What's on my radar this month? Casual pieces that spell fun whether I'm blogging from my beautiful home office (Thank you Donna!) or stepping out with the girls ... lots of birthdays ahead!
That's why I'm f
Target Xhilaration Peplum Top
Speaking of trendy, this hip, little number from Target (or Tar-jay as we say in Colleywood, dahl-ling) has all the bases covered. Polka dots, a peplum waist and a high-low hem, all predicted to be big through the end of the year, lead the way. Then there's that sensational, saturated blue color. Can you say "Gotta have it?"
I'm mad for this 50s-inspired piece because it gives you a waist, is a steal at under $15 and complements anything fitted. Think long shorts, cropped skinnies or a pencil skirt in white, black or a bright like orange or pink.
$14.99 at Target stores
Miss Oops Boob Tube
My sister Pam and I recently came up short when searching for an easy way to conceal cleavage. We're both around 5' 2" and many necklines just hit us lower. So I was thrilled to come across Miss Oops' Boob Tube when I returned home from my visit.
What a stylish way to stay covered! This cute bandeau top adds zero bulk and comes in pretty, solid shades like nice, neutral beige. Want something bolder? Go for the leopard print, tie-dye or classic lace (Ooh-la-la!) version.
$19 at Missoops.com
Stella & Dot Goddess Teardrop Earrings
Simple yet elegant, these gleaming gold teardrops boast tiny crystals on the ear wires that add a touch of glam to any outfit. Keep things casual by pairing them with a flowing maxi and flats. Or go for high style by showing them off with a sophisticated shift and stilettoes.
I've enjoyed the gold color because it works with just about everything. But they're also a knockout in winter-perfect silver, which is on my wish list!
$34 at Stelladot.com
Your hair can make or break an outfit and steamy summer days cause my fine, thin locks to sag. So I depend on having a curling iron like this bargain from John Frieda. It's an easy way to add body and curl without worrying about damage because you control the heat. I'm big on keeping my hair healthy so that's a MAJOR plus in my book.
Since it has no clamp, using this ceramic titanium-coated iron correctly takes a little practice. But once you master it, you'll be slipping on the included protective styling glove, selecting a temperature of up to 400 degrees and wrapping your way to soft, silky spirals in seconds.
For extra OOMPH, or if your hair tends to resist curl like mine, roll the spirals around your finger and clip them next to your head while they cool. Later, remove the clips and tousle with your fingertips.
$39.99 at Walgreens
Stella & Dot Aurora Cocktail Ring
Although bangles are big right now, I sometimes prefer a fab ring. That's all the more true when I'm blogging, because it's a lot easier on the keyboard.
I've worn this oval-cut dazzler EVERYWHERE. Around the house, it's the only accessory I need aside from earrings. At my dear friend Bev's son's wedding, I loved pairing it with a light coral dress and bronzy clutch. And thanks to the darker color, you can bet it'll stay on my finger through fall.
$49 at Stelladot.com
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Stella & Dot Serenity Small Stone Pendant
Another favorite from one of my go-to jewelry brands, this little stunner's a standout on its own or layered with other necklaces. Sometimes, the more the merrier!
I'm wild about the gorgeous, aqua glass stone, which is hand-cut in a teardrop shape, as well as the larger links in the 12k, gold-plated chain.
Besides being eye-catching, the airy links mean you can adjust this simple statement to many different lengths. Wear it with a cream top, bright turquoise skinnies and nude heels for a casual, date night-perfect look.
$49 at Stelladot.com
Crocs A-Leigh Mini Wedge
Although I'm a fairly recent Crocs convert, this foot-pampering platform has become my new BFF. I went crazy for Crocs after getting their 70's-influenced Leigh wedges last summer. So when I saw this slip-on leather sandal with its cute, cork heel, I snapped it up.
Since then, it's been a natural choice for work and play. At book club, it won rave reviews from all the girls, especially my friend Becky, who immediately wanted a pair for herself. The only problem is Crocs don't come in half sizes. I got around that by going down to the next whole size (a 5 instead of a 5 ½) but Becky couldn't find a fit.
That's too bad because besides being unbelievably comfortable, this 2.25-inch wedge flatters shorts, sundresses, skinny jeans and everything in between. Maybe that's why it's one of Crocs most popular shoes. I adore the cocoa color but it also comes in stucco and black, which I'm thinking would be perfect for all the walking I'll be doing when we visit Italy soon. What a cool alternative to tennis shoes!
$49.99 at Crocs.com
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We'd like to shout out a big "Thank You" to all the brands
in this post who provided samples for review and testing.
Prepare your own Mexican quick fix with this Chipotle-inspired bowl. Carbs are moderated by filling the bowl with beans, extra veggies and chicken. No need for rice, since the beans count as carbs.
Tips:
If you love tomatoes, increase the quantity to 1/2 cup, but note that the carbohydrates will also increase.
If preparing this recipe for one person, cut all of the ingredients in half. Or simply prepare the full recipe up to the end of step 2 and store leftover chicken and vegetable-bean mixture in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave on High for 1 to 2 minutes, or until heated through, and continue with step 3.
Health Bite: The iron, calcium, magnesium, manganese, copper and zinc in black beans help to keep bones strong and healthy.
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