Step Into Some Silk

One of the biggest/scariest trends of the summer (and I'm not even going near the Birkenstocks) is the silk short. It made an entrance last year, but as the heat turns up, I'm seeing more and more of this style on the weekends. If you're feeling brave, I would suggest trying a patterned silk short. The solid can come off pajama-y. Let's take a look at some great prints.

H&M, Silk blend shorts, $49

Let's start with a silk blend. This option allows for some structure with a defined hook and eye closure waist and a longer length.

Laura Manara, Ruby chain-print silk short, $67

I wanted to show this pair in a full outfit. Look how perky and fun this print is with a straw bag and simple tee.

Zappos, Tolani Gia Shorts, $62

These are also a great starter pair for silk shorts because the black and white pattern is a great neutral and downright beautiful.

Madewell, Silk Short in Scatterblock, $79

I like how Madewell describes this piece: think of it as your skirt substitute. This makes it a lot less daunting to wear. 

Try silk shorts this summer as a dressier version of your weekend. Pair it with a simple tee for daytime and a stripy blouse for the evening.

Be fabulous today!

Star Spangled Tommy

As we inch closer to Independence Day I thought we would take a look at one designer in particular who, to me, sings USA. Mr. Tommy Hilfiger. And no, this is not a sponsored post, it's just the awesome Tommy doing the red white and blue like he does best.

Macy's, Tommy Hilfiger Gingham Button Front Skirt, $69

Case and point ladies. A perfectly casual big print gingham that is perfect for the Fourth or any other time this summer.

Macy's, Tommy Hilfiger Long Sleeve Chambray Trimmed Belted Shirtdress, $79

This color isn't called 'red' it's called formula one, and I want that to be how you feel when you wear this dress. Unstoppable, sleek, faster than the boys.

Macy's, Tommy Hilfiger Naree Two Piece Flats, $69

A beautiful d'orsay flat that will complete an outfit. Think about it: chino shorts or any color, a white eyelet dress, light wash bf jeans. This is the do it all flat that also comes in red stripe or black leather.

Macy's, Tommy Hilfiger Shortsleeve Stipe Colorblock Shift, $69

I just love this casual shift. It's effortless coolness is perfect for brunch, an outdoor dinner date, anywhere fun and warm.

I love Tommy because his collections are timeless. While some may view it as preppy or nautical, I think you can play that down and add your own style with your own accessories. Embrace the American classic.

Be fabulous today!

Art Project

It's Monday. We're all angry. I know. Let's try to mask our hate and fake a little culture. Today we're going to look at some art inspired pieces. That's right, we can appear smart and sophisticated if we want to. And today, we're feeling cultured.

Modcloth, Alyssum Abstract Dress, $44 (!!)

I love this dress because the pattern is cut to create an effortless hourglass shape. And it's under 50 bucks.

Macy's, Vince Camuto Abstract A Line Skirt, $74

A beautiful skirt that gives the illusion of pleats without the hassle of steaming them in. I really like the red marker like pattern.

Clavin Klein, Abstract Print Banded Hem Short Sleeve Top, $59

A very modern print with a casual chest pocket and hemline details.

Shoptiques, Abstract Silk Blouse, $49

A gorgeous color combination with a sexy boatneck that is perfect for a night out.

An abstract, mod, watercolor inspired print is a great way to infuse some culture into your closet. Not everything is polka dots and stripes. Branch out ladies. 

Be fabulous today!

Friday Foodday

Happy Friday lovebugs!

Here are my favorite recipes this week.

Blackberry Whiskey Sour

c/o Fogged in Lounge

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 oz Irish whiskey
• 3/4 oz blackberry brandy
• 1/2 oz lemon juice

Directions

Shake with ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Orange twist.

Ritz Krispie Treats

c/o Lauren's Latest

Ingredients

3 tablespoons butter
4 cups mini marshmallows
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
2 sleeves Ritz crackers, crushed

Directions

Melt butter in a large pot over medium low heat. Stir in marshmallows and melt completely. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and crushed crackers. Pour into greased 9x9 glass dish. Cool 15 minutes or so before cutting into bars.

20 Minute Ham and Cheese Tarts

c/o Country Cleaver

Ingredients

2 Sheets Puff Pastry, thawed

1/2 cup Flour, for dusting

1 Egg

2 Tbsp Water

2 cups Shredded Cheese

1/2 pound Black Forest Ham Deli Meat, thinly sliced

2 Tomatos, thinly sliced (optional)

1/2 cup Wilted Spinach (optional)

Directions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking sheet.

On a lightly floured surface roll out thawed puff pastry into a 12x9" rectangle. Cut in half lengthwise, yielding 2 4-½" strips. Cut those two strips crosswise into thirds, to yield six 4x4 ½" pieces. Repeat with second puff pastry sheet.

With a knife, score ½" border around the edge of each piece of puff pastry. Use a fork to make five or six pricks into the dough within the border of each piece. This will help keep the middle of each piece from rising.

Sprinkle shredded cheese in the middle of each tart. Sprinkle ham over the top of the cheese. If using tomato and spinach, add those on prior to topping with ham.

In a small dish or cup, whisk together the egg and water. Using a pastry brush - brush the edges of the puff pastry with the mixture. This will help the edges turn golden brown and crispy.

Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown, on the middle rack and rotate the baking sheet half way through baking. Remove from baking sheet and cool on a wire rack. Serve warm or room temperature.