Happy Friday, gang! I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas, full of laughter, love, and family. We had a great holiday, all the Djalalis were together and had a fun white elephant game on Christmas Eve. The holiday week between Christmas and New Year’s Eve always feels a little strange, with the “holiday hangover” of Christmas lingering and the anticipation of beginning the new year setting in. Before we rush into 2025, let’s take a step back today, and welcome the weekend with Breakfast Pot Pies and a Tomato Tini! 

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Enjoying the Holiday Week Between

Beth’s Holiday Week Outfit

I have my Faux Leather Shorts back in action today, and for a festive feel, I am wearing this darling Polo Anniversary Sweater. One of my favorites from Ralph Lauren is the Polo Bear Sweater collection. From the classic Polo Bear Flag edition to this rollneck edition – the Polo Bears are so iconic, fun and collectible. 

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Beth’s Outfit: Faux Leather Shorts | Polo Anniversary Sweater | Herringbone Tights | Black Knee High Boots | Caviar Hoops | Caviar Bangle | Caviar Watchband

Kelly’s Outfit: Petite Delaney Kickout Sweater Pants | Similar V-Neck Sweater | Greta Ballet Flat

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See how I last styled these Faux Leather Shorts in Bring on the Holiday Cheer!

Kelly’s Holiday Week Outfit

This is indeed my third pair of the Petite Delaney Kickout Sweater Pants! I added this navy pair to my collection because navy is such a versatile neutral. I decided to go with a monochromatic look today with a lighter blue sweater, for an easy, casual, and comfortable outfit. Add a simple pair of ballet flats – any color will work with a monochromatic outfit like this. I went with the silver Greta Ballet Flat

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Shop the Outfits

Beth’s Outfit: Faux Leather Shorts | Polo Anniversary Sweater | Herringbone Tights | Black Knee High Boots | Caviar Hoops | Caviar Bangle | Caviar Watchband

Kelly’s Outfit: Petite Delaney Kickout Sweater Pants | Similar V-Neck Sweater | Greta Ballet Flat

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Holiday Week Tomato Tini

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Savory cocktails have made a big impression on us in 2024. New martini recipes with ingredients like feta brine or pickle juice have been all the rage. For our last cocktail of 2024, we decided to try a Bloody Mary-inspired Tomato Tini. This really simple cocktail combines tomato paste and vermouth to create a sharp tomato flavor with a velvety soft finish – thanks to the vermouth. 

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Tomato Tini

Holiday Week Breakfast Pot Pies

These breakfast pot pies are so simple to prepare and the beautiful results will impress whomever you prepare them for. Perfect for this holiday week between, perhaps you have a few lingering family members or even if you just make them for yourself, they save really well as leftovers in the fridge. 

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Breakfast Pot Pies

Cheers to The Holiday Week!

Oscar, Ollie, Kelly, and I wish you a lovely Holiday weekend!

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Shop the Outfits

Beth’s Outfit: Faux Leather Shorts | Polo Anniversary Sweater | Herringbone Tights | Black Knee High Boots | Caviar Hoops | Caviar Bangle | Caviar Watchband

Kelly’s Outfit: Petite Delaney Kickout Sweater Pants | Similar V-Neck Sweater | Greta Ballet Flat

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How to Stay Comfortable and Cozy This Holiday Season

Loungewear is the unsung hero of our wardrobes, isn't it? It's the bridge between comfort and style, where you don’t have to sacrifice one for the other. As someone who loves a little elegance in everyday life, I find the right loungewear cozy and chic. Think soft, breathable fabrics that feel like a hug, but with a twist—maybe a sleek silhouette or a thoughtful detail like a button or a pintuck that elevates the whole look. The weather outside might be chilly, but inside, it's all about warmth and comfort—whether you're wrapping yourself in a fuzzy cardigan, slipping into a pair of plush joggers, or curling up in your favorite oversized sweater. So today, I have some inspiration for How to Stay Comfortable and Cozy This Holiday Season. 

Comfortable and Cozy Loungewear

How to Stay Comfortable and Cozy This Holiday Season

Comfortable and Cozy Outfit Inspiration

There's something so special about being able to wear comfy clothes all day, especially when the twinkling lights and holiday magic surround you. It's the little moments like these—where the world feels a little quieter and a little more peaceful—that really make the season feel so comfortable and cozy. 

Comfortable and Cozy Loungewear

Recreate the Outfit

Out & About Jogger | Alternate Striped Pullover | Superga Platform Sneakers

Comfortable and Cozy Loungewear

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Quarter Zip Sweatshirt | Slim Jogger | Retro Sneakers

Stylish Loungewear

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Ponte Kick Flare Pant | Similar Brushed Knit Crewneck Sweater | Bombas Gripper Slipper

Stylish Loungewear outfits

Recreate the Outfit

Similar Grey Joggers | Similar Turtleneck Sweater | Similar Ballet Flat

Comfortable and Cozy Shopping Inspiration

The AirEssentials line from Spanx has become one of my go-to's for chic, comfortable outfits that are perfect for lounging, running errands, and traveling. And with so many mix-and-matchable styles you can’t go wrong with AirEssentials!

Spanx Travel Wear

For luxe loungewear, Haven Well Within at Talbots is your one-stop shop. Comfortable and cozy silhouettes are a hallmark of Haven Well Within. With soft organic cotton and cashmere, you can take your lounging to the next level in timeless style. 

Haven Well Within Travel Wear

Lou & Grey, available at Loft offers on-trend loungewear at great prices. Find separates made for mixing and matching to create comfortable and cozy outfit combinations – perfect for running errands, traveling, or doing nothing! 

Lou & Grey loungewear
Barrel-Leg Jeans trend

Happy Thursday, Ladies! These are the few special weeks per year when fashion takes a festive turn and our minds are set on fun tartans, holiday colors, sparkle, and shine – and we will have plenty of that for you on the blog in the lead-up to Christmas and New Year’s Eve, but today I want to share an outfit to wear any day of the week. And depending on where you work, it might make a great work outfit. I know we all will don a festive outfit here and there in these weeks before the holidays, but realistically on any given day, we are just mixing and matching pieces in our wardrobes to get us from A to B. Let’s get there in style; in clothes that feel great and look great! Today, I have a Denim Trend to Try: Barrel-Leg Jeans

leopard cardigan

Be sure to check out my Madewell Gift Guide at the end of this post!

Denim Trend to Try: Barrel-Leg Jeans

Barrel-Leg Jeans

I have been desperate to wear the barrel-leg denim trend all year, but it was one try-on failure after another. I decided to give it one more go when I saw these Darted Barrel-Leg Jeans at Madewell in petite sizes. So I went for it and I have to say, they fit my frame the way they’re supposed to fit. I went for my usual size, petite 25. I do feel like I could have sized down one size though. And, these barrel-leg jeans have a button fly. 

Barrel-Leg Jeans trend

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Brushed Sweater Lady Jacket in Leopard | Petite Darted Barrel-Leg Jeans | Saint Laurent Loulou Bag | Similar Quilted Bag | Similar Ballet Flats

Barrel-Leg Jeans outfit

The key feature of barrel-leg jeans is the barrel-leg shape and with all the other petite pairs I have tried, the legs were so voluminous that the signature barrel shape was lost. I think the darts keep them from losing their shape and the length is just right. 

Barrel-Leg Jeans fall outfit

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Brushed Sweater Lady Jacket in Leopard | Petite Darted Barrel-Leg Jeans | Saint Laurent Loulou Bag | Similar Quilted Bag | Similar Ballet Flats

I have worn this Brushed Sweater Lady Jacket in Leopard a few times before and it’s been on style repeat because it’s so comfortable and I love the fuzzy look of the brushed knit. The gold buttons add the perfect amount of shine. I am wearing my usual size, xs and I think it fits TTS, but some say it runs small. 

leopard lady jacket

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Brushed Sweater Lady Jacket in Leopard | Petite Darted Barrel-Leg Jeans | Saint Laurent Loulou Bag | Similar Quilted Bag | Similar Ballet Flats

brushed leopard lady jacket

Simple ballet flats are one of my favorite shoe styles to wear with these Barrel-Leg Jeans. I like ballet flats' sleek and slim silhouette, especially with wide-leg pants. The pair I am wearing are old, from Madewell, but the Greta Ballet Flat is very similar. 

Saint Laurent Bag

I have my Saint Laurent Loulou Bag to complete today's simple, chic look. The Saint Laurent Loulou Bag is an investment piece, to be sure – and well worth it, in my opinion. This bag will always be in style. If you love the look, but not the price tag, try the Italian Leather Quilted Bag from Quince

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Brushed Sweater Lady Jacket in Leopard | Petite Darted Barrel-Leg Jeans | Saint Laurent Loulou Bag | Similar Quilted Bag | Similar Ballet Flats

Barrel-Leg Jeans fall style

Holiday Gifting

Gifts from Madewell

Thanksgiving is a time to gather with family and friends, indulge in delicious food, and enjoy cozy, heartwarming moments. With all that warmth and comfort, it’s the perfect occasion for a casual yet stylish outfit that lets you relax, eat, and celebrate in style. Here are some outfit ideas that balance comfort with a touch of chic, so you can enjoy the holiday festivities looking put-together without sacrificing ease.

Casual Thanksgiving Outfits
Casual Thanksgiving Outfits

Effortlessly Chic Casual Thanksgiving Outfits for a Cozy Holiday

Cozy Sweater and Velvet Jeans

A classic cozy sweater paired with high-waisted jeans is a go-to casual Thanksgiving outfit that never fails. Choose a sweater with fun textures, like cable-knit or ribbed designs, or try a mock neck for an elevated look. For the ultimate in holiday vibes, pick rich, seasonal colors like cranberry, mustard, forest green, or pumpkin spice.

Casual Thanksgiving Outfits
Casual Thanksgiving Outfits

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Velvet Jeans | Cashmere Crewneck | Similar Ribbed Cashmere Cardigan | Silk Scarf | Patent Leather Loafers

Casual Thanksgiving Outfits

Styling Tip: Half-tuck your sweater into your jeans for a polished look that still feels relaxed.

Shoes: Ankle boots or loafers keep things stylish, while white sneakers can add a laid-back touch.

Accessories: Add a statement necklace or silk scarf to complete the look.

Casual Thanksgiving Outfits
Casual Thanksgiving Outfits

Casual Thanksgiving: Midi Skirt with a Chunky Knit

For a more feminine, boho-inspired Thanksgiving look, a midi skirt paired with a chunky knit sweater is a beautiful choice. A flowy, patterned skirt adds movement and charm, while a cozy sweater keeps things casual. This look is perfect for both indoor gatherings and family photos!

midi skirt with chunky knit outfit

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Fair Isle Sweater | Corduroy Skirt | Knee High Boots

Styling Tip: Tuck in the front of your sweater or use a belt to define your waist and balance the flowy skirt.

Shoes: Knee-high or ankle boots, flats, or even slip-on mules add the finishing touch to this ensemble.

Accessories: A wide-brimmed hat or layered necklaces can add personality to the outfit.

Casual Thanksgiving: Plaid Button-Up with Dark Wash Jeans

Nothing says fall like plaid, and Thanksgiving is the perfect time to wear this cozy pattern. Pair a plaid button-up with dark wash jeans for a classic, effortless look. Choose a slightly oversized fit to keep it comfy and casual, and consider rolling up the sleeves for added style.

plaid button up with jeans

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Flannel Button-Down | White Tee | Charcoal Jeans | Similar Suede Loafers

Styling Tip: For a relaxed vibe, leave a few buttons open and layer with a simple tee or tank underneath.

Shoes: Complete the look with leather loafers, ankle boots, or even some comfy flats.

Accessories: Add a leather belt or simple gold jewelry to pull everything together.

One-and-Done Thanksgiving Outfit: Sweater Dress with Knee-High Boots

If you’re looking for an easy one-and-done outfit that still makes a statement, a sweater dress is your answer. Opt for a knee-length or midi sweater dress in a warm, earthy tone. It’s cozy, comfortable, and effortlessly stylish, perfect for a Thanksgiving dinner where you want to look a little dressed up without trying too hard.

Casual Thanksgiving Outfits

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Mock Neck Sweater Dress | Crocodile Knee High Boots | Gold Hoop Earrings | Pebble Leather Handbag | Sunglasses

Styling Tip: Layer with a long coat or wrap for a chic, layered effect that also keeps you warm.

Shoes: Knee-high boots add a sleek touch, while ankle boots give it a more casual vibe.

Accessories: Statement earrings or a belt to cinch the waist add extra flair to this look.

Casual Thanksgiving: Cashmere Cardigan with Wide Leg Corduroys

For the ultimate comfort, a cashmere cardigan paired with corduroys is a cozy outfit that’s still cute. Go for a neutral cardigan or choose a festive color like maroon or forest green. Add a long-sleeve tee or turtleneck underneath, and you’ll have a laid-back look perfect for lounging and enjoying family time.

Casual Thanksgiving Outfits

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Patch Pocket Corduroy Flare Pant | Jamey Crewneck | Sweater Blazer | Silk Scarf | Gold Metallic Shoes | Gold Belt | Gold Hoop Earrings

Casual Thanksgiving Outfits
Casual Thanksgiving Outfits

Styling Tip: Try layering with a scarf for extra warmth and a pop of texture.

Shoes: Keep it comfy with slip-on loafers, moccasins, or even cute sneakers.

Accessories: Throw on a beanie or add a crossbody bag to complete the outfit.

statement belt
silver and gray Thanksgiving Outfit

Casual Thanksgiving Outfit: Denim Shirt with Black Jeans

A denim or chambray shirt paired with black jeans is an effortlessly chic outfit that’s perfect for a casual Thanksgiving celebration. It’s polished but laid-back and goes well with the cozy, welcoming spirit of the holiday.

denim shirt black jeans

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Western Denim Shirt | Charcoal Jeans | Similar Cheetah Flats | Silver Stud Hoop Earrings | Hearts Belt | Charm Bracelet

Styling Tip: Leave the denim shirt untucked or do a half-tuck for a relaxed, stylish look.

Shoes: Try ankle boots, loafers, or leather flats for a clean and casual finish.

Accessories: Add a few simple rings or a pair of hoop earrings to keep it stylish and minimal.

Casual Thanksgiving Outfits

Thanksgiving is all about comfort, warmth, and spending time with loved ones. These casual outfits strike the perfect balance between stylish and laid-back, letting you celebrate in cozy style. Whether you’re going for a cozy sweater and jeans combo, a chic sweater dress, or a fun graphic sweater, remember to keep your outfit comfortable and true to your style. Happy Thanksgiving, and here’s to celebrating in style! 🦃🍂✨

Casual Thanksgiving Outfits

Happy Friday, ladies!  I hope you had a wonderful week.  We're back to our normal schedule this week with a Fridays with Oscar.  Per usual, I've got a super simple cocktail and appetizer perfect for a Friday night on the porch.  Plus, I'm showing you my casual take on a v-neck sweater---an old classic that never really goes out of fashion.

So here's to you ladies:  Ollie, Oscar, and I am wishing you a wonderful weekend!

The Summary

  Today's OOTD is a casual take on a v-neck sweater

  The outfit is modeled, and I pulled together 2 alternates

  Today's cocktail is a limoncello prosecco

  Today's appetizer is a fig and goat cheese crostini

A Casual Take on an Old Favorite

1. Tipped V-Neck Slub Vest

(Talbots)

Today's featured item is a v-neck slub vest from Talbots.  Personally, what I love about v-neck sweaters is their versatility.  You can layer them on top of a tank, tee, or button-down.  Or you can wear them without, like I've done today.

My outfit could not be more simple:  a pair of shorts (old, similar here and here) and sandals.  But make sure to check out today's alternatives.  This sweater works great with a pair of denim or cropped wide-leg pants.

Beth May 2022
Beth May 2022
Beth May 2022
Beth May 2022
Beth May 2022

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2. Limoncello Prosecco

Beth May 2022
Beth May 2022
Beth May 2022

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Limoncello prosecco


  • Author: Beth Djalali

Ingredients

INGREDIENTS

750 ml prosecco

1 cup limoncello, chilled ice

GARNISH

blueberries

thyme

lemon slices


Instructions

Add the prosecco and limoncello liquor to a pitcher and stir.

Place a handful of blueberries in a glass, top with ice and fill with the limoncello prosecco.

Garnish with thyme and lemon slices.

3. Fig and Goat Cheese Crostini

Beth May 2022
Beth May 2022
Beth May 2022
Beth May 2022

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Fig and goat cheese crostini


  • Author: Beth Djalali

Ingredients

Scale

1 baguette

2 Tbsp olive oil

1 5 oz soft goat cheese with honey

1/4 C fig butter or fig jam

2 Tbsp honey

10 leaves mint


Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°. Slice your baguette into 1/2″ diagonal slices. Cutting on a diagonal will give you more space for toppings and looks better. Place baguette slices on a baking sheet and either drizzle or brush olive oil on top of each one, just one side.

Bake the baguette slices for 5-8 minutes, until the edges are slightly crisp and the center is still soft. They will get a light brown color. 

Whipping your goat cheese will make it creamy and easy to spread, rather than crumbly. Place your cheese into the bowl of a stand mixer or use a hand mixer to whip until creamy. About 1 minute. If you can’t find goat cheese with honey already added, add 2 Tbsp of honey and then mix. 

Spread about 1 Tbsp of goat cheese onto each slice. 

Spread about 1 Tbsp of fig jam on top of the goat cheese. 

Place all your slices next to each other (in a square) and then drizzle honey all over. I like honey, so I used about 2 Tbsp, but you can use as much or as little as you like. 

Slice your mint leaves into little long pieces and place evenly on top of your fig jam. Don’t skip this step! The mint really sends this over the edge and gives this a fresh taste.

Alternative Stylings

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In Case You Missed It

Yesterday, I introduced you to the Coastal Grandmother trend.  Click the title or image below to read the article.

Get excited, ladies! The Merry Month of May is within reach. We’re kicking it off with two recipes perfect for Cinco de Mayo. And to make it easy for you I’m partnering with Total Wine today which carries all the fixings for the perfect Margarita, Sangria or maybe you prefer a cold Cerveza. What I loved about Total Wine is that they share recipes for the perfect cocktail!

My best buddy Oscar is on deck today and he was oh so interested in the stuffed jalapeños I whipped up. It’s an easy recipe to make and serve and it’s pretty darn good if I do say so myself. Are you ready for the Cinco de Mayo version of  Fridays with Oscar? Me too!

The weather has been glorious this past week so it was time to head out to the screened porch. There’s nothing better than whiling away the day in a comfy chair with a cool breeze and no bugs! That’s the best part of a screened porch. And I love to entertain out here.

The Summary

  Today's featured item is a comfy cosy sweater from J.Crew

  I've got a stuffed jalapeños on the menu

  I'm partnering with Total Wine for today's cocktail:  Tequila Sunrise

  The OOTD is shoppable via a text and image widget

  My tablescape is also shoppable via a text and image widget

Cinco de Mayo Appetizers

1. Tablescape

Beth Djalali
Beth Djalali
Beth Djalali
Beth Djalali

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2. stuffed jalapeños

Today’s recipes are geared for Cinco de Mayo. Give me all the margaritas and tacos this time of year! Although I decided to mix things up this year.  Let's kick things off with stuffed jalapenos. 

Beth Djalali
Beth Djalali
Beth Djalali
Beth Djalali

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Stuffed Jalapeños


  • Author: Beth Djalali

Ingredients

Scale

8 large jalapeño peppers

8 cooked shrimp, chopped

2 – 4 ears of corn or 1/4 cup frozen

1 cup tomatoes, chopped

1/2 cup Greek yogurt

1 heaping tablespoon cilantro, chopped

12 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp salt

Queso Fresco Cheese


Instructions

Heat oven to 375 degrees

Slice jalapeño peppers in halve. Place on baking sheet and bake for ten minutes.

Boil 4 ears of corn. When cooled cut the kernels from the corn and place in mixing bowl.

Chop the tomatoes and place in mixing bowl.

Chop the cooked shrimp and place in mixing bowl.

Add 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt.

Add chopped cilantro.

Add minced garlic.

Add salt.

Mix together.

Take jalapeños from oven.

Scoop the shrimp mixture into the jalapeños and place back in over. Bake for ten minutes.

Sprinkle Queso Fresco over the jalapeños and serve.

3. Tequila Sunrise

A Tequila Sunrise is as pretty to look at as it is to drink. And it’s so easy to make. Total Wine has all the fixings: tequila, orange juice, grenadine, and corona. Couldn’t be easier! But my kiddos love to sip on seltzers so I stocked up on Topo Chico Margarita Seltzers to have on hand.

Beth Djalali
Beth Djalali
Beth Djalali
Beth Djalali

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Tequila Sunrise


  • Author: Beth Djalali

Ingredients

2 ounces orange juice

2 ounces tequila

1 ounce grenadine

Corona Extra


Instructions

Combine tequila and orange juice in a pint glass, add grenadine and ice, then fill with cold Corona Extra.

Garnish with an orange peel.

Now slowly pour the grenadine straight down the middle, so it sinks to the bottom.

Optionally garnish with a citrus wedge or sliver of orange peel.

In Case You Missed It

Usually, Thursdays are a 2-post day.  But this morning I shared my picks for Kohl's Friends and Family sale.  Click the title or image below to read the article.

Hey, hey! It’s Friday, ladies, which means it’s time to kick off the weekend with a delicious recipe and cocktail. Of course, my favorite sidekick, Oscar is on deck and I’m sporting a laid-back outfit that’s perfect for a chilly Spring day.  (Although simple, today's appetizer may be better than Clinton Kelly's shrimp appetizer, maybe.)

Can you believe our temps have bounced from 39 degrees to 75ish in the course of a week? Mother Nature can be a fickle creature this time of year. Lightweight sweaters and third layers come in handy! Rest assured I have one or the other on hand.

The Summary

  Today's featured item is a pair of boyfriend jeans from Kut from the Kloth

  The jeans are modeled

  The entire outfit is shoppable via a text or image widget

  I've got a recipe for an Italian Greyhound and Avacado cucumber shrimp bites

Better than Clinton Kelly's Shrimp Appetizer

1. Boyfriend Jeans

(Kut from the Kloth)

This Spring I’ve been testing new denim silhouettes. The trend for  2022 is a looser fit and I can’t say I’m disappointed. I’ve always loved the slouchy fit of  boyfriend jeans so I was thrilled to stumble upon this pair from Kut from the Kloth available at Nordstrom.

Since the temps were on the brisk side I reached for a striped sweater from Banana Republic. And I always love to slip into a pair of comfy shoes. How cute are these espadrilles from Vince?! They look adorable with a pair jeans.

Beth Djalali
Beth Djalali
Beth Djalali
Beth Djalali

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2. Italian Greyhound

Beth Djalali
Beth Djalali
Beth Djalali
Beth Djalali

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Italian Greyhound


  • Author: Beth Djalali

Ingredients

Scale

1 Tbsp fresh chopped rosemary

1/4 cup sugar

2 ounces gin

4 ounces pink grapefruit juice

1 ounce Aperol

1 rosemary sprig, for garnish


Instructions

Combine the rosemary and sugar and spread on a small plate

Rim edge of a glass with a lime wedge then press the glass onto the plate, turning to coat.

Fill glass with crushed ice. Add the gin, juice, and Aperol. Garnish with a rosemary sprig. 

Stir gently. Enjoy!

3. avocado cucumber shrimp bites

Today’s recipes couldn’t be easier. Cucumber, guacamole and shrimp are all that’s needed to whip up a delicious appetizer or snack that’s healthy and perfect for a Spring or Summer day.

Beth Djalali
Beth Djalali
Beth Djalali
Beth Djalali

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Avocado Cucumber Shrimp Bites


  • Author: Beth Djalali

Description

Cajun Shrimp

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 garlic cloves, finely minced

1 tbsp cilantro, finely chopped, plus more for garnish

1 tsp paprika

½ tsp cayenne pepper

½ tsp sea salt

¼ tsp black pepper

2 Tbsp olive oil, divided

Avocado Spread

1 avocado

¼ tsp salt

1 tbsp lime juice, plus more to squeeze over finished appetizers

1 English Cucumber, sliced


Ingredients

How to make Cajun Shrimp

Place shrimp in a large mixing bowl and pat dry with paper towels. Add minced garlic, 1 Tbsp cilantro, 1 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1 Tbsp olive oil. Stir well to combine.

Heat a large heavy pan over medium/high heat with 1 Tbsp olive oil. Once oil is hot, add shrimp in a single layer and sauté 2 min per side or until cooked through

How to make the avocado spread

Heat a large heavy pan over medium/high heat with 1 Tbsp olive oil. Once oil is hot, add shrimp in a single layer and sauté 2 min per side or until cooked through.

In a small bowl, mash together 1 avocado, 1/4 tsp salt and 1 Tbsp lime juice until creamy. Divide the avocado mix over 20-22 cucumber slices.

Squeeze fresh lime juice over the shrimp avocado bites and garnish with more finely chopped cilantro. If not serving right away, cover and refrigerate up to 4 hours before serving.


In Case You Missed It

Yesterday, I showed you a variety of different dresses, and additionally, different ways to style each.  Click the title or image below to read the article.

For those of you who caught Sunday’s Talbots’ Spring new arrivals capsule wardrobe, this is the companion piece.  I debated whether to run the two together in one mega-post, but decided to split them up.  Last weekend, I went through Ann Taylor’s Spring new arrivals, and I’ve put together a capsule wardrobe.  The name of the game is the same as it was this weekend.   From 15 different items, I’ve put 5 different outfits together.  The items include:

Here are the rules I tried to follow when selecting items:

Remember, I’ve only provided 5 potential outfits.  The beauty of capsule wardrobes is that they can be mixed and matched in so many different ways.  Sky is the limit, really.  So let’s see what I came up with. 

Ann Taylor Spring New Arrivals

Crocodile Tote | Metro Short | Straw Clutch | Ponte Split-Neck Top | Pleat Front Top | Gingham Swing Jacket | Block Heel Sandal | Suede Mules | Straw Loafer Slides | Essential Black Shirt | Moto Jacket | Crop Pant | Chambray Paperbag Ankle Pant | Stitch Sweater | High-Rise Skinny Jeans

Shop the capsule wardrobe (click below)

Ann Taylor outfit 1

I absolutely love Ann Taylor’s essential shirts.   So choosing one was a no-brainer.  I imagine most of you have a black button-down and light wash jeans.  But what really makes this outfit is the gingham coat and the suede mules.  Perfect for a night out.  But swap the gingham jacket for the moto one, and you’ll be living even more on the edge.

Crocodile ToteGingham Swing Jacket | Suede Mules | Essential Black ShirtHigh-Rise Skinny Jeans

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Ann Taylor outfit 2

Simply Spring.  That’s all I have to say about our second outfit.  Loving the soft elegance of the Ponte split-neck top paired with these chambray paper bag ankle pants.  Don’t like monochromatic blue?  No problem.  Swap the shirt for the white pleat front top, and you still maintain the essence of this outfit.  The tan crocodile tote goes with all of the outfits I’ve put together—animal prints and textures are neturals! 

Crocodile TotePonte Split-Neck Top | Block Heel SandalChambray Paperbag Ankle Pant

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Ann Taylor outfit 3

Classic white.  Cannot beat it.  Here, we’ve kept the chambray paper bag ankle pant pants from above but instead paired them with the pleat front top and moto jacket.  Don’t worry, the sassiness of the jacket is subdued by the block heel sandal.

Crocodile Tote | Pleat Front Top | Block Heel SandalMoto Jacket | Crop Pant | Chambray Paperbag Ankle Pant

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Ann Taylor outfit 4

The simplest outfit of them all:  a black stitch Sweater and high-rise skinny jeans.  Can’t touch the classics, really.  But how perfect are the straw clutch and Suede Mules together?  

 Straw Clutch | Suede MulesStitch Sweater | High-Rise Skinny Jeans

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Ann Taylor outfit 5

I’m so loving these straw loafer slides, I had to include them.  They too work with just about any of the combinations above and subdue just about any outfit you could put together from this capsule wardrobe.  

This is the first outfit with shorts.  Ann Taylor’s metro short is conservative enough for most of us and definitely worth considering if you’re in the market. 

 Straw ClutchGingham Swing JacketStraw Loafer Slides | Essential Black Shirt | Metro Short

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In case you missed it

If you’re looking for more classic wardrobe ideas, make sure to check out our essential series: 

Daily Looks

Make sure to catch up on our DAILY LOOK. We post a dedicated photo to our daily outfit every Wednesday-Sunday. And you can shop those outfits easily through the shop the widget below the picture.

Happy Tuesday, ladies!  After a beautiful Spring week, we’ve got rain here in Athens.  No more evenings on the patio, at least for now. But as they say, when life gives you rain, bring a raincoat.  In fact, this week has been all about Spring coats.  On Sunday, we featured the most important Winter-to-Spring transition piece:  the Spring jacket.  Unsurprisingly, the raincoat made our list.  And today we’re featuring what I think is one of 2022’s best women’s raincoats from Talbots. 

Best women’s raincoats

One of the reasons I love Spring jackets—raincoats, in particular—is that they are the easiest way to introduce color into your wardrobe.  This year is all about bright, bold colors:  from beautiful coral reds to hot pinks, 2022 features it all.  

Today’s feature is a plaid raincoat from Talbots.  Its colorful, pink-based plaid pairs perfectly with the cutest pink rainboots from Amazon.   What I love about this jacket, though, is that it would work well with a myriad of boots and shoes.  I could see dressing the outfit up slightly with a pair of riding boots; or down with a pair of clogs or platform sneakers.

Raincoat (Talbots) | Rainboots (Amazon Store) | Sweater Ann Taylor (limited sizes similar here and here) | Denim (Wit & Wisdom) | Sunglasses (similar)

Ann Taylor mock neck sweater

It’s been the year of the pink sweater for me.  Last Fridays with Oscar, I featured a lovely pink v-neck sweater from LOFT.  Today, I’m wearing this super comfy mock neck sweater from Ann Taylor (limited sizes, similar here and here).  Style it with your favorite denim or pants;  this sweater is the perfect transition piece for Spring. 

Raincoat (Talbots) | Rainboots (Amazon Store) | Sweater Ann Taylor (limited sizes similar here and here) | Denim (Wit & Wisdom) | Sunglasses (similar)

Wit & Wisdom jeans

My jeans are slim-straight from Wit & Wisdom—a new favorite of mine.   Straight-leg jeans are in this year, and this pair, in particular, fits great.

Raincoat (Talbots) | Rainboots (Amazon Store) | Sweater Ann Taylor (limited sizes similar here and here) | Denim (Wit & Wisdom) | Sunglasses (similar)


In case you missed it 

We started our budget-friendly series last week with 

We continued it yesterday with 

both of which are from Scoop available at Walmart.

Daily Looks

Make sure to catch up on our DAILY LOOK.  We post a dedicated photo to our daily outfit every Wednesday-Sunday. And you can shop those outfits easily through the shop the widget below the picture. 

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