The Anti-Cardigan

Summertime is a not a time for cardigans. It's just too warm. Put those away and pull out your new best friend. The kimono. It's light, it's colorful and it's the perfect accessory to your summer wardrobe.

Nordstrom, BP Sheer Kimono Sleeve Cardigan, $38

For under $40 this is an easy one to try this season. Leave it open for a casual look or add on a skinny belt to define the waist.

Asos, Kimono with Pocket Detail, $57

This punch of color is so juicy. I love the notched lapel and open front design. So chic.

Zappos, Gabriella Rocha Rainbow Giraffe Kimono, $59

How about this instead of a gingham oxford on a warm summer day? It's fun, it's breezy and it's a great addition to any outfit.

Macy's, Derek Heart Animal Print Kimono, $12

Still not on board with this trend? Would you try it for $12? I bet you would. How cute is this short sleeve black option?

Try out the kimono trend this summer, find a color combination that makes you feel confident. If you still aren't sure hit Macys or Target and find one for under $20. It's worth the try.

 Be fabulous today!

Go Ahead, Cross Me

Happy Monday lovebugs,
I hope you had a great weekend. Here we are back to the start of the week and I don't know about you but Mondays are for juggling. The email inbox, the to do list, the meetings, everything comes at once. You need both hands. You know what you carry when you need both hands? A crossbody bag.

Kate Spade Saturday, Assembly Crossbody Bag, $95

I love this bag for all of it's quirky details. A medical bag-style handle, the snap closure pocket, and the wax canvas.

Neiman Marcus, Danielle Nicole Cari Mint Crossbody, $58

How sweet is this bag? The color just pops and I think it's perfect for running around on a Saturday.

Nordstrom, French Connection Hyde, $38

You really can't beat this price point. I love this luggage inspired bag.

Zappos, Dooney and Bourke Polka Dot Small North/South, $98

Is this little bag expensive? Yes. Is it a classic brand with quality materials in an adorable print? Heck yes. 

A great crossbody is perfect for  a busy weekend day. Just toss in your essentials and walk out the door.

Lots of love,

Kels

Friday Foodday

Happy Friday lovebugs,

Here are some of my favorite recipes this week.

BBQ Chicken Pizza with Cauliflower Crust

c/o Closet Cooking

Ingredients

• 1 cauliflower pizza crust (see below)
• 1 cup chicken, cooked and shredded
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• 3/4 cup mozzarella, shredded
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons cilantro, torn

• 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup mozzarella, shredded
• 1/4 cup parmigiano reggiano (parmesan), grated
• 1 teaspoon oregano or Italian seasoning blend
• salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Mix the chicken and barbecue sauce, top the pizza with the chicken, mozzarella and red onion and bake until the cheese is bubbling, about 10-15 minutes.
2. Crust: Rice the cauliflower in a food processor, place it in a microwave safe dish and microwave for 8 minutes or until cooked.
3. Place the cauliflower in a tea towel and squeeze as much moisture out as you can.
4. Mix the cauliflower, egg, mozzarella, parmesan, oregano, salt and pepper, press the mixture onto a baking mat or parchment paper lined baking sheet and bake in a preheated 450F oven until lightly golden brown, about 15-20 minutes.

Pepperoni Pizza Polenta Bake

c/o Whole Foods

Ingredients

• 1 (18-ounce) roll precooked polenta, cut into 9 rounds
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 cup sliced roasted red peppers
• 9 thin slices (about 1 1/2 ounces) pepperoni
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh or dried parsley

Directions

Preheat oven to 400°F. Lightly grease an 8-inch square baking dish with cooking spray. 

Arrange polenta rounds in an even layer in the bottom of the dish. Spoon marinara sauce over the top, then scatter with oregano. Arrange peppers and pepperoni over the sauce, then top with cheese and parsley and bake until hot throughout and bubbly, about 35 minutes. Serve hot.

Strawberry Moscow Mule

c/o Family Fresh Cooking

Ingredients

• 1 cup Frozen Strawberries, thawed
• 4 ounces Vodka
• 2 tablespoons Lime Juice
• 1 bottle Ginger Beer
• Sweeten to taste if needed

Directions

• Place a fine mesh sieve over a bowl. Mash the strawberries with the back of a spoon so the juices drip into the bowl.
• Add ice to a chilled mug or highball glass. Divide strawberry juice, vodka and lime juice between the 2 mugs/glasses. Top off with ginger beer last. Place a lime & strawberry skewer in each cocktail.

Save The Last Dance

So you have to go to a wedding and it's really, really hot outside. I'm sorry. This is a bummer combination but fear not, I have some great dress options for you to stay cool and stay beautiful.

Zappos, Unique Vintage Dandridge Strapless Floral Dress, $80

A sweetheart neckline and a swingy skirt is only the beginning of how well this dress works. The colors here are perfect to go from an afternoon ceremony to an evening reception.

Talbots, Mirrored Floral Dress, $83

That's right, Talbots. Rethink what you thought ladies, as you can see from this masterpiece of a dress, Talbots deserves a revisit.

Shop Ruche, Second Act Embroidered Dress, $92

Yes, this dress is at the top of our budget, but check out the details on this beauty that make it worth the price rage. The scalloped hem, the fold over collar, the cotton candy pink fit and flare. Just stunning.

Modcloth, Classic Stunner Dress in Floral, $69

The name of this dress does my job for me here. This dress is very Mad Men but your accessories can bring it to modern times. Add a skinny belt, perhaps a pastel purple hue or maybe a longer string of pearls that you knot at the end.

Weddings are a great celebration and the weather shouldn't keep you from enjoying it. Find dresses you feel beautiful in and the rest will take care of itself.

Be fabulous today!