Pretty Patriotism

The Forth of July is right around the corner!
How to look pretty and patriotic without looking like you belong on a float in the parade...

 I will be seeing a lot of family from out of town that I don't often get to visit with this weekend.

I like to look nice and dressed up for the occasion so they remember me in a positive light, lol!
I decided to wear jeans with a light sweater as I find it transitions well from an afternoon BBQ through late night firework displays.

 I found the perfect balance between being playfully festive and stylish.

What I have noticed is that when I try to incorporate all three colors: red, white & blue to my outfit it looks a bit hokey... and you never want to look like you're trying too hard.

This year I decided to stick with two of the colors and pair them with a pleasant neutral.

(I have red hair... so maybe I did end up incorporating all 3 colors anyway)!

(Photo Cred: B. Campbell)

Shown Above:

Top: Nordstrom Rack // Bottoms: Articles of Society  // Shoes: DSW // Earrings: Charming Charlie
// Sunglasses: Macy's

I hope this has helped to inspire your Fourth of July outfit. 

I hope you have a great holiday weekend!

What are your plans for the holiday? Do you go out and watch a fireworks display or do you put on your own? I'd love to hear from you. Leave a comment below!

What's for Dinner? Pineapple Salmon!

What's for Dinner?

The recipe you've been dying to have: Pineapple Salmon!

Here is the Pineapple Salmon I recently posted a picture of on my Instagram account. 

Hope you guys enjoy the recipe as much as my family did!

Pineapple Salmon

This recipe serves: 2

What you'll need:

1 pineapple (with the bark cut off. Keep it though, you'll need it!)

2 salmon fillets

a pinch of salt

1/2 tsp pepper

1 1/2 tsp chili powder

1 1/2 Tbsp garlic powder

1 Tbsp tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

2-4 Tbsp teriyaki sauce (optional)

Baker's twine

What to do:

1// Combine salt, pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper flakes and teriyaki sauce into a bowl. 

2// Place thawed salmon fillets into the marinade you have just created.

3// Let salmon marinate for at least a half hour. Longer is better, but if you're in a rush, 30 minutes will work.

4// Make a "little sandwich" with the pineapple bark and salmon fillet. Wrap your "little sandwich" with baker's twine.

5// Wrap your "little sandwich" in tin foil and either place it in the grill for about 7-10 minutes or in a conventional oven for 25-30 minutes. (Cook until salmon is flakey in the center).

This is a fabulous light Summer meal, enjoy!

What is your favorite Summer meal? I'd love to hear from you. Leave a comment below!

My "Everyday" Makeup Routine

Some of you have been wanting to know my 

"Everyday" Make up Routine.

Well, here it is:

Before I do anything, I always wash my face. Even if you've washed your face the night before, oils and sweat can accumulate onto the skin during the night. You want to treat your face like a piece of art. You need a blank slate. After I've washed my face, I apply a thin layer of Clinique Moisture Surge. This helps to prevent foundation from caking onto any dry patches on your skin.

For me the most important thing is full face coverage. As a fair-skinned redhead, I am prone to patchiness. I am able to skimp out of many high-priced beauty products but foundation and a compressed powder are two things I always "splurge" on. Five years ago I was introduced to Clinique Super Balanced Collection. My shade is Alabaster, but you should visit a Clinique counter to find your perfect shade. I always finish off my coverage with Clinique Stay Matte: Stay Buff Compressed Powder. It helps to set the foundation and prevent your makeup from melting on a hot Summer day.

While my foundation and compressed powder are setting I begin to work on my eyes.

I curl my lashes with a Revlon lash curler. I apply two coats of Bare Mineral Flawless Definition.

Then I apply a thin layer of Clinique Chubby stick eyeshadow in Bountiful beige. I start at the brow bone and sweep it on as close to the lash line as I can.

I use an angled eyeshadow brush to apply a dark coat of Lancome Successorize Eye Shadow to the base of my lashes in place of eyeliner ??!!!??? I feel it gives a more relaxed and subtle look. Then, I use an eyeshadow brush to sweep Lancome All That Brightens (Lustrous) Eyeshadow to the outside corners of my lid. 

Next, I sweep Lancome Shimmer Plum Affaire Blush over the apples of my cheeks. I don't put too much on when I am just going out to run errands for the day. I may apply more if I will be going somewhere that will be dim lit, like a gastro pub or a show. Afterwards, I lightly sweep a bronzer over the "T-Zone" and any other spots that light would naturally hit my face.

Lastly, I apply a Lancome or Clinique lipstick. My current obsession is Lancome's Curtain Call Sheen. It is a bold deep wine color that is beautiful and powerful.

This usually takes me about 5-8 minutes start to finish. If I have a bit more time, I'll add more dimensions to my eye make-up and do a more nude lip for balance.

I hope this has been helpful. Do something fun this weekend!

Have you found the descriptions and photos helpful? Would you like to see a video tutorial next time? I'd love your input. Leave a comment below!

Home Remedies to Soothe a Facial Blemish

3 Tested and True Home Remedies to Soothe a Facial Blemish

I KNEW.

I could feel it coming on.

A pimple caused by stress and I was powerless to stop it.

While you can't really prevent a pimple from coming ; you can relieve yourself of some of its less than becoming symptoms.

Here are,

3 Tested and True Home Remedies to Soothe a Facial Blemish:

1 // Lemon Juice

Cut a fresh lemon and squeeze some of its juice into a cup or bowl. Dip a cotton ball into the juice and then place the lemon infused cotton ball over the blemish for a minute or two. After you are done rinse your face with warm water. The results are almost instantaneous. This is my "go to" method. I have found this also works to sooth redness even after a pimple has popped.

2 // Honey & Cinnamon

Did you know that honey and cinnamon possess many properties other than making everything taste delicious? It can make your skin glow. It can make your hair shiny. Yes, it can even make the redness of a pimple calm the heck down! Simply mix a little honey and cinnamon together. Dab a pea sized amount onto the affected area. Like a paste, leave it on your skin for as long as you can.
 *I'm not saying don't sleep with it... but c'mon sticky hair? Yuck!

3 // Aloe Vera

I don't know how I didn't think of this! I mean seriously, if aloe vera can help soothe the pain and redness of a sunburn...Why wouldn't it work similarly with a facial blemish? I find this one incredibly helpful when I am having a pimple that is not only unseemly but also incredibly painful. You know what I'm talking about... Ouch!

I hope these tips help you to avoid a big, painful and red disaster!

P.S If Acne is severe and affecting your life or self-confidence, visit your family physician or a Dermatologist. They can prescribe stronger creams or medicine that may be better suited for you. 

Have a comment? I'd love to hear from you. Leave a comment below!

Once in a Blue June

This look can be consolidated to three words:
Easy. Breezy. Calm.


My city had a power outage last week.
My Husband suggested we go out in hopes that when we returned the power would be back on.
Alas, when we got home... the power was still out.

After we put our daughter to bed, my Husband and I were able to sit out on our patio. I was really able to appreciate the beauty of silence. So often I overlook the importance of taking a moment to relax. I seem to have adopted a "busy = important" mentality. The small things in life are what is most important. My monthly goal is to focus my time on more quiet and simple things.

The weather is getting warmer but cool hues are definitely in this season.
A sultry satin and lace tank paired with a blue linen short can be consolidated to three words:

Easy. Breezy. Calm.

Just like a warm Summer night with no distractions...

(Photo Cred: B. Campbell)


Shown Above:
Top: Romy // Shorts: Banana Republic Outlet (different colors available)
// Shoes: Steve Madden via Tradesy // Earrings: J.Crew (see them again, here)
// Necklace: Charming Charlie (old, similar)

What topics would you like to see covered on my blog? I'd love to hear from you. Leave a comment below!

Shift & Sheath Dresses: 101

Shift & Sheath Dresses: 101

Commonly Asked Question

One question I am often asked:

What is the difference between a shift dress and a sheath dress?

Both are simple dresses that typically come down to the knee or slightly above. 

Sheath dresses are form fitting and curve hugging.

Shift dresses lay straight on the waist and hips. 

Both styles are beautiful.

I typically wear sheath dresses as I prefer clothing that is form fitting.

However, while shopping at the Banana Republic Outlet a few weeks ago, I came across a beautiful shift dress I just had to own. I received compliments on it from ladies in the dressing room, in line and even at the counter. The girl helping me out was like, "Uh.. This must be new. I want one. Where in the store did you find this?"

Good sign.

It is a simple way to look polished without much effort. 

I love how it can be made to look carefree with studded earrings and flats or posh with pointed toe heels and a fancy up-do. 

(Photo Cred: B. Campbell)

Shown Above:

Dress: (discontinued, similar) // Shoes: Steve Madden at DSW // Earrings: DSW 

// Bracelet: (old, discontinued) // Necklace: (old, similar)

**Nail polish is one of my "Summer at your Fingertips" Top 5 Summer Shades. Find out which one here.

Until next time!

Do you have any fashion questions? I would love to hear from you. Leave a comment below!

Father's Day Gift Guide

Father's Day gift Ideas:

Take the stress out of purchasing gifts for the men in your life.

Father's Day is next Sunday and I can already hear the men chanting, "No more ties! No more ties!"

Don't be stressed out if you've already gotten them one. Take it back and try one of these ideas to spoil the men in your life. 

Dad:

Omaha Steaks // This is a great gift if you're like me and you live far away from your dad. You can order any package and have it sent straight to your dad in a styrofoam cooler packed to the brim in dry ice to make sure all of its contents are kept nice and cold. Be sure to call your dad (or even your mom if you want to be extra sneaky) as they need to be refrigerated or put in your freezer within 4-6 hours post delivery. Hurry and sign up for their emails! They will send you special Father's Day offers of free extras or even free shipping! To learn more click here.

Happy Pops Day // If you're more of the gift basket type, you will love this fun and simple play on words. Get a nice wicker basket or box crate and fill it with: Pops cereal, Pop Secret Popcorn, Pop Tarts, Pop (or soda if you're from anywhere other than the mid-west!), Pop Rocks, Popped Tortilla Styled Chips and a Lemon Poppy Seed Cake. Don't forget to write a nice card that reads, "Happy 'Pop' Day!"

Wallet Filled with Coupons //  I'm wanting to do something a bit more sentimental this year. My Dad and I live about 3,000 miles from each other so I don't get to see him very often. He really appreciates the time and experiences we share together when we can and I'll be there at the end of the Summer. Some examples of the coupons I am putting in his wallet are: Ice Cream Outing, BBQ Night and Movie Night. 

Hubby:

For the Techie // My husband works with computers and data so basically... he is a nerd for a living. He couldn't live without his Macs. This Father's day I decided to bring some life back to his Mac. So I purchased a Steel Blue Speck for one of his MacBook Pros. It's basically a cover (they call it a "smartshell") you can put on your laptop to protect it and add some color. Click here for more details and more colors. Now only $24.97, much cheaper than buying a new laptop!

Father's Day Grill Basket // Again, if you're more of the gift basket type you'll love this too! Fill a basket or crate with: A spatula with a tag that reads, "I flipping love you!", Meat thermometer, a hodge podge of different seasonings (spicy, smokey etc.), Grill cleaner and brush, Sweet Baby Ray's BBQ Sauce, Famous Dave's BBQ Sauce and skewers.

Pillow Case with a Handwritten Message // What better way to ensure your children are the last and first thing he thinks about? I also think it's a beautiful way to capture your child's handwriting. Especially if they've just started to write. This is a Father's Day Gift you will all cherish for years to come. Learn how, here. 

I hope that these ideas were helpful. 

What do you like to get for your Dad or Hubby on Father's Day? Do you purchase something or give something homemade? Do you have an idea to share that has been a success for you? I'd love to hear from you. Leave a comment below!

Reader's Request: Looking Polished on the Go

Somewhere between yoga pants and heels?
Whether you're a mommy, working or both... this post is for you!

I absolutely fell in love with this Reader's Request question. It happens to all of us (myself included). We run to the grocery store or a dentist appointment in our beloved yoga pants... I know: They're fast and easy. But let's take a long hard look in the mirror and be honest with ourselves:
 They look sloppy.

With the same effort it takes to put on a pair of yoga pants, why not slip into something comfortable and polished? I know what you're thinking: Not possible.

But I'm here to tell you that not only is it possible, but you probably already have all of these items in your closet.

Hmm... I see I've caught your attention!

Okay. I know you're a busy woman on the go so I'll cut the "chit chat" and get straight to it. Here are  two incredibly easy looks to wear that are polished and extremely comfortable.



Look 1 // Maxi Dress & Basic Knotted Tee
 I love a good Maxi dress. They are comfortable and fun to twirl in...
Yes, I like twirl. So what?
But to simply wear a Maxi is a bit boring-- So, I decided to "give it a twist"
Okay, more like a knot!

I recently purchased a GIANT tote (mentioned in my Nordstrom Half Yearly Sale post) and thought it would work perfectly with this post as a polished yet fully functional "baby bag." I packed all of my daughter's necessities in it and still have half a bag to spare! 

The bronze metallic sandals, shown below, are not only incredibly comfortable but they also add the perfect amount of shimmer without going overboard. I accented my outfit with a statement bracelet to add a touch of bright color.

*BONUS* Talk about a conversation piece! I was stopped eight different times by women wanting to know where I had purchased my bracelet: success! :)

Shown Above:

Dress: F21 // Top: Loft (similar) // Tote: Nordstrom (sold out) // Bracelet: Charming Charlies 

// Necklace: Charming Charlie (similar) // Shoes: Target 

Look 2 // Blouse Vs. T-Shirt

So it's 8:26 AM, you didn't hear your alarm and your little one has a check-up in a little over fifteen minutes! You grab a pair of fitted jeans from your closet and a T-Shirt from the drawer and--

STOP RIGHT THERE.

HANDS IN THE AIR.

Back away from the T-Shirt slowly... No funny business!

Why, oh why would you ever throw on a plain graphic tee, when you can literally make the same two movements and put on a something that will look a hundred times more put together? 

A blouse effortlessly elevates an outfit without taking any more time. 

Okay, you may return to your closet now to pick out a cute blouse.

That's better. Much better.

The top (shown below) is the epitome of femininity:

Sheer. Floral. Lace. Bright. Intricate. 

Perfection.

(Photo Cred: B. Campbell)

Shown Above:

Top: Gibson (old, similar) // Jeans: Pac Sun // Tote, Jewelry and Shoes can be found in the previous outfit's links.

Okay, if you've read this article and you're still not quite ready to throw your yoga pants into a raging fire part with your yoga pants... 

Please, for the love of all that is good in this world, get these ones instead:

Straight-Leg Herringbone Dress Pant Yoga Pant:  Betabrand

Yes, you are busy.

But you are foremost a woman. 

You owe it to yourself not to forget that. 

You should not feel guilty about taking time away for yourself. Perhaps, your thing isn't fashion or shopping-- but you need to take a few hours a week to do something just you, for you.

It doesn't take a million dollars. It doesn't take personal stylists or an ideal body. 

It only takes a bit of planning. 

To busy women and moms everywhere, I salute you.

A huge, "Thank You" to Jen L. for being the inspiration behind this Reader's Request blog post. If you would like the chance to have your idea or suggestion featured on my blog, follow me on Instagram @xoxorachelleblog or leave a comment below!

Summer at your Fingertips

No Summertime Sadness allowed.
Five fresh and fun nail polish shades to keep Summer with you all year long.

Your outfit can be entirely on fleek down to the last detail but it's going to look incomplete and thrown together if your nails are not well groomed or chipped. No worries, I did the busy work for you and found the, 

"Top Five Fresh and Fun Shades for Summer 2015"
Enjoy my beautiful chickadees!

(Photo Cred: Yours Truly)

In order from Left to Right

OPI: Pompeii Purple // I love this fun twist on purple. When you look at it in the bottle it looks a bit like hot barbie pink. When you put it on your nails, it changes from pink to purple depending on the light.

essie: jump in my jumpsuit // The richness and depth of this red color is (in one word): Divine. You will definitely be red hot this summer sporting this bold shade.

Savina: Royalty // You will feel like royalty this Summer if you're wearing this tranquil and elegant hue on your fingertips. Don't let its cool and subtle hue fool you. All shades of mint are coming with a powerful vengeance this Summer.

essie: blue rhapsody // I'll be honest. I'm not a huge fan of blue on my fingernails. Usually, I find it makes me look like I'm suffering a bout of Hypothermia. However, I couldn't bring myself to put this audacious blue bottle down. So, I didn't!

OPI: Suzi & The 7 Dusseldorfs // Okay. My favorite nail color of the bunch. My favorite name of any nail polish EVER! I literally am at a loss for words other than, "Go out and buy this NOW!"

I hope you like the shades I picked out for this Summer.

If you happen to be sporting them tag me on Instagram @xoxorachelleblog and you may be featured in a future blog post!

What is your favorite funny nail polish name? I would love to hear from you. Leave a comment below!

Burgers and Strawberries... What?!? YUM!

Summer: Burger as Strawberries: Summer

This burger needs to be on your plate or in your belly all Summer long.

Want to make everyone in your life love you forever? 

Grill them up an incredible burger (seasoned anyway you'd like) and top it off with spinach, grilled onions, crispy bacon and delicious Balsamic Strawberries.
I know it may seem kind like a strange combination...

I recently served them at a backyard dinner party and I was praised for what felt like years.

Trust me: Once you have burgers this way, you can never go back.

I tried the recipe, found below, substituting Strawberries with Raspberries and it tasted equally amazing. Not only will all of your friends worship you... but your taste buds will too!

Balsamic Strawberries:

(Yields enough topping for four burgers)

Ingredients:

24 Strawberries with green removed and halved. (When using Raspberries, I used entire carton).

4 Tbsp of Balsamic Vinegar

Directions:

1 // Place Strawberries in a small sauce pan over medium heat.

2 // Immediately mix in balsamic vinegar and stir. 

3 // Cook until soft (typically 5 minutes)

4 // Remove from heat and transfer to bowl. Set aside until burgers are ready for devouring.

** Another great thing about Balsamic Strawberries is that if you have any leftovers, they taste incredible with Vanilla Ice Cream. That's a true testament to how delicious they are because I normally loathe Vanilla Ice Cream. :)

Bon Appetite!

What is a food must have at any family/friend cookout that you put on? Is it a family tradition or something you have found on your own? I would love to hear from you, leave a comment below!

Pineapple Sparkler & Yellow Shorts

Show me someone who doesn't love pineapple or the color yellow-- and I will show you a weirdo. 

Just kidding! More pineapple for me :p

Yellow is a prevailing color this season.
I love Yellow. Yellow is carefree, fun and cheery.
It's no secret that I am fair skinned so finding the right tone of yellow can be a bit difficult.
I found these yellow shorts at Buckle from the Jessica's Simpson line. I love them because they are are not too bright, neither are they muted.

If you're not sure how to jump on the yellow "band wagon" quite yet-- I completely understand.
Start small with a scarf or jewelry. Then maybe branch out to a sandal or tote bag.
Then (the big guns) a cropped pant, top or a high-low sundress!
Baby steps!

This drink is incredible. I can honestly tell you that pineapple is in my "Top Five" list of favorite things in life. The Pineapple Sparkler is the perfect balance of sweet and tanginess. Unlike the Miami Vice recipe found here, you simply toss all of the ingredients in the blender and Voila!

I give you the,
Pineapple Sparkler

2 cups pineapple juice
1/4 cup lime juice
1/4 cup cream of coconut
12 oz sparkling water
1 1/2 cup ice

1. Place all ingredients into a blender and blend until all ice is crushed.
2. Garnish with a pineapple slice, lime wedge or mint.
3. Dip your toes in the pool and chill out!

(Photo Cred: B. Campbell)

Shown Above:

Top: Eddie Bauer  // Shorts: Jessica Simpson sold at Buckle // Shoes: old  // Earrings: DSW 

// Bracelet: Charming Charlie  

Get out of your comfort zone and try something new this weekend!

Let me know what you think of the Pineapple Sparkler. I'd love to hear from you. Leave a comment below!