Tuesday, September 30, 2014

What I'm Loving

I have been all over the internet lately. Part revamping my fall wardrobe, part planning out my fall schedule with trips and fun events and part searching for Summer Wind inspiration. Sometimes I come home from work and sit at my desk and work on Summer Wind until I go to bed-- it's exhausting but I've got some fun things up my sleeve! Anyways, while I'm all over the place on the world wide web, I thought I would share some of the things that have caught my eye lately and are worth sharing!

I. Need. These. I am obsessed. Part neutral classic, part funky twist--so perfect. 


I love the original version of 'I won't give up' by Jason Mraz, but this version by Peter Hollens is amazing! It's a few years old, but I just stumbled upon it. A cappella groups were huge at JMU and I remember one year, a few sorority sisters and I bid on 'a night with one of the a cappella groups' and won it during our Breast Cancer Awareness month. We got to go to their house and they gave me and a few other girls a private concert... and they cooked us dinner! When I first heard this song, it reminded me of JMU, so I looked it up-- it turns out, this isn't a group, it's one guy! Really cool!
Gilmore Girls on Netflix starting tomorrow!!!! I can really relate to this BuzzFeed article on the subject.... You'll know where to find me come October 1st. 

I styled The Dannie Pant last week (check it out here and here) and already shared my obsession with you, but have to reiterate how much I love this pant! They're currently 25% off using code SHOPFORFALL. 

Brooks Brother's blackwatch plaid dress is gorgeous and at $98, you really can't beat it. I love how they paired it with tall boots, but I think it would look great with tights, a blazer and heels in the colder months. You could even make it super casual with sneakers and a denim jacket for weekend wear. 

Barbie's Instagram 
As a child I had so many barbies, I didn't know what to do with them all. My aunts loved spoiling me with the latest dolls and I loved their clothes and all of the teeny tiny accessories. Well, Barbie is back, social media savvy. She totally took fashion month by storm. Let me tell you, the Mattel/Barbie PR/Marketing team is genius... Barbie has over 200,000 followers and is attending all of the fabulous shows and events. 
Sunglasses// Dress// Sandals 
This weather has been absolutely glorious. I'm really trying to soak it all in and get as much wear out of my summer pieces before they are put away for good. Both this silk dress and the gladiator sandals are on major sale. I just got the gladiator sandals in the mail-- I hesitantly ordered them because I went all summer only wearing Jack Rogers.. I felt like I wanted something a little different and these fit the bill. They somewhat remind me of Valentino's, but they definitely have a more casual, bohemian vibe. They're neutral, though, so they're easy to wear. 
Yours,

Guest Post:Panko Crusted Ahi Tuna Steak with Miso Vinaigrette

It's time for a guest blog post... I don't do guest blog posts too often, but Lauren's recipes are always killer and so worth sharing! Not to mention, most are pretty easy and she's really good at simplifying things for those that are kitchen challenged (aka me). 

Two things about being 2 years out of college: I've noticed that I'm starting to take a lot more interest in learning kitchen related things as well as buying things like furniture/home decor... I would never ever in a million years thought that either of these things would interest me... but alas, here we are in 2014, and I am shopping at Williams-Sonoma and keeping grocery lists on my phone. Yikes.
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Hi, guys! I’m Lauren and I am so excited to guest post on Summer Wind to share my recipe for panko crusted ahi tuna steak with miso vinaigrette. It’s remarkably simple and tastes like a million bucks! You can prepare this dish for date night at home, friends or just for you. Ahi tuna steak is so delicious you might not want to share it all. I won’t blame you one bit.

I am all about foolproof meals on my blog, DC Girl in Pearls, because I live in a teeny DC apartment with a postage stamp sized kitchen. A handful of ingredients + minimal appliances are my M.O.

Ingredients for Panko Crust
Panko Crumbs
Red Pepper Flakes
Thyme
Garlic Powder
Ahi Tuna Steaks

Directions

1.     Using paper towels, thoroughly dry the tuna steaks. 
2.     On a small plate, mix the panko crumbs and seasonings. The measurements for this aren’t exact, you just need to make sure the steaks are covered in the panko mixture.


3.     Place the tuna steak in the panko mixture and gently press down to ensure full coating. Turn over and do the same on the other side.

4.     Heat a small amount of olive oil (3 tbsp top) on a skillet over medium heat.
5.     Gently place the tuna steaks in the skillet and let each side cook for 3 minutes or until panko crust is golden brown.


Ingredients for Miso Vinaigrette

1 tbsp, Trader Joe’s Yellow Miso
½ cup, Trader Joe’s Orange Muscat Champagne Vinegar
1 shallot, finely minced
¼ cup, Extra Virgin Olive Oil



Directions

1.     In a bowl, whisk all ingredients together until blended.



2.     Drizzle over greens like Trader Joe’s Power to the Greens blend of kale, chard and spinach.


Bon appetit! I hope to see you over at DC Girl in Pearls for more foolproof recipes. 

Monday, September 29, 2014

Wedding Perfection


Nikki is one of my very best friends and also my 'big' in my sorority. She is one of the first of my close friends to get married and I could not be happier for her. Her and her husband had been dating since high school and they are so perfect for each other. When Nikki had asked me to be a bridesmaid in her wedding, I was filled with tears of joy. I was so honored to be by her side for such a momentous life occasion. It is a day I will remember forever, spent with wonderful friends, celebrating a beautiful day and marriage. 

She is from Maryland so her rehearsal was very Maryland themed. I ate so. many. crabs. I also learned how to play blackjack, craps and roulette. Let me tell you, I will not be going to Vegas any time soon. 

We started the morning off with hair and makeup. Here is Nikki getting beautified! 


The wedding venue was beautiful and I can only hope that one day, when I get married, the weather will be this perfect. Not a cloud in the sky and the most perfect cool breeze. I loved the hot pink monogrammed robes all of the bridesmaids wore while getting ready... and of course there was plenty of my favorite thing: bubbly. 






 I was in the wedding with 2 girlfriends from college. Alyssa is also a sorority sister of mine and Jen was roommates with Nikki and Alyssa. We have so many fun memories from college and it was so great being with them again. They are both engaged and will be getting married next year! It is really starting to hit me that we are becoming 'adults'... so many marriages and engagements, it is such an exciting time in our lives and it makes me so happy to see such good friends find their soul mates! 


The estate was stunning. Every inch was decorated to perfection. I even loved this sitting area in the sun room. 



Truly no detail was overlooked. Everything was stunning, including the bride and groom! It was so much fun dancing the night away with the glow of candlelight under the tent. It was definitely a night I will remember forever. Cheers to Nikki and Matt! Love you both! Have a fabulous day! 
Yours,

Saturday, September 27, 2014

Saturday Shopping: Green Onyx Ring

This has 100% made it to the top of my wish list. I've been a big David Yurman fan ever since high school and have several of his pieces. I like that they are simple and easy to wear. I didn't know he made this ring with green onyx and now that I've found out, it's been on mind. Gorgeous. Mom, Dad, Christmas is only three months away (I can sense them rolling their eyes at this now #IWish). Have a fabulous day! 

Yours, 

Friday, September 26, 2014

Wear to Work








Sharing another wear-to-work outfit (see my last one, here). I know many have been requesting some more 20-something work appropriate outfits. I'm all about being appropriately dressed at the office, but I also refuse to wear the typical non-iron button down shirt + black 'slacks' look that is notorious in corporate offices. 
Some staple pieces: 
Cashmere Sweaters
The one I am wearing in this particular post is the cashmere Audrey sweater. I own it in several colors. It's warm and cozy but also has a great fit and flattering neckline. I also sport these on the weekends. Cashmere at this price is definitely a steal! Edited to add: Talbots is having a buy one get one 50% sale on all tops, including sweaters this weekend! Great time to stock up! 
Pencil Skirts
A classic black pencil skirt can be appropriate, but it is so much more fun when it is in different colors and textures. Now is the perfect time to sport a tweed skirt and this one from J. McLaughlin is a new favorite. 
Comfortable and Cute Shoes 
Because there is nothing worse then wobbling in sky high heels and looking ridiculous or sitting at your desk and thinking about how badly your feet hurt. These bow shoes from Talbots might be the most comfortable shoe ever, plus the bow is as cute as can be, but still polished enough for a professional setting. Not to mention, I often reach for a pointy toe because it elongates the leg. 
Classic Jewelry
These pearls from The Pearl Source were sent to me and I love them. A simple, single strand of pearls is the definition of classic, understated elegance. Not to mention, after being introduced to The Pearl Source, I've realized it's a great resource for those looking for a gorgeous strand of pearls on a budget. I wear my David Yurman petite albion ring daily and have recently been adding this diamond band from Anjolee. They're both not too show-y and add just the right amount of sparkle to my outfit. Don't get me wrong, I love a good statement necklace, but there's something about the classics that I am always drawn to. 
A Simple Tote
Do I need to sing more praises for my Mansur Gavriel tote? It's my fave ever.
What are your go-to work pieces? Have a fabulous day! 
Yours, 

Thursday, September 25, 2014

Pumpkin Spice Latte Hack

I hate to say it, but I am a Starbucks junkie. I wish I could say I have this super hip non-chain that I frequent, but what can I say, I pass a Starbucks while going to work so decision made. Not to mention, I really enjoy their french roast coffee. 

I wrote about my favorite Starbucks drinks already, but thought I would share a tip with all you who share a Starbucks habit. If you love a Pumpkin Spice Latte, but are looking to cut the calories/sugar, try it this way: Grande, non-fat, no whip, 2 pump, triple shot, PSL. 

A PSL usually contains 4 pumps of flavoring which packs on the calories and the sugar. I actually think 2 pumps is just right for a grande... it tastes much better to me! I also up the espresso because it intensifies the coffee flavor which is my favorite part. Non fat milk and no whip cream also helps to cut down on the calories. Do you have any Starbucks hacks that you do to cut down on sugar/calories? Have a fabulous day! 

Yours, 

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Wearing a Cozy Sweater to Work

It has already started getting pretty chilly here in Pittsburgh. We've had some mornings where I get up for work and check the temps and it is in the low 50's. After last winter, I have been stocking up on warm and cozy sweaters for this upcoming chilly season... I hate being cold and I'm going to make sure that I'm nice and toasty this fall and winter! 

Luckily, J. Crew has had some pretty beautiful options when it comes to keeping warm. Not to mention, they are having a 25% off sale and an extra 30% off of sale using code SHOPFORFALL. Many have asked that I post some wear-to-work outfits, so this is definitely one I sport to the office during the fall season. I've really been having a grey moment-- a lot of pieces I've been choosing for fall have been in that hue. I think it work so well when it comes to office wear! The sweater is a bit dressed down, so if you work in a more conservative office, this might not be the option for you. However, I also plan on wearing this on weekends with my favorite distressed denim and ballet flats.


 Necklace (under $30!)
I have been wearing this necklace non stop. It's super understated and simple, but it adds a little shimmer to any outfit. Perfect for the office when you don't what anything too distracting! 

My Mansur Gavriel tote has been the absolute most perfect work tote. I love the removable pouch and love the strap that it attaches to. It makes finding things in such a big tote super easy. It also sits on the floor/on a chair very easily. I love the structured nature and the quality is unsurpassed... plus the red on the inside is a such a fun surprise and makes seeing what's inside the bag super easy. I was actually originally planning on getting a Louis Vuitton Neverfull, but decided on this at the last minute. I love that it has no identifying branded logo and also love that it is half the price of a neverfull (literally) but made of quality leather. 

What do you usually wear to the office? Any musts I should know about? Have a fabulous day! 
Yours, 
 

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