Style & Life – Page 12 – the elegant edit on fashion, beauty, and home

Brow Basics

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Brow Basics

I am really fortunate to have one of those mothers who did not say “I told you so” very often. My mom is more about giving advice and guiding than nagging. However, there were a few things she told me and one of them was “do not pluck your eyebrows too much”. I fully intended on listening to her. Growing up, I had a nice full brows and waxed consistently with no issues. However, the past few years, I have noticed my brows thinning considerably. Fortunately, there are excellent products on the market and I have filled in when necessary.

Recently, I had my brows waxed to clean them up a bit…trying to heed Mom’s advice, I carefully instructed the aesthetician to please only clean up the strays under and not wax any of my actual brow. Unfortunately, all of a sudden my brows are now way too thin. The ends are almost non existent. While she will never say “I told you so”…I should have listened to my Mom!

Using these products used to be something that was optional and that I did when I was making a special effort to dress up or go out…now, it is essential. Fortunately, they work like a dream and so I can fill in easily.

This Benefit Brow Zings is a wax and powder kit that allows you to tame and shape your brows. It includes a dual ended brush…use the hard edge to apply the wax and outline the shape of the brows and then fill in with the powder. Available in 5 colors at www.sephora.com. If I am in a major rush and do not want to take the time to outline my brow, I will use this Givenchy Mister Brow Filler. Just apply to your brows like mascara and you are good to go. Available at www.netaporter.com. Other tools I like are the Tweezerman Brow Shaping Scissors and Brush. These scissors have a contoured body and work well for trimming your brows and the brush helps maintain your shape. Available at www.sephora.com. These tweezers were a quick and economical pickup from CVS…I keep an extra pair in my car.

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If your brows are in need of some TLC, try these products out…I have found them to be highly effective!

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Bisous,
Rebecca

f. 5.2018
Veggie Pesto Pizza Recipe

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Veggie Pesto Pizza Recipe

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While we are all focused on those New Year Intentions, there ARE still weekends…often, our weekends involve pizza. If you want a tasty, and relatively healthy, pizza option, try this Veggie Pesto Pizza recipe. I usually purchase a pre-made whole wheat crust and I want to try making it with a cauliflower crust for an even lighter option. This recipe gives instructions for grilling, but I bake in the oven on 425° for 10-15 minutes. Pair with the Arugula Salad featured in this post and you have a tasty meal.

Veggie Pesto Pizza

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoons olive oil

1 small yellow squash, thinly sliced

½ cup sliced red onion

Super Simple Pizza Dough (recipe below)

¼ cup prepared pesto sauce

2 Roma tomatoes, thinly sliced

1 14oz can quartered artichoke hearts, drained

1/3 cup shredded parmesan cheese

thinly sliced fresh basil

In large skillet, cook garlic in olive oil over medium high heat for 1 minute. Add squash and onion, cook until tender, about 5 to 8 minutes. Prepare pizza crush dough. Shape into rough 12 inch circle and place on floured pizza pan. Slide crust onto oiled grid over medium high heat, grill until lightly browned on bottom, about 3 to 4 minutes. Turn crust over onto wooden board. Spread pesto sauce evenly over crust. Top with squash mixture. Arrange tomatoes and squash mixture over top. Slide onto grill, cover and grill until crust is lightly browned on bottom, about 3 to 4 minutes. Sprinkle parmesan and basil over top.

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Super Simple Dough

1 cup all purpose flour

1 cup whole wheat flour

1 envelope (2.25 teaspoons) fast rising dry yeast

½ teaspoon salt

2/3 cup warm water (115° to 125° Farenheit)

1 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon honey or sugar

Place flours, yeast and salt in work bowl of food processor fitted with steel knife blade. In 1 cup glass measure and stir together warm water, olive oil and honey. With machine running, pour liquid mixture through feed tube in slow steady stream, process until dough forms a ball and cleans sides of bowl, process for 30 seconds. Let dough rest in processor bowl for 10 minutes while preparing toppings. Shape dough as directed above. Makes one 12 inch pizza crust.

Source: Everybody Cooks, Dierbergs

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I really enjoy the burst of flavor the pesto adds to this recipe. You can also add other veggies or toppings this recipe. I always top with red pepper and grated parmesan.

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Serve and enjoy!

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Bisous,
Rebecca

f. 3.2018
Back to Basics: The White Shirt Edit

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Back to Basics: The White Shirt Edit

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After a fun and festive holiday season, I am in the mood to get back to basics…which means lots of salads, new goals and intentions and also fresh wardrobe updates. While glitz and glamour is perfect for the holidays…clean, crisp styles are appealing to me right now. White shirts are a staple of mine and I have quite a few in my wardrobe. Classic and versatile, you can wear them with a number of different pieces…they can be dressy or casual. These pieces are fresh updates to the styles already in my closet.

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This lovely lace turtleneck is a pretty piece for grabbing lunch with friends. I paired with my favorite slim bootcut jeans from Paige and comfortable suede boots. Top available at www.revolve.com, jeans at www.shopbop.com and boots at www.rag-bone.com.

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If you are in need of a basic blouse that will last for years to come, Equipment silk blouses are a staple. They drape beautifully and since they are a high quality, they will last for years. I have blouses that are 5 years old that still look perfect. This version has a pintucks down the front placket and French cuffs. Available at www.nordstrom.com. Leopard pumps available at www.shopbop.com.

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This pretty white top with soft stripe detail is a stylish addition to your wardrobe with its pullover styling and pretty sleeve detail. Available at www.nordstrom.com.

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New white shirts are an excellent way to keep your wardrobe current and stay stylish!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 2.2018
Join our #wellcampaign

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Join our #wellcampaign

My birthday is around the corner…that is normally not noteworthy as birthdays are not usually a large event for me. A quiet dinner with my husband or family usually suffices. I always feel a bit uncomfortable when I am the center of attention as everyone is singing “Happy Birthday.” However, as I get older, I think more about contribution, legacy and so, this year, I want to GIVE a gift and I have teamed up with Crisis Aid International and am launching our Style & Life #wellcampaign and I am inviting you to join me.

My husband and I went to Africa a few years back (see post: Africa Trip Anniversary) and I think about some aspect of that trip every day. One of the many disturbing sights was witnessing a group of adults and children collecting bowls of water from a dirt road. It had just finished raining and the dirt road was splattered with puddles. Mud filled puddles. And people were drinking the water. No filter, just filthy mud water. I actually already knew this but seeing it in person made it resonate to my core.

I simply turn the faucet and clean water magically appears and I never even think about it. It is there, such a blessing, and I take it for granted. Every day. So, I have decided what I want for my birthday is to build a well. As soon as I did, the quote “If your dreams don’t scare you, then they aren’t big enough” came to mind… and so I invite you, your family, group of friends or colleagues to join me in bringing wells to Africa. Our goal is to build 10 wells!

One well costs $12,000 and provides clean water for up to 5,000 people. There is a plaque on each well that can be customized with a message of your choice.

Clean water improves health and prevents disease, allows people to spend their time on education instead of physically collecting water and reduces medical costs.

Any donation can help make a difference in the lives of those who do not have clean water.

Crisis Aid is a 501c3 non-profit organization founded by my parents, Pat and Sue Bradley. They are committed to “helping the helpless” through relief efforts in the US and internationally. Crisis Aid International is a 4 star rated charity on Charity Navigator, the highest possible rating. For additional information, please email info@styleandlife.com.

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THANK YOU.

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Bisous,

Rebecca

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f. 2.2018
End of Year Reflections

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End of Year Reflections

It feels so cliché to say “this year flew by” but it did…more than any other! Between having a toddler, working full time and investing in Style & Life, the days, weeks and month flew by.

When I look back at this year, I am proud and determined to improving at the same time. I relaunched Style & Life at the end of 2016…my goal was to post original content consistently and I have done that. Having Style & Life as a creative outlet gives me a sense of satisfaction that I was missing and I am proud that I said I was going to do it and that I did.

That being said, there are other areas that need some attention. Like learning to manage stress effectively. Focusing on my health and physical body. Taking time to connect spiritually. I like to look back to review the accomplishments and challenges so that I can focus on where I want to go as we kick off the new year.

If I thought this year was busy, I have a feeling next year will be even busier and I am excited to see what it will bring! In addition to growing Style & Life…these are the other areas I am focusing for 2018.

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SELF CARE

I fly often and am still fascinated during the safety demonstration when they say you “should put your own mask on first before helping others”. However, I think I get it. If you don’t take care of yourself, then you can’t help anyone else. I have fallen short in this area and while I am living a beautiful life, if I am so run down and stressed out that I cannot enjoy it, then what is the point? And what example does that set for my daughter? So, as selfish as it sounds, I am putting self care (consistent workouts, nutritious meals, daily inspirational reading, weekly spa nights) at the top of my list so that I can improve my level of spiritual, emotional and physical balance.

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RELATIONSHIP BUILDING

To start. Putting down the phone. There are times when I let work emails take precedent over conversations with loved ones. I am also scheduling more frequent date nights with my husband and outings with girlfriends so that we can make memories and have quality conversation.

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GIVING BACK

If you have been following me for any length of time, you may already know that my parents founded Crisis Aid International so philanthropy is literally in my blood. The times I have felt the most fulfilled in my life is when I am consistently giving back to others…so, stay tuned, I am launching a well building campaign early next year!

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HOBBIES AND INTERESTS

Most days I work, spend time with my daughter and husband and then work more. When I am done working, I tend to watch 30-60 minutes of TV to wind down. This has been a habit I have developed the last couple of years and while I may still use TV to wind occasionally, I am going to incorporate other things I enjoy more….like practicing French and reading books.

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DREAMING BIGGER

Picasso once said “Everything you can imagine is real”. So, why not? I am going to pursue all of my hopes and dreams with passion.

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I wish you health, happiness and fulfillment in 2018.

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Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 30.2017
3 Champagne Cocktail Recipes

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3 Champagne Cocktail Recipes

It has been an amazing holiday season and there is still one holiday left to celebrate…New Year’s! If you are having a party or if you are staying home, these champagne cocktail recipes are a fresh and fun twist on champagne.

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Raspberry Champagne Cocktail

Ingredients

fresh raspberries

light rum

champagne

ginger ale

fresh mint leaves

Instructions

Pour half glass of champagne, add 1/2 oz of light rum and then top off with ginger ale. Garnish with fresh raspberries and mint leaves. You are ready to ring in the New Year!

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Classic Champagne Cocktail

Ingredients

3 oz champagne

1/3 oz cognac

2 dashes of Angostura bitters

1 sugar cube

I used this pretty Canasuc stick to garnish…see this post for more.

Instructions

Add sugar cube and bitters to flute. Add champagne and cognac. Serve and enjoy!

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Saint Champagne Cocktail

Ingredients

1 bottle of champagne

St. Germain liqueur

Instructions

Pour 1/2 ounce of St. Germain into your glass. Top with champagne. I used a blackberry as a garnish. Cheers!

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If you need fresh cocktail ideas for this New Year’s Eve…give these a shot…you and your guests should enjoy!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 28.2017
New Year’s Eve Dress Options

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New Year’s Eve Dress Options

If you are headed out this New Year’s Eve, we have three fabulous dress options that will work for all of your parties! Just add your favorite sparkly shoes and jewelry and you are set for the evening.

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This gorgeous silk Michelle Mason obi dress is an excellent dress option for colder climates with the long sleeves. It has a sexy slit to keep it festive. I paired with my strappy silver Stuart Weitzman sandals and rhinestone necklace for a bit of sparkle.

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This Rachel Zoe gold sequin mini dress will make a splash at your New Year’s party! The back of the dress has a pretty back ribbon. Now on sale at www.netaporter.com.

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This Alexis cocktail dress is perfect for New Year’s…and any other evening options. Just top with a faux fur or leather jacket and you are ready for the evening. Available at www.saks.com.

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Happy New Year to you and your loved ones!

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Bisous,
Rebecca

f. 26.2017
Cozy Hot Cocoa Recipes

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Cozy Hot Cocoa Recipes

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At least one or two times during the holiday season, I like to curl up with a cup of hot cocoa and watch a Christmas movie or two. Both of these recipes are simple to prepare and yield delicious results. I hope you and your loved ones enjoy an evening curled up on the sofa with a cup of hot cocoa.

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Classic Hot Cocoa

Ingredients

1 and 1/3 cups organic whole milk

1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder (I use Ghiradelli or Valrhona)

1.5-2 tablespoons sugar (or more if you prefer a sweeter taste)

1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (I use Nielsen-Massey)

Instructions

In a small saucepan over low heat, warm milk and vanilla until bubbles start to form around the edge of the pan. Remove from heat. While the milk is heating, put the cocoa, sugar and vanilla in a mug and stir to combine. Add the warm milk to the mug, stir until smooth. Top with whipped cream and serve immediately. Serves 1.

Lightened Up Hot Cocoa

Ingredients

1.5-2 tablespoons cane sugar

1/4 cup high quality cocoa powder (same as above, Ghiradelli or Valrhona)

1/2 teaspoon arrowroot starch or cornstarch

Pinch of sea salt

1.5 cups unsweetened or unsweetened vanilla almond milk

Instructions

In a small saucepan over low heat, warm milk and vanilla until bubbles start to form around the edge of the pan. Add cocoa powder, sugar, starch and salt to saucepan; gently stir to combine. Continue stirring until all ingredients are combined and you reach desired temperature. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed. Pour into mug and enjoy. I topped with these fun snowflake marshmallows from Crate & Barrel. Serves 1.

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Snowflake mug and white mug are available at www.crateandbarrel.com.

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Happy Holidays!

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Bisous,
Rebecca

f. 22.2017
How to be an Elegant Guest: Great Gift Basket Ideas

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How to be an Elegant Guest:

Great Gift Basket Ideas

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Are you staying with family or friends this season? Want to bring something special to someone hosting? Show your appreciation with a thoughtful gift basket. The gesture will ensure you receive an invitation next year. I have created two baskets filled with goodies that are easy to find…most of these items are available at your local grocery store, Target or Amazon. All it takes is a little pre-planning.

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This is a basket that should please most…a bottle of red wine, freshly baked bread, multi colored pasta, a bottle of organic olive oil, chocolate and a new set of dish towels. Other ideas to include would be bread dipping seasonings, nuts or cheeses. Simple, yet, thoughtful and they can re-use the basket at a later date.

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This basket has a more feminine color palette with the pink and gold theme…it is perfect for your mom, aunt or friends. I believe most would appreciate these thoughtful goodies. This basket contains a gold tea tin filled with your favorite loose tea (see here for ideas), a gold tea infuser, mug, pink champagne truffles (order an extra one for yourself because they are divine!), bottle of wine, facial sheet mask and set of masks from Eves by Eves. All of the essentials for a little pampering!

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Once you return home, be sure to send a handwritten note thanking your host for their hospitality. You will certainly be considered an elegant guest who is always welcome!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 20.2017
Holiday Party Dresses

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Holiday Party Dresses

sThe fun continues! We still have a few weeks left of the holiday season…if you have an impromptu event that pops up or need some last minute outfit inspiration, we are highlighting three lovely holiday party dresses below. All are now on sale so happy shopping!

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This Black Halo Rumor Velvet Cocktail Dress is a perfect option for a cocktail party or evening out. The color block style has a rich black top and deep red skirt. Pair with your favorite sparkly jewelry and you are ready for a night out. Now on sale at www.saks.com.

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Velvet is the hottest trend this season and the options just keep coming…this gorgeous dress with beading is an excellent option for colder climates with its long sleeves. The luxurious blue color is an incredibly flattering shade on most complexions. Available at www.parkerny.com.

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This metallic dress is so much fun with its lurex fabric and swishy skirt. Now on sale and available at www.netaporter.com.

Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 17.2017