Friday, September 30, 2011

Friday Foodday

We made it lovebugs! Happy Friday to all of you!

Jalapeno Popper Buffalo Chicken Macaroni 
c/o Lauren's Latest 
 Ingredients
4 slices of bacon
2 tablespoons bacon grease {reserved from said bacon}
1/2 large onion, diced {about 1 1/4 cups}
2 jalapenos, sliced {ribs and seeds removed}
1 pound elbow macaroni
for the sauce-
4 tablespoons butter
5 tablespoons all purpose flour
2 cups milk {whole or 2% please}
1/4 cup heavy cream
salt & pepper, to taste
1 pinch nutmeg
2 ounces cream cheese
1 tablespoon hot sauce
2 1/2 cups grated cheddar cheese
1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated provolone
1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles
1 cup precooked and shredded chicken {optional}
for the topping-
1 cup corn flakes, crushed
1/3 cup blue cheese crumbles
{cooked bacon, as listed above}

Directions

In a large skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Remove from pan, drain on paper towels and crumble. Pour off excess bacon drippings, keeping 2 tablespoons in the pan. Place skillet back on heat and saute onion and jalapenos until soft, about 6 minutes over medium heat. Set aside.
Bring large pot of water to boil. Salt water generously and cook pasta 2 minutes short of package directions. You want the macaroni to be very al dente, but not still crunchy. Drain and set aside.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. whisk in flour and cook 1-2 minutes. Whisk in milk, cream, salt, pepper and nutmeg. Increase heat to medium high and continue mixing until sauce thickens. Remove from heat. Stir in cream cheese and hot sauce until melted smoothly into the sauce. Pour cooked pasta and sauteed onions and jalapenos into the sauce. Stir to coat. Stir in cheeses and chicken. Pour into a buttered baking dish {9×9, 9×13, or somewhere in between should be good} and spread out evenly. Top with blue cheese, corn flakes and crumbled bacon. Bake 20-30 minutes until top of macaroni has browned. Remove from oven, top with parsley and serve hot.

Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
c/o Skinny Taste
 
Ingredients
  • seeds from a pumpkin
  • olive oil spray
  • kosher salt
Directions
Remove the seeds from the pumpkin, and clean off any pumpkin debris.

Wash the seeds and lay them out on a baking sheet overnight to dry.

The next day, pre-heat the oven to 250°. Spread the seeds out evenly and lightly spray with olive oil spray and season with salt to taste.

Roast the seeds in the oven until the seeds become golden brown, about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Let them cool and enjoy!

Carmel Apple Cheesecake
c/o Annie Bakes
Ingredients

1 (21 ounce) can apple pie filling
1 (9 inch) graham cracker crust
1 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese-at room temperature
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 eggs
1/4 cup caramel topping

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Reserve 3/4 cup of the apple pie filling;  set aside.  Spoon the remaining filling into the crust.  Beat together the cream cheese, sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.  Add the eggs and mix well.  Pour over the pie filling.

Bake for 30 minutes, or until the center is set.  Cool to room temperature.

Mix the reserved pie filling and caramel topping in a saucepan and heat for about 1 minutes, or until spreadable.  Spoon the apple-caramel mixture over the top of the cheesecake and spread evenly.  Refrigerate the cake until ready to serve. 

Thursday, September 29, 2011

Loafers

I'm a sucker for loafers.  Maybe it's the private school girl in me but there is something about them that exudes preptastic amazingness.  But there is a way to dress them up to look not so grade school.

Nordstrom, Magdesians January Flat, $59
I really love the studs mixed with the tassels, girly and masculine at the same time.


Wanted Shoes, Carlton in Tiger, $49
These are sophistication central.  Skinny jeans, black pants, you name it.

Need Supply, Marcel Loafer, $69
Wow.  Sleek.  The lines on this loafer are perfect.

I'm going to be honest, I usually do pretty well restraining myself from purchasing items that I post.  This might not be one of those times.  Wow. I'm in love.  I'd wear these with pearls or a black mini and eyeliner.



So, loafer don't always need to be prep school chic! No pennies were hurt in the making of this post!

Be fabulous today!

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Punchy Bags

Hey there lovebugs, today I'm really loving bags that have some punch.  I'm talking color.  Something that makes an impact with its hue.

Modcloth, Birch Beer Bag, $59
Vintage inspired and perfect for running around on a Saturday!


Target, Bueno Travel Bag, $39
Loving this golden color for a travel bag and the shape reminds me of a bowling bag.


Forever 21, Colorblock Clutch, $17
Ooo, girl get your heels on! We're going out!

I really like the slouchy effect on this bag, and the double handle is nice too.

Sometimes its the hardware that makes the bag, or the shape or size.  For me sometimes you just need a great punch of color.

Be fabulous today!

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

Rugby

It's rare that I do an entire post on one brand but I wanted to take a moment to highlight a great brand to buy from for Fall.  Rugby.  While I'm lucky enough to have a store in Georgetown, you can still reap the benefits of this preppy meets casual cool store online.  Here are some of my favorites.

I really love the rugby shirt inspired sleeves and stripe.  I think is easy to dress up or down.


This classic vest is a great reinterpretation with the shag.  I would skinny belt it and add a long necklace.

Rugby, Open Diamond Tight, $22
Yum.  I am loving these for work with a pencil skirt.

I love a solid framed clutch because it has structure. This one is really special because its a feminine take on masculine leather and pattern.

Rugby has quality pieces that you can integrate into your wardrobe and reuse with old pieces.  That's what Ralph Lauren is all about; making every piece of your closet work for you and make you feel beautiful and classic everyday.  

Be fabulous today!

Monday, September 26, 2011

Gold Details

Happy Monday lovebugs.  I don't know about you but this weekend seemed a day too short.  I hope yours was enjoyable!

Today I want to zero in on one of my favorite details- gold.  When I wear gold I feel like a lady because my mom always wore gold and growing up this metal is what I equated with maturity, class and elegance.

Gold jewelry would be an easy post, but I'm getting more specific.  Gold hardware. Belt buckles, buttons, etc.

Rebecca Minkoff, Brooke Sandal, $99
These gold buckles add just the right amount of bling to these otherwise sassy heels.


Wow.  The gold detail right by the shoulder, just wow.

Aldo, Teem, $55
Ok Aldo, this is Cole Haan meets Birkin meets Kors, well done.

Michael Kors, Light Brown Leather Studded Cuff, $53
Motorcycle hard and sophisticated chic.

I really love gold details because it grounds an outfit.  Gold details give any outfit the class that you always envy your mother for.

Be fabulous today!

Friday, September 23, 2011

Friday Foodday

It's Friday! What are you up to this weekend? Hopefully you can use some of these recipes!

Baked Eggplant Sticks
c/o SkinnyTaste 
 Ingredients
10 oz eggplant
1 tsp olive oil
1/2 tsp kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper
1/2 cup Italian Seasoned breadcrumbs
2 tbsp parmesan cheese
1 large egg white
oil spray
1 cup quick marinara sauce for dipping

Directions
Preheat the oven to 450°. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and lightly spray with oil.

Cut ends off the eggplant. Slice eggplant in half, then into 1/4 inch thick slices. Lay each slice on the cutting board and cut into 1/4 inch strips. Be sure to cut all the strips the same size so they cook evenly.  Place eggplant strips in a bowl and season with olive oil, salt and pepper. Set aside.  Combine breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese in a bowl, and egg whites in another.  Dip a few strips of eggplant at a time into the egg whites, then into the breadcrumbs. Using a fork, remove eggplant from crumbs and place on the baking sheets. Spray with more oil and bake 10 minutes in the middle rack.   Turn over and bake an additional 5 minutes, or until golden. Serve hot.

Thai Chicken Bites
c/o Stephanie Cooks
Ingredients
3/4-1 pound chicken tenders, diced in chunks
1/2 cup flour
1/2 tsp garlic powder
salt and pepper
1 egg
2 tbsp milk
Vegetable oil for frying
1/3 cup sweet chili sauce


Directions
1- Pour oil into the bottom of a non-stick skillet, about 1/2" to 1" deep.
2- In a small bowl combine the flour, garlic powder, and salt and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3- In a separate bowl combine the egg and milk, beating well to combine.
4- Dip the chicken first in flour, than egg mixture, than flour. Repeat until all chicken is coated.
5- Lightly fry until all chicken is cooked. Drain on paper towel and season with salt.
6- Toss gently with the sweet chili sauce. Serve hot.

Bacon Wrapped Blue Cheese
c/o Lauren's Latest
 Ingredients
2 large chicken breasts {boneless, skinless}
5 slices hickory smoked bacon
1/3 cup blue cheese crumbles
3 tablespoons BBQ sauce and  a splash of water to thin it out
 
Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place cooling rack over baking sheet and spray lightly with non stick cooking spray and set aside.
On a large cutting board, slice bacon strips into 4 sections to get 20 small slices. Cut two chicken breasts into 20 bite-sized pieces.
To assemble, place a scant teaspoon of blue cheese on top of a piece of chicken. Place a strip of bacon on top of the blue cheese and stretch it around the piece of chicken, securing it with a toothpick. It’s fine if the bacon doesn’t stretch the entire way around! Place on baking rack, with the blue cheese facing up.
In a small bowl, mix bbq sauce with a little water to thin it out and baste the chicken bites. Place into preheated oven and bake 15 minutes. For crispier bacon, switch the oven to broil and cook until desired crispiness is attained. You may have to flip your chicken bites to crisp up all sides. Remove from oven and serve. 

Thursday, September 22, 2011

Etsy Browsing

Hey lovebugs,
We haven't done an Etsy post in some time.  Let's see what lovely things are popping up there lately.

Sunshine and Carousels, Miss Joan Mustard Yellow Headband, $12
I really love this color for fall, and you don't even have to ask about the bow.

So cute, I love the sleeves and the polka dots are so flashy.

Old School Farm, Vintage Beaded Black Purse, $32
Wow, this is so special.  Like perfect special occasion bag or dress up your jeans.

Allison Mooney, Duzy Spirit Quarts Pendant, $85
This is going to look amazing with a sweater this winter.


What are some of your favorite Etsy shops?  I love browsing around there, especially around the holidays.

Be fabulous today!

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Peplum

I love a structure variation on a blouse, and peplum tops fit the bill.  I like them because they add flair without color or pattern, just by their design.

How fun is this top? I love this for a Friday night with a long lariat necklace.

Forever 21, Wrap Peplum Top, $17
Great pattern, I would also wear this under a suit.

Anthropologie, Tucked Peplum, Tank, $88
I'm picturing Michelle Obama in this top.  Just so classy!

I like the boho feeling of this blouse, something very airy about it.

Will you be trying the peplum top this fall?  I really like it because it's super feminine.

Be fabulous today!

Tuesday, September 20, 2011

Bling and Decadence

Sometimes a girl just wants to feel luxurious.  And whether she does that with a big earring or a satin pump, there are ways to dress up and feel decadent without breaking the bank.  Here are some of my picks.

This shoe reminds me of a Kate Spade heel but a little less painful on the wallet.


Ok stay with me, picture this on the lapel of your navy schoolboy blazer, a white silk tie blouse and skinny jeans. Instant class and vintage.

Modcloth, Swing me around skirt, $60
Now that is a skirt.  Va Voom.

White House Black Market, Plum Structured Bag, $88
This is fabulous, I love the handle, remind me of a man's briefcase.


So what do you wear when you want to feel decadent? Velvet, sequins, black?

Be fabulous today!

Monday, September 19, 2011

Camel and Some News

Happy Monday to you lovebugs!  I hope you had a wonderful weekend.  Mine was a little extra special then normal because The BF and I got a new puppy!  His name is Norman and he is such a love.  If you want to check out pictures, you can look at my Twitter feed.

Now onto fashion.  I'm really loving camel right now because it's such a great transition color into the fall season.

The prepster in me is always a sucker for cable knit.  And this wool blend is perfect for work or play.


SO worth the price tag. The seaming on the bust is just perfection.

Nordstrom, Halogen belted skirt, $78
I love this skirt for a couple reasons: one, it's lined which reflects quality, two the sailor-inspired buttons, three the versatility in changing out the belt.

I'm usually not loving a square toe pump but this heel has a Mad Men feel to it doesn't it?

Camel is so easily dressed up or down, and it comes in so many color variations that their is a shade for everyone.

Be fabulous today!

Friday, September 16, 2011

Friday Foodday!

Happy Friday lovebugs!
Here are some of my favorite recipes from this week!

Ultimate Veggie Dip
c/o Kitchen Bellicious
Ingredients
  • 8 ounces of Monterrey pepper jack cheese
  • 1 cup pitted and finely diced Kalamata olives
  • 2 ounces of diced green chiles
  • 5-6 marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
  • 1 bunch of green onions, chopped
  • 1 can rotel, slightly drained
  • 1 tsp Italian dressing
  • ½ tsp fresh lime juice
  • Pinch of salt and pepper
  • ½ tsp fresh chives, finely chopped 
Directions
In a large bowl combine all ingredients including the hot sauce. Serve immediately or refrigerate until game time.


Roasted Vegetable Stromboli
c/o Stephanie Cooks 
  Ingredients
2 cups roasted vegetables* (see below for details)
1 batch pizza dough
1 cup mozzarella cheese
2 tsp olive oil
1/4 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Tomato sauce

Directions
1- Preheat the oven to 450 with a pizza stone in the oven (if you don't have one just cook it on a baking sheet).
2- Roll out your pizza dough into a long rectangular/oval shape.
3- Using a pizza cutter, start on the right side of the dough and slice 1/3 of the way in, making 1 inch slits down the side. Keep going until the whole side is covered in 1 inch slits. Repeat on the left hand side, also 1/3 of the way in.
4- Spoon the vegetable onto the 1/3 of the dough in the center. Top with the cheese.
5- Start at the top, take one slit from the right and fold it over the center. Repeat with the dough slit directly opposite. Keep repeating until the dough is "braided" and covering the filling.
6- In a small bowl combine the oil, salt, and garlic powder. Brush over the dough.
7- Transfer to the stone. Bake 15 minutes or until golden.
8- Slice and serve with hot marinara sauce.

* Roasting veggies- I used 2 zucchini, 1/2 a head of broccoli, a handful of baby carrots, 1 pint of cherry tomatoes, and a green pepper. I diced them, drizzled with olive oil, and cooked about 30-40 minutes, stirring halfway through, at 375. For this recipe I smashed the tomatoes so they were flat, but that step isn't necessary. Use any veggies you want. This yielded a lot of veggies, enough for two meals.

 Zucchini Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
c/o Annie Bakes
Ingredients (cake)
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup agave nectar (all natural sugar substitute)
1 cup canola oil
3 eggs
2 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons baking soda
2 teaspoons cinnamon
3 cups grated fresh zucchini 


Directions
Preheat oven to 325 degrees.  Spray a 13 x 9 baking pan with non-stick cooking spray.  In an electric mixer, combine all ingredients and mix until well blended.  Pour into the greased dish.  Bake fore 45 minutes or until a toothpick in the center comes out clean.


Ingredients (frosting)
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 cups powdered sugar


Directions
Using a hand mixer, mix all ingredients until they are the consistency that you like, then spread over the cake

Thursday, September 15, 2011

Patriots

It's the last day of football week on the blog. What did you think?  I like using these colors for inspiration because they are so saturated and bright, no pastels, no neons, just hard color.

Today's post is for the Patriots.  A little red, a little blue with some hints of white inbetween.

Converse, Jack Purcell CP Navy, $55
I love my jack purcells. They're perfect for weekends and running around the city.  You can throw them in the washing machine and they will look as good as new.


J Crew, Silk Camisole, $39
You can never have enough of the basics, and this red silk cami you will wear year round for many years to come.

I'll admit, I've spent money on Citizens jeans and they're great, but Gap will always be my go to for any style of denim.

Old Navy, Helmet Tee, $19
I love a soft, comfy, throw back tee like this.

Blue and red doesn't always have to scream Fourth of July.  Break it up to make an outfit pop with red or grounded with navy.

Be fabulous today!

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Blue and Yellow

Hey lovebugs,
As you know it's football colors week here on TCB.  I'm going through my favorite teams and using their uniform colors for inspiration.  Today we're talking blue and yellow for the West Virginia Mountaineers.  The BF loves college football, where I'm more of an NFL girl, but his fave team is West Virginia.

Oh this design is so special, the dress is soft and feminine without being overly sweet.


Shabby Apple, Bellissima, $78
I think you could get a few more wears out of this sunshine-y dress before it gets chilly.  I might even pair it with some brown flat knee high boots.

The zipper front is different and interesting, I like the stripes too.

Zara, V-neck jumper, $16
Simple and classic, great v neckline, and just lovely for fall.

Blue and yellow is classic.  It can be considered preppy or even nautical, but when worn correctly it is crisp and professional too.

Be fabulous today.

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Green and White

Today is my hometown team, the Philadelphia Eagles.  Philly fans are notoriously bad but hey, I think it's part of their charm.  I also love their colors: green and white.  White jewelry or a crisp white button down shirt mixed with a deep green.

I love Jess LC because she is a girl on a mission to do what she loves and make it her job.


The way these shorts lay so flat on the body makes them very attractive, because they had the potential to be a puffy mess.

Classic, crisp, and just perfect for any occasion.

Modcloth, Four-est Square Dress, $44
This is to be worn while drinking a Manhattan or something equally retro and chic.

I love a good, deep green, it's saturated and decadent, and you mixed with white, it really pops.  

Be fabulous today!