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.
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
1poundchicken breasts pounded to 1/2 inch thickness
2tablespoonsolive oil
1teaspoonchili powder
1/2teaspoonground cumin
1/2teaspoonsmoked paprika
1/2teaspoononion powder
1/2teaspoongarlic powder
3/4teaspoonsalt
1/4teaspoonpepper
1teaspoonbrown 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
1medium avocado
1/2cupsour cream
2tablespoonsmayonnaise
1tablespoonlime juice
1/2teaspoonsalt
1/4teaspoonground cumin
1/4teaspoongarlic 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
1/2ripe pineapple, trimmed and sliced
1large red bell pepper, seeded and quartered
1/2small red onion, peeled and cut in half
1whole jalapeno
1/2cuploosely packed cilantro, finely chopped
1tablespoonlime juice
1/4teaspoonground ginger
1/4teaspoonground cumin
salt and pepperto taste
olive oil
Dice the pineapple, bell pepper, red onion, jalapeñoand 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!
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.
Hands down, popcorn is my favorite snack. It is our family tradition to pop a batch every time we watch a movie. While I usually prepare a classic popcorn with a touch of butter and sea salt, there are times when I like to spice it up and make my truffle parmesan popcorn recipe. If you want an easy and elegant bite to nosh on with friends, whip up a batch in under 10 minutes and cozy up with friends over a glass of wine.
Ingredients
Organic Popcorn
Butter
White Truffle Oil
Sea Salt
Black Pepper
Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated or pre-grated as shown above)
sTo start, I pop two to three bowls of popcorn using the Presto Popper. I like to put all of the popcorn in a large bowl and then pour melted butter over it (approximately 1-1.5 tablespoons). Then I drizzle approximately 1/4-1/2 tablespoon of white truffle oil over the top. Sprinkle parmesan, freshly ground sea salt and black pepper, toss to distribute evenly. Serve and enjoy!
Polka dots have been on the style horizon for the past couple of seasons…I covered this trend last year and continue to see more styles when I am shopping. One thing I have noticed this season is that the size of the polka dots is increasing which keeps this trend fresh. These pretty polka dot styles will keep your spring style spot on! This polka dot skirt is cute and casual. I chose to dress it down with a casual tee and sneakers but you could also dress it up with a nice heel and the coordinating top. Skirt and sneakers available at www.bloomingdales.com, top available at www.express.com.
I rarely think of polka dots being chic but this outfit is incredibly sophisticated. The pleated pants make your legs look miles long and the top is a nice feminine compliment. Pants available at www.saks.com and top is available at www.bloomingdales.com.This wrap dress is a find…it can be dressed up with heels or down with sneakers or ankle boot. The fit is exceptionally flattering. Available at www.nordstrom.com.
When I look at my closet (which is organized by color), there are three colors that have significantly more styles in them than the others…two are not really colors since they are black and white but the one color I cannot seem to stop buying is blush. Blush has become a staple…it is elegant, chic and versatile. It is also flattering on my, and almost all, skin tones. Here are a few items in my current blush crush.
This chic little wrap dress is a favorite for work…it is easy to style since it pairs well with black accessories. The best part..it’s now on sale! Available at www.nordstrom.com.
This blush lace dress has a bit of a boho vibe and because of the long sleeves you can wear it year round. Available at www.nordstrom.com.
This cold shoulder top is an instant classic…you can dress it up or down and it always creates a graceful appearance. Available at www.nordstrom.com.
Easter baskets are loved by kids but wouldn’t it be nice to receive a basket filled with goodies YOU would enjoy? If you want to surprise your significant other, family member or host with a thoughtful Easter basket…look no further, we have curated fun adult baskets that should give you some ideas on what to include.
For “her” adult basket, I used a bottle of champagne as the base…you can never go wrong with a nice bottle of champagne. I added shower gel, perfume, hand cream, sheet masks, Iphone cover and mini emergency kit. All of these items will be used and appreciated by the recipient as they may be things that she likes but does not want to buy for herself.
For “his” adult basket, I followed a similar strategy and used a bottle of Johnnie Walker Red as the base…I added a muddler, cocktail strainer, Guinness Chips and some chocolate.
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Have fun and customize your adult basket with gifts your family or friends will enjoy and have a Happy Easter!
Easter is around the corner as is the season of weddings, graduations, showers and a variety of other parties…so if you are in need of a new dress for your Spring occasions, we are highlighting some lovely options. Blush is always a favorite color of mine to feature as I feel it is flattering on most skin types and the grey option below felt fresh. Pair with a statement earring, simple sandals, your favorite clutch and you are set!
This floral print dress creates a sophisticated vibe but the flirty skater silhouette keeps it from being too serious. The pockets are an added bonus…perfect for storing your lip gloss. Available at www.nordstrom.com.
I have not hosted Easter for a few years so I am excited to be hosting this year. I have decided I want my table to have a clean and elegant feel. As mentioned in my Musco Olives post, I will be serving lunch and will be starting with a cheese and charcuterie platter and then serving a Greek inspired menu.
I found this pretty collection of plates at Williams Sonoma. What I like that they can be mixed and matched. I got the bunny dip bowls to use for olives and candies and focused on using the butterfly pattern for everything else. These butterfly pieces can be used for a number of occasions other than Easter…a birthday, shower, Mother’s Day, so they are versatile enough to make the investment.
The pink cake stand is something inexpensive I found at Target but have linked another one here and a few others below. The gold rimmed plates, bowls and glasses came from West Elm. These pretty egg cakes came from Fresh Market…which tasted as good as they look. For floral arrangement ideas see this DIY post.
Whether you are celebrating Easter or another Spring occasion, these pieces will create a beautiful table your guests will love and will make memories that will last.
Crisp and classic…navy and white is a color combination that never disappoints. It is polished, pretty and gives you that always-pulled-together style. It also is easy to accessorize…I chose to use neutral accessories for this post but feel free to add a pop color like red or yellow because the options are endless!
Figure flattering on almost everyone, this wrap top is a must. Pair with white or blue denim your look will be elevated immediately. Available at www.nordstrom.com.
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