Style & Life – Page 9 – the elegant edit on fashion, beauty, and home

Tropical Print Accessories

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Tropical Accessories

Tropical prints are not only having their moment in clothing but also in accessories. The palm prints and rich textures in this little edit will infuse your basics with a pop of summer. These pieces are versatile and can be worn for the entire season…you may be surprised how easy it is to style them with your existing wardrobe.

A Fedora

Fedoras are a staple summer hat…they add that stylish touch to your ensembles and help protect your face from the sun.

The Printed Sandal

These gorgeous sandals steal the show with their pretty print and straw heel…pair with a little white dress, bamboo bag and you are ready for drinks with the girls.

A Printed Sneaker

These adorable palm printed Keds are a great way to add finesse to casual outfits. They are comfortable to wear while touring your summer destination of choice.

A Natural Sandal

A natural colored sandal will complement all of your tropical printed clothing perfectly…you will wear them over and over this season.

A Decorated Slide

Slides are having a moment in the sandal world and these are like jewelry for the feet. Pair with maxi dresses, shorts, slim pants…they will always steal the show.

The Bamboo Bag

As you have probably seen in a blog post or on Instagram…I have worn this bag constantly this spring. It is such a fun bag and always receives a ton of compliments.

Keep your look fresh and fun this summer with these tropical accessories.

Bisous,

Rebecca

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f. 20.2018
Warm Weather Tropical Prints

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Warm Weather Tropical Prints

Floral prints make me think of spring while tropical prints say summer. As the days continue to get warmer, make a splash with these bright and bold tropical prints. There are options everywhere…give them a try, they will put you in a vacation frame of mind.

This strapless silk dress has a rich tropical print that makes you want to order fruity cocktail. Perfect for a dinner date on all of your summer vacations. Available at www.saks.com.

It is always nice to pack a long sleeve top for your summer trips…the air conditioning can be freezing and this gorgeous top fits the bill. Pair with white or blue colored denim. Available at www.saks.com.

This lovely tropical print dress creates a romantic vacation vibe. It features a faux wrap and asymettric ruffled hem. Dress up with a heel or down with a wedge or espadrille. Now on sale at www.bloomingdales.com.

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Bisous,

Rebecca

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f. 18.2018
3 Tropical Cocktail Recipes

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3 Tropical Cocktail Recipes

If tropical printed clothing or accessories are not your thing, than maybe these tropical cocktail recipes will get you in mood for summer? These delicious recipes are perfect for a cocktail party or to enjoy after a day at the beach or in the pool. I found these gorgeous palm tree and pineapple glasses…they have a luxurious vibe because they have that slightly heavy, substantial feeling. Whip up one of these tropical cocktail recipes and enjoy!

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Coconut Margarita

Ingredients:

Coconut Ice Cube Ingredients:

1/2 cup coconut water
1/2 cup cream of coconut

Optional Rim Garnish:
lime wedges
sweetened shredded coconut
coarse rim salt

Coconut Margarita Ingredients:
1/2 cup tequila
1/3 cup freshly-squeezed lime juice
3 tablespoons freshly-squeezed orange juice
coconut ice cubes, see above

Instructions:

To Prepare Coconut Ice Cubes:
Whisk together the coconut water and cream of coconut in a mixing bowl until combined. Pour the mixture into ice cube trays, then freeze for 12 hours, or until frozen (cream of coconut does not always freeze completely). Keep frozen until ready to use.

To Rim The Glasses:
Run a lime wedge around the top of each glass until it the top 1/4-inch is moistened. Dip the glass in a bowl that has been filled with either shredded coconut and/or coarse rim salt (I used salt). Chill the glasses in the freezer for 5 minutes before filling with the margarita mixture. If your coconut is not sticking, you may need to pulse it a few times in a food processor until it is the consistency of coarse salt.

To Make The Coconut Margaritas:
Add all ingredients (including the coconut ice cubes) to a blender and pulse until combined. If needed, add simple syrup to sweeten…you can also add extra ice cubes (regular or more coconut ice cubes) to thicken the consistency. Pour into prepared glasses and serve immediately, garnish with an extra lime wedge on top.

source: www.gimmesomeoven.com

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Grapefruit Basil Smash

Ingredients:

1 ½ oz vodka (approximately one shot)

1 3/4 cups red grapefruit juice

fresh basil leaves

sugar (to taste)

square ice cube tray

Instructions:

Place a basil leaf in every cube of an ice cube tray, and fill each cube with grapefruit juice. Place tray in freezer to freeze overnight. Place glasses in the refrigerator to chill. In a cocktail shaker, mix vodka, sugar, and grapefruit juice. Fill each glass with grapefruit ice cubes, then pour in cocktail mixture. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a straw.

source: www.jacquelynclark.com

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Pineapple, Lime and Coconut Spritzer

Ingredients:

3 cups pineapple juice

2 cups coconut water

1/2 cup fresh lime juice

2 cups club soda

1/2 pineapple, cored and cut into spears

splash of rum

Instructions:

Combine the pineapple juice, coconut water, and lime juice in a large pitcher. Chill for 30 minutes or up to 12 hours. Just before serving, add the club soda. Serve over ice, garnished with a pineapple spear. Add a splash of rum, if desired.

source: www.realsimple.com

Cool off this summer with a tropical cocktail!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

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f. 16.2018
6 Tips for Brighter Eyes

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6 Tips for Brighter Eyes

Up late on a Netflix binge? Tossing and turning thinking about your to-do’s? Baby not sleep trained yet? Fear not, friends, we have solutions to help those tired eyes of yours look a little brighter. I have a two year old, full time job and a side hustle so I am regularly in need of some help and use these options often.

Jade Roller

I posted awhile back about my jade roller and it is really helpful for de-puffing the eye area. You simply use the smaller end and spend some time rolling it around the eyes…it reduces puffiness and helps your skin care products absorb better. Be sure to keep it in the refrigerator for a deeper cooling sensation. Available at www.sephora.com.

Eyelid Primer

This eyelid primer is water resistant and is effective in making your eye makeup last all day. There are several different shades available, and I like the blue tinted shade best because it makes the white of your eyes look brighter. Available at www.sephora.com.

Concealer

In order to cover dark circles and make your eyes pop, apply your concealer in a triangle shape below the eye and blend outward prior to applying your foundation. I like to use a foundation brush as it is more precise than a sponge. Concealer available at www.sephora.com, brush options linked below.

White Eyeliner

Applying white eyeliner at your waterline is another trick that will make your eyes pop. This NYX blend is creamy and easy to apply. Keep the line thin and it will be very subtle. I like to buy a few of these eyeliners and keep in my suitcase and handbag for easy touchups. Available at www.amazon.com.

Eye Cream

If your eyes are tired, there is nothing more essential than keeping the skin hydrated and healthy. I use Soveral Forever Young Eye Cream...it is “a silky cream full of cell regenerating oils of mandarin peel and frankincense combined with the antioxidant powers of vitamin E, honey extract and evening primrose make this cream a miracle worker on aging or tired eyes. The decongestive properties of mandarin peel also aids in minimizing puffiness and dark circles.” Um…yes, please. I apply and then use the jade roller over it. Available at www.netaporter.com.

Gel Patches

When I pull an all nighter, my eyes tend to burn so I will take 10-15 minutes to lay down and apply these gel patches. They contain caffeine and hydrolyzed collagen to give you that well rested glow. I also keep them in my travel bag as my skin gets dehydrated when traveling. Available at www.neimanmarcus.com.

Keep those eyes looking bright and beautiful with these easy tips!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

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f. 14.2018
A Delicious Frosé Recipe

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A Delicious Frosé Recipe

Nothing says summer like frosé (frozen rosé wine)…it is a refreshing treat and perfect for hot temperatures. Not to forget…it’s pretty, always a crowd pleaser and…my favorite part? It can be prepared in advance. If you are hosting a little soirée just whip up some apps and frosé and you are ready to entertain! I found this recipe on bonappetit.com and it is super simple to make. One difference in my preparation…I actually left the strawberries in the syrup for a few hours to give it more flavor.

Ingredients

1 bottle rosé wine

½ cup sugar

8 ounces strawberries, hulled, quartered

2½ ounces fresh lemon juices

Instructions

Pour rosé into a 13×9″ pan and freeze until almost solid (it won’t completely solidify due to the alcohol), at least 6 hours.

Meanwhile, bring sugar and ½ cup water to a boil in a medium saucepan; cook, stirring constantly, until sugar dissolves, about 3 minutes. Add strawberries, remove from heat, and let sit 30 minutes (or a few hours, as I did) to infuse syrup with strawberry flavor. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a small bowl (do not press on solids); cover and chill until cold, about 30 minutes.

Scrape rosé into a blender. Add lemon juice, 3½ ounces strawberry syrup, and 1 cup crushed ice and purée until smooth. Transfer blender jar to freezer and freeze until frosé is thickened (aim for milkshake consistency), 25–35 minutes.

Blend again until frosé is slushy. Divide among glasses. Serve. Toast. Enjoy!

Do Ahead: Rosé can be frozen 1 week ahead.

Source: www.bonappetit.com

I hope you and your friends enjoy this delicious summer treat!

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Bisous,
Rebecca

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f. 13.2018
Dress Up in Black and White

Dress Up in Black and White

Last week’s posts were all about fitness wear and this week we are dressing up with a winning color combination. One of my first jobs as a buyer was working for White House Black Market…we wore black and white every day and, since then, I have enjoyed the color combination because it is easy to coordinate, always looks polished and the styles tend to be timeless. Even with a closet, packed with black and white clothing, I always like to add a few pieces each season to incorporate the latest details.

This asymmetric ruffle midi dress is a lovely dress that will work for a variety of occassions…charity event, wedding or another summer occassion. While the black and white color combination is classic…the ruffle detail and midi silhouette keep updated with this season’s style. Now on sale at www.bloomingdales.com.

If you need a new pair of black pants, give these ruffled cropped pants a try…they are flirty and flattering. I paired with this gorgeous silk camisole and voila…a winning combination. Camisole available at www.intermixonline.com and pants available at www.bloomingdales.com.

This little black dress is a pretty update…the ruffles and lace make it an incredibly feminine dress, perfect for a hot little date. Just add the blush clutch…available at www.revolve.com.

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Stay chic this summer and update your wardrobe with fresh new black and white styles.

Bisous,
Rebecca

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f. 10.2018
Functional and Fashionable Fitness Accessories

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Functional and Fashionable Fitness Accessories

To finish the workout series we have focused on for the past week, we will end with these functional and fashionable fitness accessories. These items aid your workouts while being stylish at the same time. Starting from left to right…

The sleek Sweaty Betty Hat fits snugly on the head. It is perfect for long summer walks because it dries quickly…it also has reflective elements to improve visibility. Available at www.sweatybetty.com.

This blush colored glass water bottle is wrapped in a silicon to prevent breaks and matches every look in this fitness series perfectly. Available at www.revolve.com.

For the nights you want to unwind after a tough workout, try this Pursoma After the Class Bath Soak. It is made with mineral and essential oils that will soothe your muscles and relax your mind. Available at www.revolve.com.

This Om World spray is perfect to keep in your gym bag or car for moments when you want to refresh your state of mind. Simply spray over your entire body and you will find your state of zen. Available at www.revolve.com.

These spiral hair toggles keep your hair perfectly in place. I like them because they don’t get tangled in my hair. Available at www.sweatybetty.com.

This gorgeous backpack is trimmed with rose gold zippers and is the perfect size…it is large enough to fit the essentials but not so large that you overstuff and make too heavy. It also accommodates a yoga mat at the bottom. Available at www.sweatybetty.com.

This Bandolier iPhone case allows you to keep your essentials with you while leaving your hands free. The snapback cover allows you to carry cash and cards in addition to your phone. Available at www.nordstrom.com.

Unfortunately, these Nike shoes are now sold out but check out this amazing option. Available at www.norstrom.com.

You should now have a ton of new ideas on how to hit the gym in style! Hope you enjoyed this series, I had so much fun creating it. Stay healthy and strong, friends.

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Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 6.2018
Mid Year Fitness Check-In

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Mid Year Fitness Check-In

It hit me last week that it is almost June. JUNE…by the end, it will be the halfway point of 2018. I am not sure where the time goes but it is going. Which prompted me to check the goals I set at the beginning of the year to measure my progress.

I am making improvements in all of the areas I wanted…except self care. Somehow, I am still putting myself lower on the list of priorities than I should. Consistent workouts are still a goal…as are weekly spa nights and inspirational reading. That being said, I am determined to figure it out…and what better way to give yourself some motivation than new workout clothes?!

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It is hard to see clearly but this is the most amazing shirt…it says “No Pain, No Champagne”! Talk about workout motivation…the sports bra and reversible leggings are chic with the black, white and blush color palette. Available at www.sweatybetty.com.

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I was super apprehensive about these blush colored leggings but the fabric is absolutely amazing. It is thick and has a nice, smoothing effect, making these leggings incredibly comfortable. The mesh tank is lightweight and perfect for warm weather workouts. Outfit and water bottle available at www.revolve.com. Similar shoes available at www.neimanmarcus.com.

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Even when the weather is warm, you cannot beat a cozy sweatshirt for post-workout wear…this one will not disappoint as it is lightweight and super soft. These cropped leggings keep the look light. Sweatshirt, sports bra and leggings available at www.sweatybetty.com. Shoes available at www.hibbet.com.

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Hope these new additions give your summer workouts an extra boost!

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Bisous,
Rebecca

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f. 29.2018
Fun Fitness Find: Sexy Sweaties

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Fun Fitness Find: Sexy Sweaties

With workout wear being as fashionable as it is functional, it is no wonder that most of us are totally comfortable running a few errands after hitting the gym or a yoga class. However, you probably don’t feel fresh after sweating…but who really wants to take the time to remove leggings, socks and shoes? Certainly not most women I know…we are all too busy juggling!

Enter Sexy Sweaties. This fabulous little invention solves any post-workout-lack-of-freshness concerns. Their tagline “Workout to Wherever in Two Snaps” is absolutely genius. Just snap off the panties, place them in the mesh bag (it comes with them) and you are set. The best part is that you don’t have to sacrifice style…these panties are as pretty as they are practical.

Available at www.sexysweaties.com.

Bisous,
Rebecca

f. 28.2018
DIY Eyelash Treatment

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DIY Eyelash Treatment

Coconut oil is a favorite product of mine….not only can you cook with it but it can be used for a number of beauty treatments (see skin care post here and hair care post here). Another way I like to use it is to remove eye makeup and as a conditioner for my eyelashes. Between mascara and false eyelashes, they need a little TLC from time to time. Being a bit of a beauty junkie, I have tried a number of eye makeup removers and, by far, coconut oil is just as effective as anything I have purchased.

You can use it straight out of the jar, but I wanted to find a way to travel with it and so I found these nice little applicators on Amazon. I use fractionated coconut oil so that it will pour into the applicator (it is also great as a skin moisturizer). To create this hydrating little treatment, simply open the applicator, add 1-2 drops of lemon essential oil, 1-2 drops of lavender essential oil and fill the rest with the fractionated coconut oil. Apply carefully to your eyelashes to remove makeup or before bedtime if you just want a hydrating lash treatment.

Keep those lashes gorgeous with this luxurious little treatment for your lashes.

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Bisous,

Rebecca

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f. 23.2018