She's Known to Embellish

Hey there lovebugs, happy Monday to you. I hope you had a great weekend. It's my first full week back to work and I hope it just flies by!

Here at TCB we only look at items under $100 and sometimes even spending that much is a lot. So today I want to look at pieces that do double-duty. Like an embellished collar. So much perk on such a small part of the top. Suddenly a standard oxford is dressed up or a dress now has an added element of sweet. Let me explain...

Dillard's, Soulmates Cap Sleeve Sequin Top, $39

What I love about this top is sequins usually mean dressy, this simple peter pan collar makes this blouse easier to wear for everyday!

Kohl's,  HeartSoul Sequin Top, $17

This picture isn't the best but this sequin collar is so quiet and sexy. I'd pair this with black jeans and pumps.

Lulu's, On Cloud Nine Shine Black Dress, $45

Oh hey adorable! Look at this sweet dress. Wear this to a party, because when (when not if) he watches you walk away, BAM! It's an open back dress.  

Macy's, Bar III Sleeveless High Neck Beaded, $37

You know why I love this dress? You can put a pencil skirt over it and it works as a fantastic blouse. Double duty.

Embellishment is easy to do with jewelry or other accessories, but an embellished collar is simple, easy and built in!

Be fabulous today!

Friday Foodday

We made it! First Friday in 2013! How about some recipes?

Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip

c/o Skinny Taste

Ingredients

• 13.75 oz artichoke hearts packed in water, drained
• 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed
• 1/4 cup chopped shallots
• 1 clove garlic
• 1/2 cup fat free Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup light mayonnaise
• 2/3 cup Parmigiano Reggiano
• 4 oz shredded part skim mozzarella cheese
• salt and fresh pepper to taste
• olive oil spray

Directions

In a small food processor, coarsely chop the artichoke hearts with the garlic and shallots.

Combine all the ingredients in a medium bowl. Place in an oven-proof dish and bake at 375° for 20-25 minutes, until hot and cheese is melted. Serve right away.

Can be made one day in advance and stored in the refrigerator before baking. Makes about 3 3/4 cups. 

Grilled Balsamic Chicken with Mozzarella and Pesto

c/o Stephanie Cooks Blog

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts
1 cup balsamic vinegar
2-4 thick slices fresh mozzarella
Pesto

Directions

1- Place the chicken and 1/2 cup of the balsamic vinegar in a large bag or bowl and marinade for 1 hour. (Do not marinade over night- the acid in the vinegar can affect the texture).
2- When ready to cook, heat a grill pan and grill the chicken until cooked through.
3- Meanwhile, pour 1/2 cup of balsamic vinegar in a small sauce pot and bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cook for about 15 minutes, until reduced and thickened.
4- When the chicken is cooked top with the slices of mozzarella and place it under the broiler until the cheese melts. Top with a spoonful of pesto and drizzle with the balsamic reduction.

Mexican Hot Chocolate

c/o Lauren's Latest

Ingredients

2 cups light egg nog
1 packet hot chocolate mix
1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
pinch nutmeg
mini marshmallows {optional}

Directions

In a large mug, heat egg nog in microwave to be steaming hot. Stir in hot chocolate mix, cinnamon and nutmeg until dissolved. Top with marshmallows and serve.

Hats Off- Wait no...

Happy almost Friday! Today we're looking at keeping our noggins warm. I have a huge head. No really, a massive noggin. The good news about having a huge head, you look pretty good in hats. Here are some of my favorite winter caps.

Nordstrom, Wool Cloche, $38

I really fell in love with this ladylike hat. It's sleek and beautiful for a cold and windy day.

Anthropologie, Bead Dusted Beanie, $38

This casual cool cap is very cool when added to a leather motorcycle jacket or a knee length wool. Very versatile.

Urban Outfitters, Coal Linette Bow Beanie, $36

This gray will go with absolutely everything. Dress it up or down and just smile with that bow on your head.

Canvas, Chunky Knit Pom-Pom Hat, $35

And what about an old school pom hat? Simple, adorable and so cute in these colors.

Are you a hat or earmuff girl in the winter? I go back an forth depending on my hair that day. No doubt  the hat is the coziest option!

Be fabulous today!

Belting an Hourglass

Well, here we are, back to work. What a bummer. But, at least its a short week right? Today and tomorrow we're going to look at some cold weather items. Today we're looking at belted coats because you don't have to look like a sack when you get all bundled up. Add a belt to add some curve to your warmth.

Macy's, Steve Madden Funnel Neck Belted Flared Coat, $99
This beautiful tweed is perfect for work of play. I love the skirt like hem on the bottom as well.

Nordstrom, Kristen Blake Belted Coat with Faux Fur Trim, $99
I love this utility coat with the faux leather detailing, and the hood is removable!

Modcloth, Euro Es-Cape Coat, $95
Hello stunner! I love this cape because it has a more structured look to it vs a poncho.

Dillard's Anne Klein Colorblock Belted Coat, $89
Personally, I'd pop the collar on this bad boy and add a beautiful cream scarf.

Adding a belt to a coat instantly adds an hourglass figure. And if you want, pull out the belt that comes with and add a slim belt of your own! I'd recommend a pop of neon or sparkle.

Be fabulous today!