Style & Life – Page 10 – the elegant edit on fashion, beauty, and home

Pretty Pastel Pieces

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Pretty Pastel Pieces

We have talked a lot about florals this Spring but Sweet Tart (yes, the candy) colored pastels are another trend that is receiving a lot of attention. These soft colors come in a range of colors from pinks to oranges and yellows to mint and all ranges of blue and purple…there is a shade that is flattering on everyone. I love the light mood they create and have highlighted a few of these pretty pastel pieces below. I am hoping these will inspire you to try this lovely color palette.

This mint colored dress from Alice and Olivia is a pastel hue that is flattering on almost every shade of skin. The feminine and elegant styling make this a truly special piece. Available at www.neimanmarcus.com.

This wrap skirt is the color of Sweet Tart candy and pairs perfectly with this soft blouse. Available at www.revolve.com.

This lilac midi dress is delivers serious style at a great price. Just add accessories and it is perfect for all of your Spring parties. Available at www.nordstrom.com.

Give these and other these pretty pastel pieces a try…my favorites are linked below!

Bisous,

Rebecca

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f. 17.2018
3 Super Smoothies

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3 Super Smoothies

Breakfast for me is either an egg bake with veggies or a smoothie. I love smoothies because they keep me feeling light, full of energy and are the perfect on-the-go breakfast. Here are the 3 super smoothies that I rotate between…they can all be prepared in 5 minutes or less!

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Strawberry Banana Delight

4-5 organic strawberries

1 banana

1 scoop chocolate protein powder

1.5 cups almond milk

Simply add all ingredients to blender and blend. Drink and enjoy.

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Tropical Fruit Smoothie

1/2 cup pineappple

1/2 mango

1 scoop vanilla protein powder

1.5 cups coconut milk

Add all ingredients to blender and blend. Drink and enjoy.

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Super Green Smoothie

2-3 cups organic spinach

1/2 bunch organic parsley

1 organic Fuji apple

1 banana

1/2 lemon, juiced

1.5 cups cold, filtered water

Simply add ingredients to blender, blend and enjoy!

If I have kale, dandelion greens or any other type of leafy greens, I will add a handful of those. I also add hemp, chia and flax seeds if I have them.

Hope these recipes help simplify those busy weekday mornings…I always feel light and full of energy when I have one of these smoothies for breakfast!

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Bisous,
Rebecca

f. 16.2018
Garden Party Prints

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Garden Party Prints

Femininity and florals abound this season…they continue to be the trend I am responding to the most right now. They feel light, fresh and perfect for the warm temperatures in Miami. These garden party prints can be dressed up or down and look beautiful when accessorized with layered jewelry or statement earrings.

This easy little top is a warm weather favorite. I like it because it is easy to throw on and makes me feel polished for long days of running around town. You can wear for a morning at the park, a trip to the grocery store and then lunch with the family. Now on sale at www.saks.com.

This ruffled silk dress is a flirty find and perfect for a shower, birthday party or other spring occasion. Available at www.bloomingdales.com.

This sleeveless button up shirt is as comfortable as a tee shirt but has twice the style. Pair it with denim or white bottoms and you are set. Available at www.bloomingdales.com.

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These garden party prints will create elegant little looks for Summer days!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

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f. 10.2018
Chic Weeknight Dinner Menu

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Chic Weeknight Dinner Menu

Awhile back, one of my girlfriends called me and said “HELP!! My husband invited his boss and wife over for dinner tomorrow night and I have no idea what to make!” We hung up immediately and I pulled together this chic weeknight dinner menu in a flash. It’s light, flavorful and most of the prep can be done in advance. Don’t worry….no one will know you didn’t spend all day preparing. 😉

The Starter:

Tomato Avocado Bruschetta

(Tip: You can chop the tomatoes, mince the garlic, prepare the goat cheese/cream cheese mixture and vinaigrette in advance. Also, this recipe calls for the baguette to be grilled but I use the Fresh Market French Rounds, which require no additional preparation.)

Ingredients:

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons white balsamic or white wine vinegar

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 box grape tomatoes quartered or 1.5 cups chopped tomatoes, well drained

1 avocado-peeled, pitted and diced

1-2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons fresh basil

4 ounces goat (chèvre) cheese

4 ounces cream cheese

1 loaf French bread

Olive Oil for grilling

In medium bowl, combine olive oil, vinegar and salt; whisk to blend. Add tomatoes, avocado, garlic and basil; toss gently. In small bowl, combine goat and cream cheese until evenly blended; chill until ready to assemble. Brush bread slices with olive oil. Place on grid over medium heat. Grill until toasted on both sides. Spread goat/cream cheese mixture over toast. Cut each slice in half. Top with tomato mixture. Serve immediately.

Source: Everybody Cooks, Dierbergs

Main Course

Salmon with Sweet Chili Glaze, Sugar Snap Peas and Pea Tendrils

(Tip: It sounds way more complicated than it is. You can grate the ginger and mince the garlic in advance)

Ingredients:

Nonstick vegetable oil spray

1/4 cup Asian sweet chili sauce

3 tablespoons soy sauce, divided

2 tablespoons finely grated peeled fresh ginger, divided

4 6-ounce salmon fillets with skin

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

3 garlic cloves, minced

8 ounces sugar snap peas, trimmed

1 1/2 tablespoons Chinese rice wine or dry Sherry

3 cups pea tendrils or pea sprouts

1 teaspoon sesame oil

Line rimmed baking sheet with foil. Coat with nonstick spray. Whisk chili sauce, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon ginger in small bowl. Place salmon fillets, skin side down, on prepared sheet. Spoon chili sauce marinade over and let stand at room temperature 30 minutes.

Preheat broiler. Spoon any marinade remaining on baking sheet over salmon fillets. Broil salmon without turning until browned in spots and almost opaque in center, 6 to 10 minutes, depending on thickness of fillet.

Meanwhile, heat vegetable oil in wok or heavy large skillet over medium-high heat. Add remaining 1 tablespoon ginger and minced garlic; stir until aromatic, about 30 seconds. Add sugar snap peas and stir until crisp-tender, about 2 minutes. Add remaining 1 tablespoon soy sauce, rice wine, and pea tendrils and stir just until wilted, about 1 minute. Drizzle with sesame oil.

Place pea tendrils on one plate, then layer 1 salmon fillet and garnish to your liking. Serve and enjoy.

source: www.bonappetit.com

Dessert:

Wine Spiked Berries & Ricotta

(Tip: You can prepare the red wine sauce and ricotta mixture in advance.)

Ingredients:

1 large orange

1.5 cups dry red wine

1/2 cup plus tablespoons sugar

2 cups mixed raspberries, blueberries, blackberries and/or strawberries

1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese

1 tablespoon Grand Marnier liqueur

1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Using a sharp paring knife, cut two 2-3 inch strips of zest from the orange. Using the fine rasps of a handheld grater or a microplane, remove 1 teaspoon finely grated zest from another section of the orange Reserve the rest of the orange for another use.

In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the wine, the 1/2 cup sugar and the orange zest strips and cook, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves, about 3 minutes. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer until the liquid is reduced by about one-third, 10-15 minutes. Remove from the heat and let the syrup cool.

Put the berries in a bowl. Remove the zest strips from the syrup and pour over the berries.

In a food processor, combine the ricotta, Grand Marnier, vanilla, grated orange zest and the 2 tablespoons of sugar and process until smooth. Spoon the berries with some syrup into glasses or small bowls and top with a dollop of the ricotta mixture. Serve immediately. Serves 4.

Source: www.williamssonoma.com

Keep this elegant little menu in your back pocket just like that little black dress that always looks fabulous…I have served this on a number of occasions and it is always a hit. I usually pair with Groth Sauvignon Blanc or Ferrari Carano Fume Blanc.

Happy Hosting!

Bisous,

Rebecca

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f. 7.2018
Breakfast in Bed for Her

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Breakfast in Bed for Her

Growing up, my brother and I were obsessed with making my mom breakfast in bed for special occasions and holidays. I am not sure where we came up with this idea but we were always quite determined. We would wake up early, make pancakes and other items and surprise my mom with breakfast in bed. I would love to see what these breakfasts looked like…but she always appreciated the gesture.

If there is someone special in your life for whom you would like to prepare breakfast in bed…we have created a beautiful menu with no cooking required! All it takes is purchasing some pretty items and pre-made food and you will be sure to wow her.

This pretty gold lacquer tray was a great find, it also comes in espresso, silver and white (it can be re-used to display books and other trinkets). This stemless Mom glass and these metallic rimmed pink glasses are nice little touches that Mom will love. The dishes and flatware are also available at www.westelm.com. Mom glass available at www.williamssonoma.com.

The next step is to head to the grocery store…almost all have a deli section with pre-made items like this Quiche Lorraine I found. Pick up freshly squeezed orange juice, croissants, pre-washed berries and pre-washed mixed greens. Get some cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, olive oil and fresh flowers. I found all of these delicious items at my local Fresh Market. Simply mix up a little salad of mixed greens, tomatoes, feta and olive oil…then assemble everything everything else and you are set to impress.

Give the the special woman in your life a little bit of pampering with this beautiful breakfast in bed! It will be appreciated more than you know.

Bisous,

Rebecca

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f. 6.2018
Romantic Floral Favorites

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Romantic Floral Favorites

We posted about florals earlier this season and I continue to see lovely options everywhere. I have found a few new styles that are casual and easy to wear. The best part…they work well with things already in your closet. When I am out and about running errands, I like to look as pulled together as possible…the top and sweater below are excellent options for this and the dress is ideal for a lunch or happy hour with friends.

This pretty little number is a fun find…it’s a high low dress with shorts underneath, which makes it incredibly comfortable. The romantic floral print and lace trim give it a soft and feminine vibe. Available at www.nordstrom.com.

This cold shoulder top is an easy piece to throw on without sacrificing style. The floral print works well with light or white colored denim. Available at www.bloomingdales.com.

Although temperatures are hot in Miami, the air conditioning gets cold so light sweaters like this are perfect. Available at www.joie.com.

It might sound a bit unusual but I like the scent I am wearing to have the same vibe as my outfit. When I discovered these Poetic License products while creating my Mother’s Day Gift Guide, I immediately ordered more because they smell divine. This scent is light, fresh and feminine. Available at www.anthropologie.com.

Bisous,
Rebecca

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f. 3.2018
Just for Her: Our Mother’s Day Gift Guide

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For Her: Our Mother’s Day Gift Guide

Mother’s Day is around the corner and we have rounded up a delightful selection of gifts that your mother, aunt, grandmother or other special woman in your life will appreciate. These selections are items she will use but may not buy for herself. There are a range of prices but all of these gift options have beautiful details and will show her you care.

See below…starting at the top left.

Pretty Floral Watch

Little Book of Self-Care

Porcelain Gardenia

One Hope Wine

Floral Statement, Turquoise Drop and Pastel Starburst Earrings

Floral iPhone Case

Delicate Trinket Dish

Tory Burch Mini Satchel

Poetic License Hand Cream and Soap (smells AMAZING)

Champagne Key Chain

“Save Room for Dessert” Lunch Tote

Ted Baker Travel Wallet

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If you are going to host a Mother’s Day gathering, be sure to check out our Easy Brunch Menu, Quiche Recipe, Rose Sangria and DIY Floral Arrangement posts for ideas on how to make it a special day!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

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f. 1.2018
A Classic Palette…Blue & White

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A Classic Palette…Blue and White

I was traveling recently and noticed a gorgeous woman who was traveling with her family in tow. She breezed through security with kids, luggage and looked fabulous. She was dressed simply…a pair of slim white denim and a classic blue and white striped blouse. Nothing fussy or complicated, but it looked so elegant that it inspired me to write this blog post. I have curated a few looks that are blue and white or just white that you can wear all summer long.

This classic blue and white blouse is more than meets the eye….it also has adjustable straps that allow it to be worn 2 alternate ways. It runs large so consider sizing down. Available at www.revolve.com.

It’s time to start pulling your little white dresses out of the closet…and if you need a new dress for date night, then this ultra feminine style might be right for you. I paired with this cute tropical print bag to give it a pop. Dress available at www.bloomingdales.com, bag available at www.nordstrom.com.

This blue and white stripe jumpsuit is a summer must…it’s easy to throw on for a day of errands and lunch with friends. Available at www.shopbop.com.

This deconstructed white dress is absolutely beautiful…the details and quality will not disappoint. Be sure to size down as this runs large. Available at www.nordstrom.com.

While blue and white may be a classic color palette, these looks are fresh this season! All of these pieces (plus a few others) are linked below for your convenience.

Bisous,

Rebecca

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f. 25.2018
Cinco de Mayo Party

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Cinco de Mayo Party

Confession. I love Mexican food. LOVE. While certainly not healthy, there is nothing I enjoy more than sitting with a friend and having some chips, guacamole, salsa and queso over margaritas. I am currently in the middle of a Whole 30 so I won’t be having any of those moments anytime soon. 😉

So, for those not completing a Whole 30, Cinco de Mayo is around the corner…and it’s on a Saturday. In the event you have been thinking about hosting a little Spring soiree, then this is the perfect time. I have created this festive setup and accompanying recipes that are perfect for a casual weekend gathering.

These dishes have a beautiful Mexican print…while you cannot tell from the photo, they are melamine so they won’t break! Perfect for outdoor entertaining. There are multiple items in this Del Sol collection and I mixed with some solid blue pieces and added some succulents to finish it off.

For food, my original guacamole and margarita recipes are essential. If prefer to prepare margaritas in a pitcher so your guests can serve themselves, then I would recommend the margarita mixes from Williams Sonoma…their classic recipe is delicious and they offer skinny versions and fun flavors as well. Be sure to offer a non-alcoholic option like lime Perrier for those who will not be drinking.

If you want a delicious taco recipe, try this one..I discovered it on Pinterest and it is packed with flavor, color and texture.

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Chili Lime Tacos with Pineapple Salsa

Chili Lime Chicken

1 pound chicken breasts pounded to 1/2 inch thickness

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

3/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

1 teaspoon brown sugar

fresh-squeezed lime juice from 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)

lime zest from 1 lime

In a small bowl, whisk chicken rub ingredients together and rub evenly all over chicken breasts. Allow chicken to sit for 30 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate up to 8 hours then bring to room temperature before cooking. If chicken has been refrigerated, let sit at room temperature for 15-30 minutes.

Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium high heat. Once very hot, add chicken and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until nicely browned on one side. Turn chicken over, cover, and reduce heat to medium. Cook for approximately 5-7 more minutes, until chicken is cooked through. Remove to a cutting board and wait 5 minutes before slicing.

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Avocado Crema

1 medium avocado

1/2 cup sour cream

2 tablespoons mayonnaise

1 tablespoon lime juice

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Add all the ingredients to your blender and blend until smooth, scraping sides down as needed. You can make 4 hours ahead of time and refrigerate in an airtight container.

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Pineapple Salsa

1/2 ripe pineapple, trimmed and sliced

1 large red bell pepper, seeded and quartered

1/2 small red onion, peeled and cut in half

1 whole jalapeno

1/2 cup loosely packed cilantro, finely chopped

1 tablespoon lime juice

1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

salt and pepper to taste

olive oil

Dice the pineapple, bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño and cilantro (I use my Vidalia Chop Wizard) and combine with remaining ingredients in a large bowl. Can be served immediately or chilled.

To assemble, melt cheese (I used queso blanco) on tortillas in the microwave or stovetop then top with chicken, salsa and avocado crema. Garnish with cilantro, lime, avocado slices and cheese!

source: www.carlsbadcravings.com

Get ready to have some Cinco de Mayo fun!!!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

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f. 20.2018
Red Hot

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Red Hot

It does not matter the season, red is the one pop color that is always in style. Often when I feel fatigued, I will wear a bright color like red to distract from the bags under my eyes. It somehow makes your skin look warmer and eyes look brighter. Feel free to use this little style tip for those days when you are feeling tired or even a bit sad, I think the red will give you a little energy boost. With warmer days upon us, these red hot pieces will add a touch of spice into your wardrobe…

This ruffled high low skirt is a fun and feminine way to add that pop of red without being overpowered. Pair with a simple white tee and you are set! Skirt available at www.revolve.com and similar tee available at www.express.com.

This floaty boho dress is a chic find…and would also be cute paired with ankle boots. It is also available in black and vanilla. Available at www.revolve.com.

This knit peplum top is made from a soft yet substantial fabric that holds its shape nicely. It is easy to throw with jeans or can be dressed up with a slim pant and chic slides for a cute work look. Now on sale at www.nordstrom.com.

Check out these and other red favorites below!

Bisous,
Rebecca

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f. 18.2018