Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Monogram Me

You know when you went back to school and your mom put your name in everything? Your lunch box, the tags of your sweater, your backpack, you name it. If your name was in/on it was all yours; and I feel like that was where my love of personalized things started. This monogram says this is mine, so there. Perhaps its childish or perhaps its stylish, or maybe, just maybe its the best combination of both. Today we're checking out some monogram necklaces.

How lovely is this piece? I love the light blue canvas.

I am a sucker for tortoise because you can wear it with anything. This necklace goes with a dress, a tee shirt, or even a suit.

How about this heavier option? I love the preppy style.

And now for the classic option. This designed is exclusive to Nordstrom and the romantic script is perfect in silver or gold.

The monogram necklace is the stylish way to say this is all yours. Personalized jewelry make a great gift for a bride, grad, or yourself.

Be fabulous today!

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Tuesday, August 19, 2014

Sharpening the Knives

A very professional and ladylike trend that style that I just love in skirts is the knife pleat. Sharp and sleek pleats that lengthen the length and have a ton of movement.

An airy midi skirt that is so simple and yet so dramatic.

This sunshiny skirt isn't just for the warmer months. Pair it with a darker floral blouse for fall and a girly sweater set when it gets cooler. 

Adorable, party of one?

Originally $120 this looks like stripes skirt is actually a pink lips print that I just adore.

Knife pleat skirts hug the waist and legs so you don't have to worry about bulk. Pick soft fabrics that have movement and prints and colors that pop.

Be fabulous today!

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Monday, August 18, 2014

Quilted Perfection

Happy Monday lovebugs,
I hope you had a wonderful weekend and now you're ready to take on the week. Today we're going to look at a classic flat that will never ever go out of style. The quilted ballet flat. It is one of those pieces that will stand the test of time in your closet. Seasonless and something for everyone, this flat is a must buy.

Sole Society, Amina, $59
Oh my goodness how classic is this shoe? A sandy pink with a black cap toe. Just perfection.

These are a great run around town shoe. Their rubber soles and cushioned foot bed are great for being on your feet all day.

Originally $120 this is a must buy for a go with everything shoe.

Zappos, Vince Camuto Bands, $98
Oh hi there edgy meets class. A little Vince never hurt anyone, ladies.

These quilted beauties max out on comfort and style. 

Be fabulous today!

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Friday, August 15, 2014

Friday Foodday

Hey there lovebugs,
It's Friday and here are my favorite recipes this week. 

The Champagne Martini
c/o The Five O'Clock Cocktails
Ingredients
3-4 ounces champagne
3/4 ounce Cointreau
1/2 ounce Luxardo maraschino liqueur
2 dashes Fee Brothers Peach Bitters
Directions
Combine Cointreau, Luxardo, and Fee Brothers Peach Bitters in an ice-filled mixing glass. Stir briskly for about a minute with a bar spoon. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Top with champagne.

Chicken Fra Diavolo
Ingredients
1 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
1 1/2 cups tomato sauce
1/2 cup heavy cream
Green onion, sliced
1/2 pound campanelle pasta (or any tube pasta)
1/2 pound grilled chicken (mine was marinaded in lemon juice and Italian seasonings), sliced

Directions
1- In a large skillet heat the oil. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant, 3-4 minutes.
2- Add the tomato sauce and allow to cook over a low heat for about 15 minutes.
3- Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to packaging directions.
4- Stir in the cream and cook an additional 10 minutes over medium/low heat.
5- Toss in the cooked pasta and grilled chicken. Allow to heat altogether for about 5 minutes.
6- Top with sliced green onion. Serve hot.

Secret Ingredient Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients
  • 1 cup butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup white sugar
  • 3.4 oz. package vanilla instant pudding mix
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour 
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

  • Directions
    Beat together butter and sugars until creamy. Beat in pudding mix, eggs, and vanilla. Stir together the flour, baking soda, and salt, and slowly mix that into the butter mixture until well combined. Stir in the chocolate chips. Drop by rounded spoonfuls (I use a cookie dough scoop) onto an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake in a 350 degree pre-heated oven for 10-12 minutes.