Tuesday, February 25, 2014

Choose Your Own Ending

Hey there lovebugs,
I hope your week is going swimmingly. As spring tries to creep into our weather and our wardrobe, I thought we could take a peek into some light and fun skirts. Pleats can sometimes be seen as boring and school-girlish so why not make them sassy? Asymmetrical hems are a great way to mix up tops and skirts, let's add some pleats to the mix.

Well, I'm obsessed, how powerful yet light is this skirt?

Forever 21, Modern Asymmetrical Skirt, $10 (!!)
Hello lover. Red, sexy, perfect with booties, heels or ballet flats.

Asos, White Skirt with Mesh Overlay, $19
So this was originally $80. Eighty, You think about that. And then buy it.

Chicwish, Wine Red Asymmetric Waterfall Skirt, $39
This skirt really is fluid. The movement gives your whole outfit an airy feel.

The asymmetrical hem is a fun way to dress up your average skirt. These breezy options with a pleat detail are perfect for spring.

Be fabulous today!

Monday, February 24, 2014

The Girl with the Pearl

You know what the world needs more of? Pearls. The world needs more pearls. They're classic, innocent, and perfect for every occasion. Trends can come and go but pearls, they're forever. We could easily talk about the pearl necklace, the ultimate classic, but what fun would that be? Today, we're talking pearl rings.

Anthropologie, Double Pearl Ring, $38
Delicate and simple, this adjustable ring is perfect for an LBD or jeans.

A double ring is so unexpected in pearls. New meets old.

Kate Spade, Disco Pansy Mini Ring, $68
This is my favorite. So feminine and so unique!

And a pretty silver option. The twist offers something different, perfect for layering.

Pearls are a timeless piece that can be translated to any style. The standard pearl is beautiful no matter how you wear it, and these rings are something different.

Be fabulous today!

Friday, February 21, 2014

Friday Foodday

Happy friday lovebugs! Here are my favorite recipes for the week.

Southwest Crab Chowder
Ingredients
2 Tablespoons safflower oil
3/4 cups chopped onion
2 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
1 pound small Gold Youkon potatoes (quartered)
3 Tablespoons unbleached all-purpose flour
1/4 cup white wine (substitute stock if you don't want to use wine)
1 1/2 cups milk 
1 cup seafood stock (substitute chicken stock if needed)
14 3/4 ounce can creamed-style corn
12 ounces lump crab meat 
1/2 teaspoon chipotle chili powder (use more if you like things spicy)
3 Tablespoons chopped cilantro

Directions

Heat oil in a Dutch oven or large sauce pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 3 minutes to soften. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add the potatoes, stir and cook for one minute.
Sprinkle with flour, stir and cook for one minute.
Stir in the wine and milk. It will start to thicken, then stir in the stock, creamed-corn and chipotle. Bring to a simmer stirring frequently.
Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.

Bang Bang Cauliflower
A Taste of Home Cooking
Ingredients
Batter

2 egg yolks
1 1/2 cup cold water
1 3/4 cup flour, sifted

Bang-Bang Sauce


1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
2-4 teaspoons sriracha, or more to taste

1 small head cauliflower or half a regular head, cut into florets
vegetable or canola oil 
2 scallions, chopped 


Directions
Place the egg yolks in a large bowl. Add cold water gradually and blend well. Add the flour all at once and stir briefly so it's all mixed, but still has lumps and clumps. Make the batter as soon as you are ready to start cooking - you don't want it sitting around. 

Whisk the sauce ingredients together in a large bowl big enough to toss all the cauliflower with it later. 

Heat oil in a large pan about 1/4 inch deep. Dip cauliflower into the batter, and then drop it into very hot oil. Cook a few minutes per side until crispy and golden brown. Transfer to a cooling rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain. Toss with the sauce and top with the scallions



Chocolate Chip Cookies 'N Cream Cookies
Stephanie Cooks Blog
Ingredients
1 box yellow cake mix
1 tsp baking powder
2 eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
2 Dove Cookies & Creme bars (1.34 oz), diced into small pieces


Directions
1- Preheat the oven to 350.
2- In a mixing bowl combine the cake mix, baking powder, eggs, and oil. Stir well.
3- Add the chocolate (both kinds) and mix in.
4- Scoop tablespoon sized balls onto cookie sheets.
5- Bake 10 minutes, or until golden. Transfer to a cooling rack.

Thursday, February 20, 2014

Doesn't Need Maple Syrup

The waffle knit is such a cozy option for sweater weather. The often thick sweater can be layered with a patterned oxford underneath or dressed up with some big neon bling. But alone, it's simple, classic and so easy to wear.

Anthropologie, Waffled Cowlneck, $59 now $29!
I love this cream sweater because you can pair it with those bold patterned skirts and pants or you can throw it on with jeans and walk out the door. It is so versatile.

Don't pass up this kind of deal. $11 for a bright splash of pink in a great, casual hoodie. Mix this with a navy blazer and jeans.

Forever 21, Easy Waffle Knit Sweater, $11 [sold out, but here is a fab coral option!]
Again with the steal price! This navy option is lightweight and ready for a statement necklace.

This green. Oh this green. It's so cool and easy. I also love the ribbed hem, makes it casual.

Waffle knit is an easy throw on sweater that can ooze effortlessness or add on a statement necklace and its a great canvas. 

Be fabulous today!