Party Ready Peplum

I know it's technically still winter but it's my birthday next Sunday and I want something party-ready and fun to wear. I really like peplum these days because when you get a fitted top it nips in and flares out at just the right place. Let's have some fun with peplum going out tops.

H&M, Peplum Top, $34

If this isn't a birthday top, I don't know what is. A pop of pink, feminine flare, and a daring but not scary neckline.

Last Call Neiman Marcus, Romeo & Juliet Couture Striped Eyelet Peplum Top, $79

Look at these lines! What a beautiful party or black tie top. Just needs the right accessories.

Nordstrom Rack, Mimi Chica Sleeveless Peplum Top, $14

You cannot beat this price. Grab it in the black too.

Lulu's, Pretty Black Top, $39

What a statement top. Look at the flowing ruffle starting at the neckline. Stunning.

Sure it's still sweater weather, but sometimes I need a glimpse into the future. These sleeveless beauties are perfect for play and ready for party any day.

Be fabulous today!

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Hey lovebugs,
It's my birthday. That's right. And I'm featuring some recipes I would love to eat right this second.

French 75
c/o New York Times
Ingredients

• 1 cup sugar
• 1 ounce gin or Cognac
• ½ ounce fresh lemon juice
• 2 ounces Champagne
•  Lemon twist
• Directions
• Make simple syrup: In a saucepan over low heat, warm sugar in 1 cup water until dissolved. Cool to room temperature before using. (There will be extra syrup; refrigerate if not using immediately.) In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, shake gin or Cognac, lemon juice and syrup. Strain into chilled flute or cocktail coupe. Top with Champagne. Garnish with lemon twist.

Chorizo Mac and Cheese

c/o Damn Delicious

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni 
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 
• 6 ounces Mexican chorizo, casing removed 
• 1 small red onion, diced 
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced 
• 2 jalapeños, diced 
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 
• 1 cup milk, warmed 
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese 
• 1 cup shredded jalapeño pepper jack cheese 
• 1 cup corn kernels 
• 1 cup canned black beans 
• 2 teaspoons lime juice 
• 2 tablespoons Panko

Directions

• Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Lightly oil an 8×8 baking dish or coat with nonstick spray. 
• In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta according to package instructions; drain well. 
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add chorizo and cook until dry and crisp, about 2 minutes, making sure to crumble the chorizo as it cooks. Add red onion, bell pepper and jalapeños and cook until the onions begin to soften, about 3-4 minutes. 
• Whisk in flour until well combined. Then gradually whisk in milk and cook, whisking constantly, until incorporated, about 1-2 minutes. Whisk in cheeses until smooth, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in pasta, corn, black beans and lime juice. 
• Spread pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle Panko evenly over the top. Place into oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. 
• Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

The Ultimate Cheesecake

c/o The Kitchn

Ingredients

For the cheesecake:2 pounds cream cheese
1 cup sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch, or 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional)
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup sour cream
2 teaspoons lemon juice (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 large eggs
1 large egg yolk

For the crust:12 whole graham cracker rectangles (6 ounces)
5 tablespoons butter, plus extra to grease the pan

Directions

1. Preheat the oven and warm the cream cheese: Preheat the oven to 350°F with a rack in the lower-middle position. Take the blocks of cream cheese out of their boxes and let them warm on the counter while you prepare the crust, about 30 minutes.
2. Rub the pan with butter: Use your fingers to rub a small pat of butter all over the bottom and sides of the pan. 
3. Wrap the pan in foil: Cut two large pieces of foil and lay them on your work surface in a cross. Set the springform pan in the middle and fold the edges of the foil up around the sides of the pan. The foil gives you extra protection against water getting into the pan during the water bath step.
4. Prepare the crust: Crush the graham crackers in a food processor (or in a bag using a rolling pin) until they form fine crumbs — you should have 1 1/2 to 2 cups. Melt 5 tablespoons of butter in the microwave or on the stovetop and mix this into the graham cracker crumbs. The mixture should look like wet sand and hold together in a clump when you press it in your fist. If not, add extra tablespoons of water (one a time) until the mixture holds together. Transfer it into the springform pan and use the bottom of a glass to press it evenly into the bottom. (For step-by-step instructions of this step, see How to Make a Graham Cracker Crust.)
5. Bake the crust: Place the crust in the oven (be careful not to tear the foil). Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the crust is fragrant and just starting to brown around the edges. Let the crust cool on a cooling rack while you prepare the filling.
6. Mix the cream cheese, sugar, cornstarch, and salt: Combine the warmed cream cheese, sugar, cornstarch, and salt in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment (or use a handheld mixer). Mix on medium-low speed until the mixture is creamy, like thick frosting, and no lumps of cream cheese remain. Scrape down the beater and the sides of the bowl with a spatula.
7. Mix in the sour cream, lemon juice, and vanilla: Add the sour cream, lemon juice, and vanilla to the bowl and beat on medium-low speed until combined and creamy. Scrape down the beater and sides of the bowl with a spatula.
8. Mix in the eggs and yolk one at a time: With the mixer on medium-low speed, beat in the eggs and the yolk one at a time. Wait until the previous egg is just barely mixed into the batter before adding the next one. At first, the mixture will look clumpy and broken, but it will come together as the eggs are worked in.
9. Stir a few times by hand: Scrape down the beater and sides of the bowl with a spatula. Stir the whole batter a few times by hand, being sure to scrape the bottom of the bowl, to make sure everything is incorporated. The finished batter should be thick, creamy, and silky. Don't worry if you see a few specks of un-mixed cream cheese here and there; they will melt into the batter during baking and won't affect the finished cheesecake.
10. Pour the batter over the cooled crust: Check to make sure the crust and the sides of the pan are cool — if they're cool enough to comfortably touch, you can go on. Pour the batter over the cooled crust and spread it into an even layer against the sides of the pan.
11. Transfer the pan to the water bath: Transfer the pan to a roasting pan or other baking dish big enough to hold it. Bring a few cups of water to a boil and pour the water into the roasting pan, being careful not to splash any water onto the cheesecake. Fill the pan to about an inch, or just below the lowest edge of foil.
12. Bake the cheesecake: Bake the cheesecake at 350°F for 50 to 60 minutes. Cakes baked in a 10-inch pan will usually cook in 50 to 55 minutes; cakes in a 9-inch pan will cook in 55 to 60 minutes. The cheesecake is done when the outer two to three inches look slightly puffed and set, but the inner circle still jiggles (like Jell-o) when you gently shake the pan. Some spots of toasted golden color are fine, but if you see any cracks starting to form, move on to the next step right away.
13. Cool the cheesecake in the oven: Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake cool slowly for one hour.
14. Run a knife around the edge of the cake and cool the cake completely: After an hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and from the water bath, unwrap the foil, and transfer it to a cooling rack. Run a thin-bladed knife around the edge of the cake to make sure it's not sticking to the sides (which can cause cracks as it cools). Let the cheesecake cool completely on the rack.
15. Chill the cheesecake for four hours in the refrigerator: Chill the cheesecake, uncovered, for at least four hours or up to three days in the refrigerator. This step is crucial for letting the cheesecake set and achieving perfect cheesecake texture — don't rush it.
16. Top the cheesecake and serve: Take the cheesecake out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you plan to serve. Unmold the cake and top the cheesecake just before serving. You can serve the cake right from the bottom of the springform pan, or use a large off-set spatula to gently unstick the crust from the pan and transfer it to a serving platter. Leftovers will keep, uncovered and refrigerated, for several days.

Happy Birthday Norman

Today is Norman's birthday. He is my original lovebug. The little man turns three today so I thought I would share some of my/his favorite things.

American Apparel, Red Flex Fleece Dog Zip, $28

Of course this post has a little fashion. Norman loves his hoodie. I call it his Beiber hoodie. It's machine washable and I can layer it under his rain coat (yes that exists) when it's cold. 

Barkbox, Medium Dog, 1 month $29

Norman loves his Barkbox and it keeps me from buying random dog stuff at CVS or when I go grocery shopping. I love supporting small business and Norm loves the toys!

Container Store, Collapsible Pet Feeder, $19

These bowls are awesome. I don't need a mat under the bowls and I can throw it in a bag when we travel.

Jack Spade, Rope Dog Lead, $49

The bf's favorite color is orange, so obviously Norman sports an orange collar and leash. 

Happy Birthday little man!

Friday Foodday

Tomorrow is The BF's birthday. He's a good one, so today's we're looking at some of his favorite foods.

Applejack Rabbit

c/o Serious Eats

Ingredients

• 2 ounces Laird's Bonded Apple Brandy
• 3/4 ounce fresh lemon juice
• 3/4 ounce fresh orange juice
• 1/2 ounces of good Maple Syrup

Directions

Add apple brandy, lemon juice, orange juice, and maple syrup to a cocktail shaker and fill with ice. Shake until well chilled, about 15 seconds, and strain into a chilled coupe.

Sweet and Spicy Pulled Pork with Honey Jalapeño Slaw

c/o Host the Toast

Ingredients

For the Pulled Pork:

• 1 medium sweet onion, chopped
• 1 cup fresh or frozen pitted cherries
• 1 chipotle pepper in adobo, chopped
• 1 tablespoon adobo sauce 
• 1 bottle BBQ sauce 
• 3 lb pork shoulder
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper

For the Slaw:

• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 jalapeno, seeded and minced
• 1 10 oz bag slaw mix
• ⅓ cup chopped cilantro
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Directions

1. Combine first 4 Pulled Pork ingredients in the bottom of the crock pot. Mix in ½ of the BBQ sauce.
2. Season the pork shoulder with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper and place on top of the BBQ sauce mixture. Pour the remaining BBQ sauce on top.
3. Cook on low for about 6-7 hours, or until the pork can be pulled apart with forks.
4. Remove the pork, pull it, and return it to the crock pot.
5. Mix it all together and cook on low for an additional hour.
6. As the pork cooks, prepare the slaw by mixing together all of the ingredients. Cover until ready to serve.
7. When the pork is done, serve warm with slaw on fresh hamburger buns.

Molten Chocolate Cake

c/o Closet Cooking

Ingredients

• 4 ounces bittersweet chocolate
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 3 egg yolks
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 3 egg whites

Directions

1. Lightly grease 3 ramekins with butter.
2. Melt the chocolate into the butter in a double boiler and let cool a bit.
3. Beat the egg yolks and sugar and mix into the chocolate.
4. Beat the egg whites in a bowl until they form soft peaks.
5. Fold the chocolate into the egg whites.
6. Pour the batter into the ramekins, no more than 2/3 full.
7. Bake in a preheated 400F oven for 7-10 minutes. The outside will be set and possibly crack and the inside will still be liquid.
8. Let cool for a few minutes and then run a knife around the edges and tip onto a plate. 

Happy Birthday Sara

It's my sister's birthday. She's posted here before, so I feel like you know her. She is turning the big 25 today and so we're going to pick out some gifts that she would love.

Invisible Children, Mend/Clutch, $79

Sara is very passionate when it comes to helping people. This charity is no different. Invisible Children is a great organization that benefits women and children affected by the LRA conflict.

Max and Chloe, Elephant Charm Bangle Bracelet, $25

Speaking of Africa, did I mention she has a thing for elephants? I'm loving this dainty little bangle.

J Crew Factory, Mirrored Sunglasses, $19

I have come to understand that I will never be a cool as my sister. She could pull of these mirrored shades with no problem, and with this price point, she should.

Anthropologie, Mahdia Peasant Top,$88

This breezy top is perfect for work or play. I'd pair it some slim ankle pants for work.

Happy birthday Sara! I hope you have a wonderful day.

Be fabulous today!

All In: Birthday Night Out

You guys, it's the first Monday of the month which means we're going all in for under $100. Also fun fact: it's my birthday on Thursday so today's post is a birthday outfit under $100.

Dress/Necklace/Heels/Clutch

Be fabulous today!

Birthday Chic

Hey lovebugs,

It's my birthday. So I'm going to be a little selfish today and pick out a great birthday party outfit. Thank you for reading, it's a pretty awesome birthday gift.

Asos, Lipsy Baroque Sequin Tank Dress, $93

Sequin baroque, the perfect amount of bling.

Forever 21, Colorblocked Faux Leather Sandals, $26

Could I walk in these? Nope. Can a birthday girl dream? Absolutely.

Nordstrom, Anne Klein Alder Drop Earrings, $26 

See how the rounded edges in the baroque pattern compliment the oval earring?

Dillard's, J Renee Bloom Bag, $99

Pleated satin and a great take on the envelope style.

What do you think? Birthday-chic?

Be fabulous today!

A Little Me

You guys. It's my birthday! Yep. And while I'm not expecting any monumental changes to happen today, I just wanted to take a minute to thank you for reading TCB. The Capital Barbie is about looking good without breaking the bank. I hope it offers you inspiration for outfits, creative gift ideas and just a fun place to get away from the everyday.

So often when I sit down on Sundays to write a couple of posts I think, why am I doing this? It's not how I make a living, but what I realize is it's how I want to live. I want to make you feel fabulous. I want you to feel fabulous when it's freezing and raining outside and I want you to feel fabulous when you're late and running out the door to work. Sometimes work, kids, or life gets in the way of us just taking a moment to look in the mirror and realize how amazing we are. I hope you take that moment every.single.day.

You're fabulous because you care, because you inspire, because you motivate. And when you remember that on the inside, it shows on the outside. Yes, labels are nice, but so are groceries and rent, and other things you should probably keep paying. So use this place for fashion inspiration that will allow you to look amazing and feel amazing about the amount of money you're spending.

Before I get all sappy and thankful to each and every one of you I'm going to end with what I'm going to wear to my birthday dinner on Friday with some of my great friends.

Be fabulous today!

Asos, Spot Mesh dress, $62

Coral

Lovebugs, today is my mom's birthday. She is turning 14 and doesn't look a day over. Today's post is going to look at her favorite color to wear: coral. Such a warm, classy and easy to wear color.

Ralph Lauren, Coral Bay Teardrop Cabochon Necklace, $78

This necklace makes me want to go on vacation to somewhere warm, but I could also pair this with a deep v purple sweater.

Vivienne Tam, Applique Tee, $35

Oh how much fun is this tee! I'd wear it as is in the summer and for the colder months, layer a white oxford underneath!

Modcloth, Coral Beliefs Dress, $74

Before you write off this dress as matronly, look at the fantastic thick waistband giving a defined teeny tiny waist, and the great gathering by the neck, the light fabric on the skirt. This dress is gorgeous.

Bloomingdales, Aqua three color block pleated, $68

This skirt! Oh my word this skirt. Heavenly.

So happy birthday mom, you look fabulous in coral or any color for that matter!

Be fabulous today!

Reader Request: Birthday Dress

Today's post is for my friend Lauren who is looking for a fabulous dress for her upcoming birthday.  She didn't give me ANY hints of style or look so here we go!

Newport News, One shoulder drape front dress, $64

I saw this dress in Glamour and I just fell in love with it.  So effortless but the color is 'pow!'

Macys, Charlie Jade Dress, $99

Hello blue. Lauren has great short blonde hair. This would be perfect!

J Crew, Thessaly beach dress, $39

I love this mix of cotton and silk.  I would dress this up with metallic strappy sandals and some big 'ol earrings.

Modcloth, Ready Rosette Go dress, $54

LBD? Yes please.  Perfect mix of sexy and sweet.

Which one do you think Lauren should wear?  My favorite is the blue silk.  I think it will look great on the dance floor and the color will pop in pictures.

Be fabulous today!

Birthday Dress

You guys, my birthday is this weekend.  I'm excited!  It will be absolutely impossible to top last year but I plan on having a good time nonetheless.

Oh, you want to know about last year? Do ya? Too bad, I'm telling you anyway.  Last year my parents came down to DC (per usual) and took me and the BF out to dinner (where we sat at the table next to Larry King and my mother proceeded to call my gramma and flip out with excitement).  After dinner, we went to my parent's hotel to do gifts; I walk and my closest friends scream SURPRISE! Now please envision me slowly sinking to the floor in a silk dress with tears running down my face, and ripping my tights down the back.  Excellent.  It was the best birthday ever.  Family and friends all together just for me.

OK, moving on from that love fest.  This year I'm throwing a party with some friends and having a dance party.  It will be fabulous.  But now, this begs the question- what to wear?  Well I'll tell you!

Modcloth, Piano Bar Dress, $19.99 (sorry sold out!)

I will be sporting this amazing find and boogieing all night long.  

Some runner ups:

Shabby Apple, Black and White polka dot, $94

I love the cap sleeves and flare waist detail

Gap, Pleated drape dress, $59

This color allows for some serious bling to be added.  I love the pleating and gathering.

Lulu's, elegant aqua dress, $34

AH! How fun is this? 

Loft, Diagonal ruffle dress, $89

This color is gorgeous and I'm also loving the shoe combination.

Birthdays are the one time of year when you're supposed to look better than everyone else.  Wear bright orange, sequins, a tiara, or all three- it doesn't matter it's your birthday! But remember whatever you wear will inevitably end up on Facebook, so please make it good.

Be fabulous today!