Giveaway! - UPDATED

Christopher Fischer, my favorite brand for modern knitwear, is gifting one of my readers their "Khalia" dress. Its no secret that I'm a sucker for classic stripes with modern details so this is pretty much my dream dress. Check out details below to enter.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WINNER AMY LYNN! 

Christopher Fischer will contact you directly to work out sizing and shipping.

To enter, simply:
1. Sign up for Christopher Fischer's membership club (you'll receive access to flash sales and amazing discounts!).
2. ‘Like’ Christopher Fischer's Facebook page.

 *Giveaway ends on Tuesday, September 3rd. Winner will be announced via Christopher Fischer's Facebook on Wednesday! 

Spice Up Gluten Free Pasta

Giving up pasta was one of the most difficult parts of transitioning a to a gluten free diet. In college, I would sometimes eat it twice a day (I think its that good). So I've spent a decent amount of time testing gluten free substitutes and this organic fusili (made with rice, potato, and soy) is a favorite of mine. If you are looking to avoid soy, try quinoa pasta. They key to making it feel authentic is adding lots of flavor.

SPINACH GLUTEN FREE PASTA

Instructions:

1. Boil water. Add a cup of pasta, a pinch of salt, and a table spoon of coconut oil and stir. 

2. Heat a frying pan with coconut oil. Add onions, garlic, and a 2 tablespoons of gluten free tomato sauce and allow to simmer for five minutes.

3.  Blend ingredients in frying pan until creamy.

4. Drain pasta and add it to the frying pan. Pour in the mixture from blender, and 2 cups of washed spinach. Cook on a low fire and stir until spinach is soft.

On a side note, bottled tomato sauce tends to be filled with sodium and sugar. Try to buy really simplified, gluten free, organic brands. Only use a few tablespoons and add fresh basil, garlic, and onions if you need more flavor.

Shock the World - Eminem & G-Shock

About 10 years ago, my sister and I burned The Eminem Show and labeled it 'Linkin Park' to defer our not-so-naive parents. You can imagine my excitement when I was invited to “Shock the World 2013’, G-Shock’s 30th annual press event which ended with an exclusive Eminem concert. 

James Marsden proclaiming his love for G-Shock.

The pre-concert cocktail hour was torture. Here I am clutching my press pass in anticipation of seeing the one and only Marshall Mathers!

 

Eminem performed a medley of hits in a high-energy hourlong set. It was an incredible show and I can't wait for his new album!

Photos by Alison Turka

Dressed Up Denim

I've started a two month study course for the GREs and am learning the true meaning of multi-tasking. Whether I'm writing blog posts on the subway or making flash cards during my lunch break, I leave no free time unwasted. The way I see it, my wardrobe should do the same. Starting with these distressed denim shorts.

 This outfit is really easy to transition from day to night. I like to pair it with a comfy pair of sandals and a cardigan for my study sessions. Since I have zero time for changing these days, I throw on some flashy accessories and apply dramatic makeup when I have evening plans.

Always buy distressed shorts a size up, especially if you're wearing them with heels. This keeps them from looking too "beachy." Pairing the shorts with black pieces also elevates the look.

 Top: Banana Republic, Shorts: Forever 21, Heels: H&M, Necklace: RJ Graziano, Clutch: Mark, Sunglasses: Forever 21

Photos by Charlie Wang of Beginner's Photography Classes

Quick Trip to India

L-Atitude, an e-commerce site for luxury fashion and travel items, held a Indian themed soirée (complete with rose petals, bindis, and sitars!) inside the garden of the Highline Hotel.  

The exotic theme complimented their newest collection of ethnic printed tunics and brightly colored accessories (perfect for spicing up your summer wardrobe).

Be sure to check out the site (and their amazing sales) before your next island destination getaway!

Guacamole Greatness: 3 Recipes

Guacamole is one of those guilt-free foods that make everything taste better. The key to keeping it healthy is making it on your own without adding salt! Avocados are vitamin rich and their creamy texture is a great substitute for cheese and butter. 

JENNIFER'S GUACAMOLE

Instructions:

1. Finely dice white onions, green peppers, and cilantro (I like to grill the veggies for 2 minutes).

2. Mash an avocado in a bowl. 

3. Add diced veggies and a teaspoon of olive (or coconut oil) to bowl and mix until creamy.

Here are three of my favorite guac recipes that are gluten/dairy free, easy to make, and just plain delicious. Enjoy!

MEXICAN OMELET 

Instructions:

1. Heat gluten free wrap until warm (not too crispy so you can fold it into a burrito).

2. Thinly dice white onions and stir-fry in a teaspoon of coconut oil. Add tomatoes and cilantro for more flavor. 

3. Scramble an egg and fry it in coconut oil. Do not add any spices/salt (the onions will add flavor!)

4. Lay the egg with a tablespoon of guacamole on the wrap. 

5. Finish by adding the onions and wrap the tortilla. 

 GUACAMOLE TOAST

Instructions:

1. Heat gluten free bread until crisp (can be toasted or lightly grilled in coconut oil).

2. Spread on guacamole and top with thinly sliced tomato pieces. 

3. Drizzle with each slice with extra-virgin olive oil (or coconut oil). 

CHIPS & DIP

Instructions:

1. Heat 2 gluten free wraps until crisp (The crisper it is, the easier it will be to break into chips).

2. Lightly break each wrap into triangle sized pieces. 

3. Dip into guacamole. 

Sunday Stripes

 There's nothing like strolling through the city on a lazy Sunday with an equally relaxed dress. This drapey Heather frock is perfect for running errands and casual lunches with friends. 

This look is an effortless way to dress casually and remain elegant. Skip your usual messy bun for a trendy braided style. Apply tinted moisturizer and a rosy lip stain for some color.

  
Dress: Heather, Sandals: Nine West, Bracelet: Jewel IQ, Sunglasses: Christian Dior

Photos by: Charlie Wang