Solo Shot = Humility

I hate taking pictures by myself.  It's incredibly awkward when you have no one's waist to wrap your arm around and it's not like I'm going to frame a picture of myself in my apartment.  In any case, my favorite blogs showcase their fashion of the day in these solo shoots and if I want to have my blog taken seriously then I'll need to get over my fear of how to pose and where to put my hands.

I wore this outfit to dinner with my parents the other night and the warmer weather allowed me to break out colors other than black and gray.  Navy isn't as cumbersome as black, right?  Baby steps, people.

 

  

 Blazer from H&M

Top by Hanna G

J Brand Jeans

Vintage Gucci Purse

Booties from Zara

No-Bake Strawberry Shortcake

Instead of baking a cake for my boyfriend's birthday I made him my easy version of Strawberry Shortcake.  All you need is fresh strawberries, Lite Cool Whip and Dessert Shells.  It's also a quick and easy dessert if you are having a dinner party!

Another Reason to Order Online

I don't mind grocery shopping.  In fact, the days/nights where I can go and slowly push the cart down each aisle can be somewhat relaxing to me.   The part of grocery shopping that I don't enjoy is when you have to stock up on Paper Towels, Detergent, Shampoo, Dishwasher Fluid, etc.  How am I supposed to carry all of that in addition to my groceries??  That's why I am so excited to try Soap.com ...it's the one-stop shop for everything household and beauty.  Expect your items to be delivered in 1-2 days and enjoy 20% off your first order with the code: CHICAGO.  Get more savings with their "savingscenter" page!

Happy Birthday, Kevin!

Happy Birthday to my wonderful boyfriend!  I love you!

Wedged In

On this sunny, beautiful Friday I can't stop thinking about my summer wardrobe.  Espadrilles are making a comeback...I remember when I was little and my Mom bought me the flat pair from Talbot's.  Now the higher the better and there are so many styles to choose from. The best part is they are comfortable!  

1. DV by Dolce Vita Toni
2. DKNY "Krista" Espadrille Wedge Sandals
3. DKNY Krista
4. Contrast elastic espadrille

 

 

 

Shrimp Scampi

Last night was a 'dinner in under 10 minutes' sort of night...well, most nights are.  Anyways, I used some frozen shrimp which takes about an hour to thaw in a bowl of water and pasta to make Shrimp Scampi.  My version uses alot of garlic, butter and salt/pepper.  Definitely not the healthiest but in small portions it's ok!  While the  linguine was boiling I sauteed garlic in a pan with olive oil.  After a few minutes I added the shrimp along with salt and pepper.  When the pasta is al dente drain and add the pan of shrimp and garlic.  Now, without thinking too much add desired about of butter (I use about 3 tbsp.).  Mix and if you have some available, fresh Parmesan adds a nice kick of flavor.  Mangia, mangia!

A Picture Says A Thousand Words

This past weekend I had a friend come by our apartment and she asked me what she should do with all of her framed pictures.  Artwork makes a house beautiful but photos make it a home. Don't feel like you need to hide your memories! The best way to keep a theme throughout your house is to have a gallery of pictures either on a wall (preferably in a den or hallway), or a group of frames on a bookshelf.  Play around with frames, accessories and black and white versus colored photos.  Below are some examples.

 

 

A "Bi-Winning" Sort of Friday

Charlie Sheen has gone off the deep end.  I know this is old news but every time I watch his interview it disturbs me more and more.  Just another reason to be thankful!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5aSa4tmVNM

Designer Spotlight: Erin Gordon

Designer Erin Gordon has recreated the friendship bracelet and turned them into the latest fashion craze.  Think a dash of color and a dose of chic added to your wrists in every color palette imaginable.  If you are in Chicago, she will be showcasing her jewelry at Sarca this Saturday, March 5 from 10AM-6PM.  I already have a few of her Earth-toned pieces but I am looking to find something brighter for Spring.

My (Secret) Favorite Online Site

For those of you who love J. Crew you MUST check out Madewell.  It's the rebellious sister store to the preppy-chic J. Crew and  I am loving their floral summer dresses!  Today only they are offering 20% off with the code: MWDRLBZD.  I have my eyes on a few things that I may have to snatch up!