Author: styleand

Healthy Mid Year Resolutions

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Healthy Mid Year Resolutions

I enjoy making New Year’s resolutions…there is something enjoyable thinking about the year ahead, the exciting things that will happen and the goals I would like to achieve. I recently reviewed the goals I set for this year and realized I have accomplished some of them but am WAY behind in others…the main one being to take care of myself, get back on a regular workout and a healthy eating program. All of those areas are inconsistent at best right now and I know that everything else will become easier when I carve out time for these.

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I realize I need to lay out a better strategy in order to achieve these goals. So, I started researching meal delivery services, fitness apps and when I learned about the Fiji Water Home Delivery service, I knew this was something that would help me stay on track. I love living a healthy lifestyle, I just need to help streamline the preparation it takes.

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Hydration is essential for health and beauty. I try to drink a gallon of water a day but have been falling seriously short of that, so I need to make it as effortless as possible. If I were to have delicious bottles of Fiji Water delivered to my doorstep and I would be reaching for them frequently without thinking about it. So, in addition, to liking the smooth taste of Fiji Water the most of any water…they offer free delivery and 20% off when you subscribe. Sign me up!

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When I am hitting my goal of drinking a gallon a day, I like to create different flavors and use my Drop bottle to to infuse the Fiji Water with fun flavors…the one featured here is apple, lemon and orange.

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If you are in need of something to help support your healthy lifestyle or simply want to have the convenience of water being delivered to your door, give Fiji Water Home Delivery a try…you will be delighted.

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Stay hydrated, friends!

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Bisous,

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Rebecca

Photography by Erica Dunhill Photography

f. 28.2017
Fall Trend Alert: Vintage Prints

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Fall Vintage Prints

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This fall, you will see gorgeous vintage prints as a trend…from high end designers to affordable fashion, these prints are present in most collections. They work well with denim, suede, leather fabrications.

Gesine from Mille Fleurs was kind enough to let my photographer, Eric Dunhill and I stop in and take some photographs amidst her lovely flowers. Mille Fleurs is a charming flower shop located in the 55th Street Station in Miami. I have received absolutely divine floral arrangements from Mille Fleurs and highly recommend Gesine for any occasion.

There are three pieces I believe are best suited for this vintage print trend and have featured a few of my favorites below.

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The Vintage Print Dress

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This brilliantly colored, boho-chic dress from Parker New York has a beautiful vintage floral print. It is actually designed to be a one shoulder silhouette but I like wearing it off-the-shoulder as well. Available at www.nordstrom.com

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The Vintage Print Tank

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This Joie Bradie silk cami is perfect top to keep you stylish while while running around town all day. The cut of the top is flattering and pairs well with dark or medium wash denim. Available at www.revolve.com.

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The Vintage Print Blouse

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A vintage print blouse is essential for all wardrobes. For those evening where you want to grab a glass of wine with your girlfriend at a casual local spot, these are an easy option to throw on quickly. This gorgeous silk blouse is from The Kooples and is available at www.nordstrom.com. The jeans are from Paige Denim and available at www.shopbop.com.

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These vintage inspired prints are an easy way to keep you in style this fall!

Bisous,

Rebecca

Photography by Erica Dunhill Photography

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Special thanks to Mille Fleurs for hosting us for this story!

f. 27.2017
Spinach, Mushroom & Gruyère Quiche Recipe

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Spinach, Mushroom & Gruyère Quiche Recipe

Truth be told, I am not much of a breakfast person. Green tea is a must but, otherwise, I like things that are quick and easy…a green smoothie or avocado toast will suffice. However, my husband LOVES breakfast and so I like to have easy breakfast recipes on hand for those lazy weekend mornings when we are lounging around and lingering over breakfast.

I prepared this recipe one weekend…he and my daughter ate two pieces each, so, needless to say, it was a hit. I was happy because it was fairly simple to prepare. I have since served it for guests a few times and each time it has been well received. One key to its success is the Apilco Quiche Dish I purchased from Williams Sonoma. Apilco is a French company that has specialized in dinnerware since 1906. This lovely piece is the perfect depth for quiche… the prepared pie crust fits perfectly, cooks and slices beautifully.

Ingredients

3 eggs, beaten

1.5 cups milk

1 tablespoon grapeseed oil

1 medium onion, diced

8 oz mushrooms, sliced

1 6 oz bag of baby spinach

6 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled

1.5 cups Gruyère cheese

1 tablespoon flour

salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400° F. Bake the pie crust for 5-7 minutes until very lightly browned. Remove from oven and reduce oven to 325°F.

While the crust is baking, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Saute the mushrooms and onions for about 5 minutes. Add the spinach and saute until the spinach is wilted. If there is excess moisture in the pain, drain the vegetable mixture.

In a large bowl, stir together the eggs, milk, onion, bacon, spinach, mushrooms and salt. In a separate bowl, toss the cheese and flour together. Add the cheese mixture to the other ingredients and mix well. Pour into the partially baked pie crust and bake 30-45 minutes. Check frequently, as bake time can vary widely depending on your oven. Let cool for about 20 minutes before serving.

Source: www.sugarandspice-celeste.blogspot.com

For other breakfast ideas that have been approved by my breakfast-loving husband, visit our Overnight Brunch or Pumpkin Scone recipe posts.

Enjoy!

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Bisous,

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Rebecca

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Photography by Erica Dunhill Photography

f. 25.2017
Why Prime?

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Why Prime?

If you read my recent post where I shared five tips from my makeup artist, I mention that priming the skin is one of the key tricks to elevating your makeup routine. Prior to having my makeup lesson from Aradia Vive, I thought that primer was an unnecessary step and just another product that was being pushed on me.

Once I started using primer, I immediately noticed a difference in how my foundation looked on my skin and how long my makeup lasted. And so did others. Once I started using primer, instead of looking completely washed out by the end of a long work day, my makeup was actually still on.

There are a wide variety of primers on the market…gel, cream and powder based. The most important thing is to find one that you like and works with your foundation. It will help smooth out problem areas, fill in wrinkles and even add another layer of SPF. The ones featured are three different primers I use. Be sure to buff them into your face with a brush…I like the Sigma Kabuki F80 Brush, which is also the brush I use for applying my foundation.

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Lightweight

If you are sensitive to how formulas feel on your face, then this Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer is an excellent option for you. This weightless, silky formula looks beautiful under all foundations and even tinted moisturizers. It corrects redness, fills in smooth lines and contains SPF 15 for added protection. Available at www.netaporter.com.

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Medium

I like to use this Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer when I am meeting friends for drinks or for date night with my husband. There is something very flattering with the natural finish it creates on the skin. There are a variety of options in this primer-color correcting, radiance and a version that contains SPF. Available at www.sephora.com.

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Thicker
The POREfessional face primer from Benefit Cosmetics is a beauty cult classic. This primer is much thicker than the others and has a consistency that is more like a balm. While it may have a thicker feel, it is extremely effective…it definitely helps my makeup last all day. As advertised, it truly minimizes pores and gives your skin a smooth appearance. It can also be applied on top of your make up (dabbed on in specific spots) if you need to further reduce pores. I use this for long days at the office or when I am traveling so I can maintain my foundation as long as possible. Available at www.ulta.com.

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Eyeshadow Primer
I apply this NARS Pro Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base while my face primer is drying. This keeps my eyeshadow looking as fresh at the end of the day as it does at the beginning. You only need to use a tiny amount for application…for reference, one of the tubes lasts me approximately six months. Available at www.sephora.com.

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If you have not tried priming before, give it a try, your makeup will definitely look better!

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Bisous,

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Rebecca

Photography by Erica Dunhill Photography

f. 23.2017
One Good Thing

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One Good Thing

It has been AWHILE since I have written a kindness post. Primarily because I am working on an exciting initiative that I will be announcing in the next couple of months. In the interim, I do not want to lose sight that small kindnesses can make a huge impact.

Lately, life seems to be taking a toll…the daily grind…the juggling of roles…being a mom, wife, executive and entrepreneur sometimes leaves me feeling exhausted and uninspired. I love everything I am doing but sometimes the sum of it all is A LOT. That being said, I am acutely aware of how fortunate I am. When I go down the list, the amount of things for which I have to be grateful is endless…living in a free country, my facilities, amazing family, incredible career…the list goes on and on. I am blessed beyond my wildest dreams and I never want to lose sight of that. Keeping that in the forefront of my mind is a skill that I am working to master. Deep down, I know it, but there are days when I just don’t feel it.

I was particularly cranky one Sunday evening when flying to New York which made me annoyed with myself so I decided to try something to break the cycle. I challenged myself to think of one good thing about everyone I saw or came my way. I ended up having a blast passing out mental compliments to people …“great shoes!”, “that was so kind of you”…you get the idea. By the time, I got on the plane, I was in a fantastic mood. So, I have been doing this more recently. It has helped challenging work relationships and made me more empathetic to others that otherwise may have annoyed me. I will not lie. It is not always easy but I keep my goals small…just one thing. The great part is that I am so busy looking for small things to celebrate, it distracts me from thinking negative thoughts or getting frustrated over minor things.

It occurred to me that if we all looked for just one good good in each other, we would find more in common with each other than we may ever realize. And if the world has more love, harmony and kindness…well, I see no harm in that.

Spread the love, friends, and look for one good thing!

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Bisous,

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Rebecca

f. 19.2017
Fresh Toothpaste Options

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Fresh Toothpaste Options

Confession…I am one of those weird people who enjoy going to the dentist. There is something about that clean feeling in your mouth that feels so good. In addition, I am a bit of a beauty product junkie, and always looking out for new products. I stumbled upon these toothpaste options and have been rotating through them ever since. If you are bored with your basic dental routine, give one of these fresh toothpaste options a try!

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Dr. Bronner’s All-One Toothpaste

This toothpaste blend is made from 70% organic ingredients. It is fluoride free, vegan and contains no artificial colors, flavors or sweeteners. Available in peppermint, anise or cinnamon flavors and your breath is super fresh after using. Available at www.amazon.com.

Marvis Toothpaste

They market themselves as a contemporary toothpaste, and I have to agree. Attractive packaging and their unique blend of refreshing flavors like ginger, licorice, jasmine makes your dental routine anything but boring. Also available in travel size. Available at www.anthropologie.com.

Lebon Toothpaste

Created in 2014 in the South of France, it is impressive that Lebon has made a name for themselves so quickly. They have created an incredible product that is free of parabens, sulfites, colorings and a variety of other harmful ingredients. To boot, the packaging is positively gorgeous and, after brushing, your mouth feels delightful. Available in an variety of flavors at www.amazon.com.

Be sure to take care of those pearly whites!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

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Photography by Erica Dunhill Photography

f. 17.2017
Fall 2017 Trend Alert: Rich Red

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Fall 2017 Trend Alert: Rich Red

I have been shopping lately and am absolutely inspired to start wearing all kinds of new colors and styles. While fall is approaching, it is still summer and the days are hot…I find myself torn between wearing beachy, all white ensembles and fall colored styles. Yes, I live in Miami where it is acceptable to wear summer looks year round. However, I grew up in the Midwest where there was a change in seasons..so as the fall months approach, I like to recognize the change in seasons by wearing fall colors, even if they are sleeveless. These rich red styles will make you feel confident your fall fashion is on point.

Worn alone or under a sweater or jacket, this Iro Ruffle Tie Front Blouse is a winner. This chic, yet relaxed, style incorporates lace up and ruffle details, making it the perfect top for meeting your girlfriends at happy hour. Available at www.neimanmarcus.com.

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This gorgeous Black Halo Raven mini dress is the richest of rich red hues. The slit sleeves make this an excellent dress for transitioning into the fall months. Top this off with some taupe or brown suede boots or a chunky heel and add tights once the temperatures cools. Available at www.saks.com.

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Perfect for occasions where you want to convey a more sophisticated vibe, this Iro Shavani Boucle Jacket is an easy choice. I layered it over my essential Joie Asier silk camisole. If you would like to style this jacket with a bit more edge, wear it with a graphic tee, black leather leggings and a chic pump. Available at www.neimanarcus.com. Camisole available at www.nordstrom.com.

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Enjoy wearing these and other rich red pieces this fall!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

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Photography by Erica Dunhill Photography

f. 13.2017
3 Decadent Ice Cream Recipes

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3 Decadent Ice Cream Recipes

As the summer days wind down, we have to make the most of them and enjoy every last drop. If you read my Spring Sorbet post earlier this year, you know that I have a Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker. I originally purchased it to make sorbet but once I had made a few sorbets…I decided to try making ice cream. I was shocked at how simple it was and how fresh (and delicious) it tasted. There is no question that these 3 decadent recipes are not on the “lighter side” but are certainly perfect for the times when you want to indulge. To really kick it up a notch, put them in waffle cones and you have a perfect treat. TIP: be sure to freeze the ice cream maker insert at least 24 hours prior to using!

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Blueberry Ice Cream

Ingredients:

4 cups fresh blueberries

2 cups sugar

1 tablespoon vanilla

pinch of salt

1 cup whole milk

1 cup half & half

2 cups whipping cream

Instructions:

Puree blueberries in blender. Add pureed blueberries and sugar in sauce pan and stir, warming until sugar dissolves. Refrigerate mixture until cold. Add in vanilla, salt, milk, half & half and cream. Pour into ice cream maker and churn. Freeze overnight to allow ice cream to set up and ripen.

Source: www.yourhomebasedmom.com

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Pineapple Coconut Ice Cream

Ingredients

1 13.5 oz can coconut milk

1 cup granulated sugar

1.5 cups heavy cream

1 teaspoon coconut extract

8 oz crushed pineapple

1/3 cup shredded coconut

Instructions:

In a large bowl, beat coconut milk and sugar with an electric mixer until the sugar dissolves; then stir in remaining ingredients. Add ingredients to your already chilled ice cream maker insert and churn for 30 minutes. Place into container and freeze for 2-4 hours before serving.

Source: www.carriesexperimentalkitchen.com

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Chocolate Malt Ball Ice Cream

Ingredients:

1 cup cocoa powder (I use Ghiardelli Sweet Ground Chocolate)

3/4 cup brown sugar

1.5 cups whole milk

3.25 cups heavy cream

1 tablespoon vanilla

Instructions

Mix the dry ingredients in a bowl. Add the milk and cream and mix until combined. I added milk chocolate malt balls (broken into pieces) to add texture. Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and mix according to the directions for your machine. Mix for 30 minutes and then freeze overnight.

Source: www.bakedbree.com

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Hope you indulge a bit and try these recipes…I am confident you will enjoy!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

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Photography by Erica Dunhill Photography

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f. 12.2017
Green Envy

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Green Envy

As the days start to become a bit shorter, kids go back to school and vacations slow down…it starts to feel like fall is around the corner. Green is a key color this fall…from bright kelly green to deep forest and shades of olive, green is everywhere and the options are endless. It is a perfect hue to wear when transitioning between seasons. These Green Envy pieces can be worn now and into the fall season if you simply style them a bit differently.

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This pretty Alice & Olivia crinkled crepe top dresses up when paired with a pencil skirt or down when you wear with your favorite pair of denim. The cold shoulder and feminine ruffles look fresh in this bright kelly green color. Available exclusively at www.shopbop.com.

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Green is gorgeous in this bright floral printed Alice & Olivia Asymmetric Ruffle Skirt and paired with this porcelain Joie Celimene Silk Camisole. Once the weather cools, wear it with a sweater and boots. Top is available at www.nordstrom.com, skirt is available at www.neimanmarcus.com.

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This ALC Micah silk dress is a deep and rich green and complements almost all skin tones. The wrap styling and v neckline creates a flattering silhouette and is a perfect dress to wear for work. Available at www.shopbop.com.

These green pieces and others will transition beautifully from the summer to fall season.

Bisous,

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Rebecca

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Photography by Erica Dunhill Photography

f. 6.2017
Spot On

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Spot On

Polka dots are a trend that I usually do not gravitate towards because they can feel dated. However, they have been a major trend for 2017 and I keep seeing styles that I want to wear. There are some gorgeous silhouettes…romantic, sophisticated, feminine and I am featuring my favorites below. Keep reading for ideas on how to keep your style spot on.

The Casual Top

A dream in detail…this beautiful and feminine Rebecca Taylor blouse is perfect for weekend wear. The black colorway keeps the ruffle and lace from being too sweet. It works with denim, black or white pants. Available at www.neimanmarcus.com.

The Romantic Dress

This flattering and romantic Alice & Olivia dress has elegant ruffles, a high low hem and tie halter neck. If you would like to give this a bit of edge during the fall season, layer it under a black leather jacket. Available at www.saks.com.

The Sophisticated Blouse

This oh-so-chic Diane Von Furstenberg ensemble is perfect when you need to elevate your look. The polka dot tie top and high waisted pants make you feel as glamorous as a Hollywood star. PS: It is also incredibly comfortable. Available at www.neimanmarcus.com.

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Bisous,

Rebecca

Photography by Erica Dunhill Photography

f. 30.2017