play dress up and accessorize. I'm sure this won't be the last time we talk about tuxedo stripes this season so let's start with tuxedo stripe pants under $50.

Nordstrom, Halogen Quinn Tuxedo Ankle Pant, $47

Oh I love these. So classy, perfect for work. Add a D'Orsay pump.

Forever 21, Tuxedo Stripe Trouser, $22

 A white stripe? Love this surprise.

Old Navy, Rockstar Jeans Tuxedo Stripe, $34

Here's a fun take on denim. Dress it up with a long necklace and flowy blouse.

Nordstrom, Colorblock Crop Pants, $19

I love these cropped pants because they can easily transition to spring. The khaki is a nice variation as well.

Tuxedo pants are a great way to try the menswear trend. Add your own flair with accessories and shoes.

Be fabulous today!

This Bag Was Made for Travelin'

Happy back from long weekend! Nothing like a good short week, am I right? I've been traveling the last two weekends and my go to bag pulls double duty. It's a flat oversized clutch. I love it because I can store my essentials in it and throw it in my larger purse, but I can also use it for a night out when I'm traveling. The key is the zipper top for easy access.

Banana Republic, Croc Embossed Oversized Clutch, $75

See what I mean? throw your magic waller, keys, phone and tickets in for travel and then use it later for dinner.

The Limited, Colorblock Oversized Clutch, $49

A great tassel detail makes this lush clutch look even richer but you'd never know from the price.

French Connection, Oversized Clutch, $68

Something a little more edgy.

Asos, Flip Side Two Tone Suede Clutch, $84

And now some soft suede. Perfect for stow and go or a night out.

I like to try to travel light. Please note the word try. One way to cut down on items that are bulky like a bag, is to try this oversized clutch option. Do double duty!

Be fabulous today!