Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Smoking Loafer

I'm a sucker for a great flat given that I don't have a car. I walk everywhere so the more comfortable and cuter the better.  I love the new trend, the smoking loafer, it's chic and simple and goes with just about anything.

Steve Madden, Chaufer, $79
Oh hi there perfection, please get in my closet right now.

American Apparel, Velvet Tassel Loafer, $75
These come in black and olive, but I'm picture the navy with a great paid of wool shorts with tights.

Sam Edelman, Alvin, $97
These babies just went on sale, get them while you can!!!

Absolutely the best price out there. These red beauties would be fabulous with some black skinny jeans.

I love smoking loafers because they're masculine yet can be styled very girly.

Be fabulous today!

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Buffalo Plaid


Hey lovebugs! What did you think of Capital Ken! Please make him feel welcome around here. I hope he was helpful with gift ideas for the Ken in your life.

Today I thought we would look at one of my favorite patterns: buffalo plaid. It's a larger plaid that is perfect for winter.



Modcloth, Kilting me softly, $62
I love this for fall. What a beautiful full skirt with excellent attention to detail.

What a fantastic price for a heavy Tulle coat. I love the wide collar.

  Definitelynot how I would style this shirt, I'm picturing a cami underneath and half buttoned shirt!


Tinley Road, Buckle Front Cape, $89
I like the idea of a cape, but it's really something you have to love the shape and color. This is very elegant and simple.

I love plaid for winter because it's kind of burly but comfy at the same time. Tartan offers a little more structure with the width of the plaid; whereas buffalo plaid is a much more casual pattern.

Be fabulous today!

Monday, November 28, 2011

New Series: Capital Ken


Please welcome my new Capital Ken! He will be posting the next few Mondays to help with your holiday shopping for your man!


Hello, I’m Kelsey’s friend, Jeff, from Philadelphia and thrilled to be “guesting” on Kelsey’s Blog. It is an honor to be a part of her holiday series on shopping for the men in your life. If you like this first one, please let her know, and maybe I’ll be invited back! This first one is all about winterizing with the right accessories.


You may not be comfortable buying shoes for your man, but consider an exception. Ankle boots are everywhere and you wouldn’t want your man left out in the cold without them, now would you?




Georgio Brutini, Ankle Boot, $80.99
These are great “go-to” boots for so many occasions… the perfect mix of dressed –up casual.



GBX, Ankle Boot, $70
If your man is comfortable with color, these work great with jeans, khaki’s, and cords.



DSW, Bronx Line Up Boot, $99.95
These may not work in the office, even for casual Friday, but they’re perfect for warm walks on cold days.



Kenneth Cole, New York Electric Rain Boot, $98
And finally, for those really wet and snowy D.C. days, who says you can’t still be stylish while braving the elements?



Friday, November 25, 2011

Black Friday

Lovebugs, in the spirit of this blog that only features under $100 fashion. 

Go forth and shop on the biggest sale day of the year.

See you Monday!



Thursday, November 24, 2011

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Special Edition: Wednesday Foodday

You know I had to give you a Friday Foodday edition today since its the day before the most delicious holiday of the year! Here's what I'm hoping to be eating tomorrow!

Sausage Cornbread Stuffing
c/o Lauren's Latest
Ingredients
  • 3 Mild Italian Sausage Links
  • 1 cup diced onion
  • 1 cup chopped carrot
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 1 - 9x9 pan of cornbread
  • 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
  • salt & pepper to taste
  • 1 1/4 cups chicken stock
  • 2 beaten eggs 
Directions
  1. Heat up a large skillet over medium to medium high heat.
  2. Remove the sausage from it's casing and break it apart while it cooks. Once the meat is cooked completely and browned, remove from pan and set aside.
  3. Toss in the veggies with a little salt and pepper and saute until tender, about 7 minutes. {If there isn't enough grease in the pan from the sausage, pour in a little oil.}
  4. Remove pan from heat, pour sausage back in and crumble the cornbread right over top. You want the crumbles to be pretty fine.
  5. Next add in some poultry seasoning, salt, pepper and chicken broth. The last thing you need are some eggs. Crack them into that measuring cup you used for the chicken broth. Whisk them together to break the yolks into the whites and pour them over top the whole shoot and match.
  6. Stir this whole pot of goodness together and add in splashes of extra stock if you think it's a little too dry.
  7. Spoon stuffing into a greased baking dish, cover with foil and bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.
Cinnamon Apple Cookie Pie
c/o Stephanie Cooks Blog
 Ingredients
1 pie crust (not deep dish- standard sized)

Cookie layer:
1/3 cup butter, melted
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup white sugar
1 egg
1 cup flour
1 tsp cinnamon

Apple layer:
2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced thin
1/4 cup apple cider
3 tbsp butter
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
1 cup, total, assorted chips (caramel, butterscotch, peanut butter, chocolate, etc.)
 
Directions
1- Preheat the oven to 350.
2- Combine the melted butter with brown and white sugar, stirring well. Stir in the egg. Stir in the flour and cinnamon until well incorporated. Pour the cookie mix into the base of the pie crust and bake 20-25 minutes, until the top is set and a toothpick inserted into the cookie comes out mostly clean. Set aside.
3- In a small saucepan combine the apple slices, cider, butter, sugar, and cinnamon. Stir well. Cook over low heat until the apples soften. Then turn up the heat and keep cooking until the liquid thickens around the apples. Once done, set aside and allow to cool for about 5 minutes. Stir in the chips quickly and pour over the cookie.
4- Bake about 20 minutes, be sure to cover the crust of the pie do it doesn't burn.
5- Allow to cool, then serve.

Cranberry Butter
c/o Fun Foods on a Budget
Ingredients
3/4 cup butter, softened (margarine is okay too)
2 tbsp. brown sugar
2 tbsp. honey
1 cup chopped fresh cranberries
2 tbsp. chopped walnuts, optional

Directions

In a small mixing bowl, beat butter, brown sugar, and honey until fluffy, about 5 minutes. Add cranberries and walnuts if desired; beat 5 minutes longer or until butter turns nice and pink.

Transfer to a sheet of plastic wrap; roll into a log.


Tuesday, November 22, 2011

Traveling for Turkey

Are you going to be boarding a plane, train, or bus to get where you need to go for this week's holiday? I will be flying up to Buffalo to see my relatives and I'm absolutely going to dress comfortably but I will not look like I just rolled out of bed. You know who I'm talking about, those women in their uggs and velour jumpsuits. Not cool, ladies, not cool.

Here are some of my must haves for traveling and looking stylish.

Talbots, Tweed no close cardi, $63
I love an open cardi for travel, easy to throw on and if you get something like a tweed or graphic pattern, you're instantly put together.

I love these jeans. They're comfortable, worn in and easy to wear slouchy boots or flats.

Old Navy, Sequined Ballet Flats, $19
These are perfect to slip on and off through airport security and the price is right too.

Anthrpologie, Caraz Striped Scarf, $68
A must have for travel. A scarf that you snuggle into in case the AC is on full blast.

Will you be traveling tomorrow or Thursday? Safe trip or enjoy being at home!

Be fabulous today!

Monday, November 21, 2011

Turkey Day Couture

Hey there lovebugs! Happy Monday to you, and happy short work week to you!

Today I thought we'd look at a couple of dress options for Thanksgiving dinner. If you're anything like me, you need some room to breathe and still get the 'omg I love your outfit' from the relatives. So let's see what's easy, affordable, and adorable.

This dress would be so easy to dress up or down depending on your family's dress code.

Target, Alec Sweater Dress, $39
This mod style is perfect for tights and a boots.

J Crew, Dream Sweater Dress, $99
I love this wool cashmere blend from J Crew. This dress is just dying for a long layered locket necklace.

This is perfect for a dressier dinner. Comfortable and versatile.

So what will you be wearing for Thanksgiving? Dress, cords, or sweats?

Be fabulous today!

Friday, November 18, 2011

Friday Foodday

Hey lovebugs!

It's Friday Foodday. Thank goodness! I hope you have a fantastic weekend.

Sweet and Spicy Crock Pot Chicken Wings
c/o Stephanie Cooks
Ingredients
2 pounds chicken wings 
1/4 cup chicken broth
Sriracha hot sauce
3 tbsp. brown sugar
Lawry's seasoning salt
 
Directions
1- Pour the broth into the bottom of the crockpot. 
2- Top with the chicken wings. Squeeze sriracha over the wings, tossing to coat. The more you use the more heat you're adding, but make sure the wings are coated. Sprinkle the brown sugar and seasoning salt over the wings, tossing to coat.
3- Set on low for 8 hours.
  
Baked Brie with Carmalized Onions
c/o Great Eats with Petes
 Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, sliced
Salt
Pepper
1 tablespoon water
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
1 round of brie
1 egg, lightly beaten

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
In a saute pan heat oil over medium, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add in onions. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook over medium low heat until golden and soft, approximately 10 minutes. Add in 1 tablespoon of water. Allow water to evaporate. Set onions aside.
Place puff pastry on a flat surface. In the center of the pastry place the reserved caramelized onions. Top with the round of brie. Bring up the sides of the puff pastry to cover the brie. If you want you can cut off an edge and make some decorations out of the pastry to put on the top. Turn the covered brie over and place on a baking sheet. Brush with egg. Bake at 350 degrees until golden brown, approximately 20 minutes.

Crab Hush Puppies
c/o Kitchen Bellicious
  Ingredients
16 ounces of fresh lump crabmeat
2 cups cornmeal
1 cup flour
4 tsp baking powder
1/4 cup melted butter
2 TBSP sugar
1 tsp salt
1/2 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup beer
1 tsp cracked black pepper
1 tsp red pepper flakes
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper

Directions
 Mix together the dry ingredients and wet ingredients in separate bowls. Now add the wet to the dry and mix well. Heat your oil to 375 and drop spoonfuls of batter in the hot oil. Fry until golden brown 1-2 minutes. Transfer to paper towels to drain and season with more salt.
 

The It List!


theitlist
The IT list returns!  Are you excited!?!? I am!
Plus, it's Friday... yay for the weekend...
  • suze wears clothes is crushing on this gorgeous faux fur vest (so am I) see how she styles it up three ways... my favorite is with this cute skirt for the holidays! (find suze wears clothes on twitter!)
  • gs lillian is decking her halls in silver and gold for the holidays... see her gorgeous holiday picks from Target! I'll take a few of each, they are so pretty! (find gs lillian on twitter!)
  • the posh blog has tips and tricks for a simple and fabulous holiday... I love her advice to 'plan ahead, stick with what you know and keep it simple'.  See how she does it! (find the posh blog on twitter!)
  • capital barbie answers a readers question about shoe-wear for winter.  How to keep warm and 'cool'? Check out her picks! (find capital barbie on twitter!)
  • the stylish housewife serves up the honest-to-goodness best holiday manicure ever. I'm all over this... a gorgeous deep red with gold sparkles. Done and done! (find the stylish housewife on twitter!)
  • one hundred inspirations features two of my favorite pieces for winter... sequins and ankle boots.  As worn by the fabulous Selena Gomez.  Check out how to get the look for less!
  • second street east shows us a super easy way to dress up a simple lamp shade. Seriously, this is so easy and looks great! (find second street east on twitter!)
  • sweetie pie style features three stylish ways to set your Thanksgiving table.  My favorite? This Cali-chic look that includes a bold and gorgeous table cloth.  Be sure to check out all her looks! (find sweetie pie style on twitter!)
  • rebecca with an r shows off one of my favorite looks for winter.  Colorful pants!  Don't put those beauties away for the winter... check out how she styles them! (find rebecca with an r on twitter!)
  • good life for less released her super-fab seasonal looks:book!  Check it out for winter style must-haves, entertaining tips and more all in one place! (find good life for less on twitter!)
the IT list is produced weekly by jill of good life for less, for info on how you can be involved, click here!

Thursday, November 17, 2011

Accordion Skirts

Accordion skirts are a ladylike style that I'm loving for the winter. They have great flow and go with just about anything.

Forever 21, polka dot accordion skirt, $24
I love the ribbon waistband and we all know I'm a sucker for dots.

I'd pair this with a tie neck blouse. Perfect for work.

This is a great mini, I'd pair it with tights are a v-neck sweater.

This is gorgeous. I love the chocolate color, I love the waist, together it's very retro.

Do you own any accordion skirts? They're a great option to mix in with your pencil skirts.

Be fabulous today!

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Reader Request: Winter Shoes

Hey lovebugs! Today's post is a special request for my fabulous sister. She is looking for something warm and fashionable to wear this winter on her feet.

Urban Outfitters, BDG Hidden Wedge Hiker Boot, $89
These are fabulous. A great wedge makes this boot like a high heel.


This is so my sister. It's a little hipster with a little prep.

These are a cute shearling with a military look.

Sperry, Shearwater Booties, $98
I'm obsessed with these. They're so cool!

This was one of the harder requests I've gotten lately. It's hard to keep feet dry, warm and look sassy. What do you wear?

Be fabulous today!

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

Cable Town

One of my favorite sweaters are those with a chunky cable. It's super cozy when you want to throw something on on a cold Saturday, but you can belt it or add a long necklace to dress it up for work.

This is very Rachel Berry from Glee and I love it.

I love this cozy casual cardi. It's perfect for the weekend.

Banana Republic, Cable Knit Sweater Vest, $29
Hello fabulous price! Layer central, I love this.

Banana Republic, Shrunken Cable Knit, $59
I want to wear this all through November. Just yes.

How do you wear cable? It's definitely a preppy style but I just love it.

Be fabulous today!

Monday, November 14, 2011

Reader Request: School Bags

Hey Lovebugs! How was your weekend? Did you taken advantage of the Gap Friends and Family Sale? Any other good buys?

Today's post is from a reader who wants a new bag for school; something that can hold textbooks, laptop, and look fabulous too. Let's see what I can find.

I love this bag for school. Fantastic pattern and neutral colors. 

Urban Outfitters, Deena and Ozzy Buckle Tote, $69
I love this bag! It reminds me of a Legally Blonde bag toughened up a bit.

I love the dual straps on this bag. It looks very durable.

Canvas, 1963 Washed Tote, $49
I love Lands End Canvas more and more every day. The price on this sturdy tote is just right.

So what would you carry if you didn't have to wear a backpack?

Be fabulous today!

Friday, November 11, 2011

Friday Foodday

Oh thank goodness for Friday. Anyone have any good recipes for me? Here are some of my favorite from this week.

Sauteed Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta
c/o Skinny Taste
Ingredients
  • 2 oz pancetta, minced
  • 2 lb brussels sprouts (weight after outer leaves and stems removed)
  • 1.5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced or sliced thin
  • kosher salt and fresh ground pepper
Directions
With a large sharp knife, finely shred the brussels sprouts after thoroughly washing.   In a deep heavy saute pan, sauté pancetta on medium-low heat until fat melts and pancetta becomes golden, about 5 minutes. Add olive oil and garlic and sauté until golden. Add shredded brussels sprouts, salt and pepper to taste and sauté on medium-low heat for about 4-5 minutes until tender crisp.

Butterfinger Nutter Butter Cheesecake Bars
c/o Lauren's Latest 
 Ingredients
for the crust
16 whole nutter butter cookies
1/4 cup melted butter
for the cheesecake filling
8 oz. cream cheese, softened
1/3 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 egg
1/2 tablespoon all purpose flour
6 fun size Butterfinger chocolate bars
for the topping
3/4 cup semi sweet chocolate chips
3 tablespoons butter

Directions
Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Line a 9×9 square dish with foil or parchment and set aside. {If you are lining your pan with foil, lightly grease with non stick cooking spray.}  Grind nutter butter cookies in a food processor until the consistency of graham cracker crumbs. Pour in melted butter and pulse a few times to mix. Press into prepared dish and set aside.   In a large bowl, whip cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. Stir in egg, vanilla and flour. Finely chop butterfingers and fold into the cheesecake mixture. Pour over top nutter butter crust and bake for 18-22 minutes or until cheesecake has set. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until completely chilled.
Pour chocolate chips and butter into a small bowl and microwave using the ‘melt chocolate’ function, stirring every 20-30 seconds. If your chocolate is almost melted, don’t put it back into the microwave! Just keep stirring- the residual heat will continue to melt the chocolate completely. {If your microwave doesn’t have this function, zap your chocolate at 50% power at 20 second intervals, stirring in between.} Spread melted chocolate overtop of the bars evenly and place back into the refrigerator 5-10 minutes to harden the chocolate. Remove from refrigerator and using the foil or parchment, remove the entire block of bars from the pan. Cut into bars and serve.

Shrimp Stew
c/o Kitchen Bellicious
  Ingredients

1 pound of shrimp, cleaned and deveined
1/2 pound of quartered red or new potatoes
1 link of andouille sausage, sliced
2 stalks of celery, largely diced
1 onion, quartered and taken apart
4 ears of frozen corn ( not canned or fresh but frozen)
1 tsp salt and pepper each
1 tsp cajun seasoning
1 tsp crab boil seasoning (powder form)
1 TBSP fresh basil and parsley
4 cups of chicken stock, warmed
2 bay leaves
dash of hot sauce
1 cup oil
1 1/2 cups flour
1/2 tsp salt and pepper each

Directions
Heat the oil in a large cast iron skillet- lower heat and add in the flour, stirring constantly until the flour is completely incorporated and the roux turns a nice golden color- approx 15-20 minutes. Add in the chicken stock and remaining ingredients. Meanwhile, if you do not have the leftovers from my shrimp boil then heat the butter and oil in a separate pan and saute the celery, onion and potatoes (the potatoes will not cook all the way through- they can finish cooking in the stew). Saute for 4-7 minutes then add in the sausage. Cook until sausage is slightly browned.

Thursday, November 10, 2011

My favorite

Hey lovebugs. You all know that polka dots is my favorite pattern of all time, so please enjoy some of these new polka dot items I've spotted recently.

Great tunic like top with tons of character.

You can always count on Target for a great piece to mix into your wardrobe and it's under $50

Tinley Road, Polka dot dress, $59
How much fun is this print with the carmel background?

Kate Spade, Scattered dot tights, $32
This one is for my girl LPU who has been on the hunt for dot tights. Of course Kate Spade fits the bill.

Polka dots are my favorite print. What is yours? 

Be fabulous today!