Outfit: Date Night

Last week, the hubs and I got reprieve from our usual week night routine for a fun date night at a local food and wine soiree. It was so wonderful to spend time together, socializing (I do work at home now, so seeing people? yay!) and sampling new wines and bubbly, along with tasty treats from area restaurants. We even popped over to one of our fave sushi spots for an after-event roll just to have a few extra minutes for the two of us. The perfect nightcap.

(more pics below)

But, possibly the best part of the night?? Zipping the back of this exposed zipper skirt because... it fit! (shhh, don't tell the hubs that! lol). In the past 14 months my weight has been all over the place and a month ago, this moment had no chance of happening. Be impressed I'm finding outfits for these posts. :) So thrilled that my healthy eating is starting to pay off, right here with this post.

I've never worn this gold top with the skirt. Typically I'd pair it with "safer" black top, but I'm loving it the shimmer. Also added a chunky pink bracelet to pull out the color in the skirt.

I love when a look comes together.

gold top: michael, michael kors

skirt: idra, from anthropologie

tights: gap

heels: bcbg

pink bracelet: from loehmann's

gold chain-link bracelet: armani exchange

watch: swatch

clutch: vera bradley

Five Blogger Loves, and a Little Something More

Today's post hits less about fashion, food, deals, fun & more, and a bit more of a double dose... a little about what I've discovered in just a few months since starting this shiny new blog and then five blog recs that are totally worth adding to your daily read:

1. I started this blog because I felt all of us gals -- all of us average, typical, awesome, everyday gals -- were looking for the same tips, tricks and insights to help us live even better, more fabulous and fashionable lives. I know I benefit from seeing style inspiration from another gal (that's why I started my outfit posts), from hearing about their favorite products (hence the 5 must haves column each Thursday!), from discovering, pre-tested, healthy and delicious meals (my Tuesday posts) and way more. I love this thing called blogging; if I can encourage one of you ladies to try a new bold color, test out a new recipe or score an awesome deal, I'm truly ecstatic. And, I LOVE hearing about it (hint, hint). This blog has also connected me to so many women I would have never met, which seems like a damn shame. So, so glad I met you!

2. Many of the women I've met are fellow bloggers: talented, smart, hysterical, gorgeous women around the country who I feel fortunate to have met, if only via Twitter or Facebook. I follow them on Google Friend Connect, eat up their posts and adore chatting with them. And, I want you to meet them, too. Every few weeks, I'll share with you a few women I've met. I hope you take time to check out what they have to say. It's worth it. Promise. I have good taste, right?



Saucy Glossie



Saucy Glossie: One of the most stunning gals who crazy enough, is also a total sweetheart. She regularly shares outfit posts of herself throughout NYC and the globe. Her photos are gorgeous, and she has a total knack for mixing high and low fashion.

Bon Bon Rose Girls: Fashion, decor and everything in between, they're a must-read if you like my blog. Unknowingly, the idea of my blog is quite similar to theirs, yet they got started about a year and a half before me! The two gals, one in Tampa and one in Annapolis are always posting something I'm dying to read. I'm particularly a fan of when they share new fashion trends (with yummy suggestions, too), and they have some awesome giveaways, which are not only fun to enter, it exposes you to a new brands. A captivating site.

The Looks for Less: The name says it all... she finds you the designer looks for less! And, she does a damn good job of it. She also gives entire outfits for less, using a celeb's look as inspiration. And, there's Manicure Mondays, with instructions on how to recreate her enviable nail candy.

The Suburban Mom: A mom-must! She keeps me up-to-speed on all the latest deals and discounts, mostly mom and kiddie related, new finds, and also shares fun stories and insights about her adorable little one, K. She, (along with her sweet, tech-savvy hubs!) have been total lifesavers to me as I started my blog. They've answered way too many questions and helped me out of many frustrating situations. I'm forever thankful!

A recent DIY bracelet on
Stripes & Sequins.

Stripes & Sequins: A semi-newbie blogger like me, she's a total DIY inspiration, coming up with homemade jewelry that J. Crew insiders would covet. Like her name, she has a love of stripes and sequins (me too!), and is frequently posting fresh fashion looks, her favorite products and instructions for her DIY projects. After a post about her outfits at Sundance, I'm seriously obsess about a pair of Sorel boots with fur (problem: I live in South Florida!). Stay tuned to my blog on Thursday: she's a 5 must-haves guest blogger!


Have a great weekend ladies!

xo
Alyson
(don't want to forget about reading my posts: click the google friend connect on the right of the screen, and find me on Facebook or Twitter!)

5 Must Have: Gift-Giving Web sites

Meet Carly. She loves giving gifts. And, really personal, distinctive gifts at that. Even her recent move to London can't keep her from sending creative finds to her loved ones across the pond. And as a side note, do you know what it means that she's one of our "5 must have" gals?? TAGG is international, baby! I'll admit it. I'm kind of having a moment. Sorry, I digress.

Back to Carly: a native Floridian, she's an adorable, super sweet and funny, semi-newlywed who lived in New Jersey before going global. Now that she lives in London, she spends most of her shopping-for-others hours online... so much easier with shipping and whatnot! Gift giving has always been a passion of hers. {I'm sure her recipients appreciate!}. So, without wasting any more time because I know all you readers are eager..

Here, in Carly's words, are her 5 must have web sites (and ideas!) for gift giving!
Little brings me more excitement than finding the perfect gift. I am completely anti-gift card and totally pro-spending days (even weeks) finding a great gift! I even spend a lot of time putting together a grab bag gift – knowing that the recipient is a complete stranger sends me into a whole new dimension. I stress over something that is appropriate for males or females and work on it until I think it is perfect. Since I've spent countless hours searching for the best sites and gifts, I'm excited to share my top 5 FAVORITE gift-giving website with you and also show you my most favorite gifts!

Housewarming

Buying a new house is a really exciting time. And now that we're getting older, our friends are getting married, having children and moving into new homes! While housewarming gifts are not as popular as they once were, I always like to give something special to help commemorate the occasion. One of my favorite web sites, Uncommon Goods, has so many incredible gifts – but my absolute favorite are the city pillows. What an awesome way to celebrate your friends new house – everyone needs pillows! I have bought this pillow for friends, for my parents and for co-workers who get jobs in new cities – it’s a hit every time! This site also has amazing gifts for parents, grandparents, sisters, friends, expecting parents, etc… Spend some time exploring- you will be amazed by the unique gifts offered on this website.
TAGG tip: if the pillow price tag is too steep, check out these dish towels, a bargain at just $20!

New baby/new mom

Before moving to London, my husband and I lived in New Jersey. Since I'm all for supporting local businesses, I often frequented Silly Pickles for Kids. It's amazing and the owner, Erica Rothkoff, is incredible. When you place an order you can feel confident that it will be perfect, and arrive quickly! My favorite gift for new babies are the burp-cloths. At $10 a piece, you can get several to make a great gift! There are gifts for older children as well – this website is sure to please!

TAGG tip: Carly's right! As a new-ish mom, burp cloths were my salvation the first six months or so, and since you're lugging them everywhere, it's nice to have cute ones. And, $10 for a personalized one like this? A steal.  

-- Need one more super-personalized option? There's no web site, but Texas-based LaineyBug Baby offers one-of-a-kind onesies, bibs, hats and burp cloths. My favorite is the "year in onesies" ($250 for 12, plus one with the baby's name on it) – great for monthly pictures that all new moms love to take! The last month can say either “12 months,” “one year” or “birthday girl/boy.” Ask for pics, or place orders via email.

For the bride-to-be

Now this is one we can all agree on – spoiling a bride-to-be is the best feeling in the world! There are so many incredible gifts out there and all help to make the big day feel even bigger! Etsy is a terrific website for gift ideas – many creative designers post their items on this website. It is a great way to find a unique gift that not everyone has seen before! My favorite gift for the bride-to-be has to be personalized wedding hangers This gift has to be planned in advance, as they are all made by hand and the maker can only produce a certain quantity each month. I promise you, these are worth planning for – they are amazing and every bride will love getting one!

For your husband

Man have always been hard to shop for – it’s just who they are! I have not yet found the perfect gift-giving website for men and to be honest, I am not sure one even exists. What I have found is a great gift for my husband that I think all men who travel will enjoy. It is the Burton Sleeper Hoodie.

Check it out: this hoodie comes with a custom luggage tag, a passport pocket, a removable/inflatable neck pillow, a toothbrush, ear plugs, a sleep mask and so much more! For women like me, don’t worry – they make a female version also!


For YOU

It's always important to spoil yourself every once in a while! And besides, online shopping is way addicting! My favorite shop for online shopping is Rue La La. I wish I could pick just one item from this site to show you, but I love so many things it would be impossible! This members-only website gives you access to private sales - you can always find so many things at great prices! The private sales are only open for two days so you have to keep your eyes open and act quickly! The best part? Get your friends to sign up and you will receive $10 credits for each one that makes a purchase! Trust me, you will love this website.

Happy Shopping!

Fashion Trend: Color Blocking Craziness

To celebrate a fabulous new purchase by moi -- a Marc by Marc Jacobs off-the-shoulder, color-block top -- I'm sharing with you ways to incorporate color blocking into your wardrobe. I was ecstatic when I saw this shirt so casually hanging on Bloomies sale rack last week... it looked big, but had potential when styled the right way with a pair of skinnies or leggings. Well, it did! Unlike the photo, I'm going to wear it off one shoulder and show off the low back. And, what's totally awesome? It's regular price online ($138), yet I grabbed it for about $24! Pays to shop the sale racks, ladies.


Get ready for color blocking to get even bigger this Spring. It's been seen on major designer runways, Nicole Richie is donning a gorgeous color-blocked frock on the cover of Lucky this month and Glamour named this look one of the top 10 styles for 2011. Time for you to get on it!  Designers have this look covered, yet there's still somewhat limited options in an affordable price range. Check out Modcloth, Urban Outfitters and other favorites for great looks, and these options here:

Sparkle and Fade, woven panel 3/4 length top, $54.00
(ease your way in with this look)

Sparkle and Fade, spliced knit chiffon tee, $49.00
(perfect with trousers to work, or with shorts to the beach!)

Modcloth, casual chic dress, $72.99
(gorgeous and uber flattering design, with exposed back zipper!)

Mossimo, color block tank dress, $18.00
(fun and flirty, and comes in about a dozen color options! Try this with a jacket or cardy to add structure.)

Forever 21, wide striped cardigan, $27.50
(a perennial classic: grey, blue, stripes. I could wear this daily. Play around with colorful camisoles).

Nine West, Stylin, $89.50
(this makes my summer! Also comes in orange/red and black/beige)

Herve Leger, color blocking dress in shadow and teal, $1,350.00
(the banding, the color blocks... fainting).

Enjoy! xo

Alyson

Recipe: Goat Cheese-stuffed Chicken with Butternut Squash

Keeping with my New Year's resolution to make a recipe every week, here's #2:
Chicken stuffed with goat cheese, sundried tomato and basil with a side of butternut squash! YUM-o!

I've wanted to make this chicken dish for a while, actually as a roll-up, but didn't turn out that way. I had good intentions, but maybe my cutlets were too thick. Either way, I'm even more thrilled with how the results. An easy dish that is not only great for the family, but would make an awesome dish for guests.

As for the side, I have a slight obsession with butternut squash (healthy, delicious), however it's a freaking pain to prepare. So when I saw that Costco sells it pre-cubed, I snatched it up like it was nobody's business! It makes cooking a cinch. Eat this when you're craving starchy potatoes. It's a super-versatile veggie that can be cooked as I did, mashed with a little butter or cheese, or a million other ways.

Enjoy these recipes!

Chicken stuffed with goat cheese, sundried tomatoes and basil
I'm not giving you the exact measurements... this is easily customizable for 2 or 10 people. Check my picture... I just eyed it for each chicken cutlet.
Ingredients
Chicken breasts (purchase ones thick enough to slice in half)
Sun-dried tomatoes

Basil

Salt and pepper, to taste

Toothpicks

Directions

Pre-heat oven to 425 degrees.
Sprinkle salt and pepper, to taste, on the chicken.
Butterfly chicken breasts (cut in half, but not all the way through).
Crumble goat cheese, and roughly chop sun-dried tomatoes and basil.
Layer the ingredients (see pic) on one side of the breast.
Fold over the side without ingredients to close.
Put two toothpicks in on each end to secure.
Prepare a hot skillet with olive oil enough to coat the bottom.
Carefully put in breasts (the oil can splatter), flipping after two minutes.
After two minutes on the other side, put skillet in oven for 10-12 minutes, until chicken cooked.
Remove toothpicks. Ta-da!
TAGG tip: Here's a similar recipe by Martha Stewart using arugula instead of goat cheese.

Butternut squash

Directions
If cooking separately, put oven on 400 degrees instead of 425.
Place cubed squash on a baking sheet.
Lightly coat with olive oil, salt and pepper. If you like, get creative and add chili powder, cinnamon, etc.
Cook for about 35 minutes, tossing after about 20 minutes.
Take out. Let sit for a minute before transferring to plate.


Hope you enjoy! xo

Outfit: Dying to Wear my Denim Cut-offs

Who cares that it's 10 degrees or in the negatives in half the country? Not me, apparently. I've been dying, absolutely dying to wear my denim cut-offs. Maybe it's because I'm so excited about this find: I scored these Joe's in all their fabulocity at Loehmann's (a store obsession!) on a super end-of-season clearance a few months ago. Add to that an extra coupon I had and I got these for what I'm proud to say... a measly $18! They're $100+ in-season. As you can imagine, I had a little dance party dedicated to these bad boys. Haha. (keep reading... more pics below)

Because I can't wait until May to put on these slices of heaven, I layered with some winter essentials: tights, short-sleeve sweater cardy and a tights. I wore this all day, except I swapped out the killer gladiator heels for some comfy black suede booties during a trip to the grocery store and to get some yogurt. Mmmm. While the hubs wasn't a huge fan of the look...

all that matters is that I felt rockin' all-day-long!

(me trying to break into the pool!)

denims: joe's

sweater: old navy

plaid blouse: h&m

tights: target

watch: swatch

beaded bracelet: (i forget; sorry!)

sunnies: ray ban's

shoes: nine west

Outfit: Baby Shower

Baby showers abound! In an eight-day span, I have two baby showers and a 2 year-old's birthday party. But, a baby shower in January? What do I wear?!  In Florida, it's kind of cold, but not really, and it's winter but it's Florida. For shower #1, I debated between an Anthropologie darker-pattern skirt with tights or this dress. Pretty evident which won! I'm thrilled I went with this just-purchased navy dress from Gap, which wasn't overly wintery or summery.

{see more pics below}

What's awesome about a navy dress is that anything goes. Every closet should have one. I recently found this one on a total steal at Gap; I loved it because it's silky on top and more of a linen on the bottom. Like black, navy is a super-versatile neutral: I had about six pairs of totally different shoes that all looked great, but my trusty linens with a bow detailing won out; have worn these out for at least five years!

Consider this when wearing separates or dresses... create totally different looks with the same items. It triples your wardrobe, promise! Don't get stuck in the rut of assuming one blouse matches best with a specific skirt, for example. Mix it up, hot stuff! See you Monday with another outfit post. xo

{wishing the best to my sorority sister, roomie and all-around awesome friend; go gators!}

dress: gap

camisole: old navy

cardigan: gap

belt: from urban outfitters

shoes: nine west outlet

flower ring: f21

5 Must Haves: for a Globe-trotting Gal

Meet Jillian. If you want to know how to successfully pack for adventure, I promise you she is your gal. Along with her hubs, which is how I met her, she just returned from a trip around the world. Yes, a trip around the world... for nearly two years!

She documented the journey on their web site, I Should Log Off, which happens to be an awesome resource for anyone interesting in traveling... anywhere! Chances are she's been there, can tell you the best route to get there and how to have the most authentic experience. In addition to be a fabulous globe-trotting gal (which, by the way, anyone can do with the budget they created!), she's also smart, sassy, gorg and super athletic. She's competed in tri-athalons and adventure races with her man. A Philadelphia native, she's learned over the years how to travel well to fit in the necessities! I'm just thrilled she agreed to share them with all of us.

In her words, here's Jillian's 5 must haves for a globe-trotting gal:

iPod Touch

This thing is invaluable while on the road. I love that iPod Touch apps let me read my email and check currencies offline. I have all sorts of travel related apps on here, and really, its a godsend! With a pdf reader I was able to download all my travel guides right to my iPod Touch, saving me from lugging around heavy travel guides and tons of packing space in my backpack!

Colorful Scarf

No particular brand recommended: I traveled around the world with a scarf I bought in a market in Israel. It was great for spicing up my travel-weary wardrobe and for covering up my shoulders or hair in religious buildings. It made the perfect travel accessory, I don't think I'll ever leave home without one again!

TAGG tip: looking for an inexpensive option? Check out the scarf in the photo, just $5ish on Amazon. Comes in nearly a dozen colors!

Steri Pen

I was most concerned about my health on the road. Having clean drinking water is something we take for granted at home, but on the road it was comforting knowing I had this little thing in my pack whenever things looked suspicious. Sure I could have bought bottled water, but I was uncomfortable with creating that much trash. This was a great option and unlike other water treatment devices, it only took 90 seconds to sterilize drinking water. It's really easy to use and I loved being able to drink straight from the tap (or stream!) everywhere we went.

Eagle Creek Packable Tote
Although a daypack is great, I wanted something a little more fashionable with me for days in the city. Usually the packable bags aren't sturdy enough for heavy duty travel use, but this tote was big enough and sturdy enough to carry all my day to day essentials and still crush easily into my bigger bag. The straps are thick so they don't cut into your shoulders and it comes in lots of different colors, what more can you ask for?
TAGG tip: loving the look of the green bag; there's pretty side detailing!



Multi-purpose make up kit

I don't wear that much makeup at home, but I want a little something with me on the road. Having a mini make up kit was certainly a luxury while backpacking, but one that I wouldn't give up. Having a small go to kit for those days when I just wanted to dress up a bit kept me sane and reminded my husband every once in a while that there was a woman underneath that rough traveler exterior! My kit had three eyeshadows, a blush and some powder, it wasn't everything, but it was enough to make me feel like a woman, even after camping in the Sahara for a week!
TAGG tip: Check out this e.l.f  27-piece mini make-up collection for $15. And, if you're only going on a mini-vacay and want a eye shadow collection, check this out for just $5! I have the larger one for $10 (now back in stock!), and it rocks my globe-trotting (yet at-home!) world! 

What's in My Bag: A Heck of a Lot

Get this: I'm on a bag crawl! So fun, right?


Ashley from A Hasty Life set up this super fun bag crawl so you can see what's inside 100 bloggers bags. J'adore. Who doesn't want to see what's in another chick's bag? My bag du jour is this oversized purple sack from Gap. While I'm soon due for a switch, it's been super useful since it doubles as diaper bag when I take my girl out. Plus, it adds a pop of color to all outfits. Here's what it's in my bag:

TOP to BOTTOM, LEFT to RIGHT:
Necklace from Anthropologie: just bought this lovely rose-colored pearl bib necklace so it hasn't made it to my other jewelry yet. Maybe an upcoming outfit post item?!
Gerber's fruit bar: A favorite snack for my little chickie, Sarah.
Business cards: one for my pr/marketing/social media biz and the other for this blog.
Hair band: Never leave home without. A must.
Receipts & dry cleaner ticket: Have been doing lots of shopping lately for baby showers, birthdays, you name it! The receipts have been piling up this week. And, need to pick up some blouses.
Trident's Tropical Twist Gum: my favorite. Yum!
Pill box: some meds to help keep my legs from tingling (this chick has some nerve issues).
Wipes container by Amy Coe: for my girl, though super handy in so many situations!
Silver flower bag: for some unmentionables related to my health. Will tell if you are really interested! Just inquire.
Ray Ban aviators: love these silver sunnies.
Brown Vera Wang sunnies: got these recently for when I wear outfits with gold. Both sunnies are often with me, or in my car cup holder!
Tory Burch grey wallet: yay! Bought this about six months ago in Nordstrom... had been dying for a new wallet for ages. Once I saw this, I was sold. Used some leftover 30th birthday funds (to make myself feel less guilty) and have been loving it since. A favorite purchase of 2010. Obsessed with grey accessories, the leather is so soft and yummy and best of all, it fits everything.
For my lips: Cover Girl lipstick (random, just purchased on CVS beauty sale), Yes to Carrots chapstick and a Sephora lip gloss.
iPhone, 3G: I think it should be sewed to my body I love it so much. How do you think I'm so obsessively on Twitter and Facebook??
Kate Spade "pencil pack:" this literally came with Kate Spade pencils and erasers. Love! For me though, it's the perfect size and shape for all my coupons and gift cards. This way my wallet doesn't bulk up and they're easy to find. Best. Solution. Ever.
Black Prada coin purse: perfect size for my lipsticks, glosses, chapstick, powder, liner, etc.
L'oreal pressed powder: used to use some other fancy brand a bff recommended this. Removes the shine and lasts for a while. Sold.

So, there you have it! Hope you like what you saw. For more bag crawl fun, check out My Little Adventures, who's sharing her's tomorrow.

AND..... anyone interested in sharing what's in their bag??? Would LOVE to feature you in an upcoming post! The question is... are you brave enough?

Quick Bites: Lazy Day Lasagna

I've been hearing that you gals would love more quick, healthy and delicious meals you can whip up during your busy day. I hear ya; I feel the same! I'm glad you asked... this has now morphed into one of my belated New Year's resolutions. I'm going to make a new meal every week and share it with you here! You better keep me on track.

First up, Lazy Day Lasagna. This isn't a "new" recipe for me per say, but a favorite that I'm eager to share. We've been making it for years though it's been at least a year now. What's great is that it's pretty healthy, tastes great and is large enough for a family or plenty of leftovers; I somehow found this recipe while on Weight Watchers years ago. I'm sure I should be crediting someone here, but unfortunately I didn't put the name when I printed it out. (My 23-year old self apologizes!).

This lasagna is perfect: it's vegetarian (so everyone can eat it!), takes about 20 minutes to make, and you have meals for days! Pair it with a salad, or a side of broccoli, asparagus or another green so you're less likely to eat the entire thing in one sitting. Enjoy!

Ingredients

12 whole wheat lasagna noodles, uncooked

1 (12 oz.) bag of morningstar or boca brand of veggie crumbles (sub lean ground beef if you prefer, really tastes the same though!)

4 cups of Hunt's Four Cheese Spaghetti Sauce (typically in a can)

1 1/2 cupes of water

1 (15 oz) container of nonfat ricotta cheese (you can use part-skim, just note the nutritional change)
1/2 cup egg substitute
9 slices of cheese, I recommend either provolone or swiss

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
In a large bowl, combine crumbles, sauce and water.
In a small bowl, combine ricotta cheese and egg substitute.
Spray 9x13 pan with nonstick cooking spray.

Spread 1 cup of sauce in the bottom of the pan. Arrange 4 noodles over the sauce. Spread another cup of sauce, then 1/3 of the ricotta mixture. Add another cup of sauce.
Repeat the process until you end with a layer of sauce.
Cover and bake 70 minutes.
Uncover and place cheese slices on top, then bake another 15 minutes uncovered.
Let stand 10 minutes before serving. (Note: we used Swiss this time, which made the top not as pretty... provalone makes for a better presentation, and we decided we like it better. Just sharin'.)
DIG IN!


Serves 9.
Nutritionals per serving: 190 calories, 5 grams of fat. 22 grams of protein, 15 grams carbohydrates, 4 grams of fiber.