Friday Foodday

Happy Friday! Here are my favorite recipes this week.

Cosmo Slushy
c/o The Kitchn

Ingredients
4 1/2 ounces (135 ml) vodka or citrus vodka
1/2 cup (240 ml) cranberry juice cocktail
1/4 cup (60 ml) triple sec or Cointreau
1 1/2 ounces freshly squeezed lime juice

Directions

In a large freezer-safe container, combine all of the ingredients and stir to mix evenly. Freeze them for 1 hour and then stir again. This will never freeze solid but you will get a great slushy mix.

Scoop the slushies into martini or wine glasses and enjoy.

Chipotle Lime Glazed Pork

c/o Country Cleaver

Ingredients

Pork Roast ::

1 1/2 - 2 pound Pork Loin Roast

Sea Salt

Ground Pepper

1 1/2 tsp Onion Powder

1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes

2 Tbsp Vegetable Oil

For Chipotle Lime Glaze :: 

1-2 Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce, minced

2 Large Limes, zested and juiced

1/2 cup Honey

3/4 tsp Cumin

Directions

Set roast on plate, and place on counter  for 1 hour prior to beginning to cook. Dry throughly with paper towels. Season heavily with salt, pepper, onion powder and red pepper flakes.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a 10" cast iron, or oven proof skillet, heat vegetable oil. Bring the oil to nearly smoking. Sear all sides of the roast until dark golden brown, approximately 2 minutes each side.

Place skillet in the oven. Roast for approximately 30 minutes, or once the thickest part of the roast reaches 145 degrees.

While the roast is in the oven, stir together the remaining ingredients for the glaze. Baste roast with glaze every five minutes.

When the roast is removed from the oven, tent with foil and allow to rest for 10 minutes. Slice and serve.

Pecan Pralines

c/o Shugary Sweets

Ingredients

• 4 cups light brown sugar, packed
• 1 1/4 cups heavy whipping cream
• 3 tablespoons light corn syrup
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter
• 2 1/4 cups pecan halves

Directions

1. Line counter top with sheet of parchment paper.
2. In a heavy French oven over medium heat, combine brown sugar, heavy cream, corn syrup and butter.
3. Over medium heat, stirring constantly, bring to a boil. Boil for about 6 minutes or until candy thermometer reaches 236°F (soft ball stage).
4. Remove mixture from heat and allow to cool to 150°F. Stir in pecans and quickly, using two spoons, drop by spoonful onto parchment paper.
5. Allow to cool for about 10-15 minutes. ENJOY!

Everything is Cyclical

Do you know what I love about circle skirts? Everything. They are figure flattering, ladylike, and so very versatile. You can dress them up for work with a bow blouse or you can pair it with a crop top for a Saturday night. They come in every color, pattern, and length you can imagine, but today we're looking at some knee length options so you can dress it up or down.

Modcloth, Just this Sway Skirt, $49

How pretty. Sweet and lovely. A cotton candy pink for summer.

Shoptiques, FewModa Circle Skirt, $99

Great waist pleating to disguise anything you're not pleased with that day. And you can eat a big meal.

H&M, Circle Skirt, $59

This skirt has a pretty vintage feel to it. It's also machine washable - awesome.

Lord and Taylor, Stroke of Genius Skirt, $80 $48

Looking for something eye-catching and colorful? Oh and under $50?! Yeah, I've got you.

The circle skirt is so easy to wear and pairs perfectly with any top. Play with colors, patterns, and prints to really make a statement with this classic piece.

Be fabulous today!

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Happy Bags

Let's have some fun on this hump day. Quirky and sassy bags that don't fit into your cross body, tote, bucket bag, and other standard categories. These bags have takes on a shape of their own. Let me explain.

Asos, Skinnydip Pineapple Bag, $49

Do we love this? I love this. So adorable and vacation-ready.

Macy's, Betsey Johnson Avocado Wristlet, $78

Thank goodness for Betsey, she always makes me smile. Notice the extras on this bag? Holy guacamole.

Torrid, Donut Crossbody Bag, $39

How can this bag not make you happy? The sprinkles? Come on.

Modcloth, Put It To Good Juice Bag, $44

Picture this bag against white jeans. It's going to pop!

Having some fun with your summer bags is easy when shapes and sizes are cheeky and playful. I love these bags for brunch, a wedding, or a night out with the ladies. Make it your own.

Be fabulous today!

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A Slit Above

We are putting away the sweaters and dusting off the tees and it is about time. Don't get me wrong, I love sweater weather but these 70 degree weekends have been pretty great. I thought we would dress up your average tee today with a newer trend that shows some skin. The side slit. It's a simple and understated detail but styled with the right accessories and bottom, it's effortlessly chic.

Forever 21, Side-Slit Top, $19

See what I mean? Simple, elegant, unexpected.

Revolve, BCBGeneration Side Slit Tee, $68

A little nautical flair? Don't mind if I do.

Express, One Eleven Lazy Day Side Slit Tee, $15
A perfect weekend shirt. Enough said.

Nordstrom, Topshop Suedette Oversize Crop Tee, $75
This top goes with everything. Prints, jeans, you name it.

Need to spice up your weekend t-shirt rotation? Try a side slit for a breezy and unexpected detail.

Be fabulous today!

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Summer Scallops

Happy Monday lovebugs,
I hope you had a great weekend. DC had some sprinkles but overall the sun came out and it was an awesome weekend. I think spring is finally upon us and that means it's time for some flirty hemlines. First thing that comes to mind is the scallop hem. It's ladylike and different in an eye-catching way. But why stop with hems? Today we're looking at some great scallop detailing on shoes.

 Zappos, Chinese Laundry Rubie Scalloped Sandal, $70

Looking for a statement shoe for your summer dresses? Look no further. These beauties have a great low heel and come in a variety of colors.

Nordstrom, Sole Society Odette Sandal, $64

I love this sandal for a neutral flat for warmer weather. Also comes in gold, silver, or nude.

Asos, Daisy Street Metallic Blue Scalloped Edge Ballerina, $38 (!!)

Ankle strap metallic flat for under $40? This is not a drill.

Boden, Ballerina Flats AR724, $74

I like this flat because its got good bones. A sold sole and careful pointed toe. Also comes in five other summery colors.

Scallops aren't just for clothes. Have some fun with a feminine touch to your shoes that doesn't break the bank.

Be fabulous today!

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Friday Foodday

Happy Friday lovebugs! Here are my favorite recipes this week.

Frozen Watermelon Mint Margaritas

c/o Bit By A Fox

Ingredients

2 cups cubed watermelon
10 sprigs of mint
1 cup Cimarron Blanco Tequila
1/2 cup fresh lime juice
1/2 cup Cointreau
2-3 cups of ice
1 ounce turbinado sugar
Pinch of salt

Directions

In a blender, combine the watermelon, mint leaves from 6 of the sprigs, tequila, lime juice, orange liqueur, sugar, ice, and salt. Blend until pureed. Divide into 4 glasses. Garnish with mint sprig.

Asparagus Pancetta Potato Hash

c/o Skinny Taste

Ingredients

cooking spray

2 oz diced pancetta

1 pound Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into a 1/2-inch dice

1 large shallot, chopped

kosher salt and pepper to taste

1/2 pound asparagus, tough ends trimmed and cut into 1/2-inch pieces

4 large eggs

Directions

Heat a 12-inch cast iron skillet over medium heat. Spray with cooking spray, add the pancetta and cook until golden; about 3 to 4 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, set aside on paper towels leaving the oil in the skillet.

Add the potatoes and 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper, and leave without stirring, 3 to 4 minutes until browned. Turn, add the shallots and cook until the potatoes are golden brown, and shallots are caramelized, stirring about 2 to 3 minutes.

Add the asparagus, cover the skillet with lid or foil and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, or until tender crisp. Remove the lid, taste for salt and adjust if needed. Return pancetta to the skillet.

Meanwhile, cook the eggs as desired. Serve right away topped with egg.

Kanafeh

c/o Closet Cooking

Ingredients

• 1/2 pound shredded phyllo (called: kataifi or kunefe), thawed as directed on package
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups mozzarella, shredded
• 2 cups feta (soaked in water for an hour) or goat cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup simple syrup or 1/4 cup apple and/or pear sauce

Directions

1. Break the pastry apart into one or two inch long pieces, separating the strands. (A few pulses of a food process helps with this.)
2. Mix the butter into the pastry with your hands in a large bowl until coated and press half of it into the bottom of a greased metal baking pan in a thin layer.
3. Pulse the cheeses in a food processor until the mixture reaches the consistency of a coarse meal and press it into the dough in the pan.
4. Press the remaining dough onto the cheese and bake in a preheated 350F/180C oven until lightly golden brown, about 20-30 minutes.
5. Serve warm covered in syrup or topped with apple and/or pear sauce.

Hog Tied

Howdy,
When you hear lariat necklace, do you cringe because you think something like this? Fear not my dear. The lariat necklace is a fantastic long accessory to spice up your tee, maxi, and everything in between. I thought we would step it up a notch today and look at some layered lariat necklaces. They're delicate and intricate in all of the best ways.

 Shopbop, Gorjana Candice Shimmer Layered Lariat Necklace, $88

So delicate and ladylike, I love this with an LBD.

Saks Off Fifth, Jules Smith Double Layered Lariat Necklace, $50 $24

Jules Smith makes so beautiful pieces. This silver option is no different. A great pendant to cap things off.

Sole Society, Antique Gold Mix Coin Layered Lariat, $34

A great mix of gold and brass for a more festival type look.

Bloomingdale's, Baublebar Facets Layered Necklace, $42

Look at these simple shapes that center the eye all of the way up. A great piece.

A simple lariat necklace is great for a busy print top or dress because it's thin and sleek without being distracting.

Be fabulous today!

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Sharp Turn Ahead

I didn't intend for this post to be monochrome, but when I was putting this one together it turned out that way. Today's trend is the asymmetrical hem dress. Something angular and unexpected but in this case it's in an LBD or an LB and a little white in there too D.

Asos, Liquorish Asymmetric Dress with Plunge Neckline, $112 $49

Need a dress under $50 for a wedding? This is it.

Shoptiques, Lumiere Striped Asymmetrical Dress, $44

This dress is brunch ready with a denim jacket and some white sneakers.

Nordstrom, Adelyn Rae Asymmetrical Crepe Sheath Dress, $88

Obsessed with this dress. The line variation to make a pattern is killer.

Amazon, Monrow Women's Sporty Slash Asymmetric Maxi Dress, $82

So sleek. I love the long sleeves but the sporty look for a cool summer night out.

Such a simple hem detail that really changes the personality of the dress. Asymmetric lines are drastic and a bit aggressive in the best way possible.

Be fabulous today!

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Blue Jean Baby

Let's talk workhorse items in your closet. Denim. An easy weekend piece that you can dress up or down and the options for wash, fit, and style are endless. Today we're looking at your more casual denim, a little faded, maybe some distressing, but always fitted. Even a bf jean needs to accentuate your best curves. So let's see what we've got for under $100.

Gap, Authentic 1969 Best Girlfriend Jean, $69 $48

How classic. A little roll, a slide fade but an overall dark wash. Just perfect.

Nordstrom, Blanknyc Hotel Distressed Skinny Jean, $88

With more than 50 five star reviews, you really can't question the awesomeness of these jeans.

Old Navy, Mid-Rise Rockstar Jean, $30

I love Old Navy Rockstar jeans. I've tried the more expensive labels, but I always come back to these. They first beautifully and they're so comfortable.

Banana Republic, Medium Wash Skinny Ankle Jean, $110 $49

A simple and sleek jeans that you can wear lace up heels or slip on sneakers to dress up or down.

A great denim serves multiple purposes. In my closet, I need my jeans to work for daytime and nighttime so I'm always looking for a snug pair of jeans that I can swap out some heels and accessories and go out with my girls.

Be fabulous today!

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Coming Up Flowers

Happy Monday lovebugs,
This weekend in DC was full of 65 degree weather and outdoor fun. By fun I mean happy hour, dinner, shopping, and magazine reading. Just in case you were wondering if I ran or bicycled (word?) or something.

This weather is making me feel inspired. Last week we looked at floral pencil skirts and today I thought we would continue the floral trend with some heels. Perfect for spring and colors for days.

Express, Skinny Strap Sleek Heeled Sandal, $79 $40

Half off and dying for a night out. Come on, $40 with some white jeans and a silk blouse, yes.

Nordstrom Rack, Ivanka Trump Indico Floral Pump, $119 $69

Planning  to wear any white eyelet this summer? These are going to be your go to.

Ann Taylor, Eryn Floral Kitten Heels, $98 $49 and free shipping with code CYBER50

I feel it's only fair to tell you when I buy things that I blog. This is one of those times. $49. Free shipping. Hello.

Bloomingdale's, Vince Camuto Kain Floral Print Pointed Tow High Heels, $98

These shoes are made for strutting. A real statement maker during wedding season too!

Spring means florals and I love to see them pop on heels, especially when the pattern continues all of the way down the heel. A small detail that makes a difference.

Be fabulous today!

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Friday Foodday

Happy Friday! Here are my favorite recipes this week.

Strawberry Basil Margarita
c/o The Kitchn

Ingredients
1 can (12 ounces) frozen limeade concentrate
10 strawberries (or 12 if you're using smaller ones from the farmer's market or your backyard.)
8 basil leaves
2 to 2 1/2 cups tequila 

Directions

Empty the limeade concentrate into a pitcher. Add 2 1/2 cans of water and 1 1/2 (18 ounces, or 2 1/4 cups) cans of tequila (or a bit less, if you don't want your drinks to be quite as strong).

Hull the strawberries, slice lengthwise, and add to the pitcher. Crumple the basil a little in your hands (this will help the basil flavor release into the drink) and add it to the pitcher, too. Place the pitcher, covered, in the fridge overnight, or for at least four hours.

When you remove the pitcher from the fridge, your margaritas will be a lovely pale pink color. Now all you have to do is serve them and wait for the compliments to pour in

Barbecue Chicken Rice Skillet

c/o Buns in My Oven

Ingredients

• 2 cups diced cooked chicken
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup rice
• 1/3 cup barbecue sauce, divided
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar
• 2 tablespoons diced red onion
• 2 tablespoons diced cilantro

Directions

1. Heat large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chicken, broth, rice, and 1/4 cup barbecue sauce to skillet. Bring to a boil, cover, and cook on low for 20 minutes or liquid has been absorbed and rice is cooked through.
3. Remove lid from pan and stir in cheese.
4. Drizzle remaining barbecue sauce over the top and sprinkle on onion and cilantro. Serve immediately.

Caramel Apple Bundt Cake

c/o Shugary Sweets

Ingredients

FOR THE CAKE:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 3/4 cup milk

FOR THE FILLING:

• 2 cup diced Crunch Pak apples (about 25-30 slices, or 3 apples, peeled)
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 tsp cinnamon

FOR THE GLAZE:

• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 6 Tbsp milk, divided
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 cups powdered sugar

Directions

1. For the cake, grease and flour bundt pan (or use a generous amount of baking spray). Set aside. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Add in softened butter and beat until crumbly. Beat in eggs, vanilla, cinnamon and milk. Beat for 3-4 minutes until smooth and fluffy.
3. In a small mixing bowl, combine diced apples, brown sugar and cinnamon. Fold into cake batter.
4. Pour cake mixture into prepared bundt pan. Bake for 55-60 minutes until browned. Allow to cool in pan for about 10 minutes, then flip onto a cake plate and cool complately.
5. For the glaze, add brown sugar, butter and 4 Tbsp of milk to a small saucepan. Heat over medium until boiling. Stirring constantly, boil for 2 full minutes. Remove from heat. Add in vanilla extract. Allow to cool 15 minutes.
6. In a mixing bowl, whisk together cooled sugar mixture, powdered sugar, and remaining 2 Tbsp milk. Beat for 2 minutes until smooth. Pour over cooled cake and allow to set (about 10 minutes). Slice and enjoy. Store at room temperature, covered, for freshness.

Shake Your Pom Pom

Happy Friday eve. We are so close lovebugs. For what it's worth it's apparently festival season. Coachella and stuff, it's happening. While I'm not all about this scene I do love some of the fashion (please note some). One trend that I really love is the pom pom for a bag. It's quirky and believe it or not it can be worn outside of Cali. Today I'm going to give you two festival-ish options and two work appropriate options.

Asos, Moyna Embroidered Jute Clutch, $89

I mean, come on. Colorful, playful, just yes. 

Forever 21, Hiptipico Noho Zig Wristlet, $49

A great zig zag pattern that holds all of your essentials. 

Dillard's, Gianni Bini Plate Pom Flap Satchel, $99

Work ready? Oh heck yeah. Black, white, and neon.

Nordstrom, BP Faux Leather Crossbody Bag, $38

An urban crossbody that's easy for errands on a Saturday or a night out dancing.

When I think of festival style I don't get too excited. But these poms are sweet and catchy and on a bag I think they add a pop of personality.

Be fabulous today!

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