Saturday, December 31, 2011

Onward to 2012!

Can you believe 2011 is already about to end?! Just nuts! I wanted to do a more personal post today with some of my top highlights of 2011, if I had more time today I would add pictures to go with all these tidbits but sadly I'm on a tight schedule. So here we go in no particular order...

 - TCU winning the Rose Bowl
 - My SISTER'S engagement (AHHHHHHHH, still smiling about this!)
 - Celebrating my first wedding anniversary with my best friend
 - Taking part in so many wonderful weddings of lifelong friends and family
 - TWO new amazing sister-in-laws who I adore
 - A spur of the moment vacation to NYC
 - Starting my ClosetChic business and this blog
 - Surprising my parents with a 40th anniversary party
-  Ziplining for the first time
 - Road trip to the World Series


And I course can't leave you all without a little bit of fashion fun...did any of you all have a favorite fashion item you either purchased or received in this year? I would love to hear!!

Mine would definitely be my Givenchy Antigona bag...in love with it...

via WorkChic
I hope everyone has a very safe and very Happy New Year!

Friday, December 30, 2011

Because You Can ALWAYS Use Another Pair of Pumps...

Soooo I found these the day before Christmas Eve and just had to have them and have already worn them twice! I LOVE LOVE LOVE  a nude or camel colored shoe, I could go on and on about how they elongate your legs and how they are a must in your wardrobe, a MUST ladies. While I still think a nude patent is your best bet, if you can swing having a few neutral colored pairs of shoes I LOVE this one from Nine West. It's at a great price point and looks great on. I know I'm going to wear these a ton. Swipe them up while you still can friends!

Nine West Celestia 

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

Lilly Loving...

I've always been a huge fan of Lilly Pultizer ever since I was a little girl. I can't wait to dress my little ones in it someday, it's so iconic and classic. Lilly has received a whole slew of new arrivals, so I wanted to showcase my favorite dresses below. I usually visit Naples, FL with my parents every January and try to get a Lilly piece from their great Lilly shop, but sadly this year I won't be there. Here is hoping that Mama is reading this and surprises me! :)
Loreen Dress
Cassie Dress


Joy Tunic Dress





Monday, December 26, 2011

SALES Everywhere!

While I'm sure most of you all are resting and enjoying (or  hopefully!) another day off work, I've been perusing all the after-Christmas sales that are going on left and right. So far the one thing I would love to purchase would be this sweater from Calypso. I've been eying it for awhile and now its on sale, don't you just love when that happens?? I love that it looks so cozy but its still tailored and not just a lounge around piece. I love all the colors but think the grey is my fav. I could see this over dark skinnies tucked into some riding boots, would be perfect. Happy Monday friends!

Fatima Crochet Cardigan

Sunday, December 25, 2011

In Case Santa Didn't Bring You Everything...

Merry Merry everyone!!! I hope everyone is having a wonderful Christmas so far, mine has been fantastic! I hope Santa gifted you all with all sorts of fun fashion finds and baubles. In case you didn't get quite everything you wanted here is a ahhhhhmazing scarf that I spotted on ETSY a few days ago. Maybe one of y'all can snag this as a post-Christmas gift.

Silk Shibori Circle Scarf



Enjoy this special day, hug your loved ones a little harder and feel blessed for all this wonderful life gives us!

Thursday, December 22, 2011

Chic and VERY Affordable at ON!

O.M.G. have y'all seen this coat from Old Navy?! It's so chic, love the color options and a great price. I hope some of you scoop this up ASAP. I love both colors, but am partial to the Ruby Pink...buy this loves, I don't think you will be disappointed!

Old Navy Collarless Wool-Blend Coat

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

I Think I Found My NYE Dress!

NYE is around the corner friends! Any big plans? We don't know what we are doing yet but if I had somewhere dressy to go this dress by Odylyne would be my pick! I spotted it in one of my Zoe Report emails, gotta love that Rachel Zoe! I love love love that is has sleeves to keep me warm (I'm super cold natured!), but its still very sexy to me. You could also wear this again easily to a cocktail party or wedding reception. I know some of you all are thinking but its has sequins, well that doesn't matter friends because sequins are not only acceptable but preferred for all times of the day now!

Shopbop Odylyne Falcon Dress

Shopbop Odylyne Falcon Dress

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Loveeeeeee Me Some Calypso

Do any of y'all shop at Calypso ever? If you don't you should, the Mama of the family I babysat for all through college (Hi Eden if you're reading!) got me hooked on their stuff. I think half my honeymoon wardrobe was from Calypso. And I've been lucky enough to usually get a new item of Calypso at Valentines Day from the hubby. I stalk their site all the time and am constantly saving my favorite items to "My Closet" on their website. I came across this precious linen dress just a few days ago and would love it for my summer wardrobe. It would also be perfect for anyone who is lucky enough to go on a tropical vacay over the holidays.

This dress comes in the color shown below and more of a true navy, I'm partial to the navy shade as I feel that would allow for more wearability. I would add some nude wedges and gold jewelry and your done. Easy and effortless!


Make sure to sign up for Calypso's emails too as they have promos often and great sales.

Calypso Camille Linen Dress


Don't hate me if you are not addicted to their clothes :)

Monday, December 19, 2011

Ready, Set, Serve!

Sooo I've really been wanting to get back into playing tennis. I played for a few years in high school but didn't keep up with it. A few of my close girlfriends (Hey there Maddie & Hannah) have started playing recently and it makes me want to too! Of course looking the part is very important and I think I might need this tennis skirt. Do any of you lovely ladies have this one? If so, do you all like it? Also, with Christmas just a few days away this could make a great gift for the tennis player in your life!


Nike Maria Rival Skirt

Sunday, December 18, 2011

Must Have Item!

I came across this simple and classic black dress on Topshop the other day and fell in love. The shape is so classic and timeless and its just the perfect black dress to have in your closet. Its perfect for the fall and winter months since it has sleeves and while you can just wear it as is, I think its begging for a statement necklace! And its under $100! I think anyone would be smart to snatch this up ASAP.

Topshop 3/4  Sleeve Ponte Midi

Friday, December 16, 2011

Sales, Sales, Sales

With Christmas just a few days away (Can you believe that?!) there are some major sales going on at so many stores right now. Here are some of my favorites!

Banana Republic is offering 30% (BRGET30) until midnight on your entire purchase so get shopping people! My pick would be this very simple tee, but its elevated with a cowlneck and a pocket which makes it the perfect "I'm wanting to just throw on a tee but don't want to look like a slob" look. Doesn't it look so comfortable too?

Banana Republic Pocket Cowlneck

Kate Spade sent out an email featuring their best gifts under $25 and I had to showcase one of my all time favorite earrings from them. Let me introduce the gumdrop stud, so chic and fun, you will get a ton of use out of these! I have a pair in black and wear them all.the.time. Get them while you can! And Kate Spade is featuring free ground shipping!

Kate Spade Gumdrop Stud Earrings


Next up, Talbots (Which no, its not just your Mama's store anymore!) is offering 40% (SALE) off everything so go find something for both you and your Mama. While my pick is not the most practical I couldn't resist. This sequin skirt is SO fun and would be so great for black tie functions, holiday parties and most importantly NYE! This item could have longevity in your closet too because I don't see sequins going out anytime soon.

Talbots Sequin Hostess

Happy Friday friends!

Thursday, December 15, 2011

Ummmm Why Am I Just Now Finding Out about Lauren Elan

Ummmmmm hello obsessed with these necklaces from jewelry designer, Lauren Elan! I first spotted them over on This Time Tomorrow, and OMG I'm in love and really really hope Santa is reading this post! (The Lucas and Olivia are my faves!!) Any of these pieces would be great additions to your jewelry box. Did I say I'm obsessed?!

First up is the Lucas...this is SO timeless and something you could literally wear everyday. I also love the equestrian feel this has to it, feels very Hermes to me, super luxe...

Lucas


Next is the Ava, loving all the mixed metals with the crystals...this is the perfect statement necklace, this could easily take a plain black tee or black dress to the next level. Everyone should have at least one statement necklace in their jewelry arsenal and this one would be a perfect one especially since its neutral colors and metals.

Ava


And last we have the Olivia, I just can't decide between this or the Lucas for my favorite. The thing about the Olivia is the mix of all the material, especially the cream colored stones, its such a unique piece...I think this would be my top pick! Or really my top top top pick would be both the Lucas and the Olivia!

Olivia


Hope some of y'all scoop one or all of these up!!

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Organic Love

Now I'm sure a lot of you are expecting to see some organic recipe or food product with a title like "Organic Love", but no mam its a pair of gorgeous earrings. I think they have such an organic feel to them and are just gorgeous. They will go with everything and always make an easy statement! These earrings are designed by Kori Green, the wife to the popular country music singer, Pat Green, neat huh? These would make a perfect Christmas present too!

Vermeil irregular shapes on gold fill ear wire

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Favorite Recipes from Boenker XMAS Party

My husband and I have hosted a Christmas party for the last four years and every year I try to step it up with the food. By far the most popular items from this years party were actually the two easiest to prepare. Slow cooker meatballs and bacon wrapped tater tots were definitely the winners. Enjoy the recipes below!

BBQ Meatballs

These slow cooker meatballs couldn't be ANY easier, you literally buy a bag of frozen meatballs then dump them in the slow cooker with your favorite barbecue sauce and some ketchup. How easy is that?! These are always a HUGE crowd pleaser. 

BBQ Meatballs

Prep Time:
2 Min
Cook Time:
4 Hrs
Ready In:
4 Hrs 2 Min


Ingredients

  • 1 (16 ounce) package frozen meatballs
  • 1 (18 ounce) bottle barbecue sauce
  • 1/4 cup ketchup

Directions

  1. Place prepared meatballs, barbecue sauce, and ketchup in a slow cooker. Let cook on a low heat for 4 hours, stirring occasionally.

Bacon Wrapped Tater Tots

These bacon wrapped tater tots were SO good and such a hit with all the men at the party. They are a cinch to make but do require some time so be aware of that. I had a great helper in the kitchen (Thanks Grace!) before our party who started to help me assemble these! I will definitely be making these again. And while the picture above shows a dipping sauce with these, I just served them without one.

Bacon Wrapped Tater Tots
Makes 4 appetizer servings

16 frozen tater tots
8 slices THIN bacon, cut in half sideways
2 Tbsp turbinado sugar 
1 tsp season salt
¼ tsp cayenne pepper

Mix the sugar, salt and cayenne pepper together thoroughly.

Sprinkle about half of the rub on top of the bacon strips.

Top each half strip with 1 tot and roll up. TIP: If you have a more fatty end, start on the leaner end so the fat will be on the outside and can render easier. 

Place seam side down on a raised rack or a tray. The raised rack works better because it lets the hot air circulate around all edges. Also, it keeps the tot from sitting in oil once the bacon fat starts to render down.


Sprinkle the rest of the seasoning mix over the assembled tots.

Preheat your oven or grill to 450f. The grill should be set up for indirect heat so the tray or rack is not over direct heat. I used my Big Green Egg, plate setter legs up. (On a standard charcoal grill, push your hot coals to one side, an aluminum drip pan next to them and cook the tots over the drip pan.)

Cook the bacon snuggled tots until the bacon turns crispy, about 20 minutes. 

Don't be alarmed if the bacon goes “boa constrictor” on a few of your tots and squeezes the heck out of them. Those still taste great. 

Serve with your favorite BBQ sauce, spicy ketchup, or other dipping sauce.

***Notes - The only changes I made is that I used brown sugar instead of turbinado sugar. Also, I would highly suggest if cooking these in an oven to place the tots on top of a cooling rack that is placed on top of a cookie sheet, a rimmed cookie sheet will work best so the bacon grease won't spill when taking these out of the oven.

Saturday, December 10, 2011

Ohhhh Celebs, They Can TOTALLY Dress!

Sooo I know I've already expressed my love for the blog, Red Carpet Fashion Awards but here I go again showcasing two celebs looks that I saw on this blog recently. I think one of the biggest reasons why I love this blog is because it helps give me inspiration for outfits in my own closet as well as my clients (I have a side business helping people clean out their closets/put outfits together/etc).

First up we have Angelina Jolie, while I'm not a huge fan of her, no one can deny how stunning this particular look is. Chic, elegant and simple...I love the monochromatic trend especially when its done in white or cream. This look just goes to show that if you have simple well made pieces in your wardrobe that you are good to go!

Angelina Jolie in Stella McCartney



Next up we have one of my all time favorites, Meryl Streep. While she doesn't always hit it out of the park fashion wise she did this time. This dress is SO flattering on her. I love that you can tell that she feels comfortable thus making her look even more confident. I'm a big believer in that if you are wearing something you don't just LOVE that you are going to feel uncomfortable or not so great about yourself. SO don't just buy things that are so so, buy things that you love. Good job Meryl, you look great!

Meryl Streep in Elie Saab


Hope these celebrities ensembles give you some inspiration within your own wardrobes. Happy Saturday loves!

Friday, December 9, 2011

Chic & Studly

I love a good "stud" earring, they are great for daytime and are easy peasy to wear...I love even more a pair with a great detail. I came across these Ombre Metal Studs this morning on the Ann Taylor website where I was originally looking at all their sweaters and tops which are a staggering 50% off TODAY only online and in-stores, but ANYWAY these earrings are so chic and modern. These would be a great addition to any ones stud earring line up.

++Sorry for no picture guys, having technical difficulties this AM! Forgive me!

Thursday, December 8, 2011

The Perfect Gift for an Avid Baker

Don't you all remember how your Moms (Or at least mine did!) always baked sugar cookies using seasonal cookie cutters. I feel like my Mom had cookie cutters for every season possible! I wouldn't mind having a collection myself, but currently only have Christmas ones and then a awesome TEXAS shaped cookie cutter that I scored at a local relate shop, any whoooo I spotted this set of cookie cutters over at Crate & Barrel and think they would be the perfect gift for your favorite baker in your life.

A Year of Cookie Cutters from Crate & Barrel


Happy Cookie Eating!!

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Gorgeous Cate

One of my favorite blogs that I read is Red Carpert Fashion Awards, this blog showcases what all the stars and celebrities are wearing to the many events they attend. It is a must read if you love fashion and celebrities! I'm in loveeeeee with this Louis Vuitton dress that Cate Blanchett wore from their S/S 2012 collection. It is gorgeous. Organic, elegant and feminine = perfection in this particular dress. Good pick Cate!

Cate Blanchett in Louis Vuitton

Cate Blanchett in Louis Vuitton



Tuesday, December 6, 2011

ALERT ALERT ALERT - Shopbop SALE!

Hellooo lovies! SO this morning as I was scrolling through my emails in bed and SO not wanting to get up since its so frigid here in the Fort, I was shown a nice little surprise from Shopbop that some items on my "Wish List" (BIG emphasis on wish guys!) were on sale so I thought I would share a few of those with you today....

First up is this ADORABLE statement coat from none other than Valentino...while even the "On Sale" price tag is way too much for me, I couldn't help but share it...isn't it precious?! So feminine which I love and I love that it makes a statement. While I do still believe that your first outerwear purchase of the winter season should be a neutral, your second (If you can justify a second that is!) should be a statement like this coat.

RED Valentino Mohair Coat with Bow Detail


Next up we have this metallic bag from Tory, love the color and metallics are still everywhere and aren't going anywhere. It is a classic shape and its very roomy too. I have seen this bag in person and it doesn't disappoint! I have two girlfriends (Shout out to Morgan & Brittany) that have this bag too in other colors and they LOVE it.

Tory Burch Metallic Saffiano Robinson Satchel


Third in line is a pair of jeans. Jeans are a must in any ones wardrobes and this pair would be a great addition. I love the line of these jeans because they will flatter many figure and I also love that they aren't uber low. News alert people, really low jeans aren't flattering! I also love that the wash of these jeans is in that medium section, while I love an ultra dark pair its nice to have multiple washes of jeans in your wardrobe. I would highly suggest wearing these with a simple tank or tee and your favorite boyfriend blazer and a wedge bootie or high heel, so easy and put together.

Raven Denim Enid Wide Leg Flare Jeans


Last but not least, we have a simple black clutch that I feel most girls would get so much use out of. I love everything about this clutch and it just might have to just make its way into my shopping cart by the days end.

Club Monaco Camille Bag


Happy Shopbop Shopping!

Monday, December 5, 2011

Monday Morning Cocktail...

Cocktail ring that is friends! A statement ring is the perfect item to have in your jewelry arsenal. It adds a little something extra to any outfit and is so fun to wear, and I say the bigger the better! I'm loving this ring below by Nichole Richie's House of Harlow line...I love the gold hardware, but I love even more that rich navy color which is SO chic and makes this item look way more expensive than it really is.
I know I wouldn't mind finding this in my stocking!

House of Harlow Antler Ring

Sunday, December 4, 2011

Whole Grain Baking Yumminess!

Back again with another recipe! I'm usually always cooking and baking on Sunday nights to get ready for the week and today was no different. Tonight I needed to bake something for a holiday party that I have tomorrow night. I wanted to take a little bit of a different route since I know most other desserts served will be iced cookies, brownies and the usual suspects (Not that there is anything wrong with any of those yummies!), SO I baked a Whole Grain Applesauce Spice Cake and OMG its yum! It uses a few healthier ingredients as far as baked goods go but you can't tell at all. This would also be great for a sweet something at breakfast or a brunch item. Enjoy!

Whole Grain Applesauce Spice Cake from Chocolate & Carrots





Ingredients:
Cake:
2 1/4 cups whole wheat or whole spelt flour
3/4 teaspoon baking powder
1 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 teaspoon salt
2 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ginger
1/4 teaspoon allspice
3 large eggs
3/4 cup olive oil – I used extra-virgin
1 cup unrefined or brown sugar
1 3/4 cups unsweetened applesauce
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Cinnamon sugar:
3 tablespoons unrefined or granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cinnamon
Caramel glaze:
4 tablespoons butter, cut into pieces
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup heavy cream
2/3 – 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted (unless yours is already lump free)
Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger and allspice.
2. In a separate medium bowl, whisk the eggs a little. Add the olive oil and sugar and mix. Then add the applesauce and vanilla extract.
3. Add the dry mix to the wet mix and stir. But just until combined!
4. Spray a 12 cup / 10″ bundt pan with cooking spray. Be sure to spray it very well. Then mix the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl and sprinkle the mix in the pan. Bake for 45 – 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the middle of the cake comes out clean. This recipe can also be halved and baked in a 6 cup bundt pan, which is what I always do. If using a 6 cup bundt pan, bake for about 27 – 30 minutes.
5. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, and then turn it out onto a rack and let it cool completely before glazing.
6. For the glaze: Put the butter, brown sugar, cream and salt in a saucepan at medium heat. Stirring constantly, bring it to a full rolling boil. Let it boil for one minute and then take it off the heat and let it cool for 5 minutes. Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat it until it’s very smooth and  there are no lumps. Pour over the cake.

What the Boenkers Give for Christmas!

Soooo I come from the belief that one of the greatest gifts of all is a homemade one and so that is what we do for our friends Christmas presents. My parents always did this while I was growing up and I know many of our family friends looked forward to my Mom's homemade fudge sauce every year. SO last year I made three different items to give and I'm contemplating doing the same three this year, but am not 100% sure yet. These are the recipes I made last year and I know any of your friends love to receive any of them!

Oh Baby Bars from Eat, Live, Run


Oh Baby Bars from Eat, Live, Run (They should be called Oh Baby These are Addicting Bars!) For the chocolate I use chocolate chips over chocolate bars because they are less expensive!

Oh Baby Bars
makes about 48 small bars
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 1/3 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup butter, softened
3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
7 ounces milk chocolate
4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate
1 T butter
Blend together the brown sugar, powdered sugar, butter and peanut butter until it reaches a smooth paste-like consistency. Press into the bottom of a nine by thirteen inch pan.
Melt the chocolate with the tablespoon of butter over very low heat (or in a microwave). Pour melted chocolate over the peanut butter crust and stick in the fridge for an hour to harden.
Cut into squares and serve!
Seasoned Oyster Crackers from Allrecipes

Next up we have Seasoned Oyster Crackers...these are SO addicting and SO yummy! They are great to have out at holiday parties and all the ingredients are inexpensive!
Prep Time:
10 Min
Cook Time:
15 Min
Ready In:
25 Min

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup canola oil
  • 1 (1 ounce) package ranch dressing mix
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed
  • 1 teaspoon lemon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
  • 2 (16 ounce) packages oyster crackers

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 275 degrees F (135 degrees C).
  2. In a large bowl, mix the canola oil, ranch dressing mix, dill, lemon pepper, granulated garlic, onion powder, seasoned salt, and white pepper until thoroughly combined. Gently mix the crackers with the seasonings, tossing to coat the crackers with the seasoned oil. Spread the crackers out onto a jelly roll pan in a single layer.
  3. Bake in the preheated oven until the crackers are very lightly browned at the edges, 15 to 20 minutes, stirring to bake other sides halfway through cooking. Allow to cool completely before storing in airtight canister or resealable plastic bag.

P.S. A jelly roll pan = a rimmed baking sheet which is a MUST for this recipe!

Chocolate Banana Gingerbread from How Sweet It Is


And last but not least we have Chocolate Banana Gingerbread from How Sweet It Is...I bake this in a mini-loaf pan like this one, and it makes it SO easy! You also don't have to do the sprinkling of raw turbinado sugar on top, if you don't have any just don't worry about it. I usually wrap these in saran wrap first and then foil just to keep them extra moist.

Chocolate Banana Gingerbread
1/4 cup butter, at room temperature
1/3 cup sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 cup molasses
2 medium bananas, mashed
2 1/4 cups all purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons ginger
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup chocolate chips
2 tablespoons raw turbinado sugar
Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Combine flour, salt, baking soda and spices in a bowl.
In the bowl of an electric mixer, cream butter and sugar together. Add egg and vanilla, and mix until pale yellow and smooth, about 3 minutes. Stir in molasses and mashed bananas. Add half of dry ingredients, just mixing until combined, then add buttermilk. Add remaining dry ingredients. Fold in chocolate chips.
Spray a loaf pan with non-stick spray and pour batter in. Top with raw turbinado sugar. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until toothpick inserted comes out clean.