Friday, August 30, 2013

Colorful Kitchens

So often, we see kitchens that are monochromatic - - blacks, whites, chromes, etc. - - or kitchens that are more traditional  - - wood-grain cabinets, the works. Though when I design my own home I will probably lean towards a white kitchen similar to the one below, there is something fun and exciting about a brightly-hued kitchen space.

Giuliana and Bill Rancic's LA Kitchen -- see more here.

One thing to consider if choosing a color for a kitchen is how much you really and truly like that color. Is it just a trend or have you always loved it? Do you like it in small doses or do you want it to cover a wall? Color can be tiring very quickly so it's important to think about how much you will actually like it farther along down the line.

Bold:
Colorful kitchen
This vibrant kitchen is not for the faint of heart. Bright pink cabinets are bright and bold, but only choose something this if you really love this kind of hue.

"Dandelion House" seems appropriate for any home that houses a kitchen like this one. 
This contemporary style is by Loop Design.

Colorful kitchen cabinets
This kitchen is blue all over! The hue that is used is not overwhelming, so this much color definitely works!

Colorful Accents:
Splash of Color
I really love this kitchen. I'm not sure who designed it, but I would love to know. Though I'm not sure I would ever do something like this, how fun is it?

This gorgeous kitchen is designed by Liz Carroll of Liz Carroll Interiors. The tile backsplash provides just enough color to keep the kitchen fun and airy. Of course, it doesn't help that I love anything that she does!

This Spanish-inspired kitchen, designed by Erica Islas, has the perfect turquoise touch. The cabinets are different and eclectic, giving the kitchen just enough pizzazz.

This Little Rock kitchen by designer Tobi Fairley has a pop of pale blue to tie color in. Check out these awesome floors!

xoxo,
Zelle
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Wednesday, August 28, 2013

Guilt-Free Food for Thought

Especially on a busy school or work day, it can be very tempting to swing by a fast food restaurant and pick up some delicious but not so healthy items -- I am the worst about that! Being from the South, I love caloric comfort food, like a big bowl of mashed potatoes or a greasy cheeseburger from Highway 55. 

One thing I am really going to try to do once I move to my new apartment and start living on my own is plan out my meals. Of course, you have to splurge every once in awhile, but by planning out healthy and easy recipes (the crockpot can be your friend), you'll be much less tempted to stop in at the drive-thru. 

I always peruse Pinterest to find delicious and fun meals. There are so many recipes that the options are endless. Though I have my fair share of saved recipes that are not on the healthy end, here are a few (some that I have already tried myself!) that will keep you eating guilt-free!


From "She Wears Many Hats:" Sauteed Green Beans
I can't wait to try this recipe. I absolutely love sauteed green beans -- healthy and delicious!


Sesame Sautéed Green Beans
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons sesame oil
4 cups green beans, washed dried, ends snapped (~ 12 oz. in weight)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon soy sauce
Instructions:
1. In a saute pan or skillet heat the olive oil and sesame oil over medium/medium-high heat.
2. Add green beans, stir to coat with oil.
3. Add all other ingredients, stir to coat beans well.
4. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally for 10-12 minutes. Be careful not to burn. Green beans should be slightly firm but not crunchy.

Roasted Sausage and Potatoes
This is one of my go-to's! One of my best friends discovered this on Pinterest when we lived together in college and I've adapted it to include my favorite things. I definitely suggest this one!

Ingredients:
2 large links of sausage
1.5 pounds (about 3 large) potatoes, russet or new
2 tablespoons olive oil
Cayenne Pepper
Optional:
Peppers or Asparagus
Instructions:
1. Heat oven to 375 degrees.
2. Cut links of sausage into thin slices
3. Cut potatoes (I leave the skin on) into small cubes or pieces 
Option: Cut up peppers into slices.
4. Put the potatoes and sausage (and peppers if you choose) onto tin foil-covered pan (easy cleaning!)
5. Drizzle with the olive oil and cayenne pepper and mix until coated.
6. Bake in oven for 35-40 minutes or until potatoes are done.

Option: I normally cook asparagus instead of peppers. While the sausage and potatoes are cooking, I cut up my asparagus and drizzle with olive oil. When there are 10 minutes left to the baking time, I take out the pan and add the asparagus, then cook for the remaining 10 minutes. 

From EatingWell.com -- Baked Parmesan Tomatoes 
Can't wait to try this simple recipe. And it's only 91 calories!

Ingredients:
4 tomatoes, halved horizontally
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano
1/4 teaspoon salt
Freshly ground pepper, to taste
4 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees.
2. Place tomatoes cut-side up on a baking sheet.
3. Top with Parmesan, oregano, salt and pepper.
4. Drizzle with oil and bake until the tomatoes are tender (about 15 minutes)

Enjoy!
xoxo,
Zelle


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Tuesday, August 27, 2013

Falling Forward

fall

Fall will be here before we know it! I am definitely wanting to update my closet for some new looks, and I would love to add any of these pieces to my wardrobe. This fall, go for bold colors, mixed patterns, gold hues, and cozy sweaters.
See something you love? Click the pictures below to purchase!

Whether you are running errands or snuggling up inside beside a fire, this zippered sweater is perfect for cool days.
Don't buy a traditional black peacoat this season. Opt for a fun color like this coral.
A blazer like this one can easily transition from late summer into fall.
If you're looking for a pair of riding boots, look no further. I own a pair of these Melissa Frye boots and would definitely purchase them again.
I love the toothpick jeans from J.Crew. I definitely want another pair!
Plum is a bold and fun statement color for fall.
Love the sleek look if this Tory Burch clutch.
I will always love the Kate Spade stud earrings (I actually bought a pair of mint ones this past weekend.) This tortoise pair is perfect for fall. 

xoxo,
Zelle
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Monday, August 26, 2013

May Designs -- The May Book

So, I have a problem. I am obsessed with planners. Of any kind. Ask my friends, and they will tell you that I might like planners and agendas a little too much. All of this aside, I decided to order a May Book for 2014 (yes, I already ordered a 2014 planner). I found that I was flipping the pages to fill in 2014 dates, but my current planner (Erin Condren, I'm still in love) only goes until December. So, I decided to give May Books a try!

I like the fact that this planner is lightweight -- for those who don't want to carry around a notebook-like planner, this one might be for you. In addition, you can personalize many features. I chose my print, the frame, the monogram, and the interior. Though I chose a 2014 planner, there are many other options: food diary, baby diary, wedding planner, etc. 


I like that the May Book planner has both monthly and weekly views. 

There is plenty of space to fill in your weekly to-dos. 

Want to record your New Year's Resolutions? Don't worry, there is a place for that to.

I love keeping my weeks organized, and the May Book helps you do that. 
Don't worry, Erin Condren, you're still there too.



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Friday, August 23, 2013

The Friday Five

friday 5
1/ :: 2/ :: 3/ :: 4/ :: 5/

(yes,  I have an obsession with Tory Burch and Nordstrom . . .)

xoxo,
Zelle
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Wednesday, August 21, 2013

Be Jeweled

Bejeweled

When I first started looking at jewelry tonight, a black and gold theme was not my intention. But it just so happened that every piece I gravitated towards just happened to have that look, so here we are. It all started with the gorgeous watch and monogrammed necklace and exploded from there.

Why do I love these pieces?

1/ Frieda Hoffman Hamptons Ring: the understated look of this ring makes it perfect -- the mixture of stone and gold is a great combination.
2/ Michael Kors Slim Leather Watch :: I might be in love with this watch. Simple and understated, it is definitely something I want to add to my watch collection.
3/ Golden Threads Necklace :: you might recognize this necklace if you follow Pippa Middleton. Golden Threads has so many monogrammed necklace options it is hard to choose just one.
4/ Tory Burch Link Bracelet :: link and chain pieces are a very popular fashion statement, and I love the look of this TB bracelet. 
5/ Enamel Pyramid Ring : I love the structure and geometric pattern of this simple ring.

xoxo,
Zelle 
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Monday, August 19, 2013

Yearning for Yellow

yellow
I am absolutely in love with yellow this season. The sad thing about it, though, is that I hardly have any yellow in my closet! When I was a senior in high school in an interview for a scholarship pageant, someone asked me why I chose to wear a yellow suit (it was adorable, with a wide collar and white polka dots -- think Jackie O!). I had no other reasons for wearing that suit other than that I felt great in it and fell in love with the cheery color -- to put it simply, I just loved it. 

What is it that makes us love color or love certain looks? 
Fashion and style are incredible in the fact that there is something for everyone.

And here is why I love these things.

1/ I love the bright cropped yellow pants against the muted gray. Can I please find some pants like these?
2/ What don't I love about the maxi dress? The shape and color of this dress are nothing short of perfection.
3/ If you had asked me 3 years ago what I thought of blazers, I would have expressed my distaste. I no longer express those same sentiments -- and I am in love with this yellow version, especially paired with the black dress!
4/ I love the romantic and airy look of this lace skirt. The combination of color and texture makes for a fun and flirty style.
5/ How incredible is this outfit?! The shift dress paired with the turquoise bag and royal shoes are perfection. I would like every piece of this in my closet.
6/ This style is relaxed and breezy. On a nice summer day, this look is perfect. 

xoxo,
Zelle 


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Sunday, August 18, 2013

Tailgating Tales

Football season is virtually here! NCSU has their first home game next Saturday, Labor Day weekend. Even though I'm no longer in college, I still love football season.

Tailgating is a huge part of any Southern football game. Friends and family alike gather to spend time together and have a great time. 

What's a tailgate without food? I came across a great recipe book, Seaboard to Sideboard Entertains from the Junior League of Wilmington, and it has an entire section dedicated to tailgating food and Carolina traditions! Here are a couple of my favorite recipes that are great not only for tailgating but for any party or fun dinner.


Sausage Bites 
1 pound hot bulk pork sausage
1 and 1/2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
1 and 1/2 cups baking mix

Combine the sausage, cheese and baking mix in a large bowl and mix well. Shape into small balls and place on baking sheet. Bake in a preheated 350-degree oven for 15 minutes. Cool on a wire rack. 

Serves about 24. 

Buffalo Chicken Dip
1 and 1/2 pounds chicken breast, boiled and chopped
16 ounces cream cheese, softened 
1 cup blue cheese salad dressing 
3/4 cup hot pepper sauce
8 ounces sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded 

Combine the chicken, cream cheese, salad dressing and hot sauce in a bowl and mix well. Spoon into a 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with the Cheddar cheese. Bake in a preheated 350-degree oven for 30 minutes. Serve with tortilla chips. 

Serves 6 to 10. 


Interested in any of these other great recipes? Let me know and I'll post some more!
Feel free to share any of your easy and fun tailgating recipes!



xoxo,
Zelle 
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Tuesday, August 13, 2013

The Romper

Though the summer season has flown by and fall is fast approaching, hot weather is still in our midst! With heat indexes reaching the 100+ degree marks this week, boots and sweaters are the last thing on my mind!

One summer trend I have loved is the romper. For the longest time, I wasn't sure what I thought about it, but this year I have absolutely loved them! If worn right, they can be very chic Depending on the style, they are perfect as a beach cover-up, a day shopping, or a night out on the town. Here are a few fun rompers (and jumpsuits) that are my personal favorites!

anthropologie jungle romper :: this chic look can easily transition from day into night.


forever 21 worldly surplice romper :: this lightweight piece is perfect for a fun day shopping


Tart 'Valerie' Strapless Blouson Jersey Jumpsuit
tart valerie jersey jumpsuit :: this navy getup gives you an effortless look that would be great for traveling


Collection shimmer sequin romper
j.crew collection sequin romper :: this splurge is great for a blushing bride to wear to a shower or event


:
asos ruffle back jumpsuit :: this structured jumpsuit gives off a classy and sleek vibe.


Which is your favorite?

xoxo,
Zelle 

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Monday, August 12, 2013

The "Kerry" Diaries

No, this isn't about the Sex and the City spinoff The Carrie Diaries -- this is about the one and only Kerry Washington. Though Kerry has always been a fantastic actress, her lead in the hit tv show Scandal has only elevated her place in Hollywood. Her role as Olivia Pope has people loving her both on and off screen. Almost everywhere she appears, Kerry Washington looks nothing short of stunning. 

Here are my top 5 favorite looks from 2013!

I love the color and style of the Miu Miu dress Kerry wore to the 85th Annual Academy Awards.

With simple hair and accessories, she looked stunning in this Rodarte gown at the Screen Actors Guild Awards.

Though this Peter Pilotto number is a little more wild than my fashion taste, I do love the mixed prints and bold colors. I love everything about this dress except for the bottom structured ruffles.

Kerry wore this printed Rochas gown to the Paris premiere of Django Unchained. The combination of the structured top with a flowing skirt makes for a perfect look.

Kerry wore this Lanvin dress to a pre-Oscar party. I love the sleek simplicity of this look -- the structured shoulder and angles create a sassy look that I absolutely love.

What I love about Kerry Washington is that everything she wears is sleek and classy. I have yet to see her in anything questionable -- though she isn't afraid to take risks, she pulls each of her looks off effortlessly.

xoxo,
Zelle 
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Friday, August 9, 2013

The Friday Five -- 8.9

What's on this week's wish list?

the friday 5 (august 8)

1/ pinch provisions mini monogram kit: How cute is this emergency kit? I think we've all been caught without something we really needed, like fashion tape or safety pins. Filled with all the necessities, this can slip in your tote and you'll be ready for any fashion qualm!
2/ game changer dress: With football season right around the corner, this dress is perfect for NCSU games. For all of you other college fans, Vestique has plenty more game day options!
3/ tory burch frete bangle: I love this sleek bracelet from TB! Great to pair with other fun bangles.
4/ amanda clutch: Clearly, I'm on a Tory Burch roll this week. At $395, this is more of a splurge, but I would love to add this crossbody to my closet!
5/ society social pillows("get it" and "confetti") It's almost apartment decorating time! Love these fun pillows. 

Happy Friday!

xoxo,
Zelle


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Wednesday, August 7, 2013

warming the house


It can sometimes be difficult to pick out the perfect gift for a hostess or a friend who has just moved to a new house. The options may seem endless . . . but that certainly doesn't make gift-giving any easier. One of my biggest gift-giving qualms is purchasing something the receiver may have no use for. So, what to get? I came across a few things that I would love to receive, like a fab frame or some great stationery!

Here are some fun ideas that any hostess or new house owner will love!
warming the house


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