Style & Life – Page 20 – the elegant edit on fashion, beauty, and home

The Cellulite Battle

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The Cellulite Battle

While this topic is certainly not lovely or elegant, it is a topic that many women spend hours agonizing over. Unfortunately, I was not blessed with the “no cellulite gene” and so cellulite is something I am battling. And, so, I am always keeping an eye out for new products that may make a difference.

Obviously, healthy eating and exercise are the foundation of any beauty routine and essential for staying lean and fit. I am in the process of re-establishing my health and fitness routines. During pregnancy and after having my daughter, I have struggled to maintain the level of consistency but am continuing to improve every day. While I believe those are the most important things I can do for my health and appearance, I still am determined to improve this cellulite challenge so I am sharing three treatments I believe help cellulite and improve the overall appearance of my skin.

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DRY BRUSHING

There is a tremendous amount of skepticism about the effectiveness of dry brushing…regardless; I have grown to enjoy it as part of my pre-shower routine. Dry brushing is supposed to help cellulite because it improves vascular blood circulation and lymphatic drainage. Since I am unsure if that is happening, I do know that it is a great exfoliate and sheds dead skin cells, which is enough of a reason to continue. While painful when I first started, I have grown to enjoy dry brushing because my skin feels fresh and invigorated. Be sure to move in circular motions toward your heart. This Aromatherapy Associates Polishing Body Brush is made from natural cactus bristles. Available at www.aromatherapyassociates.com.

THE FASCIA BLASTER

A gimmick? I am an eternal optimist and so I am going to continue hoping this treatment is effective. Ashley Black, creator of the Fascia Blaster and author of The Cellulite Myth, has a number of videos and before/after images on her website. I have looked at these testimonials and am choosing to believe it is possible. This item is $89 and I actually find it so pretty with its white and rose gold color combination. I do feel the skin on my legs looks smoother…I use this pretty vigorously and have gotten some bruises that make me think this it is working. Available at www. ashleyblackguru.com.

BRAZILIAN BUM BUM CREAM

So, I might have gotten sucked into trying this cream because of the fun name and packaging…AND the large number of svelte and gorgeous Brazilian models. This product is made with guaraná, a native Amazonian plant whose fruit contains one of the most potent forms of caffeine on the planet. The cream also includes nourishing cupuaçu butter, antioxidant powerhouse açaí, and moisturizing coconut oil. This formula quickly absorbs and has a yummy pistachio caramel scent. Verdict is out, but I am going to keep trying to improve. Available at www.sephora.com.

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While no one is 100% certain about the effectiveness of these treatments, I believe they are worth a shot…especially since they are relatively affordable. Do you have favorite products, techniques or ideas? I would LOVE to hear them below!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 20.2017
Summer Sandal Edit

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Summer Sandal Edit

As the days are getting longer and vacations are being planned, it is time to think about your summer sandal options. One of the best parts about summer is the ease of dressing…there is nothing more carefree than throwing on a pair of fun sandals with a sundress or pair of shorts. There are a number of excellent options available this season and I have highlighted my favorites below. (starting from the top left corner, going across and then to the row beneath)

The Rebecca Minkoff Estelle Sandals are fun and fabulous with their brightly colored pom poms. Also in black. Available at www.rebeccaminkoff.com

Add a bit of glam with these gold Loeffler Randall Sandals…they are super versatile and will go with a variety of summer looks. Available at www.shopbop.com.

The Stuart Weitzman Edgeout Fringe Slide is a chic little denim sandal that looks great with shorts and slim pants. Available at www.neimanmarcus.com

An everyday essential, the Casablanca Leather Sandal by The Row features a super soft footbed and leather straps. Available at www.saks.com.

These multi colored Schutz Estelen Jeweled slides give a touch of global to your summer ensembles. Available at www.saks.com.

A tri colored metallic sandal in sumptuous leather by Ancient Greek Sandals is equal parts chic and comfortable. Available at www.neimanmarcus.com.

If you are want a bit of boho, the Joie Faina Crochet Sandal is what you need. Available at www.neimanmarcus.com.

Bold and bright, you can wear these fabulous Sophia Webster sandals with almost anything! Available at www.sophiawebster.com

These exquisite Elina Linardaki sandals are crusted with iridescent crystals and positively beautiful. Available at www.saks.com.

Clean and classic, these white Zoe Ancient Greek Sandals are an easy summer option. Available at www.saks.com.

With all of these choices, there should be something for everyone…happy sandal shopping!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 17.2017
Shoulder Statement

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Shoulder Statement

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What makes a sexy statement this season? Shoulders. Whether it be one shoulder, cold shoulder or off-the-shoulder…shoulders are the must have focus this season. Fortunately, shoulders are more forgiving than the midriff baring trend that started a few years back, flattering for most and create a pretty and romantic vibe.

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THE COLD SHOULDER

This Paige Henna Cold Shoulder Silk Top lends a boho vibe, works well with a light colored or white pair of denim or shorts. Available at www.nordstrom.com.

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OFF-THE-SHOULDER

Off-the-shoulder options abound this season, but my favorite is this gorgeous Joie Aria Striped Silk Dress. Despite the horizontal stripes, which are traditionally thought to be unflattering, the execution of the stripes on this dress are flattering and attractive on most body types. Available at www.saks.com.

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ONE SHOULDER

This lovely linen and rayon blend Santorini top by Backstage is a flattering and glamorous top with its ruffled hem. Be sure to order a size down as it runs a bit large. Available at www.revolve.com.

Update your wardrobe and be sure to show off your shoulders this season!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 15.2017
DIY Floral Arrangement

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DIY Floral Arrangement

I LOVE fresh flowers. They make any space feel more lovely and are the most elegant decor for entertaining. Fortunately, I have a husband who frequently comes home with flowers “just because” so we often have fresh flowers in our home. I find myself taking a mental break to just stop and enjoy their beauty.

When entertaining, flowers are one element you can easily add to your gathering that make it feel special. It can reinforce a color scheme or provide a pop of color.

If you are including a floral arrangement on a table where people will be eating, I STRONGLY encourage you to keep your arrangement low. There is nothing more annoying than moving and straining your neck while trying to converse with others.

Here are the basic steps in creating your own DIY Floral Arrangement.

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Step 1: Select your flowers…you can pick one type of flower in a monochromatic color or variety of flowers and colors. Have fun-the options are endless! For this arrangement, I chose to mix colors and the types of flowers. Here I am using a mix of roses, hydrangeas and peonies. Try to ensure one variety of the flowers you are using has leaves long enough to wrap around the base of your arrangement so you can hide the stems.

Step 2: Select a vase. I keep a few of these square vases (found at Amazon) on hand for last minute floral arrangements. If I have a separate appetizer or dessert table, I will add a coordinating arrangement (usually a bit taller). I will also add a small arrangement…even just a few roses in a small bud vase to the powder room.

Step 3: Measure how much you need to trim the stems of the flowers in order for the arrangement to be at the correct height. Cut the stems and be sure the arrangement is not so high that it will tip the vase over. If you are unsure, start by cutting less than you think you need as you can always cut more.

Step 4: Use thick rubber bands (I usually use 2-3) to keep all of the flowers together. You may have to adjust the position of the flowers

Step 5: Use a leaf to line the vase so that you do not see the stems.

Step 6: Place arrangement in vase, adjust as needed and then add water.

Not only does this make a beautiful centerpiece for your table, it also makes a lovely gift. Good luck creating your own DIY Floral Centerpiece!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

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Photography by Erica Dunhill Photography

f. 10.2017
Strawberry Rosé Sangria Recipe

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Strawberry Rosé Sangria Recipe

This light and fruity sangria recipe tastes as good as it looks. Easy to prepare and ideal for a brunch, shower or barbecue. Your guests will be asking for the recipe.

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Ingredients

1 bottle of Rosé

1 cup of strawberry vodka

2.5 cups of lemon lime soda

1/4 cup sugar

10 fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

Instructions

1. Combine wine, strawberry vodka and half of the strawberries in a large pitcher. Taste for sweetness and add sugar for desired sweetness.

2. Refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours and up to 6 hours

3. Just before serving, add the lemon lime soda and remaining strawberries. Stir gently.

4. Serve over ice and garnish with a strawberry.

source: www.jennifermeyering.com

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Strawberry Vodka Recipe

1.25 lbs strawberries

1 750 ml bottle of vodka

Rinse, hull and slice strawberries. Place in a glass container with a lid. Add vodka, shake to combine. Store in a cool, dark place for 3 to 7 days. Swirl once a day. Strain the mixture through muslin or cheesecloth. Store in a glass bottle or jar. Use and enjoy!

source: www.davidlebovitz.com

Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 8.2017
Necklace Layering Ideas

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Necklace Layering Ideas

Feeling the urge to update your everyday jewelry look? I receive a number of inquiries about the necklaces that I am wearing in almost all of my photos. I wear some combination of these necklaces almost every day and feel they add a feminine touch to my daily style.

To start, I wear the Tiny Pavé V and Solid Pavé Disc Necklaces from Adina Reyter. While delicate in appearance, they are high quality enough for daily wear since they are made from 14 karat gold with tiny diamonds. Then, I add a third for some novelty…and I mix it up based on whatever I am wearing. A heart, horn, gemstone…whatever I am feeling. Do not hesitate to mix metals…gold, silver and rose gold all complement each other. Be sure to make them different lengths so you can see all of them. You can do this easily by adding a necklace extender.

You can also add a longer style pendant necklace to the ensemble..sometimes I add a pendant when I am wearing my two “basics’ but sometimes I add it on top of three necklaces…I like how mixing the metals, shapes and lengths creates a unique look.

The great part about recreating this look is that there are plenty of options at all price points…I have inexpensive styles that are just as pretty. Shopbop has a nice selection of these necklaces…other designers that have delicate collections include Jennifer Zeuner, EF Collection, Jennifer Meyer and there are countless options on Etsy. These necklaces also make a lovely gift…with Mother’s Day approaching, this may be the perfect gift for mom. Adina Reyter has a sale that may make this the perfect time to invest in a gift…or yourself (wink, wink).

Use code MOM20 at checkout and receive 20% off your order, through 5.14.17 at www.adinadesign.com.

This post is not sponsored, just sharing some of my personal favorites.

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Bisous,

Rebecca

Rebecca Minkhoff top available at www.nordstrom.com.

Adina Reyter Necklaces available at www.adinadesign.com. able at

Photos by Erica Dunhill Photography

f. 7.2017
Style & Life’s Original Guacamole & Margarita Recipes

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Style & Life’s Original

Guacamole and Margarita

Recipes

Since Cinco de Mayo is Friday, I thought it was the perfect time to share my original guacamole and margarita recipes. I tried many different versions of both of these recipes and landed on the below, which receive rave reviews from friends and family. The ingredients and techniques are simple; the taste fresh and delicious. One essential tip for the guacamole is to ensure you use ripe avocados; otherwise, they will be difficult to mash and will not blend well with the other ingredients. In order to have uniform vegetables, I like to use the Vidalia Chop Wizard. It’s inexpensive and effective. The guacamole is not only delicious with tortilla chips, it can be added to salads, tacos or other dishes.

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ORIGINAL GUACAMOLE

Ingredients:

2 ripe Haas avocados

1 small tomato, seeded and diced

1 jalapeño, seeded and diced

1 small or ½ large sweet onion, diced

2 tablespoons of finely chopped cilantro

Juice of ½ lime

Sea salt to taste

Tortilla chips

Instructions:

Dice tomatoes, jalapeño, onion and place in bowl. Chop cilantro. Dice avocado and mash until smooth. Mix all ingredients together. Juice ½ of a lime and add sea salt to taste. Add more or less of any ingredient to your liking. Serve with tortilla chips

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LIGHTENED UP MARGARITA

Ingredients:

1 shot of tequlia blanco, I use Patron Silver

1/4 cup fresh lime juice

Agave Nectar

Sea Salt

Lime Wedges for garnish

Instructions:

Cut lime in half and rub on rim of glass. Put sea salt on a plate and dip rim of glass in the salt. Fill the glass with ice. Add ice, tequila, lime juice and agave to a cocktail shaker. Shake, pour and enjoy! If it is too tart, I sometimes add a splash of club soda or a little bit more tequila.

Happy Cinco de Mayo!

Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 2.2017
Luxurious Lashes by Hourglass Mascara

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Luxurious Lashes by Hourglass Mascara

There is nothing that makes me feel more feminine than long eyelashes so I am always looking for ways to enhance them. One revolutionary product I like is magnetic lashes from One Two Lash (click for post). However, mascara is a must and I am always looking for new options to try.

While on a trip to New York, I stumbled upon this Hourglass mascara while shopping at Barney’s…and could not resist trying. The gorgeous gold instrument was too pretty to resist. It has quickly become my favorite mascara. The Curator® Lash Instrument is extremely precise and allows you to evenly apply the mascara. The effect is super long lashes! The instrument allows you to get to the base of the lash line and create serious definition. You simply dip the instrument in the primer to apply and then the mascara. Hourglass has a helpful video to help you apply.

If you are looking to lengthen your lashes, give this Hourglass Mascara trio a try!

Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 28.2017
Classic Black and White

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Classic Black and White

They’re called classics for a reason…timeless, polished and always relevant. Black and white is a chic and easy color combination to wear because you usually have a plethora of shoes and accessories to complement. And if you don’t know what to wear, it is always a safe option. Some of my favorite classic black and white dresses from this Spring are featured below!

Need to run around in comfort and style on the weekend? This Soft Joie casual dress is easy to throw on with sneakers (like those featured in post Chic Sneakers ) for running errands or hanging at the park. Made from a soft and cozy jersey fabric, it almost feels like you are wearing pajamas. Available at www.saks.com.

This Diane Von Furstenberg Brenndah silk dress is as classic as it gets…a wrap dress silhouette in a black and white print. However, the side tie and asymmetric hem gives it a modern and feminine vibe. Available at www.revolve.com.

This fashion staple will never go out of style..the Annalisa LBD is a fitted ponte dress with trumpet hem. The style dresses up beautifully in the soft luxurious ponte fabric. Instead of wearing a pop of color with this dress, I opted to wear this beautiful black and white bracelet from Lele Sadoughi. Bracelet available at www.neimanmarcus.com. Dress available at www.shopbop.com.

Hope you find some new inspiration for this classic color combination this Spring!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 25.2017
A Moroccan Meal Inspired by Claudette New York

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A Moroccan Meal Inspired by Claudette New York

Over the course of my career, I have spent many, many days in New York. Deciding where to dine is always a challenge because there are so many fantastic restaurants. One of my favorite spots is Claudette in Greenwich Village. I have been there many times…they have a lovely, cozy vibe and offer delicious Provençal fare. I have tried a number of their dishes but my favorite three are the truffle hummus, Corsican mint salad and chicken tagine. The last time I visited, I decided I must learn how to prepare the chicken tagine. The dish is delicious but the tagine dish it is served in, is really the pièce de résistance. The print and shape is so unique that I simply could not resist. When I started researching recipes for this post, I was delighted to find some of Claudette’s recipes available online! I prepared and shared below. This is a perfect meal for a lazy Sunday when you want to cook with a nice glass of rosé and make your home smell of an amazing meal to come.

Truffle Hummus with Baked Pita Chips

INGREDIENTS

HUMMUS

1 can chickpeas, drained

1 clove garlic

2 tablespoons tahini

1/2 cup truffle oil, or 1/4 cup olive oil + 1/4 cup truffle oil for lighter truffle flavor

1/2 lemon, juiced

1 1/2 teaspoons salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

PITAS

4 pitas

2-3 tablespoons of olive oil

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon Herbs de Provence

2 tablespoons parmesan cheese

INSTRUCTIONS

Put all ingredients (but only half of the truffle oil to start) for the hummus into a food processor. Blend until smooth. Taste and either add the rest of the truffle oil or use olive oil instead if the truffle flavor is too strong. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

source: www.cookswithcocktails.com

Claudette Corsican Mint Salad

INGREDIENTS

SALAD

1 cup hearts of palm, sliced 1/4-inch thick

1 cup blanched haricots verts, cut in half

8 whole mint leaves

1 packed quart of baby arugula

Red Onion, thinly sliced

VINAIGRETTE

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

¼ cup champagne vinegar

1/2 cup mint oil

1 shallot, minced

Salt and pepper to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

In a bowl, whisk to combine the Dijon mustard, champagne vinegar, and minced shallot. Then slowly drizzle in the mint oil while whisking until emulsified. Season to taste. In another bowl, add the vegetables and drizzle in the vinaigrette. Toss to combine and evenly coat the vegetables. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

source: www.vogue.com

Chicken Tagine

I followed Koren Grieveson’s (chef at Claudette) footsteps and prepared the ingredients, then assembled in the tagine…although some recipes instruct you to cook in the tagine.

INGREDIENTS

BRINE

Warm Water

Olive Oil

Salt

Sugar

Mint Leaves

BULGAR

Bulgar Wheat

Chicken stock or water

TAGINE

Chicken Thighs (I recommend 1-2 per guest)

Garlic

Onion

Celery

Carrot

Zucchini

Eggplant

Swiss Chard

Chickpeas

Turkish Apricots

Dates

Golden Raisins

Mint Stems and Leaves

Fresh Orange Juice

Fresh Lemon Juice

Orange Slices

Cinnamon

Turmeric

Coriander

Slivered Almonds

INSTRUCTIONS

Brine: pour the warm water into a container that is twice the volume of the water. Pour in the salt, sugar, olive oil and mint leaves. Stir until the sugar and salt have dissolved, then allow the brine to cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for 2 to 24 hours.

Bulgar: Prepare the bulgar wheat according to directions, I prepared with chicken stock instead of water to give more flavour. Once finished, add to pan and sauté with olive oil.
Add eggplant, zucchini, Swiss chard and chickpeas; stir until softened. Add (one at a time) orange juice, lemon juice, orange slices, apricots, dates, raisins and a bit of brining solution until ingredients are softened.

Tagine: In a Dutch oven, sauté the garlic, onion, chicken and celery in olive oil until softened. Season with salt, pepper, cinnamon, turmeric and coriander to your liking. Add chicken stock or water. Separately, pan fry chicken in olive oil and, when finished, add to the onion, carrot and celery mixture and simmer for a few minutes.

Assembly: Add the bulgar wheat mixture to the tagine, layer in the chicken, garnish with almonds, mint leaves and orange slices. Serve and enjoy!

source: www.ny.eater.com (I used as a guide and have added my recommendations)

This gorgeous tagine dish and other options are available at williamssonoma.com.

Hope you and yours enjoy this delicious meal!

Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 23.2017