The Plastics

Acrylic and lucite often get lumped into the same category when it comes to jewelry. They have a plastic/mod feel that is a lot of fun to play with. These materials also offer a great array of colors and they don't carry the same price point as your standard metal pieces.

Sole Society, Speckled Lucite Link Necklace, $39

What did I tell you? A versatile statement necklace under $40.

Neiman Marcus, Moon and Lola Tortoise Acrylic Block Monogram Bracelet, $68

A classic statement bangle that is a great gift and under budget.

BaubleBar, Mini Acrylic State Pendant, $38

Choose your state, choose your color, choose your metal. Such a fun and personal piece.

Anthropologie, Lucite Bangles, $48

How cool and modern are these bangles? I love the mix of gold with the grays and blacks in the bangle.

Simple acrylic and lucite jewelry is a great way to spruce up your accessory game without breaking the bank. 

Be fabulous today!

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Sew Me a Dream

I'm feeling colorful. Bright, cheery, and ready to leave the neutrals behind. A colorful accessory can really change your outfit and add some punch to a casual or dressy ensemble. Let's look at some beautiful and colorful embroidered bags that are ready for vacation.

Nordstrom, Berry Metallic Embroidered Clutch with Tassel, $58

A touch of metallic and a touch of neon make this the perfect day to nighttime transition clutch.

Shoptiques, Mar Y Sol Embroidered Clutch, $75

100% raffia, this clutch is ready for summer. So simple and feminine. Also comes in yellow or pink.

Mango, Ethnic Bead Bag, $89

Stunner. This little wristlet is gorgeous. I love the pop of pink with the zipper tassel.

Forever 21, Raga Embroidered Tote, $49

Can we just stare for a moment? A carryall option that is ready for the weekend.

Embroidery will always be one of my favorite ways to add detail to any piece. It's intricate and classic no matter what color or pattern.

Be fabulous today!

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Bow Down to the Bow

Happy Monday lovebugs,
I hope you had a lovely weekend. It snowed for a minute here in DC and it was just not ok. I'm ready for sunshine, shorts, and flowers. I'm ready for spring. Until we get there I am embracing pastels and things that remind me of spring. Today, I'm thinking bows. They are feminine, light, and a fun addition to any top.

Loft, Floral Charm Bow Neck Blouse, $59 $36! Extra 40% off right now!

Starting off strong with this beautiful print and a style that will work with jeans or a pencil skirt.

Chicnova, Christmas Chest Bow Tie Tank, $18

While I hate the name of this blouse, I love the blouse. I'd rough it up and pair it with a distressed denim or a leather jacket.

Nordstrom, Topshop Floral Print Bow Blouse, $70

A beautiful piece for right now. Floral but long-sleeved and the colors aren't Easter egg-ish.

Asos, The Laden Showroom X Even Vintage Bow Sleeve Fitted Top, $81

I love the shape of this blouse. It is quite unique and the color is perfect for any style.

When you think bows do you think pretty, pretty, princess and rainbows? Right. Bows have been updated to fit a mature wardrobe and you can add your own spin on things with accessories.

Be fabulous today!

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Friday Foodday

Happy Friday lovebugs, 

Here are my favorite recipes this week.

Campari Mojito
c/o The Kitchn

Ingredients

1/4 ounce (about 4 large sprigs) fresh mint, plus additional for garnish

1 ounce lime juice

1 ounce white rum

1 1/2 ounce Campari

Crushed ice

2 lime wedges
2 to 4 ounces good tonic water

Directions

Place the mint sprigs in a large glass or cocktail shaker, and add the lime juice and rum. Muddle with a muddler or a wooden spoon for several minutes, crushing the mint and releasing its aroma. Add the Campari and a few cubes of ice, and shake or stir until well chilled. 

Fill a 12-ounce highball glass with crushed ice and squeeze a lime wedge over top. Pour in enough tonic water to fill the glass a quarter full, then pour in the strained Campari mixture. Garnish with a little more tonic water, the second lime wedge, and mint. Best with a straw! 

Southwestern Grilled Chicken Jalapeño Popper Salad

c/o Closet Cooking

Ingredients

• 4 small chicken breasts
• salt and pepper to taste
• 6 cups romaine or other lettuce, shredded
• 1 cup tomato, diced
• 1 large avocado, diced
• 1 cup corn (~2 ears), preferably grilled or charred
• 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/4 cup green or red onion, sliced
• 1/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (optional)
• 1/4 cup crumbled tortilla chips (optional)
• 1/4 cup jalapeno popper dressing
• fresh or pickled sliced jalapenos to taste
• 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled

Directions

1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper and grill over medium-high heat until cooked, about 4-6 minutes per side, set aside, let cool and slice.
2. Assemble salad and enjoy!

Bourbon Bacon Cookies

c/o Buns in My Oven

Ingredients

12 

slices bacon

12 

balls of frozen chocolate chip cookie dough, about 1 1/2 tablespoons each

2 

tablespoon pure maple syrup

2 

teaspoons bourbon

1/4 

cup powdered sugar

Directions

• Preheat oven to 350ºF. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• While the oven is heating, fry the bacon 1-2 minutes per side, just until the edges are starting to brown, but the bacon is not yet crisp.
• Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
• Place cookie dough balls on the baking sheet about 3 inches apart.
• Wrap 1 slice of bacon around each ball of dough, leaving space on the edges for the cookie to expand as it bakes.
• Bake the cookies for 12-14 minutes or until golden brown and set.
• Let cool for 10 minutes.
• While cooling, whisk together the maple syrup, bourbon, and powdered sugar in a small bowl.
• Drizzle the glaze over the cookies.