Author: styleand

  • The Prettiest Carafe Set + Lavender Lemonade Recipe

    The Prettiest Carafe Set + Lavender Lemonade Recipe

    Style & Life Blog: The Prettiest Carafe Set + Lavender Lemonade Recipe

     

    The Prettiest Carafe Set 

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    Lavender Lemonade Recipe

    When it comes to serveware, I typically like things that are clean white and clear glass.  If I am adding color, I will do it with table linens, flowers or the food or drink itself. However, when I saw this pretty floral set, I could not resist. Over the past few years, my entertaining has transitioned from elaborate dinners to lighter fare…often just apps or desserts and this set is perfect for an afternoon with friends. I created this lavender lemonade recipe to serve but you could also use a sangria or punch. 

    Lavender Lemonade 

    Ingredients

    Serves 10 

    (you will need another pitcher as the above carafe only holds 3-4 servings)

    2 cups sugar

    7 lavender sprigs, including stems

    2 cups fresh lemon juice (use approximately 10 lemons)

    1/2 cup fresh lime juice (use approximately 4 limes)

    Instructions

    In a large saucepan, bring water and sugar to a boil. Remove from heat and add lavender sprigs, lemon and lime juices. Let mixture chill, then strain. Once lemonade is chilled, serve in this pretty set. 

    Just add a plate of macarons and you are ready for a cozy chat with friends!

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    Bisous,
    Rebecca

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  • Go Green

    Go Green

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    Go Green

    While I love wearing soft pastels and bright whites during the summer months, there is something special about this deep shade of green.  It is getting me in the mood for shorter days and pumpkin flavored everything. These styles are ideal to wear during these hot summer days and can easily be layered with jackets and sweaters so you can wear throughout the fall season.

     

    Style & Life Blog: Go Green

    This emerald green dress is a versatile style that can be dressed up with a heels or down with a pair of wedges. Pair with a denim jacket and booties and this style will transition beautifully into the Fall season. Now on sale at www.clubmonaco.com

    Style & Life: Go Green

    This printed top is a cute and easy style to throw on for causal wear. Top with a chunky sweater, jeans and boots for Fall and you are set! Available at www.anthropologie.com

    Style & Life: Go Green

    This chic jumpsuit is a piece I will be wearing while entertaining. It looks polished and is more comfortable than a dress or skirt. Plus, it has pockets which make it practical. Available at www.anntaylor.com

    Go green with one of pretty these new pieces! 

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    Bisous,

    Rebecca

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  • Crispy Chickpea Trail Mix

    Crispy Chickpea Trail Mix

    Style & Life Blog: Crispy Chickpea Trail Mix

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    Crispy Chickpea Trail Mix

    Each Sunday, I set aside time for meal prep. I like to hard boil eggs, cut veggies and wash my fruits.  Once the week begins, time flies so having healthy options available makes it easy to make good food choices. I make this crispy chickpea trail mix occasionally as an afternoon snack.  Since chickpeas are an excellent plant based protein source, it satisfies more than a piece of fruit or crackers. Plus, it is packed with texture and flavor which makes you almost forget it it healthy. Try preparing a batch of this so you can enjoy it throughout the week. 

    Ingredients:

    1 15-ounce can chickpeas, rinsed
    3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
    1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
    3 2×1-inch pieces orange zest, sliced into ½”-thick strips
    ⅓ cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
    ¼ cup rosemary leaves
    1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
    ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
    ½ cup unsweetened toasted coconut flakes

    Instructions

    Preheat oven to 400°. Place chickpeas on a paper towel–lined rimmed baking sheet and let drain (dryness now equals crispiness later). Remove paper towels and toss chickpeas on baking sheet with 1 tablespoon of oil; season with ½ teaspoon of salt. Roast chickpeas, tossing halfway through, until crisp and golden brown, 35–40 minutes.

    Meanwhile, toss orange zest, pumpkin seeds, rosemary, maple syrup, cayenne, remaining 2 tablespoons of oil, and remaining ½ teaspoon of salt in a small bowl. Remove chickpeas from oven and add pumpkin seed mixture; toss to coat. Roast until orange zest is shriveled and pumpkin seeds are pale green, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and toss in coconut flakes; let cool.Trail mix can be made 5 days ahead. Store airtight at room temperature.

    Source: www.bonappetit.com

     This is also an excellent dish for guests to enjoy before dinner. It is light enough that they won’t get too full. Hope you enjoy this delicious recipe! 

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    Bisous,
    Rebecca

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  • My cariPRO™ Electric Toothbrush Review

    My cariPRO™ Electric Toothbrush Review

    Style & Life Blog: My cariPRO™ Electric Toothbrush Review My cariPRO™ Toothbrush Review

    This post is sponsored by Smile Brilliant, but the content and opinions expressed here are my own. 

    As mentioned in previous posts, I am one of those weird people who really enjoy oral hygiene and going to the dentist. That super clean feeling in my mouth is something that feels so good to me. Oddly enough, although I like my natural toothpastes and my teeth whitening system, I have not invested in an electric toothbrush. I had one awhile back and thought it was OK, but it did not have enough settings and then it broke. I did not love it, so I just have not made finding a new one a priority. So, when the Smile Brilliant team reached out to see if I wanted to try the new cariPRO™ Electric Toothbrush, I jumped at the opportunity.  

    This toothbrush is amazing. It has 5 brush settings (clean, white, massage, gum care and sensitive). It has a slim, clean design and soft touch grip. It is waterproof and can be used in the shower. There is a wireless charging dock and will stay charged for 30 days (on full charge). It leaves your teeth feeling so much cleaner than a regular toothbrush. I especially like using gum care mode and if my teeth are sensitive after whitening, then the sensitive setting is perfect.  

    Style & Life Blog: My cariPRO™ Electric Toothbrush Review

     

    If you are in the market for a new electric toothbrush, I highly recommend the cariPRO™. Receive 20% off when you use code rebecca20 and enjoy brushing your pearly whites! Visit Smile Brilliant to shop or learn more

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    Bisous,

    Rebecca

     

  • Casual Chambray Style

    Casual Chambray Style

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    Casual Chambray Style

    While throwing on yoga pants and running out the door is the easiest way to run around on the weekend, I inevitably run into a former colleague or someone else I wish I wouldn’t have. So, unless I am truly working out, I try to look a touch more pulled together for weekend errands and going to the park. 

    Chambray is an great option…it looks like you put some effort into your weekend wear, but not like you are over done. These relaxed styles will instantly upgrade your casual looks with as much effort as goes into wearing yoga paints. 

    Style & Life Blog: Casual Chambray Styles

    It does not get any easier than this romper…throw it on, add your favorite everyday jewelry and accessorize with simple flats and a straw tote. Available at www.anthropologie.com.

    Style & Life Blog: Casual Chambray Styles

    Convey effortless elegance with this chambray striped shirt.  Pairs perfectly with light or white colored denim. Available at www.anthropologie.com.

    Style & Life Blog: Casual Chambray Styles This lightweight linen dress is the dressiest of the group but still can be worn with sneakers. The fabric is perfect for summer warm temperatures. It is old out at Nordstrom, but I have linked a few others below. 

    Bisous,

    Rebecca

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  • Fun Summer Beauty Finds

    Fun Summer Beauty Finds

    Style & Life Blog: Fun Summer Beauty Finds

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    Fun Summer Beauty Finds

    Do you ever feel like adding a new beauty product into your routine just for something new and different? While I use Soveral skincare products almost exclusively for my daily skincare routine…I do love trying new products and wanted to share these fun summer beauty finds! 

    From top left…this Nails Inc Trio is a pretty set of shimmer polishes that will show off your summer tan. Skin need some extra hydration? The Keep Cool Face Mask Trio will rejuvenate your skin when it is tired and dehydrated. Traveling? This Eva NYC Travel Set includes a dry shampoo, hairspray and texture spray which should cover all of your hair styling needs.  Cocofloss is my dental floss of choice and my favorite flavor is pure strawberries…it leaves your mouth feeling clean and refreshed. If you want to leave with your body soft and exfoliated…try this Summertime Exfoliating Soap.. It smells positively divine. 

    Does anyone remember Sun In spray which used to turn your hair orange? This Ouai Sun of a Beach spray is a lemon coconut spray that gives your hair subtle highlights from the sun…but won’t turn it hair orange. Bronzer is a summer must and while I use several different kinds, this Hourglass favorite looks so pretty with its light refracting properties. I also had to try Marianna Hewitt’s Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask. It is made of vitamins, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory ingredients that help to combat puffy, inflamed, over-worked skin. Yes, please! 

    These fun finds will spice up your beauty routine and keep you looking gorgeous all summer. 

    Bisous,

    Rebecca

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  • Bright Embroidered Boho Styles

    Bright Embroidered Boho Styles

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    Bright Embroidered Boho Styles

    Things have been super summery on the blog the past couple of weeks…from eyelet to ice cream sandwiches, and we are loving it! Another trend that looks pretty in theses warm temperatures are bright embroidered boho styles.  They complement a tan nicely and I like stying them with white bottoms, straw accessories and gold jewelry.   

    Style & Life Blog: Bright Embroidered Boho Styles

    For those who do not know…I have spent my entire career in the fashion industry…I was a buyer for over five years at Boston Proper and boho styles are one of their specialities.  This tunic features embroidery, sequins and bright embroidery.  Size down as it runs a little large. Available at www.bostonproper.com

    Style & Life Blog: Bright Embroidered Boho Styles

    Once you put this soft gauze dress on, you wont want to take it off….it is the most comfortable thing I have ever worn.  Available in 3 colors at www.shopbop.com

    Style & Life Blog: Bright Embroidered Boho Styles

    This embroidered tee is a fun summer staple! It is so soft and is a cute casual style for running errands, hitting the park or grabbing a quick lunch on the weekend. Available at www.freepeople.com.

    Shop all of these beautiful styles and more below!

    Bisous,
    Rebecca

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  • 3 Ice Cream Sandwich Recipes

    3 Ice Cream Sandwich Recipes

    Style & Life: 3 Ice Cream Sandwich Recipes

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    3 Ice Cream Sandwich Recipes 

    Last summer, one of my favorite posts was our ice cream post…it was so delicious and decadent that I wanted to kick it up a notch and do another one this summer. Sooo…what could be more decadent than homemade ice cream? I thought ice cream sandwiches would suffice  These were incredibly difficult to photograph because they were melting so quickly but they tasted great! 

    Mint Oreo Ice Cream Sandwiches

    Mint Oreo Ice Cream:

    2 cups heavy whipping cream

    1 cup whole milk

    3/4 cup sugar

     2 teaspoons peppermint extract

    10-15 Oreo cookies broken in pieces (depending on your preference)

    2 drops green food coloring (optional)

    Mix the milk and sugar with a whisk until the sugar is dissolved.  Add whipping cream and peppermint extract. Stir and add the food coloring (if desired).  Pour into your ice cream maker and follow the manufacturer’s directions. If using the Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker (which I highly recommend), churn for 30 minutes.   When ice cream has reached soft-serve consistency, remove from ice cream maker, transfer to an airtight container, and fold in Oreo pieces. Freeze overnight. 

    Cookie Sandwich Dough:

    1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

    3/4 cup powdered sugar

    1 large egg yolk

    1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

    1 cup all-purpose flour

    1/4 cup + 1 tablespoon cocoa powder

    pinch of salt

    Beat the butter and powdered sugar together in a large bowl with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk and the vanilla to the butter mixture and beat to incorporate. Reduce mixer speed to low and slowly add the flour, cocoa, and salt. Beat until a firm dough forms. Wrap in plastic and chill for 20 minutes. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
    Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside. Divide dough in half and roll one half of the dough out to 1/4 inch in thickness. Using a 2.5-3-inch round cookie cutter, cut out circles. Poke holes into the cookies with the end of a wooden skewer. Place the cookies about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 8 minutes. Repeat with remaining dough. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes on the pan. Transfer the baked cookies to a wire rack and let cool completely.

    To assemble: Place one cookie face down.  Using the same cookie cutter as you used for the cookies, cut circles from the ice cream. Place one piece of ice cream on each of the cookies and top with remaining cookies. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or place in airtight container and freeze until set — about 30 minutes.

     

    Luxardo Cherry Ice Cream Sandwiches

    Luxardo Cherry Ice Cream

    4 egg yolks

    ¾ cup sugar

    2 cups milk

    1 teaspoon vanilla extract

    1 tablespoon vanilla paste

    1 cup heavy cream

    1/3 cup Luxardo Cherries

    Mix the egg yolks and the sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat until mixture is pale and creamy. Set aside.  In a medium saucepan place 1 cup of milk, the vanilla extract and vanilla paste. Let the mixture boil over medium heat.  When it starts boiling add ⅓ of this milk to the yolk and sugar mixture. Mix well. Now pour this mixture in the pan with remaining milk. Keep stirring on low heat until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat. Add remaining 1 cup of milk and heavy cream. Mix well and let it cool. Fold in the cherries. Place vanilla ice cream in the ice cream maker and work it according to manufacturer’s instructions. My Cuisinart took 30 minutes. Freeze overnight. 

    Shortbread Cookies

    1 cup unsalted butter, softened

    1/2 cup sugar

    1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

    2 cups all-purpose flour

    1/4 teaspoon baking powder

    1/2 teaspoon salt

    2 tablespoons milk

    In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter for about 30 seconds with an electric mixer at medium speed. Add sugar and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until fluffy, about 1 minute.

    In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. With the mixer on low speed, gradually add flour mixture to the butter mixture, beating until just combined and scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. Add the milk and blend until just combined.

    Divide dough into two equal parts and use your hands to form each part into a disc. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour. It may be tempting to skip the chilling time, but chilling the dough is essential to easy cutting of the cookies and to keeping the cookies from spreading while baking.

    Working with one disc at a time, remove from the refrigerator and roll to just slightly thicker than 1/8-inch thickness. To prevent sticking and tearing of the dough, sprinkle your work surface, the top of the dough, and your rolling pin with a bit of all-purpose flour before rolling.

    Use a round cookie cutter {or other shapes as desired} to cut the dough into cookies. Carefully transfer cut cookies to a baking sheet with a small spatula. Re-roll the remaining dough scraps and continue to cut until all the dough is used. The cookie dough can stretch out of shape easily when warm ~ For the best result, keep the dough as cold as possible while cutting the cookies.

    Bake cookies at 350 degrees for 10 – 12 minutes until just starting to turn pale golden brown on the edges. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

    To assemble: Place one cookie face down.  Using the same cookie cutter as you used for the cookies, cut circles from the ice cream. Place one piece of ice cream on each of the cookies and top with remaining cookies. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or place in airtight container and freeze until set — about 30 minutes.

     

    Vanilla Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Sandwiches 

    Vanilla Ice Cream

    4 egg yolks

    ¾ cup sugar

    2 cups milk

    1 teaspoon vanilla extract

    1 tablespoon vanilla paste

    1 cup heavy cream

    Mix the egg yolks and the sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat until mixture is pale and creamy. Set aside.  In a medium saucepan place 1 cup of milk, the vanilla extract and vanilla paste. Let the mixture boil over medium heat.  When it starts boiling add ⅓ of this milk to the yolk and sugar mixture. Mix well. Now pour this mixture in the pan with remaining milk. Keep stirring on low heat until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat. Add remaining 1 cup of milk and heavy cream. Mix well and let it cool.  Place vanilla ice cream in the ice cream maker and work it according to manufacturer’s instructions. My Cuisinart took 30 minutes. Freeze overnight. 

    Chocolate Chip Cookies

    8 tablespoons of unsalted butter

    1/2 cup sugar 

    1/4 cup packed light brown sugar

    1 teaspoon vanilla

    1 egg

    1 1/2 cups all purpose flour 

    1/2 teaspoon baking soda

    1/4 teaspoon salt 

    1 cup chocolate chips

    Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Microwave the butter for approximately 40 seconds to just barely melt it. It should be almost entirely in liquid form.  Using a stand mixer or electric mixer, beat the butter with the sugars until creamy. Add the vanilla and the egg; beat on low speed until just incorporated.  Add the flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until crumbles form. Add the chocolate chips and incorporate with your hands.  Using a mini ice cream scoop, scoop into balls and place on a cookie sheet. Bake for 9-11 minutes until slightly golden. Cool on the pan for a good 30 minutes.

    To assemble: Place one cookie face down.  Using a cookie cutter the same size as the cookies, cut circles from the ice cream. Place one piece of ice cream on each of the cookies and top with remaining cookies. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or place in airtight container and freeze until set — about 30 minutes.

     

    Bisous,
    Rebecca

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  • White Summer Eyelet

    White Summer Eyelet

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    White Summer Eyelet 

    The days are long and the temps are hot and I often find the most natural thing to pull out of the closet are styles that are white and light, which means eyelet is a perfect option. These pretty pieces are easy to wear and will look beautiful all summer. 

    Style & Life Blog: White Summer Eyelet

    This little white dress is breezy and comfortable…it is made from 100% cotton so the fabric will keep you cool. Add tturquoise accessories for a pop of color.   Available at www.revolve.com.

    Style & Life Blog: White Summer Eyelet This feminine eyelet skirt pairs perfectly with this linen tank for relaxed summer gatherings.  Top available at www.nordstrom.com. Skirt now on sale at www.clubmonaco.com.Style & Life: White Summer Eyelet This off-the shoulder, eyelet top is a soft and relaxed style that is perfect for weekend wear. Available at www.nordstrom.com

    Complement these looks with any of the accessories featured in our Summer Accessory Edit…they will look beautiful together!

    Bisous,

    Rebecca

    Special thanks to Call me Gaby for hosting this photoshoot! 

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  • Summer Accessory Edit

    Summer Accessory Edit

     

    Style & Life Blog: Summer Accessory Edit

     

    Summer Accessory Edit 

    Need a few fun items to keep your warm weather ensembles fresh? This summer accessory edit features a small selection of styles that are incredibly versatile and will give your looks a pop with their unique styling and details.  It is rare I buy an item that can only be worn with one outfit.  I like to use items often and these are no exception…they should go with many items you already have in your closet!   

    The bags are easy to wear…the round handle tote is perfect for casual outfits, the multi colored embroidered clutch can be dressed up or down and is perfect to pack for vacation since it is small. The wooden Cult Gaia bag has been a favorite of mine all year and continues to be my go-to bag for the season. 

    This pretty set of hair ties is fashionable and functional at the same time. No more basic ponytails…these prints add a pop of color.

    These gorgeous earrings were gifted to me by Lisi Lerch and I have worn them with many different outfits. The clear color makes them ideal to pack for getaways since they coordinate with almost everything.

    The gold multi and turquoise bracelets are bold statement pieces that will add a touch of drama to any look (they are low on inventory so I linked similar styles below). 

    Consider adding these accessories to your wardrobe…they are an easy way to keep you your style updated. 

     

    Bisous,

    Rebecca 

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