Wednesday, October 8, 2014

That's So Faux

Let's talk affordable leather. Ok, maybe not real leather, but let's look at some real quality brands that are pumping out affordable faux-leather options. These options are easy to wear and easy on the budget. Today let's look at some faux-leather midi skirts.

The seaming on this skirt is perfection for any shape. It is flattering and ladylike and it's a classic.

Gotta love this smooth and silky look.

This perforated option isn't overly sexy because of the length.

And a great pleated option. Tuck in a sweater for a sassy hourglass look.

The faux leather midi option is a cost effective way to stay on trend. These options may be work appropriate depending on your office culture; if you're questioning, try it with a flat and crew neck top to test the waters.

Be fabulous today!

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Tuesday, October 7, 2014

Sk8tr Boi

There has been a trend that I've watched from afar this fall and now I think it's time. The slip on sneaker. I think I avoided it because they reminded me of a 14 year old boy. But then I found some feminine patterns and now I'm all about this casual shoe.

American Eagle, Slip On Sneaker, $24
What did I tell you? How sweet are these?

My good friend, Catlan rocked these at her day-after-her-wedding-brunch and they were awesome. Also comes in a great floral.

This graphic might be my favorite, it's fun but you can wear pretty much anything with it.

J Crew Factory, Metallic Slip On Sneaker, $38
Killer price point for this go to sneaker.

What are your thoughts on this slip on sneaker trend? I am loving the variety of patterns, colors, and even materials! Slip on is not just for skater boys anymore.

Be fabulous today!

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Monday, October 6, 2014

All In: Apple Picking

Happy Monday lovebugs! Can you believe it is the first Monday in October? And you know that means...it's All In day! An entire outfit for under $100. Today's theme is something that I just love about fall- apple picking. Virginia and Maryland have a lot of options when it comes to pick your own apples. I went last year with a dear friend and Norman and we had a blast. So today we're going apple picking.



Jeans (use code DEAL for 20% off)/Boots/Top/Scarf/Canvas Tote

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Friday, October 3, 2014

Friday Foodday

Happy Friday lovebugs,
Here are my favorite recipes this week.

The Red Hook Cocktail
c/o The Kitchn
Ingredients
2 ounces rye whiskey
1/2 ounce sweet vermouth (preferably Punt e Mes)
1/2 ounce maraschino liqueur
Cocktail cherries (or lemon peel), for garnish


Directions
Combine all the ingredients but the garnish in a mixing glass. Fill the glass with ice cubes and stir for about 30 seconds. Strain contents into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with the cherries — or for a slightly drier presentation, try expressing and garnishing the drink with lemon peel.



Buffalo Chicken and Bean Chili
Ingredients
  • 1 lb lean ground chicken (or turkey)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1/2 cup chopped carrots
  • 1/2 cup chopped celery
  • 3 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1/2 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1/2 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 tablespoon ground paprika
  • kosher salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 (15 oz) can small white beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (13.6 oz) container refried pinto beans (Pacific)
  • 3/4 cups Swanson's reduced sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 6 tablespoons Frank's hot sauce
Directions
Heat a large deep nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the ground chicken in the skillet and cook, breaking up the meat into small pieces as it cooks, about 8 to 10 minutes, or until cooked through, set aside.

Add the onion, carrot, celery, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, a pinch of  salt and pepper, and cook stirring until the vegetables soften, about 5 to 6 minutes. Add white beans, refried beans, water  and chicken broth, bring to a boil and simmer covered on medium-low about 10 minutes.

Stir in the hot sauce and add the chicken, cover and simmer until thickened, 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally until the flavors blend. Makes 5 1/2 cups.


Peaches and Cream Muffins
Ingredients
  • 2.5 oz 1/3 less fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1 ½ tablespoons light butter, softened (I use Land O’ Lakes)
  • 5 teaspoons unsweetened applesauce
  • 2/3 cup sugar
  • ¾ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 large egg whites
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup white whole wheat flour (you can use all-purpose or regular wheat if you prefer)
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ cup low-fat buttermilk
  • 1 cup chopped fresh peaches
Directions
  1. Preheat the oven to 350. Line 12 cups of a standard size muffin tin with cupcake liners.
  2. In the bowl of your stand mixer (or a large bowl if you are using a hand mixer), combine the cream cheese, butter and applesauce and beat until blended. Add sugar and beat until combined. Add vanilla, eggs and egg whites and beat until blended.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine the flour (lightly spoon into measuring cups and then level with a knife), baking soda, baking powder and salt and stir together. In the mixer bowl containing the wet ingredients, turn the mixer on a low speed while you pour in the flour mixture and the buttermilk. Beat on low until blended. Add the chopped peaches and stir in gently.
  4. Spoon the batter evenly into the liners (about 2/3 full). Bake for 25 minutes. Cool on a wire rack.