White Shirt Wednesday

For this weeks White Shirt Wednesday feature I wanted to talk about the thing most of us live in, the t-shirt and jeans.

Let's say you're hanging out in your daily "uniform" (looking something lovely, like this) and you have a friend call you up and say they want to get together for drinks because you haven't seen each other in ages.  Crap... I look like crap...

Of course you want to see this friend, you're desperate for an evening out but, gosh darnit, you just don't want to get ready.  Who could blame you?

I've got an idea.

Don't change, you want to be comfortable, just add.  Add on some glitz and glitter and you'll instantly look like you know what you're doing in the dressing department and will appear ready for an evening of debauchery drinks.

Impact Earrings. Frosted Necklace. Smooth Sailing Necklace. Assemblage Bracelet.

Layer on necklaces to add sparkle, color and texture.  Technically I'm only wearing two necklaces.  One is this necklace that I love because it dresses up an outfit and is so long that it can be doubled up.  The other is this little smarty pants.  You get more bang for you buck with this baby.  It's one necklace that has a double hook clasp allowing you to take it apart and wear whatever strands you'd like.  You virtually can create a different look for every day of the week.  You can even throw some of your own necklaces on the Genius clasp and really mix and match.  You also won't have chains tangling up around your neck, which I strongly dislike.

Adding large hoops and a chunky bracelet make me feel better about myself. ;-)

Throw on a cardigan or a cute little jacket over that t-shirt and a pair of heels and get going.  It's literally a look that takes minutes (not hours) to think about and execute.

A college professor of mine would always tell us to "work smarter, not harder."  That definitely should apply to your "get ready" routine.

Presents!

I have an unhealthy obsession with our UPS man...

He visits me WAY more than my husband could ever want and he always brings presents.
Okay, they're presents that we pay for and usually things I don't absolutely need, but those are just details.

Today he came baring jewelry and pants.  My kind of man!

Calling All Brides!

Wedding season is nearly upon us.  Brides, have you thought about what you want your ladies in waiting to be accessorized in?

If you're wanting something funky, something with color, or something metallic; if you need sparkle or you're a traditionalist, casual or dressy, lia sophia has something for every bride.
I looooove styling and I'd love to help you find the perfect pieces to go with your perfect day.

Take a peak below at all of the things that could go with just this one dress.  All of the jewelry makes wonderful gifts, has a lifetime guarantee and can be purchased at a great deal.  Ask me how.

wedding season with lia by lafairch featuring bracelet jewelry

Happy Birthday Dear Sista!

Happy birthday to my sista!

Because I'm the best, I've made her a cake.  Homemade chocolate with a vanilla buttercream. YUM.

This buttercream has changed my life, not really, but it is so good.  Not the best for piping but it can be done if you work fast or take time to cool it down every now and then.

It's truly a buttercream in every sense of the word... It is butter and cream :)

"I can actually hear you getting fatter..."
(Ten points to the person that can name the movie that quote is from.) 

Because I love ya and I know you need more cream and butter in your life I've included the recipe.

Enjoy!

Buttercream Frosting:

- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup butter, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 to 2 tablespoons whipping cream

In a larger bowl, with a hand or stand mixer, cream together sugar and butter on low speed.  Mix until well blended.  Increase speed to medium and beat for another 3 minutes.

Add vanilla and cream and continue to beat on medium speed for 1 minute more, adding more cream if needed for desired spreading/piping consistency.

Scoop into a piping bag and pipe decoratively onto cupcakes or spread onto cupcakes as desired.

Happy Spring!

Spring!  It's here!  It's finally here!

In honor of the new season here are some Spring inspired looks to update your warm weather wardrobe.

All styles include a chambray shirt.  They are the perfect light weight, go to item for the changing seasons and they go with everything.  Really.  Even denim.  Yes, I said denim.  However, don't wear yours with like colored denim, that's kind of that whole Canadian Tuxedo thing I've mentioned before...

I've got to get myself a pair of those bright espadrilles...swoon...

Untitled #2 by lafairch featuring platform shoes

Gap top / J Crew clothing / J.Crew j. crew shorts / J.Crew short shorts / Gap slip on shoes / J.Crew flat shoes / Lucky Brand platform shoes

White Shirt Wednesday

Want to instantly feel classier?  Throw on a white button down shirt.

They're one of those items everyone has in their closet and one of the things the "experts" say is a staple to any wardrobe.  I usually have one in my closet but never wear it.  Until today...

Please ignore my messy closet, thank you.

I decided for White Shirt Wednesday I wanted to give the white button down another shot.  Boy, I'm happy I did.  Just with a tweak of the collar and cuffs I instantly feel more stylish.  I paired mine with a pair of black skinnies but obviously it'll work with ANYTHING.  To "Spring-ify" your crisp, white, classic, pair it with a colored pant and skinny belt (I included a belt with mine and had pictures of my shirt tucked in, which also looked very cute, but apparently I deleted them...typical).
Anyway, it's such a versatile piece that works for every season and looks great by itself or underneath a cardigan/jacket.

Now let's get down to the jewelry...

I went sans necklace and opted for statement earrings instead.  These lil, blue pretties are surprisingly lightweight and also come in gold and white (which I happen to love).

I doubled up a couple of bracelets with my watch.  One is Amplify, which I've featured over and over because it really is a great bracelet to throw on with everything, and the other has a couple of tricks.

The Change It Up bracelet allows you versatility, in that you can switch out the clip on charm.  I used this one.  I topped it all off with the Ice Rink ring because I love me a statement ring.

Not only does it look good, apparently it tastes good too!

 

Jewelryyyyyy!!!!

A Casual Easter Look

Casual Easter by lafairch featuring short skirts

J Crew long sleeve top / J Crew short skirt / Lanvin leather shoes / Henri Bendel bangle watch / J.Crew Vintage oxford shirt in solid

Since the weather was beautiful today and Lent started last week I've begun to think about Spring and my Easter outfit.

Some of you know the importance my Easter outfit holds for me :) It should come as no surprise that I'm trying to come up with something great.

This year I will definitely be featuring my jewelry and have had outfit ideas rolling around my head after seeing some of the pastel pieces.

This is one look that I love that feels a little more casual to me with the long cardigan and flats.
I love the mix of metallics and the slight injections of soft color.

Featured: Lovefest earrings, Fondant necklace, Glazed bracelet and the Bay Breeze Bracelet.

Snack Anyone?

Two posts in one day?!... Whaaaaat?!

Yes, it's true.  This is my daughter's second nap and I felt like baking.  I haven't done it in quite some time.  So I did the exact opposite of baking and made a couple of sweets in a coffee mug cooked in the microwave.

I've had a chocolate mug cake recipe hanging out on my computer for some time now and the only time I've attempted to make it the only ingredient I had was a coffee mug.  So, away my recipe went never to be looked at again.  Literally, never again.  I have no clue where I put it so I had to find a new recipe today.

While looking for a new recipe I came across a recipe for a chocolate chip cookie in a mug as well.  Uuuuhhh... yes!  This was the moment, I had to try them out.  I have all of these mugs that I registered for when Patrick and I got married and I don't drink coffee.  Mug cakes and cookies for everyone!

Both recipes were easy, took no time and turned out as they were supposed to.  The cookie was my favorite, I'll definitely make that one again.  The cake was pretty good, needed to be a bit more sweet.  If I wanted to take the time to whip up a little frosting I think that would have made all the difference.

First, the chocolate chip cookie.

The line up: chocolate chips, white sugar, brown sugar, salt, vanilla, butter, all purpose flour and an egg yolk.

Throw a tablespoon of butter in your coffee mug and melt slightly.

Add a tablespoon each of white and brown sugar and mix.

Add one egg yolk.

Mix! Now!

Throw in two heaping tablespoons of chocolate chips and microwave for 40 seconds.  Check doneness, microwave longer if needed.  Do not exceed 60 seconds.

Then it comes out looking all weird like this but you don't care because there is chocolate and sugar in it.

Enjoy!  I've virtually done nothing today so I deserve it!  (full recipe below)

How about some chocolate cake?

The lineup: White sugar, all purpose flour, veggie oil, salt, cocoa powder, baking powder and milk.  The recipe calls for peanut butter, I wasn't in the mood so I threw in extra chocolate (chocolate chips) instead :)

Add all of your dry ingredients and whisk.

Then your wet ingredients, I don't remember what they are anymore, but add them.

Mix, throw in some chocolate chips, mix again and put in the microwave for 1 minute 10 seconds.  The recipe says that it will rise quite a bit and then deflate.  Because I didn't want a mess in my microwave I put a plate underneath the mug.  

Finished product.

Indulge.

Chocolate Chip Mug Cookie

ingredients:

3 tablespoons flour
2 tablespoons sugar
1 1/2 tablespoons cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
pinch of salt
3 tablespoons milk
1 1/2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon peanut butter

directions:

In a large mug, whisk (with a small whisk or large fork) together the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder and salt). Add the milk, vegetable oil and peanut butter. Whisk until smooth.

Cook in the microwave on high for 1 minute and 10 seconds. This recipe will rise a lot and then deflate. I know it's strange, but trust me it's delicious! Serve immediately!

Ingredients

• 1 Tablespoon Butter
• 1 Tablespoon Granulated White Sugar
• 1 Tablespoon of firmly packed Dark Brown Sugar
• 3 Drops of Vanilla Extract
• Small Pinch of Kosher Salt
• 1 Egg Yolk (discard the egg white or save for different recipe)
• Scant ¼ of All Purpose Flour (slightly less than ¼ of a cup)
• 2 heaping tablespoons of Semi Sweet Chocolate Chips

Instructions

1. Start by melting your butter in the microwave. Butter should just be melted, not boiling.
2. Add sugars, vanilla and salt. Stir to combine.
3. Separate your egg and add the yolk only to your cup. Stir to combine.
4. Add flour, then stir again. Measure a scant, slightly less than full, ¼ cup of all-purpose flour.
5. Add the chocolate chips, and give a final stir. Now your mixture will look like cookie dough.
6. Cook in microwave 40-60 seconds, start checking for doneness at 40 seconds. Mine takes 50 seconds. Do not cook past one minute, just like a regular cookie, this will continue cooking as it cools. If the cookie is dry or cake like, try less time.
7. Serve warm.

Hand Full of Stacks ;-)

One of the easiest and quickest things you can do to amp up an outfit is layer or stack your accessories.

I love to add layers of bangles to create an impact and it's one of those tricks that literally takes no time or thought.  Just find some of your favorite bracelets and stack them on your wrist.

Amplify and Wrap Star Bracelets (Wrap Star comes in multiple colors)

In my opinion, stacking your bracelets with your watch gives such a rich look.

Twisted Sister and Amplify Bracelets
Mix Metals

These bracelets are from last season's lia sophia catalog but I wanted to give an example of how you can just stack and stack to get impact.

My one tip when layering bracelets, keep it odd.  Add your bangles in odd numbers, 3 or 5, for the best look.  Bracelets like "Wrap Star" are awesome because it is just one bracelet but gives the impression (depending on the size of your wrist) that you're wearing multiples.

You also can layer rings.  I'm not saying put a ring on every finger, but stack bands or wear a couple of rings on one hand of varying sizes.  Throw in your fine jewelry with your lia sophia, get wear out of both.  I also love the look of a statement ring with a knuckle ring that are so big right now.  They can be found anywhere, some of my favorites are on www.etsy.com.

Ignore my man hands.  I didn't realize I had man hands until I took these pictures.

Ice Rink and Silver Screen Rings

Layering necklaces is pretty standard fare when it comes to layering long and short styles.  But I really like the look of layering short and short.  Two dainty chains with different charms on each give you a sweet look and is one of my go-tos when I just want to throw on some jewelry with a plain t-shirt when I'm running out the door.

Initialed and Crystal Bouquet necklaces (comes in two colors)

 Love these looks?  Get them for yourself at www.liasophia.com/laurafairchild

Jar Salads

I've seen these around a couple of places and apparently they are all the rage on Pinterest (although I've never seen them on Pinterest)...  Let me introduce you to jar salads.

The idea behind these babies is that you can prepare a weeks worth of healthy meals in one day.  I was/am a bit skeptical about the whole thing but supposedly if you assemble salads in these jars the "correct way" they'll keep.

The "correct way" is as follows:

Layer 2 tablespoons of your dressing at the bottom of the jar, put hardy veggies on top of that followed by your protein and then your lettuce.  
The most important step... everything needs to be dry.  Meaning, you will need to wash and cut your lettuce and dry it.  
Keep the dressing and moist (I know this is one of the most hated words in the dictionary but it doesn't bother me so I'll use it...moist, moist, moist) items away from your lettuce or it'll wilt and turn nasty.  Because I no long have a salad spinner this meant it would take a bit of time.  
I chopped some romaine, washed it, shook it out and then laid it on some paper towels until it was dry.  

If you've got the time, these seem to be worth it, but by the end of the week I'm sure I'll never want to eat another salad again.

There are many recipes out there and of course you don't need a recipe to throw together a lettuce salad but I've looked through a few just so I can have variety.

The first salad I've tried is a Cobb salad with a homemade greek yogurt bleu cheese dressing.  You can find the recipe for both the dressing and the mason jar salad below.

A few things about this particular salad... I do not like blue cheese dressing I've discovered.  What a strong flavor!  However, I have chosen to make my own dressings to be a bit healthier.  You can find recipes all over the internets and they really are so easy to throw together.
I'd also like to mention that the original recipe I looked at said their avocado didn't turn brown because they spritzed it with some lime juice.  I did the same thing and my avocado is already browning... add at your own risk.

All in all these seem to be a great idea and I've really enjoyed them these first two days.  Pull a jar out of the fridge, shake it and throw it in a bowl.  Easy peasy and now I don't need to think about lunch the rest of the week!

Low Fat Creamy Blue Cheese Dressing

Gina's Weight Watcher RecipesServings: 8  • Serving Size: 2 tablespoons • Old Points: 1 pt • Points+: 1 pt
Calories: Calories: 46.8 • Fat: 3.0 g • Protein: 2.8 g • Carb: 2.2 g • Fiber: 0.3 g   Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese

• 6 oz fat free Greek yogurt

• 1 tbsp light mayonnaise

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tbsp white wine vinegar

• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder

• salt and freshly ground black pepper

Directions:
In a small bowl, mash blue cheese and yogurt together with a fork. Stir in mayonnaise, lemon juice, vinegar, and garlic powder until well blended. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Makes 1 cup.


Chopped Cobb Mason Jar Salad

Ingredients

• 5 wide mouth quart size mason jars (I made 7)

• 10 tablespoons yogurt blue cheese dressing (Made my own)

• 1 quart cherry tomatoes, halved

• 5 mini cucumbers, sliced (I used one, regular-sized, fat one)

• 1 small to medium red onion, chopped

• 5 hard-boiled eggs, chopped or sliced (left out because I don't like)

• 2 avocados, chopped

• 5 slices cooked crispy bacon, crumbled

• 5 slices, thinly sliced turkey, cut into pieces (I used chicken and bacon as the meat)

• 5 slices, thinly sliced ham, cut into pieces

• 5 cups chopped romaine lettuce (I used 3 Romaine hearts)

Instructions

1. Divide ingredients among mason jars. Start with dressing then add tomatoes, cucumbers, onion, egg, avocado, bacon, turkey, ham, and ending with romaine. When ready to eat, shake, then pour into a bowl.

Notes
These salads can be made up to 5-6 days ahead of time.
Nutrition Information
Serving size: 1 mason jar Calories: 400 Fat: 20 Carbohydrates: 29 Fiber: 8 Protein: 27