This or That: Creamsicle

Creamsicles were among my favorite treats as a kid. The sweet refreshment is the epitome of summer. Not only do they taste delicious and cool you down on a warm day, but the distinctive orange and white color combination is so aesthetically pleasing.

 

This tantalizing melting Creamsicle...

... meets its carry on counterpart in this J.Crew overnight bag.

Images via Weheartit and J.Crew

Walking on Sunshine

Yesterday, I posted about my new yellow Converse sneakers. While it's a bit too chilly to wear shorts now, I can't wait to break them out with a pair of easy cutoffs and a breezy white tunic. A statement necklace adds a pop of color (and the yellow flower subtly draws together the outfit).

(Old Navy, $27; Leslie Danzis, $85)

(Paige Premium Denim, $129)

Bright, Sunshiny Day

I caved and bought my fifth pair of Converse sneakers today. In my defense, they were half off and I kind of, sort of, needed walking shoes for a trip I'm taking this week...

In all seriousness though, there's a reason I'm a Converse (semi)addict. They're more stylish than a pair of running shoes, hold up to daily wear and tear, and fit my narrow feet well. With the exception of my gold sequined pair (another amazing sale find), my other pairs are all rather neutral. I have a black, royal blue, and pale blue pair. And since the gold sequined pair are a bit more delicate and best reserved for special occasions, I'm really excited to add this bright pair to my closet!

Image via Kaboodle

GO Target!

The clothes section of Target is deadly. It seems that every time I stop by to pick up shampoo or a DVD, the racks of affordable clothing draw me in only to forget why I'm at the store in the first place. Target’s GO International collections have been particularly difficult to resist. After all, designer dresses and affordable are rarely in the same sentence. As a celebration of the 5th year anniversary of the collaborations, Target has re-released a 34-piece collection featuring dresses from 17 of the previous designers.

 (Tucker for Target, $40)

One of my favorite pieces from the collection is this navy Tucker frock. I love the demure boat neck which perfectly balances the scoop back and short hemline. The longer sleeves are very ladylike as well. My favorite detail though is the charming ruffle on the back. Worn with simple flats or dressed up with trendy accessories, this is the perfect LND (little navy dress).

Lovely Liberty

Any lover of prints would find themselves in heaven inside Liberty & Co.'s London shop on Regent St. The store has a well known reputation for fashionable homewares and eclectic designs. Liberty of London, an accessories brand associated with the shop, is also recognized for its recent high profile collaboration with Target in early 2010. The shop today is a destination within itself, filled with an array of fashion, cosmetics, accessories, gifts, and furniture.

When it comes to spring accessories, Liberty has created a darling set of knot watches featuring a number of their trademark prints.

(Melly Rose, Melly Silver)

(Edenham Silver, Wiltshire Rose)

(Mirako Gold)

The watches retail at £55 and can be tied in a number of ways to provide the perfect pop of spring for any outfit.

Bright Blooms

Yellow is one of my favorite colors. And orange is quickly making a case for the second spot. Combined with pink, these three colors have always been one of my favorite warm color palettes.

Now that spring has arrived and flowers are blooming, I've been thinking more about  my favorite flowers, gerbera daisies. And what did I realize? Why, they're yellow, orange, and pink! Hard to tell which I loved first, so we'll just say I've been drawn to both all along.

Image via Amazonia Flowers

Pops of Pink

While I enjoy feminine things, I often shy away from pink for fear of appearing too "girly". I've recently come across pink shoes in a number of iterations, and a bright pop of color in footwear is something I can always get behind.

 

(Kartell, $135)

 

(Bloch, $119)

(Adidas, $70)

(Keds, $35)

Color blocking is a huge trend for this spring, so why not let your feet get in on the action?

Bottega Veneta Fall 2011

I know Milan Fashion Week was ages ago by the standard of time of the fashion world, but I keep finding myself musing about this collection. I love the ladylike silhouettes and of course the pops of color were appreciated. You can see Tomas Maier's experiments with textures throughout the collection, though some were much more successful than others. Here are a few of my favorite looks.

I love the bold orange hue matched with equally outrageous textures. How fun is that bag?

This sleek draped dress is accented perfectly by the lace detailing.

Two very similar looks, both equally beautiful. I like that there's a sort of dark mystery despite the refined, ladylike construction of the outfit. It's amazing the story that textures can tell.

Images via Style.com

Tip Your Hat

When it comes to the perfect hat for spring, I'm convinced a straw fedora is the answer to the seasonal topper dilemma. The classic shape of the fedora, reworked in a lighter, breezier material is perfect for the transition into spring. I'm envisioning these hats paired with Breton striped tops, cropped trousers, and white sneakers for a preppy look. They'd be equally cute with a flirty sundress, pair of sandals, and bangles to channel a boho chic vibe.

(DKNY, $48)

(J. Crew, $34)

(David & Young, $18)

Freshly Neutral

While I have a seemingly endless obsession with bright colors and loud prints, I like to think that there's a more refined, elegant side that appreciates quiet neutrals just as thoroughly.

Not only does this shot have me craving ice cream, but it also reminds me that subtle colors (here a pale pink and yellow) look gorgeous paired with neutral counterparts. The result is very refreshing, but not bland. I think an outfit pulled with three of the above colors in mind would look stunning now, but incorporating more brown and yellow would work just as well in the fall. Who knew you could find style inspiration in food?

Image via weheartit

A Bright New Look

New Look approaches the color blocking trend in three short words: "BRIGHT. BOLD. BLOCK." Simple enough. I love these three vibrant and versatile pieces for the spring.

A loose, airy t-shirt tunic in a shocking fuschia (New Look, £15).

A skinny belt in a bright cobalt shade, perfect for cinching over cardigans and sundresses (New Look, £3).

A functional coral cross body bag with turn lock detailing (New Look, £11).

Color Blocking and Brights, Oh My!

I can't get enough of Zara's lookbook styling. The iterations on the color blocking trend are so effortless, yet eye-catching. I love the bright, citrus colors and the warm, sunny feeling they bring to the outfit. The jumper balances out the short hem of the skirt, but the loose knit keeps it from looking too stuffy.

(Zara)

Unrelated to color blocking, but to its credit still bright, how neat is this necklace? It's handcrafted in Ghana as part of the Bluma Project. I like the playfulness of the beads and fun tie, but it's not juvenile. It's the sort of necklace that can dress up or down an outfit, and unique to boot.

(Shopbop, $75)

Thank goodness for bright colors. Good bye dull outfits!

Apple Cinnamon Muffins

Last year, I managed to bake 9 dozen cupcakes in less than a month. This inspired a sort of unofficial mantra, "Every occasion is an occasion to bake." A month later found me singing a slightly different tune while baking 10 dozen cupcakes in one night (this time there was an actual event in need of dessert...), but I'm still great at seizing every opportunity to bust out a muffin tin.

 This week, I decided to opt for a muffin instead of my customary cupcakes. After deciding on cinnamon as the spice of choice, I spotted some green apples and decided to go a traditional route.

To keep the muffins from being too plain, I made a quick brown sugar and cinnamon topping. This slightly caramelized in the oven, giving the final product a sweet, crunchy top.

As for excuses to bake, I decided to whip up this batch of apple cinnamon muffins on Thursday. Flash forward to Friday afternoon, and they've all been given away or eaten. How do I interpret this? Only as another reason to bring out the muffin tin again...

Apple Cinnamon Muffins

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups flour
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder

1/2 tsp. salt
1 T. cinnamon
3/4 cup sugar

1/3 cup melted butter

1 egg, slightly beaten

1/2 tsp. vanilla

1/2 cup milk
1 cup finely chopped apples

Directions

Heat oven to 375°F.

Combine flour, baking powder, salt and cinnamon in medium bowl. In a large bowl, beat the sugar and melted butter. Add the egg and vanilla and beat just until mixed. Alternate adding the flour mixture and milk, stirring just until mixed (do not over mix). Fold in the apples, then spoon batter into muffin liners. Bake 18-23 minutes. Let stand 5 minutes.

For Japan With Love

On Friday, March 18th, 2011 I'll be participating in the Blogger's Day of Silence. There will be no post as part of an effort by bloggers to acknowledge the devastation in Japan and to encourage individuals to send prayers and contributions to the individuals suffering.

Please visit http://forjapanwithlove.com/ for more information. Let's keep the people of Japan in our prayers. If each and everyone of us does what we can to help, think of all the lives we can positively affect.

Hoop the Loop

Like most other aspects of my life, when it comes to interior design I'm all about color and bright prints. Despite this, I've always viewed wallpaper as too fussy, and love finding alternative ways to bring a bit of cheer to a room.

While you could frame rectangular fabric swatches, I love this playful take using wooden embroidery hoops. The circular shapes remind me of fanciful bubbles floating up the wall, exploding in a rainbow of colors and patterns.

Embroidery hoops are available at most craft stores and are relatively inexpensive. Best of all, they're lightweight and a breeze to hang (no searching for studs!).

Happy decorating!

Images via Polli

Aww, Fudge

When you realize how easy this fudge is to make, you'll literally find yourself muttering "Aww, fudge." Fortunately, you can then console yourself with a square of this deceptively easy confection. Because of its simplicity, it's an extremely adaptable recipe. For St. Patrick's Day, you could substitute peppermint extract for the vanilla for a perfect treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Powdered sugar
• 1/2 c. Cocoa
• 1/4 tsp Salt
• 1/4 c. Milk
• 1 Tbsp. Vanilla extract
• 1/2 c. Butter
• 1 c. Nuts, minced

Directions:

1. In a microwaveable 8x8 glass pan, combine the sugar, cocoa, salt, milk and vanilla. Stir together until partially blended (I like to use a fork).
2. Lay the butter in the center of dish. Microwave at high for 2 min. Don't worry if all the butter hasn't melted, it will as you stir. Be sure to scrape down the sides and then add the nuts.
3. Refrigerate for at least an hour in the refrigerator before cutting into squares.

Image from Spitalfields Market in East London (Great food including fudge!)

This or That: Bright Orange

Orange has officially become my spring color. After a visit to Zara and two H&M's on Sunday, I'm now the proud owner of a pair of skinny orange trousers. It was quite the exhilarating shopping experience, darting into stores and trying to spot a single vibrant hue. In celebration of all things orange:

This delicious orange rock candy...

... to go with that bright Milly shift.

Image via here

Take Flight

I'm loving this playful editorial with Karen Elson in March's V Magazine. The colorful background of this image is incredible. The simplicity of the outfit balances the drama of the setting to present a rich visual effect. Plus, doesn't that just look like an unbelievable amount of fun?

Image via The Fashion Spot

Gorgeous Gown

How incredible is this Atelier Versace Spring 2011 gown? The combination of the pleating, the bold color, and the incredible softness leaves me breathless. The look book certainly doesn't disappoint in terms of glamor and elegance. This is the magic of couture.

Image via Fashion Gone Rogue

Neon Toes

I've heard of twinkles toes, but a shoe that looks like you've dipped your toes in a puddle of neon paint? Incredible. I love the balance between the muted, neutral linen body and the shocking hot pink toe. They're the perfect spring into summer segue piece.

(Kate Spade, $198)

I'll Be Missing You

I've posted about Mashup Germany's work before, but he continuously produces so many masterpieces checking for new releases is a necessity. I'm currently obsessed (ie. listening to on repeat an absurd number of times) with "I'll be Missing You (Don't Raise Your Glass)".

Mashup-Germany - I'll be Missing You (Don't Raise Your Glass) by MashupGermany

Included are snippets of:
Pink - "Raise Your Glass"
Mike Posner - "Please Don't Go"
Puff Daddy feat. Faith Evans - "I'll be missing you"
Le Chic - "Freak Out"
Kelly Clarkson - "Since You've Been Gone"
Tracy Chapman - "Talking about a Revolution"
Sportfreunde Stiller - "Wunderbaren Jahren (Live)"
Daft Punk - "Around the World"
Snow Patrol - "Open Your Eyes"
The Black Eyed Peas - "I Gotta Feeling"

Talk about a variety. Happy listening!

Typography

When I was in middle school, I discovered the joys of Photoshop and it's more simple cousin, Paintshop Pro. I would spend hours messing around with the design tools, trying to keep my mouse steady enough to create something besides a pixelated, rough mess. Of course, I'm far from becoming a graphic designer, but I have a greater appreciation for digital designs as a result. When I came across this typography work, I was instantly floored. I love the creative merge of a functional object (a recipe) and and art. The 70s concert poster vibe is rather charming as well.

I think this would be a cheeky decoration for a kitchen, even if it's far easier to read the recipe off the back of a bag of chocolate chips...

Image via DeviantArt

The Perfect Trench

 

Is there anything more chic than sipping your morning cup of tea or latte at an outdoor cafe while decked out in a trench coat? When it comes to trench coats Burberry is the quintessential brand. However, as such a coat remains a purely aspirational addition to my closet, I love my London Fog version. It's amazing how throwing a trench over the simplest of ensembles (skinny jeans and a tee, a floral dress, etc.) instantly adds a bit of glamor.

(London Fog, $100)

And, should an errant springtime thunderstorm err your way, you're perfectly protected from the elements. What's not to love?

Image via weheartit

Pancake Day

Depending where you're presently located, today has a number of names: Mardi Gras, Shrove Tuesday, Fat Tuesday. But my absolute favorite comes from the UK where Pancake Day is celebrated. Traditionally, the Brits mark the last day before Lent by indulging in rich foods, specifically the milk, eggs, and butter found in pancakes. While in the states, pancakes are usually topped with syrup and fruit, the Brits prefer lemon and sugar.

Pancake Day Pancakes (Adapted from BBC Food)

Ingredients
1 cup plain flour, sifted
Pinch of salt
2 eggs
1 scant cup milk mixed with 1/3 cup water
1/4 cup butter
Caster sugar
Lemon juice
Lemon wedges

Directions
1. Sift the flour and salt into a large mixing bowl with a sieve held high above the bowl so the flour gets an airing. Make a well in the  flour and break the eggs into it. Begin whisking the eggs, incorporating any bits of flour from around the edge of the bowl as you do so.
2. Gradually add small quantities of the milk and water mixture and continue to whisk (don't forget to scrape down the bowl). Melt the butter and add 2 tbsp to the batter. The remaining butter will be used to grease the frying pan.
3. Warm the pan on high heat, then turn the heat down to medium. Spoon 2 tbsp of batter into the pan and quickly tip the pan from side to side to get the base evenly coated with batter. The pancakes will cook quickly, so flip when the edges appear browned when lifted with a fork (about 30 seconds). Flip the pancake over, the other side will need a few seconds only, then slide onto a plate.
4. To serve, sprinkle each pancake with freshly squeezed lemon juice and caster sugar, fold in half, then in half again to form triangles, or you can roll them up. Serve sprinkled with a little more sugar and lemon juice and extra sections of lemon.

Happy Pancake Day!

Image via BBC Food

French Toast

How to make a Monday more bearable? Why, starting with a delicious breakfast. Trust me, it's completely worth waking up an extra half hour early. I know Sunday is traditionally the morning of large, lazy brunches, but there's no better way to jump back into the week than fueled with a tasty mix of fruit and carbs. Since Lent begins this week, why not start the week with a breakfast appropriate last hurrah to sweets? May I present, chocolate french toast.

Chocolate French Toast (via Cooking Cache)
Ingredients

3 eggs
1 cup milk
1 teaspoon of sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon of salt
12 slices day old bread, crusts removed
3 milk chocolate candy bars* (1.55 ounces each), halved
2 tablespoons butter or margarine
confectioner's sugar


Directions
1. In a bowl, beat eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, and salt. Pour half into an ungreased 13x9x2 inch baking dish.
2. Arrange six slices of bread in a single layer over egg mixture. Place one piece of chocolate in the center of each piece of bread. Top with remaining bread; pour remaining egg mixture over all. Let stand for 5 minutes. 3. In a large nonstick skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Fry sandwiches until golden brown on both sides. Dust with confectioner's sugar. Cut sandwiches diagonally; serve warm. 

Image via Jenny Jones

Mary's Scarves

About a week ago, I wrote about Mary Katrantzou's A/W 2011 collection. Of course, like most other items shown on London Fashion Week's runways, her collection is significantly out of my price range. With this in mind, my delight at hearing that Mary Katrantzou had designed two silk scarves for Topshop hardly needs explanation.

(Topshop, $100)

(Topshop, $100)

I'm glad to see Mary Katrantzou's gorgeous prints splashed across as many mediums as possible. Factor in the high street prices, and I'm sold.